Pentagon Warned as China Dominates Global Shipbuilding Market

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The Pentagon has expressed alarm over China's ascension as the leading global shipbuilding nation, with significant implications for U.S. maritime capabilities. According to a recent report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), the U.S. commercial shipbuilding sector's share has plummeted to just 0.11% of the global total as of 2024.

Once a powerhouse, the U.S. Navy has seen its fleet diminish compared to the Chinese navy, which now boasts 400 ships compared to the U.S.'s 295. This development marks a stark contrast to two decades ago, when the U.S. maintained 282 battle-force ships against China's 220. Industry analysts attribute China's strong shipbuilding policies to the difficulties faced by other shipbuilding leaders, such as Japan and South Korea, which are struggling to keep pace.

These shifts in naval capabilities pose strategic concerns for U.S. defense, as reliance on Chinese-built vessels grows amid shrinking domestic production. Experts question whether the U.S. can reclaim its former shipbuilding prowess as geopolitical tensions escalate.

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