China’s naval expansion is a clear threat to American security. The U.S. Navy risks falling behind as Beijing rapidly builds warships and asserts dominance in global waters. While America still holds a technological edge, China’s sheer numbers and aggressive tactics demand urgent action.
China now operates , surpassing the U.S. fleet of . Beijing launches every decade compared to America’s 11. Their focus on smaller, cheaper ships like frigates and corvettes allows faster production. China’s coast guard alone has over , many upgraded from outdated naval ships. This growth supports aggressive territorial claims, including militarized islands in the South China Sea and threats to Taiwan.
The U.S. Navy’s plan for a by 2042 faces major hurdles:
– Budget shortfalls: Congress must approve over 30 years.
– Industrial decay: U.S. commercial shipbuilding collapsed from in the 1970s to .
– Lagging production: Current requests for fall below the .
Without drastic investment, China’s fleet could double in five years, erasing America’s destroyer advantage (73 vs. 42).
To counter China, the U.S. must:
1. : Prioritize destroyers, carriers, and nuclear submarines over smaller vessels.
2. : Japan and South Korea’s combined fleets (48 destroyers, 26 frigates) could offset Chinese numbers in the Pacific.
3. : Boost private-sector partnerships and streamline regulations to accelerate production.
Steve Forbes warns that Biden’s weak response emboldens Beijing. Strengthening alliances and ramping up naval construction are critical to deter Chinese aggression and protect freedom of navigation. The window to act is closing—America’s security depends on reclaiming naval supremacy.
