Could the US Navy Build Its Next Ships in Asia?

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Japan and South Korea can each build high-quality warships on time and on budget—making them an attractive option for keeping up with China’s shipbuilding sector.

The US Navy is considering outsourcing warship design and production to South Korea and Japan in an attempt to increase output.

This is a step that was long seen as unspeakable in the Pentagon—yet has become a real possibility as US defense planners seek to increase the size of the fleet to counter China’s industrial might.  

How Would Outsourcing Shipbuilding Work?

In its budget request for Fiscal Year 2027, the Navy has proposed allocating $1.85 billion for a feasibility study to determine whether South Korean and Japanese shipyards can accommodate the needs of the Navy.  

Former Navy Secretary John Phelan told reporters at a media roundtable at Sea-Air-Space 2026 in Washington last week........

© The National Interest