U.S. seeks shipbuilding expertise from Japan, S Korea to counter China
japantoday.com -- Sunday, August 17, 2025, 5:21:00 PM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: U.S.–China Relations, Foreign Policy & International Relations, Presidential Campaigns
American lawmakers are using a trip to Japan and South Korea to explore how the United States can tap those allies' shipbuilding expertise and capacity to help boost its own capabilities, which are dwarfed by those of China.
Sens. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., and Andy Kim, D-N.J., who arrived in Seoul on Sunday before traveling to Japan, plan to meet top shipbuilders from the world's second- and third-largest shipbuilding countries. The senators want to examine the possibilities of forming joint ventures to construct and repair noncombatant vessels for the U.S. Navy in the Indo-Pacific and bring investments to American shipyards.
"We already have fewer capacity now than we did during Operation Iraqi Freedom" in 2003, Duckworth told The Associated Press. "We have to rebuild the capacity. At the same time, what capacity we have is aging and breaking down and taking longer and more expensive to fix."
Their trip comes as President Donald Trump demands a plan to revive U.S. shipyards and engage foreign partners. The Pentagon is seeking $47 billion for shipbuilding in its annual budget. The urgency stems from the fact that Washington severely lags behind China in building naval ships, a situation raising alarms among policymakers who worry the maritime balance of power could shift to China, now the world's No. 1 shipbuilder.
Duckworth, who serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said she hopes the trip could lead to joint ventures among the U.S. military, American companies and foreign partners to build auxiliary vessels for the Navy and small boats for the Army.
Another possibility is repairing U.S. ships in the Indo-Pacific region.
"If we have to bring ships all the way back to the United States ... to wait two years to be fixed, that doesn't help the situation," Duckworth said.
The discussions, she said, will focus on auxiliary vessels, which are noncombatant ships such as fueling and cargo vessels that support naval and military operations. The Navy's auxiliary fleet is aging and insufficient in numbers, she said.
The U.S. commercial shipbuilding accounted for 0.1% of global capacity in 2024, while China produced 53%, followed by South Korea and Japan, according to a report by the Center for Strategic and International Studies. A Navy review from April 2024 found that many of its major shipbuilding programs were one year to three years behind schedule.
During the trip, the senators are expected to meet representatives from major shipbuilders in the region.
South Korea and the U.S. are already making progress on shipbuilding cooperation. In March, Hanwha Ocean completed maintenance work for a 41,000-ton U.S. Navy dry cargo and ammunition ship in South Korea. The overhaul of USNS Wally Schirra was the Korean company's first project after it secured a repair agreement with the U.S. Navy in July 2024.
Hanwha Group last year acquired Philly Shipyard in Philadelphia, which builds large merchant mariners, part of the reserve auxiliary fleet.
Earlier this month, South Korea proposed to invest $150 billion in the U.S. shipbuilding industry to support Trump's "Make American Shipbuilding Great Again" initiative as part of its tariffs talk with the White House.
Duckworth said she had earlier conversations with Hyundai Heavy Industries "about them actually buying into U.S. shipyards on U.S. soil".
This month, China formed the world's biggest shipbuilding company by merging two state-owned shipbuilders. The combined entity China State Shipbuilding Corporation produces Chinese navy's combat vessels from aircraft carriers to nuclear submarines. It commands 21.5% of global shipbuilding market.
Sign Our PetitionThe recent article about U.S. lawmakers seeking shipbuilding expertise from Japan and South Korea in response to China's growing naval capabilities raises critical questions about the sustainability and direction of U.S. military spending and foreign policy. The push for increased collaboration with these allies signals not only a response to the immediate challenges posed by China but also highlights deeper systemic issues within the American shipbuilding sector. Understanding this context is essential for framing discussions around military spending and international cooperation, particularly in light of historical trends that have shaped the military-industrial complex in the United States.
Historically, the U.S. has prioritized military funding over domestic infrastructure, which has led to a significant decline in the shipbuilding industry. The statistic that American commercial shipbuilding accounted for a mere 0.1% of global capacity in 2024 is indicative of the broader trend of outsourcing and deindustrialization that has plagued many sectors in the U.S. since the late 20th century. This decline is not merely a consequence of market forces but also reflects policy choices made by successive administrations that have favored overseas production and trade liberalization over domestic investment. The reliance on foreign partners to bolster U.S. military capabilities is emblematic of a larger issue: the erosion of American manufacturing and the skills base that once made the U.S. a leader in military technology and production.
The urgency expressed by lawmakers, particularly in light of the Navy's aging fleet and delayed shipbuilding programs, underscores a critical moment for reassessment of U.S. military priorities. Senator Tammy Duckworth's remarks about the dilapidated state of the Navy's auxiliary fleet expose a vulnerability that could have dire implications for U.S. military readiness. The fact that the U.S. is now looking abroad for solutions to its military capacity issues invites scrutiny of the choices made in prioritizing defense spending over addressing domestic infrastructure needs, education, and workforce development. This moment provides an opportunity for advocates to argue for a more balanced approach to national security that includes investment in domestic manufacturing capabilities and workforce training.
Moreover, the pivot towards partnerships with allies such as Japan and South Korea adds layers of complexity to U.S. foreign policy in the Indo-Pacific region. While strengthening alliances is undoubtedly important for countering rising powers like China, it also raises questions about the long-term implications of these partnerships. The potential for joint ventures and collaborative shipbuilding projects must be examined critically, as it could lead to a form of dependency on foreign expertise and technology, further entrenching the U.S. military-industrial complex's reliance on global supply chains. This approach risks diluting U.S. sovereignty in defense matters and raising ethical questions about the implications of outsourcing military capabilities.
In this context, the conversation around military spending must also engage with broader social justice issues. The allocation of billions to shipbuilding and military readiness often comes at the expense of vital social programs that address poverty, healthcare, and education. For example, the Pentagon's proposed $47 billion budget for shipbuilding could be viewed as a misallocation of resources in a country grappling with systemic inequalities and urgent social needs. Advocates for social justice can effectively argue that national security should not merely be defined in military terms but should encompass economic stability, equitable access to education, and healthcare for all citizens. By framing military spending in the context of social needs, advocates can challenge the narrative that prioritizes defense over human welfare.
In conclusion, the current U.S. approach to shipbuilding and military collaboration with Japan and South Korea serves as a critical juncture for broader discussions about the future of American manufacturing, foreign policy, and social justice. As lawmakers engage in these discussions, it is essential for advocates to emphasize the interconnectedness of military readiness and domestic prosperity. By calling for a reevaluation of priorities that centers on both national security and social equity, a more sustainable and just approach to governance can be envisioned—one that not only prepares for the challenges posed by global powers but also uplifts the communities that make up the fabric of the nation.
The recent emphasis on bolstering U.S. shipbuilding capabilities through collaborations with Japan and South Korea raises fundamental questions about the priorities of American defense spending and the implications of military partnerships. As lawmakers like Senators Tammy Duckworth and Andy Kim engage with their counterparts in East Asia, it is crucial to consider not just the immediate goal of enhancing military readiness against perceived threats from China, but also the broader context of what such a strategy entails. Historically, the United States has relied heavily on global partnerships to maintain its military edge, often at the expense of investing in domestic infrastructure and industries. This situation presents an opportunity for American citizens to reflect on the implications of such policies, especially in the face of a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
The current predicament of the U.S. shipbuilding industry is emblematic of a larger trend in American manufacturing—a decline that has been exacerbated by decades of outsourcing and deregulation. The statistic that U.S. commercial shipbuilding accounted for a mere 0.1% of global capacity in 2024 is stark, especially when juxtaposed against China's staggering 53%. This decline is not simply a matter of economic competitiveness; it also raises national security concerns. The Navy's aging auxiliary fleet and the delays in major shipbuilding programs point to a systemic issue that has roots in the prioritization of short-term profits over long-term investments in domestic capabilities. This is a narrative that resonates with many Americans who have witnessed the erosion of manufacturing jobs and the neglect of critical industries.
For Americans who wish to engage in meaningful dialogue about military spending and industrial policy, the conversations surrounding shipbuilding offer a fertile ground. One potential action is to advocate for a shift in defense spending towards domestic shipbuilding initiatives. This approach would not only create jobs but would also foster innovation and sustainability within the industry. Programs that incentivize the development of greener shipbuilding technologies could also align economic growth with environmental responsibility—a conversation that is increasingly vital in our age of climate change. By framing these discussions around job creation, sustainability, and economic resilience, citizens can effectively engage with more conservative viewpoints that prioritize national security while simultaneously advocating for a stronger domestic industrial base.
Moreover, it is imperative to recognize the political implications of relying on foreign partnerships for critical military capabilities. While collaboration can enhance operational efficiencies, it also poses risks of dependency that could undermine U.S. sovereignty. As history has shown, military alliances can shift, and partnerships that seem stable today may not be as reliable in the future. Encouraging a national discourse that emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and robust domestic manufacturing can help mitigate these risks. Engaging in conversations about the importance of supporting American workers and industries can resonate across the political spectrum, emphasizing that national security should not come at the expense of economic independence.
Lastly, as citizens, we must be vigilant in holding our elected officials accountable for their decisions regarding military spending and international partnerships. Advocacy for transparency in defense contracts, as well as public forums to discuss the implications of foreign partnerships on national security and economic stability, are vital. By demanding that lawmakers prioritize domestic capabilities and invest in American workers, we can foster an environment where our military is not only strong but also rooted in a vibrant and resilient economy. Engaging in advocacy and education around these themes can empower individuals to challenge prevailing narratives and push for policies that promote both security and sustainability.
Analyzing the news article regarding U.S. shipbuilding and its implications opens up a range of avenues for personal action aimed at promoting a more sustainable and equitable approach to military spending and defense policy. Here’s a detailed list of ideas and actions we can take to influence this situation:
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Educate Ourselves and Others**: Understanding the intricacies of military spending and the shipbuilding industry is crucial. Share articles, host discussions, and organize study groups focused on these topics.
2. **Advocate for Transparency in Military Spending**: Push for greater transparency in how funds are allocated in the defense budget, especially regarding contracts for shipbuilding and repairs.
3. **Support Sustainable Practices**: Advocate for environmentally friendly shipbuilding practices and technologies as part of any new initiatives.
4. **Promote Local Economies**: Encourage investments in local shipyards that prioritize community jobs over overseas partnerships.
5. **Engage with Elected Officials**: Use your voice to influence legislators to focus on domestic shipbuilding and repair capabilities rather than relying on foreign partners.
### Exact Actions We Can Take
1. **Petition for Accountability and Transparency**: - **Action**: Start or sign a petition demanding that the U.S. government prioritize transparency in military contracts and shipbuilding budgets. - **Example**: Use platforms like Change.org to create or find existing petitions focusing on military spending transparency.
2. **Contact Elected Representatives**: - **Who to Write To**: - **Senator Tammy Duckworth** Email: https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/contact Address: 524 Hart Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20510 - **Senator Andy Kim** Email: https://andykim.house.gov/contact Address: 2413 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, D.C. 20515
- **What to Say**: Express your concerns regarding the reliance on foreign shipbuilding expertise, advocate for sustainable practices, and emphasize the importance of investing in domestic shipbuilding capabilities.
- **Sample Message**: > "Dear [Senator’s Name], > > I am writing to express my concerns about the recent focus on international partnerships for U.S. shipbuilding. While collaboration can be beneficial, I urge you to prioritize investments in domestic shipyards that create jobs and foster sustainable practices. Transparency in military spending is crucial, and we need to ensure that taxpayer dollars are used effectively to support local economies. > > Thank you for your attention to this important issue. > > Sincerely, > [Your Name] > [Your Address] > [Your Email]"
3. **Organize or Join Advocacy Groups**: - **Action**: Find local or national organizations that focus on military spending, peace, and sustainable defense policies. Join their campaigns and participate in events. - **Example Groups**: - **Peace Action** (https://peaceaction.org/) - **National Priorities Project** (https://www.nationalpriorities.org/) 4. **Attend Town Hall Meetings**: - **Action**: Participate in town hall meetings where military spending and defense issues are discussed. Use this platform to ask questions and raise concerns about shipbuilding policies.
5. **Engage on Social Media**: - **Action**: Use platforms like Twitter and Facebook to raise awareness about the importance of domestic shipbuilding and sustainable practices. Share articles, create informative posts, and tag elected officials to get their attention.
6. **Support Local Shipyards**: - **Action**: Advocate for local shipyards by writing letters to the editor in local newspapers or attending local government meetings to speak about the importance of supporting local industries in defense spending.
### Conclusion
By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a more informed and responsible discourse surrounding U.S. shipbuilding and military spending. It’s essential to advocate for transparency, sustainability, and local economic investment as the nation navigates its defense strategies in a rapidly changing global landscape.