Trump announces plans to create 'Golden Fleet' to deter China
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump has initiated the creation of a new generation of warships, which the Navy is already calling the "Golden Fleet," according to The Wall Street Journal.
According to The Wall Street Journal, Trump’s plan envisions building large combat ships equipped with hypersonic missiles and a new class of corvettes to counter China.
The US president is personally involved in developing the project and has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the design of modern destroyers.
The White House said the new initiative will be part of the president’s broader effort to "strengthen America’s maritime dominance."
The so-called "Golden Fleet" could include heavily armored ships with displacements of up to 20,000 tons capable of carrying hypersonic weapons, as well as dozens of unmanned vessels.
The US Navy views this fleet as the foundation of future operations in the Pacific. However, experts warn that the project could take years to complete, and the first ship may not be finished until after Trump’s current term ends.
US Navy
The US fleet currently includes more than 290 warships, including 11 aircraft carriers, nuclear-armed submarines, destroyers, cruisers, and amphibious ships. It remains a cornerstone of America’s global military presence and nuclear deterrence.
US–China relations
Tensions between Washington and Beijing remain high over Taiwan, military rivalry, and technological competition.
In October, the Trump administration imposed 100% tariffs on Chinese goods and introduced export controls on all critical software. The restrictions are set to take effect on November 1, 2025, or earlier if Beijing takes "further aggressive actions" in trade policy.
China called the measures "intimidation and economic coercion."
Chinese leader Xi Jinping has met Trump several times in attempts to ease tensions. Earlier this month, Trump said he expected to meet Xi "within a month." The two are now expected to hold talks in Asia, where the US president has already departed, and the agenda will also include ending the war in Ukraine.
