What The “Golden Fleet” Means To U.S.

A new class of warships, the “Golden Fleet,” promises to solidify U.S. naval dominance, but at what cost?

Story Highlights

President Trump announces the “Golden Fleet” as a bold upgrade to U.S. naval power.
The fleet is described as the largest and most lethal in history.
Critics argue it prioritizes spectacle over tactical utility.
Construction costs estimated at $5 billion per ship.

Trump’s Bold Move to Strengthen U.S. Naval Power

On December 23, 2025, President Donald Trump unveiled the “Golden Fleet,” a new class of warships for the U.S. Navy, at a news conference held at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida. The announcement was made alongside key figures such as Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Navy Secretary John Phelan. Trump described these ships as the “largest and most lethal surface warfare ships” in history, marking a significant expansion of American naval capabilities.

These battleships, with an estimated cost of at least $5 billion each, are touted to be “the fastest, the biggest, and by far 100 times more powerful than any battleship ever built.” The initiative begins with two ships, with plans to expand to a fleet of ten. This move is part of a broader strategy to project U.S. dominance and ensure uncontested sea lanes for allies, reflecting Trump’s long-standing emphasis on expanding naval capabilities.

Critics Question the Tactical Value

Despite the grandiosity of the “Golden Fleet,” critics have raised concerns about its practicality. Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery, a retired Navy officer and member of the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, has criticized the fleet’s tactical relevance, describing it as having “zero tactical use.” He argues that the initiative prioritizes visual grandeur over strategic necessity, pointing out the potential inefficiencies of such massive ships when agility is often key in modern naval warfare.

Critics also highlight the financial strain this project could impose on the country’s defense budget. With costs exceeding $50 billion for the entire fleet, there is concern about opportunity costs, particularly when investing in other advanced technologies like drones and submarines could provide more strategic benefits. These financial implications have sparked debates on whether the investment is justifiable given the current economic landscape.

Implications for the Future

In the short term, the “Golden Fleet” project is expected to create jobs in shipbuilding regions, reviving manufacturing sectors and boosting local economies. Politically, it reinforces Trump’s image of strength and determination, appealing to his base by showcasing a commitment to national defense. However, in the long term, the financial burden could lead to strained budgets, potentially impacting other areas of military spending.

As this ambitious project moves forward, it remains to be seen whether the benefits of such a grand naval expansion will outweigh the criticisms. For now, the “Golden Fleet” stands as a testament to Trump’s vision of a powerful and visually imposing military, a stark contrast to the constraints of previous administrations.