Part 10/10:
In stark contrast, China's fleet is projected to expand from 401 ships to 435 by 2030. Even though China has not made its 30-year plan public, it is reasonable to assume further escalation in their shipbuilding ambitions.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Naval Power
As the shipbuilding landscape evolves, the coming years promise to be a critical juncture for both the US and Chinese navies. While the US Navy retains several areas of technological advantage, the unprecedented growth of China’s shipbuilding industry underscores a significant shift in maritime power dynamics. The prospect of what lies ahead will depend largely on the strategic decisions made in the coming decades—decisions that will shape the future of naval warfare and maritime security globally.