Story perspectives

Trump's 'Trump-Class' Battleships: Outdated Dream or Costly Mistake?

12/27/2025

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 'Trump-class' battleship fleet, but experts say it may never be operational due to outdated designs.
A CNBC report notes battleships have been obsolete for decades, overshadowed by aircraft carriers and modern destroyers.
Analysts such as Mark Cancian say the fleet is impractical and costly and expect cancellation before completion.
Bryan Clark says Trump's decisions may stem from nostalgia for 1980s naval power.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 'Trump-class' battleship fleet, but experts say it may never be operational due to outdated designs.
A CNBC report notes battleships have been obsolete for decades, overshadowed by aircraft carriers and modern destroyers.
Analysts such as Mark Cancian say the fleet is impractical and costly and expect cancellation before completion.
Bryan Clark says Trump's decisions may stem from nostalgia for 1980s naval power.