In a bold initiative, US President Donald Trump has proposed the creation of a new class of heavily armed warships, named the Trump-class. This announcement, made at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, signifies a significant effort to modernize and expand the United States Navy.
The plan includes the construction of two initial Trump-class warships, with potential for further expansion. Trump has characterized these vessels as among the "most lethal surface warfare ships" ever constructed by the US and claims they will be the largest battleships in American history.
These proposed ships are expected to displace between 30,000 and 40,000 tonnes, which positions them as significantly larger than current US destroyers and cruisers, yet smaller than the retired Iowa-class battleships.
The Trump-class ships are designed as multi-role platforms, equipped with a range of advanced weaponry. According to Trump, they will incorporate next-generation systems, including lasers and hypersonic missiles. Additionally, the ships are expected to have the capability to carry nuclear-armed sea-launched cruise missiles, underlining their role in strategic deterrence.
While the announcement has sparked discussions amid rising US concerns about China's naval expansion, Trump emphasized that the program is not directed at any single nation.
Trump has expressed a keen interest in the design process of these vessels, stating he would collaborate closely with the US Navy. He highlighted his dissatisfaction with the aesthetics of existing naval ships, asserting that the Trump-class would showcase both improved design and enhanced combat capabilities.
Senior officials, including the defense secretary and the navy secretary, were present during the announcement, signaling strong support for the initiative.
This announcement aligns with a broader US strategy to revitalize domestic shipbuilding. The Navy has also proposed a new FF(X) frigate class, though some Constellation-class frigates are currently under review for cancellation.
US officials have voiced concerns about keeping pace with China's fleet size. Trump stated that these new initiatives aim to restore America's status as a leading shipbuilding nation and ensure long-term naval dominance.
Q1. What are Trump-class warships?
Answer: Trump-class warships are a proposed class of heavily armed naval vessels intended to modernize the US Navy, featuring advanced weaponry and capabilities.
Q2. How many Trump-class ships are planned initially?
Answer: The initial plan includes the construction of two Trump-class warships, with potential for further expansion in the program.
Q3. What makes Trump-class ships unique?
Answer: Trump-class ships are designed to be among the largest battleships in US history, incorporating next-generation weapon systems like lasers and hypersonic missiles.
Q4. Who was involved in announcing the Trump-class ships?
Answer: The announcement was attended by senior officials, including the defense secretary and navy secretary, highlighting the initiative's importance.
Q5. What is the purpose of the Trump-class ships?
Answer: These ships aim to enhance US naval power, improve strategic deterrence, and modernize naval capabilities amid global maritime competition.
Question 1: What is the expected displacement of the Trump-class warships?
A) 20,000–25,000 tonnes
B) 30,000–40,000 tonnes
C) 45,000–50,000 tonnes
D) 60,000–70,000 tonnes
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: Which class of battleships was retired in the 1990s?
A) Nimitz-class
B) Iowa-class
C) Virginia-class
D) Freedom-class
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What advanced weaponry is expected to be included in the Trump-class ships?
A) Conventional missiles
B) Railguns
C) Lasers and hypersonic missiles
D) Ballistic missiles
Correct Answer: C
Question 4: What is the primary reason for the Trump-class ship initiative?
A) To target specific countries
B) To enhance US naval power and deterrence
C) To reduce military spending
D) To increase the size of the Navy
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: Who is primarily involved in the design process of the Trump-class ships?
A) The Secretary of Defense
B) President Donald Trump
C) Private contractors
D) Congress
Correct Answer: B
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