Former President Donald Trump is set to make a significant announcement regarding shipbuilding alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of the Navy John Phelan from his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida on Monday, as confirmed by a White House official.
While specific details about the announcement remain under wraps, Secretary Phelan recently revealed plans for a new class of warship as part of the president’s initiative dubbed the “Golden Fleet.” In a video shared on social media, he emphasized the ambition to develop American-designed ships manufactured in the United States, with the first frigate expected to launch in 2028. This initiative aims to rectify longstanding shipbuilding deficiencies that have persisted through multiple administrations and strengthen the U.S. shipbuilding supply chain.
“We’re done admiring the problem. Our focus is on readiness,” Phelan stated in the video. “With a smart, quick, affordable build, we will deliver the capacity our warfighters need.”
This announcement comes amid a broader strategy by the Trump administration to enhance the United States’ naval presence in Latin America, particularly in light of rising tensions with Venezuela. Recently, the U.S. announced the seizure of a second vessel in international waters, which had been docked off the coast of Venezuela, following the president’s declaration of a “blockade” on all oil tankers entering or exiting the country.
During the Christmas holiday, the president will be at Mar-a-Lago, balancing a mix of official duties and golf outings.
