BUSINESS

Washington Announces Trump-class Battleships and Hanwha Frigate Cooperation

PUBLISHED Dec 22, 2025, 8:05 PM ET

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Washington Announces Trump-class Battleships and Hanwha Frigate Cooperation

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 12

Center 67%

Right 33%

Sources: 12

Washington — President Donald Trump announced Monday that the U.S. Navy will begin construction of two 'Trump-class' warships and that South Korea's Hanwha will collaborate on new frigates. Trump described the ships as larger than Iowa-class vessels, with 30,000–40,000-ton displacement and advanced weapons including hypersonics, railguns, and lasers. He said the plan could expand to as many as 20–25 ships. Officials at Mar-a-Lago stood with him during the announcement. Separately, the Navy outlined plans for a new class of smaller frigates. Reporting cited company investment commitments, official documents, and prior naval procurement challenges. Based on 11 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Lauren Mitchell | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

August: Hanwha announces US$5 billion investment in Philadelphia shipyard under U.S.-Korea cooperation.
Early December: U.S. Navy cancels a planned small warship program amid cost and schedule concerns.
Prior to Dec.22: U.S. Navy outlines plans for a new class of smaller frigates.
Dec.22–23: President Trump announces two initial 'Trump-class' battleships and the 'Golden Fleet' plan at Mar-a-Lago.
Dec.23 onward: Multiple outlets publish details about ship displacement, armament claims, and potential fleet expansion.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 4
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8

Who Benefited

U.S. shipbuilders, Hanwha, and defense contractors are positioned to receive contracts, foreign and domestic investment, and expanded manufacturing work from proposed frigate and Trump-class shipbuilding programs.

Who Impacted

Taxpayers, Navy planners, and competing defense priorities may face higher costs, schedule pressures, and resource reallocation due to ambitious shipbuilding plans.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 12
Right Leaning:: 4
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 8
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 67%, Right 33%

Who Benefited

Who Impacted

Taxpayers, Navy planners, and competing defense priorities may face higher costs, schedule pressures, and resource reallocation due to ambitious shipbuilding plans.