Seoul: U.S. President Donald Trump announced his administration's intention to consider South Korean and other international companies for shipbuilding partnerships aimed at bolstering the United States Navy. This declaration was made during the Defense and Innovation Summit held at the U.S. Army War College, Pennsylvania, as part of a broader strategy to enhance naval capabilities.

According to Yonhap News Agency, President Trump emphasized the urgent need to expand and modernize the U.S. naval fleet, citing aging vessels as a primary concern. "We have to build our Navy ... We got to get it going. So, we're going to probably look at some of these companies that are coming in from South Korea and other places, and they're working with us on ships," Trump stated. He further elaborated on plans to both construct and procure ships from international sources, although he did not clarify the specifics of sourcing ships "made outside of the area."

The potential collaboration with South Korean shipbuilders comes amid ongoing discussions between Trump and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung. During a recent meeting at the Group of Seven summit in Evian-les-Bains, France, the two leaders reportedly explored the possibility of U.S. naval vessels being constructed in South Korea. This move underscores a strategic effort to leverage international expertise in revitalizing the U.S. shipbuilding industry, ensuring the Navy remains a formidable force.