US Navy Plans Trump-Class Battleships as Largest Surface Combatants Since WWII
The US Navy is developing the Trump-class battleships, intended to be the largest surface combatants, displacing approximately 30,000 tonnes. This class replaces the planned DDG(X) destroyers and aims to enhance the Navy's conventional capabilities.
NATO's STANAG 1166 designator system classifies battleships with the 'BB' suffix, denoting capital ships designed for surface action. The Trump-class is set to feature advanced systems, including the Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missiles and the Surface Launch Cruise Missile-Nuclear.
Significant funding for the project increased after 2024, with expectations for initial operational capability by 2034. However, development risks remain, particularly concerning the integration of systems and potential issues from the halted railgun project. The Trump-class is viewed as central to the US Navy's future fleet strategy.
