美国造船业只剩0.1%？军舰越造越贵，中国却能拿下全球一半订单！

Core Viewpoint - The strength of a country's navy cannot be solely determined by the number of vessels; it relies on a robust shipbuilding industry that is active, has orders, and skilled workers to support it [1][3]. Shipbuilding Industry Status - The U.S. shipbuilding industry has significantly declined, with only 0.1% of new ships globally being built in the U.S. in 2024, while over half are produced in China, and Korea and Japan account for 40% [3][5]. - The U.S. once had a thriving shipbuilding industry capable of launching thousands of vessels annually during WWII, but now struggles to deliver even a single patrol boat in a timely manner [5]. Current Shipyards - Only four shipyards in the U.S. are still capable of building military vessels: Newport News, Bath Iron Works, Ingalls, and General Dynamics Electric Boat [6]. - These shipyards rely entirely on military contracts, with no orders from the civilian market, leading to a loss of skilled labor as younger workers opt for other careers [8]. Challenges in Production - The U.S. Navy faces delays and cost overruns in new destroyer construction due to issues like excessive rework in welding [8]. - The Biden administration's "301 investigation" into China's shipbuilding practices highlights the competitive pressures faced by the U.S. industry, despite the reality of China's efficiency and delivery capabilities [10][11]. Comparison with China - China's shipbuilding industry benefits from a model of "military-civilian integration," allowing for dual-use of labor and facilities, which keeps costs down and maintains technical skills [13][15]. - Civilian ship orders serve as both an economic support during peacetime and a strategic reserve during wartime, providing flexibility that purely military shipyards lack [17][21]. Historical Context - The U.S. ability to rapidly produce ships during WWII was rooted in a strong civilian shipbuilding industry, which is now lacking [22]. - China's current capability to quickly deploy advanced naval vessels is supported by substantial civilian ship orders, demonstrating the importance of a robust shipbuilding base [24]. Conclusion - A true maritime power is built not just on military might but on a vibrant shipbuilding industry that can sustain itself through civilian orders, ensuring readiness and resilience in the face of future challenges [24].