Rebuilding America’s Maritime Strength

With conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, and rising tensions between China and Taiwan, the United States must reclaim its status as a true maritime nation. Maritime self-reliance is essential to fully support our allies and interests around the world.

The United States is the premier naval nation with a combat-ready navy which projects force worldwide and safeguards free and open seas.

However, it's the civilian manned US Merchant Marine which is the backbone that provides logistical support to the combat-ready Navy and all our armed forces. In World War II, the Merchant Marine delivered vital supplies, troops, and weapons across treacherous waters, earning recognition from FDR as the fourth arm of defense.

Today, US Merchant Marine vessels serve as a logistic lifeline for our forces and help safeguard democratic allies like Taiwan and Japan. Over the years, China has invested heavily in all aspects of maritime activity.

China's 5,000 available vessels to support naval operations dwarfs America's 80. America must expand its commercial fleet, enhance shipbuilding maintenance capabilities and capacity, and increase the number of merchant maritime officers ready to serve.

The U.S. Merchant Marine Academy produces over 80% of our strategic Sealift officer force, but requires significant investment to upgrade its outdated infrastructure and attract the brightest individuals. Combat power without robust sealift and dependable logistics will be short-lived.

We must give our merchant mariners the resources they need to better ensure global peace and stability.