Trump says US Navy expanding with subs, battleships, and jets
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US President Donald Trump announced major naval and defense initiatives, including moving nuclear submarines near Russia, considering a revival of battleships, advancing Boeing’s F-47, and adding at least 19 ships to the US Navy next year.
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US President Donald Trump speaks to a gathering of top U.S. military commanders at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Tuesday, Sept. 30, 2025, in Quantico, Va. (Andrew Harnik/Pool via AP)
US President Donald Trump revealed that he ordered the deployment of “one or two” nuclear submarines closer to Russia earlier this year, citing the need to “be careful” following remarks by Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev.
“I moved a submarine or two, I won’t say about the two, over to the coast of Russia, just to be careful, because we can’t let people throw around that [nuclear] word,” Trump told senior US military officers during a gathering at the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia on September 30.
The move followed Trump’s July 1 directive to reposition the submarines in response to Medvedev’s criticism of Washington’s ultimatums toward Moscow.
Trump confirmed in August that the vessels had reached their designated patrol areas.
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Pentagon may revive battleships amid naval expansion
During the same address, Trump suggested that the United States should reconsider building battleships, describing it as a serious option for the Pentagon.
“It came from tariffs. $31 billion. That is enough to buy a lot of battleships, Admiral, to use an old term. I think we should maybe start thinking about battleships, by the way,” Trump said.
Trump also highlighted advancements in US military aviation, announcing progress on Boeing’s F-47 sixth-generation fighter jet.
“We are rapidly moving forward with the first-ever sixth-generation fighter jet… and they’re testing all these plans; all the companies are testing. And this one [F-47] tested like through the roof,” Trump said.
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US Navy to add 19 new ships, Trump confirms
Looking ahead, Trump confirmed that the US Navy will receive a significant boost in 2025, with at least 19 new ships expected to enter service.
“Under my budget, we will be expanding the US Navy by at least 19 ships next year, including submarines, destroyers, assault ships, and more,” he told senior military officers.
The announcements reflect a broader Pentagon strategy to reinforce maritime power, expand naval capabilities, and signal readiness in the face of Russia and other global rivals.
