United States Announces New Battleship USS Defiant

On December 23, 2025, the United States Navy officially announced the development of a new large surface combatant, designated as the USS Defiant. This announcement was made during a discussion led by maritime historian Sal Mercogliano, who is affiliated with Campbell University and has a background as a former merchant mariner. The USS Defiant is categorized as a battleship, although there is some debate regarding its classification as a cruiser.

Key Details

The announcement was part of a broader conversation about the current state of the U.S. Navy"s fleet and its shipbuilding programs. The discussion began with an overview of Navy shipbuilding initiatives, highlighting the importance of modernizing the fleet to meet contemporary maritime challenges.

Sal Mercogliano provided insights into the composition of the U.S. Navy"s fleet, noting that the Navy is in the process of updating its surface shipbuilding programs. This includes a detailed examination of what constitutes a battleship versus a large cruiser, which are two distinct categories of naval vessels.

Specific specifications for the USS Defiant were also discussed, although exact details were not disclosed in the announcement. The conversation included considerations about where these ships could be constructed, emphasizing the need for strategic planning in shipbuilding locations.

Mercogliano also pointed out potential gaps in the current capabilities of the U.S. Navy, suggesting that the introduction of the USS Defiant could address some of these deficiencies. The discussion concluded with reflections on the future of naval warfare and the significance of the USS Defiant in enhancing the Navy"s operational readiness.

Background

The announcement of the USS Defiant comes at a time when the U.S. Navy is actively seeking to modernize its fleet in response to evolving global threats. The last battleships were decommissioned in the 1990s, and the return of a battleship to the fleet represents a significant shift in naval strategy. The distinction between battleships and cruisers is critical, as battleships are typically heavily armed and armored, designed for direct engagement, while cruisers are generally more versatile and can perform a variety of roles.

Mercogliano"s expertise as a maritime historian provides valuable context for understanding the implications of this announcement. His background in maritime history and experience as a merchant mariner lend credibility to his analysis of the Navy"s current and future capabilities.

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What"s Next

The development of the USS Defiant is expected to have significant implications for the U.S. Navy"s strategic posture. As the Navy continues to adapt to new maritime challenges, the introduction of advanced vessels like the USS Defiant may enhance its operational capabilities. The discussions surrounding the ship"s specifications and construction locations will likely continue as the Navy moves forward with its shipbuilding agenda.

For those interested in related coverage, recent developments in political and military contexts can be explored further, including previous reports on military readiness and strategic initiatives.