Navy Reveals New Details on $17 Billion Trump-Class Battleship

The U.S. Navy is moving ahead with one of its most ambitious warship projects in decades: the new Trump-class battleship, officially designated BBG(X). The first ship, currently planned to be named USS Defiant, could cost an estimated $17 billion.

Speaking at the Sea-Air-Space 2026 conference, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle said the Navy is trying to avoid mistakes that doomed previous shipbuilding efforts, particularly the failed Constellation-class frigate program.

Built Around Firepower

The new ships are expected to displace roughly 35,000 tons, nearly triple the size of a Arleigh Burke-class destroyer. They are expected to carry hypersonic missiles, conventional strike weapons, laser systems, railguns, and traditional naval guns.

The Navy says the battleship will serve as a long-range strike platform and command ship capable of operating independently or alongside carrier groups.

Lessons From Past Failures

Officials stressed they will not begin construction until the design is largely finalized. The Navy wants the ship to be at least 80 percent designed before construction begins, a direct response to previous programs where changing requirements caused delays and cost overruns.

The service is also exploring modular construction methods inspired by shipbuilders in South Korea and Japan.