US President Donald Trump announced on Monday the launch of a new class of warships that will carry his name, marking an unusual step for a sitting president.
Speaking at a press conference at his Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida, Trump described the future vessel as “the largest warship in the history of our country, and the largest warship ever built in the history of the world.”
Images of the ship, both at sea and under construction, were displayed on stands during the event, according to reports.
Trump estimated that constructing the first two ships would take about two and a half years. He said the new class would soon include 10 ships, eventually expanding to 20–25 vessels.
According to the president, the ships will be armed with cannons and lasers, and capable of carrying hypersonic and nuclear weapons.
Emphasizing his personal involvement, Trump said he would take an active role in the ships’ design, citing his focus on aesthetics.
He also noted that the new class of warships is intended as a strategic message “to everyone, not just China,” while adding that the US maintains a strong and cooperative relationship with China, which has also modernized its naval fleet.
