President Donald Trump has ordered a major overhaul of U.S. Navy shipbuilding, including a return to traditional steam-powered aircraft catapults on future aircraft carriers.

The decision targets the electromagnetic aircraft launch system used on the Gerald R. Ford-class carriers. Trump has criticised the technology as expensive and complex, while supporters argue that electromagnetic systems offer important advantages in aircraft operations and maintenance.

The order also opens the door for foreign shipbuilders to participate more directly in U.S. military shipbuilding, under conditions requiring investment in American shipyards, workforce expansion, technology transfer and U.S.-based supply chains.

The move comes as Washington faces growing concerns over China's rapidly expanding naval shipbuilding capacity. China currently operates three aircraft carriers, while its latest carrier, Fujian, also uses electromagnetic launch technology

Trump Orders U.S. Navy To Bring Back Steam Catapults | Foreign Shipbuilders Get Historic Access

Russia has issued a stark warning to Western countries over efforts to disrupt its so-called shadow fleet, raising fears that the confrontation could spill into international shipping lanes.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened retaliation if Western nations move to seize Russian vessels or assets linked to the shadow fleet. Moscow says such actions would amount to piracy and has warned that any response would not necessarily take place in the same waters.

The escalating tensions are creating a major challenge for Britain’s Royal Navy, which is already monitoring Russian warships and shadow fleet vessels around UK waters. Reports cited in the segment suggest concerns over whether the Royal Navy has sufficient ships, weapons and resources to protect commercial shipping across vast maritime routes.

As Russia and the West clash over sanctioned oil shipments, the world’s major shipping lanes could become the next arena of confrontation.

Russia Threatens Western Ships | Britain’s Royal Navy Faces Major Firepower Crisis

The Indian Navy has commissioned INS Mahendragiri, the sixth Project 17A indigenous stealth frigate, into its Eastern Fleet at Visakhapatnam.
 Designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited, the advanced warship features over 75% indigenous content, highlighting India's growing self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

INS mahendragiri joins indian navy | india's new indigenous stealth frigate | wion news

India’s major defence deals involve huge investments in jets, missiles, tanks, and naval power. From Su-30MKI fighters to BrahMos missiles and new warships, the modernisation push reveals growing strength.

<p>India’s major defence deals involve huge investments in jets, missiles, tanks, and naval power. From Su-30MKI fighters to BrahMos missiles and new warships, the modernisation push reveals growing strength.</p>

‘From BrahMos missile to Rafale fighter jet’: India’s top 10 defence deals since independence

China is watching closely as the US cobbles together a great metaphorical "seawall" against China. US President Joe Biden will host leaders from Japan and South Korea at Camp David this week with an aim to deepen technological as well as defence ties. Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Biden seeks deeper ties with Asian allies amid China threat

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