US Navy Secretary John Phelan has revealed plans to propose a new partnership with Japan focused on dual-use shipbuilding, designing commercial ships that can quickly serve military roles if needed.
Speaking to Nikkei Asia, Phelan said that expanding joint shipbuilding efforts is essential to strengthen deterrence against China.
Phelan, who arrived in Japan on Sunday night, plans to deliver this message personally to Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani during their meeting on Monday.
He believes looking at “all options” to boost combined shipbuilding capabilities is crucial.
Before his trip, during an interview at his Pentagon office, Phelan highlighted how China has been deliberately designing its commercial vessels to meet military standards, allowing for fast conversion in times of conflict.
He said that the US and its allies are not doing the same and discussed the need for both nations to embed military applications into their ship designs.
Phelan also pointed out that during
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