Washington is raising concerns over Beijing’s growing influence in global shipbuilding, prompting key U.S. allies to accelerate investments in advanced "smart shipyards" that integrate automation, artificial intelligence, and digital tools. The shift aims to bolster domestic maritime industries while reducing reliance on Chinese technology and supply chains, as competition intensifies in a sector critical to naval and commercial shipping capabilities. Analysts warn that China’s dominance in shipbuilding—backed by state subsidies and rapid technological adoption—poses long-term risks to allied defense and economic security. Governments are now prioritizing upgrades to modernize infrastructure and secure supply chains amid rising geopolitical tensions.
US allies invest in ‘smart shipyards’ as Beijing’s dominance of industry alarms Washington
