The US Merchant Marine Is a National Security Necessity

By: Benjamin Harrison

The US has a vast coastline but lacks domestic maritime presence, relying on foreign partners for seaborne commerce.

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Limited global trade risks ignored. "Global Trends 2040" predicts isolationism, regional blocs favoring resource-rich nations.

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China drives world dynamics: adversary or competitor to the US in all scenarios, according to "Global Trends 2040."

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Four scenarios assume unencumbered trade between US and China, but ocean transport's role in broken supply chains is overlooked.

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China's heavy investments in port facilities and shipbuilding industry surpass the US, leading in global maritime presence.

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Threats to sea access historically led to war, but the US overlooks maritime defense while China prioritizes sea dominance.

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US merchant fleet dwindled from 3000 ships in 1960 to 182 in 2019, while global shipping giants own hundreds of vessels.

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US maritime readiness declines: recent test reveals only 40% of activated ships can deploy, contrasting past successful activations.

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