How China’s naval advancements are pushing the US Navy to innovate
USN Stiletto programme demonstrator. (Photo: US Navy)
The US Navy is set to invest $30 billion in artificial intelligence, cyber, space and autonomy research and development efforts in FY2026 as the force rethinks how it fights in light of China’s naval rise.
The rapid improvement of Chinese naval capabilities and the growth of Beijing’s maritime industry have been pressing the US Navy (USN) towards investing in innovation by acquiring and developing a host of new capabilities while upgrading its in-service inventory.
In FY2026, the branch allocated nearly $30 billion to fund basic and applied scientific research and development, as well as test and evaluation efforts related to new, cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI), cyber, space and autonomy technologies.
Speaking last week at the 2026 Surface Navy Association National Symposium, John C Phelan, the Secretary of the Navy, noted that the US’s adversaries “are quickly
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Baltic naval priorities shift towards mine warfare and versatile platforms]()
Baltic naval priorities shift towards mine warfare and versatile platforms
Baltic states are investing in mine warfare, uncrewed systems and multirole platforms as major warship purchases remain scarce, industry sources indicate.
-
![India’s mine countermeasure drive triggers rush of new partnerships]()
India’s mine countermeasure drive triggers rush of new partnerships
Parallel procurement pathways for crewed mine countermeasure vessels and uncrewed systems underline a shift towards next-generation mine warfare for the Indian Navy.
-
![Finland’s naval sector eyes growth opportunities in NATO era]()
Finland’s naval sector eyes growth opportunities in NATO era
Finland’s naval industrial base is expanding as NATO membership, Baltic Sea security concerns and proximity to Russia push shipbuilders and equipment makers to capture new roles.
-
![Force renewal in the Royal Canadian Navy opens long-term opportunities for suppliers]()
Force renewal in the Royal Canadian Navy opens long-term opportunities for suppliers
Canada's ambitious naval modernisation plans are creating major maritime procurement opportunities, with future programmes also promising long-term work for domestic and international shipbuilders.
