U.S. Navy Commander Admiral Daryl Caudle stated that closer solidarity with allies in the region is essential against China’s shipbuilding advancements, which are rapidly expanding its naval power. Speaking to journalists in Tokyo, Caudle noted that partnerships to be established particularly with Japan and South Korea have become a “strategic necessity” for the U.S.
Caudle expressed that China has significantly increased the production volume in its shipyards in recent years, conveying that the recently commissioned Fujian aircraft carrier is one of the clearest indicators of this rise. Emphasizing that uncertainty continues regarding how China will use such platforms for global naval capability, the Admiral said this is being carefully analyzed by the U.S.
Stating that Beijing’s new amphibious assault ship, which has begun sea trials, is also on their agenda, Caudle said, “It is a highly equipped, large-scale ship. We are closely monitoring for what purposes it will be deployed.”
The Admiral stated that cooperation to be carried out with Japan and South Korea will play a critical role in strengthening the U.S.’s shipbuilding capacity, adding, “These two countries are in a position to provide both technical and production support to the U.S. shipbuilding process. Therefore, we are open to cooperation and are ready to deepen it.”
Noting that the breadth of the allied pool in the region provides a significant advantage to the U.S., Caudle said that defense collaborations with many partners, including Australia, create a force multiplier effect. “As your friends multiply, your deterrent power grows just as much,” he said.
During his visit to Japan, Caudle conducted inspections at the Yokosuka Naval Base and a local shipyard, gathering information on the region’s capacity and production processes.
