The world is watching closely as China accelerates its military expansion, leaving global leaders increasingly concerned.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has raised the alarm, warning that Beijing is building its naval forces at a pace that far outstrips the United States and its Western allies.
China’s Rapid Shipbuilding Sparks Alarm
Rutte highlighted that China’s shipbuilding efforts are “really worrying,” particularly because the country is rolling out ships armed with advanced weapons faster than the U.S. can keep up.
This comes on the heels of a massive military parade hosted by President Xi Jinping, which drew high-profile autocrats including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un.
Former President Donald Trump criticized the parade, claiming it was a gathering of global adversaries conspiring against the United States.
Observers have widely interpreted the showcase as China asserting its military strength and challenging the U.S.-led global order.
NATO Urges Preparedness
Speaking at a NATO defense summit in Prague, Rutte emphasized the need for the U.S. to strengthen its naval capabilities.
“When it comes to shipbuilding, and our navy—particularly the U.S. Navy—I’m really worried,” he said. “China now has more ships sailing than the U.S., and our shipbuilding rate isn’t catching up anytime soon.”
Nick Childs, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies, echoed these concerns.
He told the BBC that China’s shipbuilding capacity is roughly 200 times greater than that of the U.S., noting that rising costs and project delays have slowed American naval expansion.
Challenges Facing the U.S. Navy
Although European shipbuilding is growing, Rutte stressed that more collective effort is needed to bridge the gap.
The U.S. Navy remains a formidable force but is stretched thin, facing high operational costs, staffing challenges, and logistical pressures.
In December, Pentagon reports confirmed that China now boasts the world’s largest navy, with over 370 ships and submarines, including more than 140 major surface combatants.
Most of these vessels are modern and versatile, capable of a range of missions.
China is also on track to deploy its third aircraft carrier this year.
U.S. Vice Admiral Robert Murrett has highlighted the struggles of American shipyards, which face outdated infrastructure, limited space, and workforce shortages—factors hampering timely project completion.
Shifting U.S. Focus to the Indo-Pacific
In response to China’s growing naval power, the United States is turning its strategic attention to the Indo-Pacific.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth explained that Washington aims to deter conflict with China in the Pacific while coordinating with European allies to divide strategic responsibilities.
The Spectacle in Beijing
Earlier this week, China’s military parade—marking the 80th anniversary of World War II—quickly turned into a display of cutting-edge weaponry.
Soldiers, sailors, and airmen marched in precise formation alongside tanks, stealth planes, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and other high-tech military hardware.
President Xi proclaimed that China is “firmly standing on the right side of history,” calling his nation “strong, self-reliant, and fearless.”
He declared that the “rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable.”
Putin and Kim Jong Un joined Xi on the viewing platform, marking their first-ever joint appearance at a major multilateral event.
Analysts suggest this rare gathering signals a unified front against Western powers.
Uncertainty over Ukraine Security Guarantees
Meanwhile, Rutte pressed for clarity from the “coalition of the willing” regarding security assurances for Ukraine if a ceasefire with Russia is reached.
Leaders from Europe, Turkey, Australia, and Canada are meeting in Paris with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss concrete measures, but divisions persist over troop commitments and potential defense agreements.
European nations supporting Ukraine face a delicate balance.
With the war ongoing, no ceasefire in sight, and U.S. involvement uncertain, the question of Ukraine’s long-term security remains a pressing global concern.