The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) will invest $35 million to modernise America’s small shipyards, supporting facility upgrades, new equipment purchases, and workforce development, U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy announced.
The funding will target key areas of shipyard operations, including the acquisition of cranes, plasma cutters, welding systems, and other machinery, alongside strengthened maritime training programmes aimed at boosting workforce capability.
Sean P. Duffy, U.S. Transportation Secretary, said: “This 300 per cent increase in shipyard investments underscores President Trump’s commitment to restoring America’s maritime dominance strategy. Revitalising this once great industry enhances our national security, reshoring good-paying jobs, and ensures goods get to where they need to go affordably.”
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MARAD Administrator, Stephen M. Carmel, added: “Thanks to President Trump and Secretary Duffy, the maritime industry is getting the resources it needs to restore US strength on the seas. This $35 million investment will empower our domestic maritime industry to modernise facilities, foster competitive operations, and equip the American worker with the skills needed to restore our nation’s maritime dominance.”
Projects funded under this programme will prioritise the integration of innovative technologies, aligning with the administration’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic shipbuilding capacity and competitiveness.
For the maritime and shipping sector, the move represents a significant push to enhance repair and construction infrastructure, increase operational efficiency, and cultivate a skilled workforce capable of supporting the US merchant fleet and naval auxiliary requirements.
For more information:
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration – https://www.transportation.gov/
