US Navy Attack Submarine Fleet Faces Critical Shortfall by 2030

The US Navy requires 66 attack submarines to meet its operational needs, but the fleet is projected to shrink to just 46-47 vessels by 2030. Aging submarines, including the recently retired USS San Juan after 38 years of service, are being decommissioned faster than new ones can be built. Production bottlenecks and competing naval programs are further slowing efforts to replenish the fleet. The shortfall comes at a time of rising pressure from global adversaries and increasing commitments to allies. The widening gap raises serious concerns about the Navy's ability to sustain its underwater combat capabilities.