China Outpaces US in Submarine Production, Threatening Sea-Power Advantage: Report

• China is launching nuclear-powered submarines faster than the US, challenging Washington's long-held sea-power advantage.
• From 2021-2025, China launched 10 submarines (79,000 tons) compared to the US's 7 (55,500 tons).
• The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has expanded its nuclear-powered sub force, including ballistic-missile and attack subs.
• As of early 2025, China had 12 active nuclear-powered submarines, while the US had 65 total, with 14 ballistic-missile boats.
• China is also rapidly expanding its overall naval fleet, emerging as the world's largest with 234 warships compared to the US Navy's 219.