Executive Order Category Rationale

Justification

This executive order is primarily focused on rebuilding America's shipbuilding capacity and maritime industrial base for national security purposes. Section 1 explicitly states that the decline of the U.S. commercial shipbuilding capacity has resulted in "eroding United States national security" while empowering adversaries like the PRC. Throughout the order, multiple sections emphasize the defense and military dimensions, including Section 4's focus on "Security and Resilience of the Maritime Industrial Base" using Defense Production Act authorities, Section 15's vessel procurement for military use, Section 17's requirement to ensure "adequate cubed footage and gross tonnage of United States-flagged commercial vessels can be called upon in times of crisis," and Section 19's specific focus on shipbuilding for the Army, Navy, and Coast Guard. While the order includes economic development elements, the predominant focus is on restoring maritime capabilities to strengthen military readiness and national defense.

Secondary relevant categories

• Economic Prosperity & Development
• Transportation & Infrastructure