Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance
4/9/2025
Action Summary
- Purpose & Rationale: Address decades of neglect that have weakened the U.S. commercial shipbuilding capacity, maritime workforce, and industrial base—diminishing national security and enabling economic disadvantages compared to competitors, particularly the PRC.
- Revitalization Policy: Commit to rebuilding the domestic maritime industries and workforce to enhance both national security and economic prosperity.
- Maritime Action Plan (MAP):
- Develop and submit a comprehensive MAP within 210 days by the APNSA with input from key departments (State, Defense, Commerce, Labor, Transportation, Homeland Security, USTR, etc.).
- OMB to handle legislative, regulatory, and fiscal assessments related to the MAP.
- Maritime Industrial Base & Investment:
- Conduct an assessment within 180 days to expand shipbuilding capabilities and supply chains using available authorities (e.g., Defense Production Act Title III) and private capital.
- Pursue improvements via the Office of Strategic Capital and identify key maritime components for prioritized investment.
- Addressing PRC Targeting:
- USTR to review and coordinate actions in response to the PRC’s targeting of maritime, logistics, and shipbuilding sectors—including potential tariffs on specific maritime equipment.
- Harbor Fee Enforcement:
- Ensure foreign-origin cargo complies with CBP entry processes and assess additional fees (including a 10% service fee) to prevent fee circumvention through alternate ports.
- Engagement & Trade Policy Alignment:
- USTR, with State and Commerce, to engage allies and partners within 90 days regarding potential actions under this order.
- Promote allied investment in U.S. shipbuilding efforts through recommended incentives.
- Financial & Incentive Programs:
- Establish a Maritime Security Trust Fund as a reliable funding source.
- Launch a Shipbuilding Financial Incentives Program to spur private investment, support shipyard upgrades, and extend existing financing programs.
- Maritime Prosperity Zones:
- Develop zones that incentivize investment in maritime industries and waterfront communities—modeled after opportunity zones and including diverse geographic areas.
- Federal Program & Regulatory Reviews:
- Report on current Federal programs supporting the maritime industry, including cargo preferences and training initiatives.
- Review and propose deregulation measures across agencies to remove inefficiencies affecting domestic shipbuilding and maritime transport.
- Mariner Training & Education Expansion:
- Enhance maritime education, credentialing reform, and workforce training through a multi-agency report and legislative proposals—including international exchanges and scholarships.
- Modernization Initiatives:
- Modernize the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy through expedited hiring, deferred maintenance projects, a long-term master facilities plan, and a 5-year capital improvement plan.
- Procurement & Efficiency Improvements:
- Develop proposals to improve acquisition strategies for U.S. Government vessels, streamline approvals, reduce excessive requirements, and utilize commercial practices.
- Initiate a separate review by the Department of Government Efficiency to further refine vessel procurement processes.
- Fleet Expansion & Arctic Security:
- Propose legislative measures to increase the U.S.-flagged commercial vessel fleet for crisis readiness and encouraging international trade involvement.
- Develop a strategy to secure Arctic waterways and address emerging security challenges.
- Shipbuilding & Reserve Fleet Reviews:
- Conduct a review of U.S. shipbuilding for government use to increase competitiveness and lessen cost overruns.
- Review and provide guidance on the inactive reserve fleet regarding funding, retention, and mobilization.
- Interagency Coordination & Legal Provisions:
- All actions to be coordinated interagency pursuant to established national security directives.
- Provisions for severability and adherence to existing legal authorities and budgetary constraints.
Risks & Considerations
- The Executive Order aims to revitalize the U.S. maritime industry, which could lead to increased federal funding and support for related educational and research programs. However, the focus on domestic production and potential tariffs on foreign components may increase costs for institutions relying on international partnerships or materials.
- Vanderbilt University may need to consider how changes in maritime policy could affect its engineering and logistics programs, particularly if there is a shift in demand for expertise in domestic shipbuilding and maritime logistics.
- The emphasis on reducing dependence on foreign adversaries and increasing U.S. maritime capabilities could lead to new research opportunities in areas such as advanced manufacturing, logistics, and maritime security, potentially benefiting Vanderbilt’s research initiatives.
- There is a risk that the focus on domestic maritime industries could lead to regulatory changes that impact existing partnerships or collaborations with international institutions, requiring careful navigation of compliance and legal considerations.
Impacted Programs
- Vanderbilt School of Engineering may see increased demand for research and expertise in advanced manufacturing and maritime engineering, presenting opportunities for collaboration with federal agencies and industry partners.
- Vanderbilt’s Logistics and Supply Chain Management Programs could benefit from new research and educational opportunities related to maritime logistics and supply chain resilience.
- The Office of Research might need to adjust its strategies to align with new federal priorities in maritime research and development, potentially securing new funding opportunities.
- Vanderbilt’s partnerships with international institutions may need to be reevaluated to ensure compliance with new trade and tariff regulations, particularly in the context of maritime components and technologies.
Financial Impact
- The reallocation of federal funds towards domestic maritime initiatives could impact the funding landscape for research and development, potentially leading to increased opportunities for Vanderbilt to secure grants and contracts in related fields.
- Vanderbilt University might experience changes in its funding opportunities, particularly if federal discretionary grants prioritize maritime and logistics research. This could necessitate adjustments in grant application strategies and partnerships.
- There may be increased opportunities for Vanderbilt to secure funding for research and development in maritime policy and reform, particularly through collaborations with the Department of Transportation and other federal agencies.
- As domestic maritime industries expand, there could be a shift in the demographics of students applying to Vanderbilt, potentially affecting tuition revenue and financial aid distribution.
Relevance Score: 3 (The order presents moderate risks typically involving compliance or ethics, with potential opportunities for research and funding in maritime-related fields.)
Key Actions
- Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering should explore opportunities to collaborate with federal agencies and private industry on research and development projects related to maritime technology and shipbuilding innovations. This could include partnerships focused on advanced manufacturing techniques, clean fuels, and human-machine teaming.
- The Office of Federal Relations should monitor developments in the Maritime Action Plan (MAP) and engage with policymakers to ensure Vanderbilt’s interests are represented in discussions about federal funding and incentives for maritime education and workforce development.
- Vanderbilt’s Career Center should assess the potential for new career pathways in the maritime industry for students, particularly in areas related to logistics, supply chain management, and maritime security. This could involve developing internship and fellowship programs with maritime companies and government agencies.
- The Department of Political Science should conduct research on the geopolitical implications of the executive order, particularly in relation to U.S.-China relations and the impact on global trade dynamics. This research can inform policy recommendations and enhance Vanderbilt’s role as a thought leader in international relations.
- Vanderbilt’s Peabody College should explore opportunities to expand educational programs related to maritime studies, including partnerships with maritime academies and the development of new courses focused on maritime policy, economics, and environmental sustainability.
Opportunities
- The executive order presents an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s School of Engineering to secure research funding for projects related to maritime technology and innovation. By aligning with federal priorities, the school can enhance its research portfolio and contribute to advancements in the maritime industry.
- Vanderbilt can capitalize on the increased focus on maritime workforce development by developing new educational programs and partnerships with maritime academies. This could include joint research initiatives, student exchange programs, and collaborative curriculum development, enhancing Vanderbilt’s reputation and reach in the maritime sector.
- The emphasis on reducing dependence on adversaries through partnerships with allies offers an opportunity for Vanderbilt’s Office of Global Strategy to engage in international collaborations and research initiatives. By fostering relationships with institutions in allied countries, Vanderbilt can contribute to strengthening global maritime security and economic prosperity.
- The order’s focus on improving procurement efficiency and government efficiency aligns with Vanderbilt’s commitment to innovation and efficiency. The university can develop targeted outreach and support programs for students interested in careers in government and public policy, enhancing their educational opportunities and success.
- By engaging with the broader maritime community and policymakers, Vanderbilt can position itself as a leader in the national conversation on maritime reform. Hosting conferences, workshops, and public forums on the implications of maritime policies can further establish Vanderbilt as a hub for innovative maritime thought and practice.
Relevance Score: 4 (The order presents the potential for major process changes required for Vanderbilt’s programs due to funding impacts and opportunities in maritime education and research.)
Timeline for Implementation
- Within 210 days: Submission of the Maritime Action Plan by the APNSA (Sec. 3).
- Within 180 days: Action by the Secretary of Defense on maritime industrial base assessments (Sec. 4) and, separately, the legislative proposal to increase the fleet of United States‑flagged commercial vessels (Sec. 17).
- Within 90 days: Multiple actions including USTR engagements with treaty allies (Sec. 7), recommendations for allied nation shipbuilder incentives (Sec. 8), creation of maritime prosperity zones (Sec. 11), various reports on maritime industry needs and workforce training (Secs. 12 & 13), improved procurement strategies (Sec. 15), efficiency reviews (Sec. 16), and guidance on Arctic security (Sec. 18) as well as reviewing the inactive reserve fleet (Sec. 21).
- Within 45 days: Conducting the shipbuilding review for United States Government use (Sec. 19).
- Within 30 days: Immediate actions at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) for hiring, deferred maintenance projects (Sec. 14(a)(i)) and the review of regulations for deregulation initiatives (Sec. 20).
Shortest timeline identified: 30 days.
Relevance Score: 4
Impacted Government Organizations
- Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA): Charged with coordinating the Maritime Action Plan and interagency efforts.
- Department of State: Involved in formulating diplomatic and trade strategies, engaging allies, and supporting maritime training initiatives.
- Department of Defense: Tasked with assessing shipbuilding capacities, utilizing the Defense Production Act, and overseeing strategic maritime security measures, including Arctic waterways and review of government vessel acquisitions.
- Department of Commerce: Responsible for promoting the competitiveness of U.S. maritime industries, advising on supply chain investments, and exploring financial incentives for shipbuilding.
- Department of Labor: Engaged in assessing and enhancing the maritime workforce and training programs.
- Department of Transportation: Charged with developing proposals for modernizing maritime infrastructure, proposing legislative changes for shipbuilding, and overseeing USMMA modernization.
- Department of Homeland Security: Called upon to safeguard port operations, enforce customs measures, and review regulatory oversight affecting maritime commerce.
- Office of Management and Budget (OMB Director): Responsible for fiscal, legislative, and administrative assessments related to the Maritime Action Plan and associated funding proposals.
- United States Trade Representative (USTR): Tasked with addressing unfair trade practices linked to the PRC and coordinating tariff-related actions.
- Attorney General: Engaged for law enforcement coordination related to trade restriction measures against unfair practices.
- Department of Government Efficiency: Involved in reviewing and proposing improvements in vessel procurement processes alongside other agencies.
- Customs and Border Protection (CBP): Responsible for enforcing cargo entry requirements and ensuring the collection of harbor maintenance fees and other charges.
- National Science Foundation: Included in proposals to improve acquisition strategies for government vessels and spur innovation in maritime procurement.
- Department of the Treasury: Mentioned in planning maritime prosperity zones to incentivize domestic and allied investment.
- Department of Education: Involved in expanding maritime training and educational initiatives to strengthen the maritime workforce.
- United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA): Targeted for modernization efforts to support improved facilities and long-term capital improvements.
- United States Coast Guard (Commandant): Tasked with contributing to the security strategy for Arctic waterways and ensuring maritime safety measures.
Relevance Score: 5 (A wide range of Federal Agencies and organizations across multiple sectors of transport, defense, trade, and workforce development are impacted by this directive.)
Responsible Officials
- Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs (APNSA) – Responsible for coordinating the development and submission of the Maritime Action Plan (MAP) to the President, in conjunction with various Cabinet secretaries and agency heads.
- Secretary of State – Engaged in formulating the MAP, coordinating with allies on trade policy and international maritime issues, and, along with others, reporting on maritime workforce and training initiatives.
- Secretary of Defense – Tasked with assessing and recommending actions related to the maritime industrial base, shipbuilding reviews, procurement strategies, fleet expansion, and arctic waterways security; also coordinates the use of defense resources.
- Secretary of Commerce – Charged with contributing to the preparation of the MAP, identifying key maritime supply components, recommending public and private investment strategies, and developing maritime prosperity zone plans.
- Secretary of Labor – Involved in reporting on mariner training and education to address workforce challenges in the maritime sector.
- Secretary of Transportation – Responsible for proposing legislative proposals related to financial incentives for shipbuilding, modernizing the United States Merchant Marine Academy, and increasing the commercial vessel fleet; also plays a key role in developing the Maritime Security Trust Fund proposal.
- Secretary of Homeland Security – Charged with enforcing the collection of harbor maintenance fees, coordinating on regulatory reviews, and working on multiple aspects of security, including enforcement measures for tariffs and ensuring cargo clearance protocols.
- United States Trade Representative (USTR) – Oversees actions related to the Section 301 investigation of the PRC’s targeting of maritime sectors, coordinates interagency efforts on trade policy, and engages allies to align trade policies.
- Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director – Responsible for legislative, regulatory, and fiscal assessments relating to the MAP, as well as coordinating budgetary proposals like the Maritime Security Trust Fund.
- Attorney General – Collaborates with the USTR and the Secretary of Homeland Security to enforce any tariffs, fees, or penalties resulting from the PRC investigation.
- Secretary of the Treasury – Consulted in the establishment of maritime prosperity zones, providing input on financial incentives and investment opportunities in domestic maritime industries.
- Secretary of Education – Participates in delivering recommendations and proposals regarding enhanced maritime training initiatives and the expansion of education/training programs.
- Director of the National Science Foundation – Contributes to the proposal for improved acquisition strategies for U.S. government vessels in coordination with other Cabinet-level officials.
- Department of Government Efficiency – Tasked with reviewing the vessel procurement processes of the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security and making recommendations to streamline these procedures.
- Commandant of the Coast Guard – Consulted by the Secretary of Defense to develop a strategy securing Arctic waterways and ensuring maritime security in challenging environments.
Relevance Score: 5 (Directives affect multiple Cabinet-level officials and White House advisors, significantly impacting national security, economic, and regulatory policy.)