US in talks with Turkey to boost naval shipbuilding amid China rivalry

The United States and Turkey are holding talks about cooperating on naval shipbuilding as the US seeks to expand its fleet to counter growing competition from China. Discussions have included Turkey supplying ship components and potentially helping to build frigates for the US Navy. This potential partnership arises as the American shipbuilding industry faces a crisis, prompting the administration to look to allies like Japan, South Korea, and now Turkey for assistance. This collaboration is also viewed by some US officials as a method to strengthen ties with Ankara while navigating existing sanctions.