In 1960 America held 16.9 percent of the world’s tonnage with 2,926 cargo vessels and tankers, against a total capacity of 17,317 vessels worldwide. At the turn of the century that number had dropped to 282 vessels registered under the U.S. Flag. It represented only 1.0 percent of the world fleet. By 2016 according to the D.O.T. that number had dropped again to 169 ships representing only 0.4 percent of world tonnage. Container carriers and general cargo vessels were down to a total of 108 bottoms and the roll on roll off sector was down to 28 ships. Under current conditions America’s merchant marine capability would be sorely tested in times of need. Fortunately, many U.S. companies are stepping up to the plate to build or re-flag ships under the Stars and Stripes.
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