Defense Secretary Touts Bath Iron Works as 'Essential to the Arsenal of Freedom'

Hegseth emphasizes importance of American-made military equipment and speedy manufacturing during visit to Maine shipyard

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited Bath Iron Works in Maine, meeting with shipbuilders and executives. In a nearly 30-minute speech to workers, Hegseth praised the shipyard's contributions to the 'arsenal of freedom' and emphasized the need for American-made military equipment and fast, efficient manufacturing.

Why it matters

Bath Iron Works is a major employer in Maine and a critical supplier of ships and equipment for the U.S. military. Hegseth's visit and remarks highlight the strategic importance of the shipyard and the Trump administration's focus on boosting American manufacturing for national defense.

The details

During his visit, Hegseth thanked the BIW workers and said the shipyard is 'essential to the arsenal of freedom.' He emphasized the need for speed and efficiency in manufacturing, stating 'the days of slow process and red tape are over.' Hegseth also touted President Trump's goal of a $1.5 trillion National Security budget in 2027, hinting at potential future contracts for BIW.

  • Hegseth visited Bath Iron Works on Monday, February 9, 2026.
  • Hegseth gave a nearly 30-minute speech to BIW workers during his visit.

The players

Pete Hegseth

U.S. Secretary of Defense, visiting Bath Iron Works as part of his 'Arsenal of Freedom Tour' to highlight American manufacturing for the military.

Bath Iron Works

A major shipbuilding company in Maine that produces military ships for the U.S. Navy, employing around 6,500 people.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, whose administration has set a goal of a $1.5 trillion National Security budget in 2027.

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What they’re saying

“What you're building here in Bath is essential to the arsenal of freedom, and nobody does it better than you guys.”

— Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of Defense (bangordailynews.com)

“If you build the best, at fastest, at cost, on behalf of taxpayers, you will win.”

— Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of Defense (bangordailynews.com)

What’s next

Hegseth's visit and remarks suggest the potential for increased military contracts and funding for Bath Iron Works in the coming years, as the Trump administration focuses on boosting American manufacturing for national defense.

The takeaway

Secretary Hegseth's visit to Bath Iron Works underscores the strategic importance of American-made military equipment and the critical role that manufacturers like BIW play in supporting the nation's defense capabilities. His praise for the shipyard's workers and emphasis on speed and efficiency in production indicate the administration's priorities for the defense industry.