Global policing and worn-out warship exports

Retired American nuclear carriers face the same problem that affected Royal Navy exports when Britain served as the world's principal maritime policeman. Foreign buyers did not line up for British warships after decades of demanding service because the ships were worn out by the time they left the fleet. A stronger secondhand market appeared only after the Royal Navy's operating burden fell and its disposals retained more useful life. Heavily used American ships, including older destroyers and carriers, may be equally unattractive to buyers. Age, wear, maintenance history, and expected operating profile matter more than a nominally low transfer price.