The U.S. Navy’s ambitious sea drone program is facing significant setbacks, including software failures and operational incidents during tests, raising concerns about its ability to develop a fleet of autonomous vessels to counter potential Chinese advances in the Taiwan Strait. Despite the urgent need for maritime drones highlighted by recent conflicts in Ukraine, the program’s pace has been hampered by leadership changes and skepticism regarding cost-effectiveness. As the Pentagon initiates a $1 billion Replicator program to expedite drone acquisition, the Navy’s challenges underline the complexities of integrating cutting-edge technology within traditional naval frameworks, emphasizing the need for rapid adaptation in maritime warfare strategies.