The US Navy is planning to build new nuclear-powered battleships, with some reports suggesting they will be armed with advanced weapons such as lasers, railguns, and hypersonic missiles. The plans have drawn scrutiny from legislators, who are seeking proof that the project will not hinder the country's nuclear shipbuilding capabilities, and some are even moving to block work on the project until key weapons systems are mature. The number of new battleships planned appears to be around 15, although details of the project are still emerging.