[lewislynn]

Just a guess but I'll bet it's because they don't use the old stick welder anymore but rather they use wire welders and they aren't getting penetration....but the welds look prettier.

Or maybe it's below standard Chinese steel.

[Mariner]

Subs are not made of steel.

Titanium alloy.

[Calvin Locke]

I saw a show on how they are using computerized welders on ships now.

Supposedly, the welds are better because of all the monitoring of ambient air temp, material temp, torch temp, etc.

The computer will compensate as necessary to maintain the optimum welding process...