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| Class after =
| Class after =
| Subclasses =
| Subclasses =
| Cost = * US$1.28 billion for the first ship<ref name=report_Congr_summ>[https://news.usni.org/2022/02/01/report-to-congress-on-constellation-class-frigate-program-ffg-62-8 "Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62)"] summary. USNI, 1 February 2022.</ref>
| Cost = * US$1.28&nbsp;billion for the first ship<ref name=report_Congr_summ>[https://news.usni.org/2022/02/01/report-to-congress-on-constellation-class-frigate-program-ffg-62-8 "Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62)"] summary. USNI, 1 February 2022.</ref>
* US$1.05 billion for the second ship<ref name=report_Congr_summ/>
* US$1.05&nbsp;billion for the second ship<ref name=report_Congr_summ/>
| Built range = 2022–present
| Built range = 2024–present
| In commission range = 2026 (planned)<ref>{{cite web |last=O'Rourke |first=Ronald |date= |title=Navy Constellation (FFG-62) Class Frigate Program: Background and Issues for Congress |url=https://sgp.fas.org/crs/weapons/R44972.pdf |url-status= |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=2023-06-17 |publisher=Congressional Research Service |pages=12–13 |id=R44972}}</ref>
| In commission range = 2029 (planned)<ref>{{cite web |last=Shelbourne |first=Mallory |date= |title=Constellation Frigate Delivery Delayed 3 Years, Says Navy |url=https://news.usni.org/2024/04/02/constellation-frigate-delivery-delayed-3-years-says-navy |url-status= |archive-url= |archive-date= |access-date=2024-04-05 |publisher=USNI News}}</ref>
| Total ships on order = 6
| Total ships on order = 6
| Total ships building = 1
| Total ships building = 1
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}}
}}
{{Infobox ship characteristics
{{Infobox ship characteristics
| Ship type = [[Frigate|Guided-missile frigate]]
| Ship type = [[Frigate|guided-missile frigate]]
| Ship displacement = 7,291 tons, fully loaded<ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4" />
| Ship displacement = 7,291 tons, fully loaded<ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4" />
| Ship length = {{convert|496|ft|m|2|abbr=on}}<ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4" />
| Ship length = {{convert|496|ft|m|2|abbr=on}}<ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4" />
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| Ship draft = <!-- {{convert|18|ft|m|2|abbr=on}}{{cn|date=December 2021}} -->
| Ship draft = <!-- {{convert|18|ft|m|2|abbr=on}}{{cn|date=December 2021}} -->
| Ship propulsion = * [[Combined diesel-electric and gas|CODLAG]]
| Ship propulsion = * [[Combined diesel-electric and gas|CODLAG]]
** 1 × General Electric [[LM2500|LM2500+G4]] gas turbine;<ref>[https://www.geaviation.com/marine/engines/military/lm2500-plus-g4] GE, The LM2500+G4 Engine</ref>
** 1 × General Electric [[LM2500|LM2500+G4]] gas turbine<ref>[https://www.geaviation.com/marine/engines/military/lm2500-plus-g4] GE, The LM2500+G4 Engine</ref>
** 2 × electric propulsion motors (EPM)Jeumont 2 x 2.2MW;
** 2 × electric propulsion motors: INDAR 2 x 3.4 MW
** 4 × ship service diesel generators Rolls-Royce MTU 20V 4000 M53B engine 3000 kW for a Total output of 12MW;
** 4 × ship service diesel generators Rolls-Royce MTU 20V 4000 M53B engine 3000 kW for a total output of 12 MW
** Reduction Gears (MRGs) - Timken Power Systems orbought Philadelphia Gear's;
** reduction gears: Timken Power Systems or Philadelphia Gears
** 2 x Propellers - Fixed Pitch;
** 2 x fixed-pitch propellers
** 1 × auxiliary propulsion unit Thrustmasters of Texas Hydrologic Retractable Thruster<ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4" />
** 1 × auxiliary propulsion unit Thrustmasters of Texas Hydrologic Retractable Thruster<ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4" />
| Ship speed = In excess of {{convert|26|kn|abbr=on}}
| Ship speed = in excess of {{convert|26|kn|abbr=on}}
| Ship range = {{convert|6000|nmi|lk=in|abbr=on}} at {{convert|16|kn|abbr=on}}, electric drive
| Ship range = {{convert|6000|nmi|lk=in|abbr=on}} at {{convert|16|kn|abbr=on}}, electric drive
| Ship complement = 24 officers and 176 enlisted crew
| Ship complement = 24 officers and 176 enlisted crew
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* AN/SQQ-89(V)16 undersea warfare/anti-submarine warfare combat system<ref>{{cite web |last1=Burgess |first1=Richard R. |title=First Steel Cut for Navy's Constellation-Class Frigate |url=https://seapowermagazine.org/first-steel-cut-for-navys-constellation-class-frigate/ |website=Seapower |access-date=4 September 2023 |date=31 August 2022}}</ref>
* AN/SQQ-89(V)16 undersea warfare/anti-submarine warfare combat system<ref>{{cite web |last1=Burgess |first1=Richard R. |title=First Steel Cut for Navy's Constellation-Class Frigate |url=https://seapowermagazine.org/first-steel-cut-for-navys-constellation-class-frigate/ |website=Seapower |access-date=4 September 2023 |date=31 August 2022}}</ref>
* [[Cooperative Engagement Capability]]
* [[Cooperative Engagement Capability]]
| Ship EW = * [[AN/SLQ-32|AN/SLQ-32(V)6]] electronic warfare suite<ref>{{Cite web |title=FY22 DOT&E Annual Report |url=https://www.dote.osd.mil/Portals/97/pub/reports/FY2022/FY22DOTEAnnualReport.pdf |access-date=19 January 2024 |publisher=[[Director, Operational Test and Evaluation]] |page=186}}</ref>
| Ship EW = * 2 × [[AN/SLQ-32 Electronic Warfare Suite#Future|SLQ-32(V)6 Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block 2]]
* 4 × [[Nulka|Mark 53 Nulka]] decoy launching system
* 4 × [[Nulka|Mark 53 Nulka]] decoy launching system
* AN/SLQ-61 Lightweight Tow Torpedo Defense Mission Module<ref name="FFG(X) Update">{{Cite web |last=Campbell |first=Regan |date=15 January 2019 |title=FFG(X) Update: National Symposium – Surface Navy Association |url=https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Portals/103/Documents/Exhibits/SNA2019/FFGX-Campbell.pdf?ver=2019-01-17-125642-573 |access-date=17 June 2023 |website=navsea.navy.mil |page=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=4 May 2018 |title=Navy Completes Lightweight Torpedo Defense Mission Module Testing |url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2249361/navy-completes-lightweight-torpedo-defense-mission-module-testing/ |access-date=17 June 2023 |website=navy.mil}}</ref>
* AN/SLQ-61 Lightweight Tow Torpedo Defense Mission Module<ref name="FFG(X) Update">{{Cite web |last=Campbell |first=Regan |date=15 January 2019 |title=FFG(X) Update: National Symposium – Surface Navy Association |url=https://www.navsea.navy.mil/Portals/103/Documents/Exhibits/SNA2019/FFGX-Campbell.pdf?ver=2019-01-17-125642-573 |access-date=17 June 2023 |website=navsea.navy.mil |page=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=4 May 2018 |title=Navy Completes Lightweight Torpedo Defense Mission Module Testing |url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/News-Stories/Article/2249361/navy-completes-lightweight-torpedo-defense-mission-module-testing/ |access-date=17 June 2023 |website=navy.mil}}</ref>
| Ship armament = * 32 [[Mark 41 Vertical Launching System|Mark 41 VLS]] cells with:
| Ship armament = * 32 [[Mark 41 Vertical Launching System|Mark 41 VLS]] cells with:
* [[Tomahawk cruise missile|BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missile]]<ref name="2023_NDAA">{{cite web |url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7776/text|title=James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023}}</ref>
* [[Tomahawk cruise missile|BGM-109 Tomahawk Cruise Missile]]<ref name="2023_NDAA">{{Cite web|url=https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/7776/text|title=Text - H.R.7776 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 &#124; Congress.gov &#124; Library of Congress}}</ref>
* Possibly [[RIM-162 ESSM]] Block 2 and/or [[RIM-174 Standard ERAM]] missiles
* Possibly [[RIM-162 ESSM]] Block 2 and/or [[RIM-174 Standard ERAM]] missiles
* Planned [[RIM-66 Standard]] SM-2 Block 3C
* Planned [[RIM-66 Standard]] SM-2 Block 3C
* 16 × canister-launched [[anti-ship missile|over-the-horizon anti-ship weapon]]s (likely [[Naval Strike Missile]])
* 16 × canister-launched [[anti-ship missile|over-the-horizon anti-ship weapon]]s (likely [[Naval Strike Missile]])
* [[RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile]] launched from Mk 49 Guided Missile Launching System (21 cell)
* [[RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile]] launched from Mk 49 Guided Missile Launching System (21 cell)
* [[Bofors 57 mm L/70 naval artillery gun|Mk 110 57{{nbsp}}mm gun]] with the Advanced Low Cost Munition Ordnance (ALaMO) projectile and related systems.<ref name="2017-07-10_DN" />
* [[Bofors 57 mm L/70 naval artillery gun|Mk 110 57{{nbsp}}mm gun]] with the Advanced Low Cost Munition Ordnance (ALaMO) projectile and related systems<ref name="2017-07-10_DN" />
* Various machine guns [[M240]] or [[M2 Browning|M2]]
* Various machine guns [[M240]] or [[M2 Browning|M2]]
| Ship boats = * 2 × [[rigid-hulled inflatable boat]]s
| Ship boats = * 2 × [[rigid-hulled inflatable boat]]s
| Ship aircraft = * 1 × [[MH-60R Seahawk]] helicopter
| Ship aircraft = * 1 × [[MH-60R Seahawk]] helicopter
* [[Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout|MQ-8C Firescout]]
* [[Northrop Grumman MQ-8C Fire Scout|MQ-8C Firescout]]
| Ship aircraft facilities =
| Ship aircraft facilities = * extra-large hangar for 1 MH-60R & 1 MQ-8C
* RAST Secure & Traverse Aircraft Handling System
* Horizontal Reference System
* Night Vision Device Compatibility
}}
}}
|}
|}


The '''''Constellation''-class''' multi-mission [[guided-missile frigate]]s of the [[United States Navy]] are based on the European multipurpose frigates ([[FREMM multipurpose frigate|FREMM]]), already in service with the [[French Navy|French]] and [[Italian Navy|Italian]] navies. ''Constellation'' follows the modular but problematic [[littoral combat ship]]s of the [[Freedom-class littoral combat ship|Freedom]] and [[Independence-class littoral combat ship|Independence]] classes.<ref name="CRS FFG(X) Report">{{cite web |url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/R44972.pdf |title=Navy Frigate (FFG[X]) Program: Background and Issues for Congress |last=O'Rourke |first=Ronald |publisher=[[Congressional Research Service]] |date=8 December 2017 |access-date=17 February 2018}}</ref> The U.S. Navy announced the '''FFG(X)''' frigate project in the [[United States Department of Defense]]'s [[Request For Information]] (RFI) on 10 July 2017.<ref name="2017-07-10_DN">{{cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2017/07/10/frigate-competition-wide-open-navy-specs-reveal-major-design-shift/ |title=Frigate competition wide open: Navy specs reveal major design shift |last=Larter |first=David B. |work=[[Defense News]] |publisher=Sightline Media Group |date=10 July 2017 |access-date=19 January 2018}}</ref><ref name="USNI FFG(X) RFI">{{cite news |url=https://news.usni.org/2017/07/10/navy-releases-details-of-new-ffgx-guided-missile-frigate-program-in-request-to-industry |title= Navy Releases Details of New FFG(X) Guided-Missile Frigate Program in Request to Industry |last=Eckstein |first=Megan |date=10 July 2017 |work=USNI News |publisher=[[United States Naval Institute|U.S. Naval Institute]] |access-date=17 February 2018}}</ref>
The '''''Constellation''-class''' multi-mission [[guided-missile frigate]]s of the [[United States Navy]] are based on the European multipurpose frigates ([[FREMM multipurpose frigate|FREMM]]), already in service with the [[French Navy|French]] and [[Italian Navy|Italian]] navies. ''Constellation'' follows the modular but problematic [[littoral combat ship]]s of the [[Freedom-class littoral combat ship|''Freedom'']] and [[Independence-class littoral combat ship|''Independence'']] classes.<ref name="CRS FFG(X) Report">{{cite web |url=https://fas.org/sgp/crs/weapons/R44972.pdf |title=Navy Frigate (FFG[X]) Program: Background and Issues for Congress |last=O'Rourke |first=Ronald |publisher=[[Congressional Research Service]] |date=8 December 2017 |access-date=17 February 2018}}</ref> The U.S. Navy announced the '''FFG(X)''' frigate project in the [[United States Department of Defense]]'s [[Request For Information]] (RFI) in July 2017.<ref name="2017-07-10_DN">{{cite web |url=https://www.defensenews.com/breaking-news/2017/07/10/frigate-competition-wide-open-navy-specs-reveal-major-design-shift/ |title=Frigate competition wide open: Navy specs reveal major design shift |last=Larter |first=David B. |work=[[Defense News]] |publisher=Sightline Media Group |date=10 July 2017 |access-date=19 January 2018}}</ref><ref name="USNI FFG(X) RFI">{{cite news |url=https://news.usni.org/2017/07/10/navy-releases-details-of-new-ffgx-guided-missile-frigate-program-in-request-to-industry |title= Navy Releases Details of New FFG(X) Guided-Missile Frigate Program in Request to Industry |last=Eckstein |first=Megan |date=10 July 2017 |work=USNI News |publisher=[[United States Naval Institute|U.S. Naval Institute]] |access-date=17 February 2018}}</ref>


The Navy selected five shipbuilders to present their ideas for a prospective design for the proposed twenty FFG(X) guided-missile frigates.<ref name="USNI Five Contenders">{{cite news |url=https://news.usni.org/2018/02/16/navy-picks-five-contenders-next-generation-frigate-ffgxprogram |title=Navy Picks Five Contenders for Next Generation Frigate FFG(X) Program |last1=LaGrone |first1=Sam |last2=Eckstein |first2=Megan |date=16 February 2018 |work=USNI News |publisher=[[United States Naval Institute|U.S. Naval Institute]] |access-date=17 February 2018}}</ref> On 30 April 2020, the Navy announced that [[Fincantieri Marinette Marine]] had won the contract with a modified design based on the FREMM, designed by [[Naval Group]] and Fincantieri. The project was later renamed '''FFG-62 program''' after the [[lead ship]] of her class.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-08-31 |title=Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62) |url=https://news.usni.org/2021/08/31/report-to-congress-on-constellation-class-frigate-program-ffg-62-6 |access-date=2021-09-05 |website=USNI News |language=en-US}}</ref>
The Navy selected five shipbuilders to present their ideas for a prospective design for the proposed twenty FFG(X) guided-missile frigates.<ref name="USNI Five Contenders">{{cite news |url=https://news.usni.org/2018/02/16/navy-picks-five-contenders-next-generation-frigate-ffgxprogram |title=Navy Picks Five Contenders for Next Generation Frigate FFG(X) Program |last1=LaGrone |first1=Sam |last2=Eckstein |first2=Megan |date=16 February 2018 |work=USNI News |publisher=[[United States Naval Institute|U.S. Naval Institute]] |access-date=17 February 2018}}</ref> In April 2020, the Navy announced that [[Fincantieri Marinette Marine]] had won the contract with a modified design based on the FREMM, designed by [[Naval Group]] and [[Fincantieri]]. The project was later renamed '''FFG-62 program''' after the [[lead ship]] of her class.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2021-08-31 |title=Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62) |url=https://news.usni.org/2021/08/31/report-to-congress-on-constellation-class-frigate-program-ffg-62-6 |access-date=2021-09-05 |website=USNI News |language=en-US}}</ref>


== Development ==
== Development ==
The U.S. Navy procured the first FFG 62 in FY2020, the next was awarded in April 2021, and the third is planned to be awarded in FY22. The U.S. Navy's proposed FY2020 budget request was $1.281 billion for the procurement of the first FFG 62. The U.S. Navy's FY2020 budget submission shows that subsequent ships in the class are estimated by the Navy to cost $850 to $950 million each in then-year dollars.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.usni.org/2019/10/18/report-to-congress-on-u-s-navy-frigate-ffgx-program-5 |title=Report to Congress on U.S. Navy Frigate FFG(X) Program |date=2019-10-18 |website=USNI News |language=en-US |access-date=2019-10-19}}</ref><ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4">{{Cite web |last1=Larter |first1=David |title=Here's the latest on the US Navy's new Constellation-class frigate |url=https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/surface-navy-association/2021/01/12/heres-the-latest-on-the-us-navys-new-constellation-class-frigate |work= Breaking Defense |date=12 January 2021 |access-date=4 March 2021}}</ref>
The U.S. Navy procured the first FFG 62 in FY2020. The next was awarded in April 2021, and the third in FY22. The U.S. Navy's proposed FY2020 budget request was $1.281-billion for the procurement of the first FFG 62. The U.S. Navy's FY2020 budget submission shows that subsequent ships in the class are estimated by the Navy to cost $850 to $950-million each in then-year dollars.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://news.usni.org/2019/10/18/report-to-congress-on-u-s-navy-frigate-ffgx-program-5 |title=Report to Congress on U.S. Navy Frigate FFG(X) Program |date=2019-10-18 |website=USNI News |language=en-US |access-date=2019-10-19}}</ref><ref name="defensenews 2021.3.4">{{Cite web |last1=Larter |first1=David |title=Here's the latest on the US Navy's new Constellation-class frigate |url=https://www.defensenews.com/digital-show-dailies/surface-navy-association/2021/01/12/heres-the-latest-on-the-us-navys-new-constellation-class-frigate |work= Breaking Defense |date=12 January 2021 |access-date=4 March 2021}}</ref>


==Design==
==Design==
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* Employ active and passive electronic warfare systems,
* Employ active and passive electronic warfare systems,
* Defend against swarming small boat attacks.<ref name="2017-07-10_DN" />
* Defend against swarming small boat attacks.<ref name="2017-07-10_DN" />
⚫
The class will use a [[Combined diesel-electric and gas|Combined Diesel Electric and Gas Hull, Mechanical and Electrical (HM&E)]] propulsion system which has never been used in any other U.S. Navy ship.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Larter |first=David B. |date=2020-12-06 |title=Citing littoral combat ship failures, Congress pushes the US Navy to get FFG(X) right |url=https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2020/12/04/citing-littoral-combat-ship-failures-congress-pushes-the-us-navy-to-get-ffgx-right/ |access-date=2021-01-16 |website=Defense News |language=en-US}}</ref> The new propulsion system will be required to be tested on land, in order to reduce the risk of engine failure, which has plagued the previous [[littoral combat ship]] (LCS) program.<ref name=":4" />


⚫
The class will use a [[Combined diesel-electric and gas|Combined Diesel Electric and Gas]] Hull, Mechanical and Electrical (HM&E) propulsion system, which has never been used in any other U.S. Navy ship.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web |last=Larter |first=David B. |date=2020-12-06 |title=Citing littoral combat ship failures, Congress pushes the US Navy to get FFG(X) right |url=https://www.defensenews.com/naval/2020/12/04/citing-littoral-combat-ship-failures-congress-pushes-the-us-navy-to-get-ffgx-right/ |access-date=2021-01-16 |website=Defense News |language=en-US}}</ref> The new propulsion system will be required to be tested on land in order to reduce the risk of engine failure, which has plagued the previous [[littoral combat ship]] (LCS) program.<ref name=":4" />
⚫
The ongoing difficulties with the LCSs were a major factor in the US Navy's decision to kickstart the ''Constellation'' program. According to the [[Congressional Research Service]], ongoing concerns include LCS survivability in a conflict, their limited armament, and their ability to complete the missions it was designed for.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Thomas |first=Richard |date=2023-01-24 |title=Was the US Navy's Littoral Combat Ship a mistake? |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/features/was-the-us-navys-littoral-combat-ship-a-mistake/ |access-date=2023-03-21 |website=Naval Technology |language=en-US}}</ref> Other problems include their high cost price, double their original projections, and maintenance costs.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-02-04 |title=The Pentagon Saw a Warship Boondoggle. Congress Saw Jobs. |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/04/us/politics/littoral-combat-ships-lobbying.html |access-date=2023-03-21}}</ref>

⚫
The ongoing difficulties with the LCS was a major factor in the US Navy's decision to kickstart the ''Constellation'' program. According to the [[Congressional Research Service]], ongoing concerns include LCS survivability in a conflict, their limited armament, and their ability to complete the missions it was designed for.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Thomas |first=Richard |date=2023-01-24 |title=Was the US Navy's Littoral Combat Ship a mistake? |url=https://www.naval-technology.com/features/was-the-us-navys-littoral-combat-ship-a-mistake/ |access-date=2023-03-21 |website=Naval Technology |language=en-US}}</ref> Other problems include their high cost price, double their original projections, and maintenance costs.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-02-04 |title=The Pentagon Saw a Warship Boondoggle. Congress Saw Jobs. |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/04/us/politics/littoral-combat-ships-lobbying.html |access-date=2023-03-21}}</ref>


=== Contenders ===
=== Contenders ===
Six shipbuilders submitted proposals for conceptual designs to the U.S. Navy FFG(X) Frigate program.<ref name="SNA 2018">{{cite web |url=https://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/naval-exhibitions/2018/sna-2018/5867-sna-2018-contenders-for-the-u-s-navy-ffg-x-frigate-program.html |title=SNA 2018: Contenders for the U.S. Navy FFG(X) Frigate Program |editor-last=Vavasseur |editor-first=Xavier |work=Navy Recognition |date=18 January 2018 |access-date=19 January 2018}}</ref><ref name="CR-032-18">{{cite press release |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract-View/Article/1444724/ |title= Contracts |date=16 February 2018 |id= CR-032-18 |publisher=U.S. Department of Defense |access-date=17 February 2018 |quote="…six offers received."}}</ref> On 16 February 2018, the U.S. Navy announced that from these proposals they had selected five shipbuilders and awarded them each $15 million contracts to produce conceptual designs for the FFG(X).<ref name="USNI Five Contenders" /> These shipbuilders were [[Austal USA]], [[Fincantieri|Fincantieri Marine Group]], [[General Dynamics]], [[Huntington Ingalls Industries]], and [[Lockheed Martin]].<ref name="USNI Five Contenders" />
Six shipbuilders submitted proposals for conceptual designs to the U.S. Navy FFG(X) Frigate program.<ref name="SNA 2018">{{cite web |url=https://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/naval-exhibitions/2018/sna-2018/5867-sna-2018-contenders-for-the-u-s-navy-ffg-x-frigate-program.html |title=SNA 2018: Contenders for the U.S. Navy FFG(X) Frigate Program |editor-last=Vavasseur |editor-first=Xavier |work=Navy Recognition |date=18 January 2018 |access-date=19 January 2018}}</ref><ref name="CR-032-18">{{cite press release |url=https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract-View/Article/1444724/ |title= Contracts |date=16 February 2018 |id= CR-032-18 |publisher=U.S. Department of Defense |access-date=17 February 2018 |quote="…six offers received."}}</ref> In February 2018, the U.S. Navy announced that from these proposals they had selected five shipbuilders with each awarded a $15-million contract to produce conceptual designs for the FFG(X).<ref name="USNI Five Contenders" /> These shipbuilders were [[Austal USA]], [[Fincantieri|Fincantieri Marine Group]], [[General Dynamics]], [[Huntington Ingalls Industries]], and [[Lockheed Martin]].<ref name="USNI Five Contenders" />


[[Atlas Elektronik|Atlas North America]] submitted the [[Meko A-200|MEKO A-200]] but was not selected for a conceptual design contract.<ref name="SNA 2018" /><ref name="USNI Five Contenders" /> Ship designs from these five shipbuilders were evaluated by the U.S. Navy to inform the final specifications that would be used for the FFG(X) request for proposal in 2019 and the intended contract award in 2020.<ref name="USNI Five Contenders" />
[[Atlas Elektronik|Atlas North America]] submitted the [[Meko A-200|MEKO A-200]], but was not selected for a conceptual design contract.<ref name="SNA 2018" /><ref name="USNI Five Contenders" /> Ship designs from these five shipbuilders were evaluated by the U.S. Navy to inform the final specifications that would be used for the FFG(X) request for proposal in 2019, and the intended contract award in 2020.<ref name="USNI Five Contenders" />


On 28 May 2019, Lockheed Martin withdrew from the competition.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|last=LaGrone|first=Sam|date=28 May 2019|title=Lockheed Martin Won't Submit Freedom LCS Design for FFG(X) Contest|url=https://news.usni.org/2019/05/28/lockheed-martin-wont-submit-freedom-lcs-design-for-ffgx-contest|access-date=28 May 2019|publisher=USNI News}}</ref>
In May 2019, Lockheed Martin withdrew from the competition.<ref name=":0">{{cite web|last=LaGrone|first=Sam|date=28 May 2019|title=Lockheed Martin Won't Submit Freedom LCS Design for FFG(X) Contest|url=https://news.usni.org/2019/05/28/lockheed-martin-wont-submit-freedom-lcs-design-for-ffgx-contest|access-date=28 May 2019|publisher=USNI News}}</ref>


{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
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!Length (m)
!Length (m)
!Crew
!Crew
!Contract Awarded
!Contract Awarded
|-
|-
![[Austal USA]]
![[Austal USA]]
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|-
|-
![[Fincantieri|Fincantieri Marine Group]]
![[Fincantieri|Fincantieri Marine Group]]
|European multipurpose frigate (FREMM)<ref name="SNA 2018" />
|[[FREMM multipurpose frigate|European multipurpose frigate (FREMM)]]<ref name="SNA 2018" />
|FREMM
|FREMM
|143.8<ref name="SNA 2018" />
|143.8<ref name="SNA 2018" />
Line 157: Line 161:


=== Contract award ===
=== Contract award ===
On 30 April 2020, it was announced that [[Fincantieri Marinette Marine]]'s FREMM design had won the contest and was awarded a $795 million contract for detailed design and construction of the lead ship, with options for nine additional ships.<ref name="cost1">{{cite news |last1=Eckstein |first1=Megan |title=Fincantieri Wins $795M Contract for Navy Frigate Program |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/04/30/fincantieri-wins-795m-contract-for-navy-frigate-program |work= USNI News |access-date=30 April 2020 |date=30 April 2020}}</ref> On 20 May 2021, the U.S. Navy issued Fincantieri Marinette Marine a $554 million contract to start building the future {{USS|Congress|FFG-63}}.<ref name=USS_Congr_award>{{Cite web|date=2021-05-20|title=Navy Issues $554M Contract Modification for Second Navy Frigate|url=https://news.usni.org/2021/05/20/navy-issues-554m-contract-modification-for-second-navy-frigate|access-date=2021-05-21|website=USNI News|language=en-US}}</ref>
On 30 April 2020, it was announced that [[Fincantieri Marinette Marine]]'s FREMM design had won the contest and was awarded a $795-million contract for detailed design and construction of the lead ship, with options for nine additional ships.<ref name="cost1">{{cite news |last1=Eckstein |first1=Megan |title=Fincantieri Wins $795M Contract for Navy Frigate Program |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/04/30/fincantieri-wins-795m-contract-for-navy-frigate-program |work= USNI News |access-date=30 April 2020 |date=30 April 2020}}</ref> In May 2021, the U.S. Navy issued Fincantieri Marinette Marine a $554-million contract to start building the future {{USS|Congress|FFG-63}}.<ref name=USS_Congr_award>{{Cite web|date=2021-05-20|title=Navy Issues $554M Contract Modification for Second Navy Frigate|url=https://news.usni.org/2021/05/20/navy-issues-554m-contract-modification-for-second-navy-frigate|access-date=2021-05-21|website=USNI News|language=en-US}}</ref>

On 2 April 2024, USNI News reported that the Constellation class frigates were delayed by three years, due to issues concerning shipyard backlogs and a lack of skilled workers.<ref>{{Cite web |last1=Shelbourne |first1=Mallory |last2=LaGrone |first2=Sam |date=April 2, 2024 |title=Constellation Frigate Delivery Delayed 3 Years, Says Navy |url=https://news.usni.org/2024/04/02/constellation-frigate-delivery-delayed-3-years-says-navy |access-date=April 5, 2024 |website=USNI News}}</ref>


== Ships of the class ==
== Ships of the class ==
Line 168: Line 174:
! scope="col" | Launched
! scope="col" | Launched
! scope="col" | Commissioned
! scope="col" | Commissioned
! scope="col" | Homeport
! scope="col" | Homeport<ref name="Correll" />
! scope="col" | Status
! scope="col" | Status
|-
|-
! scope="row" | {{USS|Constellation|FFG-62|2}}
! scope="row" | {{USS|Constellation|FFG-62|2}}
| FFG-62
| FFG-62
|rowspan=4|[[Fincantieri Marinette Marine]]
| rowspan="6" |[[Fincantieri Marinette Marine]]
| 12 April 2024
|
|
|
|
| [[Naval Station Everett|NS Everett, WA]]
⚫
|
|Under construction<ref name="Navy 202404">{{cite press release|url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/Press-Releases/display-pressreleases/Article/3740071/secnav-del-toro-celebrates-the-keel-laying-of-the-future-uss-constellation-ffg/|title= SECNAV Del Toro Celebrates the Keel Laying of the Future USS Constellation (FFG 62)|publisher=United States Navy|date=12 April 2024|access-date=12 April 2024}}</ref>
⚫
| NS Everett, WA
|Under construction<ref>{{cite news |first=Mallory |last=Shelbourne |url=https://news.usni.org/2022/08/31/fincantieri-begins-construction-of-first-constellation-class-frigate |title=Fincantieri Begins Construction of First Constellation-class Frigate |publisher=USNI News |date=31 August 2022 |access-date=2 September 2022}}</ref>
|-
|-
! scope="row" | {{USS|Congress|FFG-63|2}}
! scope="row" | {{USS|Congress|FFG-63|2}}
Line 203: Line 209:
| NS Everett, WA
| NS Everett, WA
|Awarded<ref>{{cite news |last=Bahtić |first=Fatima |title=Fincantieri to construct 4th Constellation-class frigate for US Navy |url=https://www.navaltoday.com/2023/05/19/fincantieri-to-construct-4th-constellation-class-frigate-for-us-navy/ |publisher=Naval Today |date=19 May 2023 |access-date=22 May 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |title=SECNAV Names Future Constellation-Class Guided-Missile Frigate Lafayette |url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/Press-Releases/display-pressreleases/Article/3443775/secnav-names-future-constellation-class-guided-missile-frigate-lafayette/ |publisher=United States Navy |date=29 June 2023 |access-date=29 June 2023}}</ref>
|Awarded<ref>{{cite news |last=Bahtić |first=Fatima |title=Fincantieri to construct 4th Constellation-class frigate for US Navy |url=https://www.navaltoday.com/2023/05/19/fincantieri-to-construct-4th-constellation-class-frigate-for-us-navy/ |publisher=Naval Today |date=19 May 2023 |access-date=22 May 2023}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release |title=SECNAV Names Future Constellation-Class Guided-Missile Frigate Lafayette |url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/Press-Releases/display-pressreleases/Article/3443775/secnav-names-future-constellation-class-guided-missile-frigate-lafayette/ |publisher=United States Navy |date=29 June 2023 |access-date=29 June 2023}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" | {{USS|Hamilton|FFG-66|2}}
|FFG-66
⚫
|
|
|
⚫
|NS Everett, WA
|Awarded<ref name=":1">{{Cite web |last=Shelbourne |first=Mallory |date=2024-05-23 |title=Navy Awards $1B Contract for 5th, 6th Constellation-class Frigates |url=https://news.usni.org/2024/05/23/navy-awards-1b-contract-for-5th-6th-constellation-class-frigates |access-date=2024-05-24 |website=USNI News |language=en-US}}</ref>
|-
! scope="row" | {{USS|Galvez|FFG-67|2}}
|FFG-67
|
|
|
|NS Everett, WA
|Awarded<ref name=":1" /><ref>{{cite web | title=SECNAV Names Future Guided Missile Frigate USS Galvez (FFG 67) | website=United States Navy | date=21 June 2024 | url=https://www.navy.mil/Press-Office/Press-Releases/Article/3813156/secnav-names-future-guided-missile-frigate-uss-galvez-ffg-67/ | access-date=21 June 2024}}</ref>
|}
|}


Line 208: Line 230:


=== Naming ===
=== Naming ===
On 8 April 2020, it was revealed that four proposed names were put forward by outgoing acting [[United States Secretary of the Navy|Secretary of the Navy]], [[Thomas Modly]]. He expressed a desire for the first ship to be named ''Agility'' with the class designated ''Agility'' class. Other names put forward were ''Intrepid'', ''Endeavor'', and ''Dauntless''. However, Navy leaders said Modly's proposed names would not be adopted.<ref>{{cite news |first=Ben |last=Werner |title=Navy Leaders Sink Ship Names Proposed in SECNAV Modly's Last Days |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/04/08/navy-leaders-sink-ship-names-proposed-in-secnav-modlys-last-days |work=USNI News |publisher=United States Naval Institute |date=8 April 2020 |access-date=17 July 2020}}</ref> In July 2020, it was reported by ''The Drive'' that the lead ship would be named USS ''Brooke'' (FFG-80).<ref>{{cite news |first=Joseph |last=Trevithick |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/34948/pentagon-notice-says-the-first-of-the-navys-new-frigates-will-be-named-uss-brooke |title=Pentagon Notice Says The First Of The Navy's New Frigates Will Be Named USS Brooke |work=The War Zone |publisher=The Drive |date=17 July 2020 |access-date=17 July 2020}}</ref> Later the U.S. Navy clarified via Twitter that reports about reusing the USS ''Brooke'' name for a new warship were erroneous.<ref name="Def Brief 201007">{{cite news |title= No, the US Navy will not name first of new class of frigates USS Brooke |url=https://defbrief.com/2020/07/18/no-the-us-navy-will-not-name-first-of-new-class-of-frigates-uss-brooke/ |publisher=Defense Brief |date=18 July 2020 |access-date=7 October 2020}}</ref>
In April 2020, it was revealed that four proposed names were put forward by outgoing acting [[United States Secretary of the Navy|Secretary of the Navy]], [[Thomas Modly]]. He expressed a desire for the first ship to be named ''Agility'' with the class designated ''Agility'' class. Other names put forward were ''Intrepid'', ''Endeavor'', and ''Dauntless''. However, Navy leaders said Modly's proposed names would not be adopted.<ref>{{cite news |first=Ben |last=Werner |title=Navy Leaders Sink Ship Names Proposed in SECNAV Modly's Last Days |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/04/08/navy-leaders-sink-ship-names-proposed-in-secnav-modlys-last-days |work=USNI News |publisher=United States Naval Institute |date=8 April 2020 |access-date=17 July 2020}}</ref> In July 2020, it was reported by ''The War Zone'' that the lead ship would be named USS ''Brooke'' (FFG-80).<ref>{{cite news |first=Joseph |last=Trevithick |url=https://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/34948/pentagon-notice-says-the-first-of-the-navys-new-frigates-will-be-named-uss-brooke |title=Pentagon Notice Says The First Of The Navy's New Frigates Will Be Named USS Brooke |work=The War Zone |publisher=The Drive |date=17 July 2020 |access-date=17 July 2020}}</ref> Later the U.S. Navy clarified via Twitter that reports about reusing the USS ''Brooke'' name for a new warship were erroneous.<ref name="Def Brief 201007">{{cite news |title= No, the US Navy will not name first of new class of frigates USS Brooke |url=https://defbrief.com/2020/07/18/no-the-us-navy-will-not-name-first-of-new-class-of-frigates-uss-brooke/ |publisher=Defense Brief |date=18 July 2020 |access-date=7 October 2020}}</ref>


On 7 October 2020, Navy Secretary [[Kenneth Braithwaite]] announced the first FFG(X) frigate would be named USS ''Constellation'' (FFG-62).<ref name="USNI Braithwaite">{{cite news |first=Megan |last=Eckstein |title=SECNAV Braithwaite Names First FFG(X) USS Constellation |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/10/07/secnav-braithwaite-names-first-ffgx-uss-constellation |work=USNI News |publisher=United States Naval Institute |date=7 October 2020 |access-date=7 October 2020}}</ref> On 2 December 2020, Secretary Braithwaite announced that the second ship of the class will be named USS ''Congress'' (FFG-63).<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{cite news |first1=Geoff |last1=Ziezulewicz |title=Navy bringing back U.S. Atlantic Fleet |url=https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/12/02/navy-bringing-back-us-atlantic-fleet/ |work=Navy Times |publisher=Sightline Media Group |date=2 December 2020 |access-date=2 December 2020}}</ref> On 15 January 2021, Secretary Braithwaite announced that the third ship of the class will be named USS ''Chesapeake'' (FFG-64). All three ships are named after three of the U.S. Navy's [[Original six frigates of the United States Navy|original six frigates]].<ref name=":3" />
In October 2020, Navy Secretary [[Kenneth Braithwaite]] announced the first FFG(X) frigate would be named USS ''Constellation'' (FFG-62).<ref name="USNI Braithwaite">{{cite news |first=Megan |last=Eckstein |title=SECNAV Braithwaite Names First FFG(X) USS Constellation |url=https://news.usni.org/2020/10/07/secnav-braithwaite-names-first-ffgx-uss-constellation |work=USNI News |publisher=United States Naval Institute |date=7 October 2020 |access-date=7 October 2020}}</ref> In December 2020, Secretary Braithwaite announced that the second ship of the class will be named USS ''Congress'' (FFG-63).<ref name=":2" /><ref>{{cite news |first1=Geoff |last1=Ziezulewicz |title=Navy bringing back U.S. Atlantic Fleet |url=https://www.navytimes.com/news/your-navy/2020/12/02/navy-bringing-back-us-atlantic-fleet/ |work=Navy Times |publisher=Sightline Media Group |date=2 December 2020 |access-date=2 December 2020}}</ref> In January 2021, Secretary Braithwaite announced that the third ship of the class will be named USS ''Chesapeake'' (FFG-64). All three ships are named after three of the U.S. Navy's [[Original six frigates of the United States Navy|original six frigates]].<ref name=":3" />


[[United States ship naming conventions]] have historically named frigates after U.S. Navy and Marine Corps heroes or leaders. A report to Congress on 4 February 2021 advised that the U.S. Navy had not stated that this naming scheme was a change in their rules for naming ships.<ref>{{cite web |title=Navy Ship Names: Background for Congress |url=https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/RS/RS22478 |publisher=Congressional Research Service |id=RS22478 |date=4 February 2021}}</ref>
[[United States ship naming conventions]] have historically named frigates after U.S. Navy and Marine Corps heroes or leaders. A report to Congress in February 2021 advised that the U.S. Navy had not stated that this naming scheme was a change in their rules for naming ships.<ref>{{cite web |title=Navy Ship Names: Background for Congress |url=https://crsreports.congress.gov/product/pdf/RS/RS22478 |publisher=Congressional Research Service |id=RS22478 |date=4 February 2021}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
{{Portal|United States}}
{{Portal|United States}}
* [[Daegu-class frigate|''Daegu''-class frigate]] (South Korea)
* [[Daegu-class frigate|''Daegu''-class frigate]] (South Korea)
* [[Defence and intervention frigate|FDI]] (France)
* [[Defence and intervention frigate]] (France)
* [[Mogami-class frigate]] (Japan)
* [[Nilgiri-class frigate (2019)|''Nilgiri''-class frigate]] (India)
* [[Nilgiri-class frigate (2019)|''Nilgiri''-class frigate]] (India)
* [[Tamandaré-class frigate|''Tamandaré''-class frigate]] (Brazil)
* [[Tamandaré-class frigate|''Tamandaré''-class frigate]] (Brazil)
* [[Type 26 frigate|Type 26]] frigates (United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada)
* [[Type 26 frigate|Type 26]] frigates (United Kingdom, Australia, and Canada)
* [[Type 31 frigate|Type 31]] frigates (United Kingdom)
* [[Type 31 frigate|Type 31]] frigates (United Kingdom, Poland, and Indonesia)


==References==
==References==
Line 231: Line 254:


{{Constellation-class frigate}}
{{Constellation-class frigate}}
{{Active ship classes of the United States Navy}}
{{Marinette Marine}}
{{Marinette Marine}}


Latest revision as of 13:05, 12 August 2024

An artist's rendering of the final Constellation-class design
Class overview
NameConstellation class
BuildersFincantieri Marinette Marine
Operators United States Navy (projected)
Preceded by
Cost
  • US$1.28 billion for the first ship[1]
  • US$1.05 billion for the second ship[1]
Built2024–present
In commission2029 (planned)[2]
Planned20[3]
On order6
Building1
General characteristics
Typeguided-missile frigate
Displacement7,291 tons, fully loaded[4]
Length496 ft (151.18 m)[4]
Beam65 ft (19.81 m)[4]
Propulsion
  • CODLAG
    • 1 × General Electric LM2500+G4 gas turbine[5]
    • 2 × electric propulsion motors: INDAR 2 x 3.4 MW
    • 4 × ship service diesel generators Rolls-Royce MTU 20V 4000 M53B engine 3000 kW for a total output of 12 MW
    • reduction gears: Timken Power Systems or Philadelphia Gears
    • 2 x fixed-pitch propellers
    • 1 × auxiliary propulsion unit Thrustmasters of Texas Hydrologic Retractable Thruster[4]
Speedin excess of 26 kn (48 km/h; 30 mph)
Range6,000 nmi (11,000 km; 6,900 mi) at 16 kn (30 km/h; 18 mph), electric drive
Boats & landing
craft carried		2 × rigid-hulled inflatable boats
Capacity200 accommodations
Complement24 officers and 176 enlisted crew
Sensors and
processing systems
Electronic warfare
& decoys
Armament
Aircraft carried
Aviation facilities
  • extra-large hangar for 1 MH-60R & 1 MQ-8C
  • RAST Secure & Traverse Aircraft Handling System
  • Horizontal Reference System
  • Night Vision Device Compatibility

The Constellation-class multi-mission guided-missile frigates of the United States Navy are based on the European multipurpose frigates (FREMM), already in service with the French and Italian navies. Constellation follows the modular but problematic littoral combat ships of the Freedom and Independence classes.[14] The U.S. Navy announced the FFG(X) frigate project in the United States Department of Defense's Request For Information (RFI) in July 2017.[13][15]

The Navy selected five shipbuilders to present their ideas for a prospective design for the proposed twenty FFG(X) guided-missile frigates.[3] In April 2020, the Navy announced that Fincantieri Marinette Marine had won the contract with a modified design based on the FREMM, designed by Naval Group and Fincantieri. The project was later renamed FFG-62 program after the lead ship of her class.[16]

Development

[edit]

The U.S. Navy procured the first FFG 62 in FY2020. The next was awarded in April 2021, and the third in FY22. The U.S. Navy's proposed FY2020 budget request was $1.281-billion for the procurement of the first FFG 62. The U.S. Navy's FY2020 budget submission shows that subsequent ships in the class are estimated by the Navy to cost $850 to $950-million each in then-year dollars.[17][4]

Design

[edit]
The proposed government furnished equipment for the FFG(X)

The U.S. Navy's intention to buy the first FFG(X) in 2020 did not allow enough time to develop a completely new design for the platform. Consequently, the U.S. Navy intended for the design of the FFG(X) to be a modified version of an existing "parent" ship design.[14]: 8  The RFI says, "A competition for FFG(X) is envisioned to consider existing parent designs for a Small Surface Combatant that can be modified to accommodate the specific capability requirements prescribed by the U.S. Navy."[13]

The U.S. Navy wanted a frigate that could keep up with the aircraft carriers and have sensors networked in with the rest of the fleet to expand the overall tactical picture available to the group. "The FFG(X) will normally aggregate into strike groups and Large Surface Combatant led surface action groups but also possess the ability to robustly defend itself during conduct of independent operations while connected and contributing to the fleet tactical grid."[13]

In January 2019, the U.S. Navy announced that the new frigate will have a minimum of 32 Mark 41 Vertical Launch System cells aboard the ship for primarily anti-air warfare for self-defense or escort missions.[18]

The U.S. Navy would like for the ship to be able to:

  • Destroy surface ships over the horizon,
  • Detect enemy submarines,
  • Defend convoy ships,
  • Employ active and passive electronic warfare systems,
  • Defend against swarming small boat attacks.[13]

The class will use a Combined Diesel Electric and Gas Hull, Mechanical and Electrical (HM&E) propulsion system, which has never been used in any other U.S. Navy ship.[19] The new propulsion system will be required to be tested on land in order to reduce the risk of engine failure, which has plagued the previous littoral combat ship (LCS) program.[19]

The ongoing difficulties with the LCS was a major factor in the US Navy's decision to kickstart the Constellation program. According to the Congressional Research Service, ongoing concerns include LCS survivability in a conflict, their limited armament, and their ability to complete the missions it was designed for.[20] Other problems include their high cost price, double their original projections, and maintenance costs.[21]

Contenders

[edit]

Six shipbuilders submitted proposals for conceptual designs to the U.S. Navy FFG(X) Frigate program.[6][22] In February 2018, the U.S. Navy announced that from these proposals they had selected five shipbuilders with each awarded a $15-million contract to produce conceptual designs for the FFG(X).[3] These shipbuilders were Austal USA, Fincantieri Marine Group, General Dynamics, Huntington Ingalls Industries, and Lockheed Martin.[3]

Atlas North America submitted the MEKO A-200, but was not selected for a conceptual design contract.[6][3] Ship designs from these five shipbuilders were evaluated by the U.S. Navy to inform the final specifications that would be used for the FFG(X) request for proposal in 2019, and the intended contract award in 2020.[3]

In May 2019, Lockheed Martin withdrew from the competition.[23]

Shipbuilder Parent Design Proposal Name Length (m) Crew Contract Awarded
Austal USA Independence-class LCS[6] "Austal Frigate"[6] 127.7[6] to 130[6] Design[6]
Fincantieri Marine Group European multipurpose frigate (FREMM)[6] FREMM 143.8[6] 133[6] Detail Design and Construction (DD&C)[24]
General Dynamics / Bath Iron Works Álvaro de Bazán-class Spanish frigate[6] "F100"[6] 146.7[6] to 234[6] Design[6]
Huntington Ingalls Industries Legend-class National Security Cutter[6] "Patrol Frigate"[6] 127.4[6] Unspecified[6] Design[6]
Lockheed Martin Freedom-class LCS[6] "Freedom Frigate"[6] 125[6] 130[6] Design[6] (withdrawn)[23]
Atlas North America MEKO A-200[6] MEKO A-200 121[6] 100-120[6] None

Contract award

[edit]

On 30 April 2020, it was announced that Fincantieri Marinette Marine's FREMM design had won the contest and was awarded a $795-million contract for detailed design and construction of the lead ship, with options for nine additional ships.[25] In May 2021, the U.S. Navy issued Fincantieri Marinette Marine a $554-million contract to start building the future USS Congress (FFG-63).[26]

On 2 April 2024, USNI News reported that the Constellation class frigates were delayed by three years, due to issues concerning shipyard backlogs and a lack of skilled workers.[27]

Ships of the class

[edit]
Name Hull Number Builder Laid Down Launched Commissioned Homeport[28] Status
Constellation FFG-62 Fincantieri Marinette Marine 12 April 2024 NS Everett, WA Under construction[29]
Congress FFG-63 NS Everett, WA Awarded[30][31][26]
Chesapeake FFG-64 NS Everett, WA Awarded[32][19]
Lafayette FFG-65 NS Everett, WA Awarded[33][34]
Hamilton FFG-66 NS Everett, WA Awarded[35]
Galvez FFG-67 NS Everett, WA Awarded[35][36]

In June 2021, the Navy announced that Naval Station Everett in Washington would be the future home of the first 12 ships of the class.[28]

Naming

[edit]

In April 2020, it was revealed that four proposed names were put forward by outgoing acting Secretary of the Navy, Thomas Modly. He expressed a desire for the first ship to be named Agility with the class designated Agility class. Other names put forward were Intrepid, Endeavor, and Dauntless. However, Navy leaders said Modly's proposed names would not be adopted.[37] In July 2020, it was reported by The War Zone that the lead ship would be named USS Brooke (FFG-80).[38] Later the U.S. Navy clarified via Twitter that reports about reusing the USS Brooke name for a new warship were erroneous.[39]

In October 2020, Navy Secretary Kenneth Braithwaite announced the first FFG(X) frigate would be named USS Constellation (FFG-62).[40] In December 2020, Secretary Braithwaite announced that the second ship of the class will be named USS Congress (FFG-63).[30][41] In January 2021, Secretary Braithwaite announced that the third ship of the class will be named USS Chesapeake (FFG-64). All three ships are named after three of the U.S. Navy's original six frigates.[32]

United States ship naming conventions have historically named frigates after U.S. Navy and Marine Corps heroes or leaders. A report to Congress in February 2021 advised that the U.S. Navy had not stated that this naming scheme was a change in their rules for naming ships.[42]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62)" summary. USNI, 1 February 2022.
  2. ^ Shelbourne, Mallory. "Constellation Frigate Delivery Delayed 3 Years, Says Navy". USNI News. Retrieved 2024-04-05.
  3. ^ a b c d e f LaGrone, Sam; Eckstein, Megan (16 February 2018). "Navy Picks Five Contenders for Next Generation Frigate FFG(X) Program". USNI News. U.S. Naval Institute. Retrieved 17 February 2018.
  4. ^ a b c d e f Larter, David (12 January 2021). "Here's the latest on the US Navy's new Constellation-class frigate". Breaking Defense. Retrieved 4 March 2021.
  5. ^ [1] GE, The LM2500+G4 Engine
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa ab ac Vavasseur, Xavier, ed. (18 January 2018). "SNA 2018: Contenders for the U.S. Navy FFG(X) Frigate Program". Navy Recognition. Retrieved 19 January 2018.
  7. ^ O'Rourke, Ronald. "Navy Constellation (FFG-62) Class Frigate Program: Background and Issues for Congress" (PDF). Congressional Research Service. p. 15. R44972. Retrieved 2023-06-17.
  8. ^ a b Campbell, Regan (15 January 2019). "FFG(X) Update: National Symposium – Surface Navy Association" (PDF). navsea.navy.mil. p. 3. Retrieved 17 June 2023.
  9. ^ Burgess, Richard R. (31 August 2022). "First Steel Cut for Navy's Constellation-Class Frigate". Seapower. Retrieved 4 September 2023.
  10. ^ "FY22 DOT&E Annual Report" (PDF). Director, Operational Test and Evaluation. p. 186. Retrieved 19 January 2024.
  11. ^ "Navy Completes Lightweight Torpedo Defense Mission Module Testing". navy.mil. 4 May 2018. Retrieved 17 June 2023.
  12. ^ "Text - H.R.7776 - 117th Congress (2021-2022): James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023 | Congress.gov | Library of Congress".
  13. ^ a b c d e Larter, David B. (10 July 2017). "Frigate competition wide open: Navy specs reveal major design shift". Defense News. Sightline Media Group. Retrieved 19 January 2018.
  14. ^ a b O'Rourke, Ronald (8 December 2017). "Navy Frigate (FFG[X]) Program: Background and Issues for Congress" (PDF). Congressional Research Service. Retrieved 17 February 2018.
  15. ^ Eckstein, Megan (10 July 2017). "Navy Releases Details of New FFG(X) Guided-Missile Frigate Program in Request to Industry". USNI News. U.S. Naval Institute. Retrieved 17 February 2018.
  16. ^ "Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62)". USNI News. 2021-08-31. Retrieved 2021-09-05.
  17. ^ "Report to Congress on U.S. Navy Frigate FFG(X) Program". USNI News. 2019-10-18. Retrieved 2019-10-19.
  18. ^ LaGrone, Sam (2019-01-22). "Navy Squeezing Costs Out of FFG(X) Program as Requirements Solidify". USNI News. Retrieved 2019-02-09.
  19. ^ a b c Larter, David B. (2020-12-06). "Citing littoral combat ship failures, Congress pushes the US Navy to get FFG(X) right". Defense News. Retrieved 2021-01-16.
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