Constellation-class

Summary

Description

The Constellation-class frigate, a new class of multi-mission guided-missile frigates, is under construction for the United States Navy. This class is based on the European multipurpose frigates (FREMM) design which is utilized by the French and Italian navies. Aimed to overcome the issues faced by the littoral combat ships of the Freedom and Independence classes, such as survivability and armament capabilities, the Constellation class is part of the FFG(X) program initiated on 10 July 2017.

The U.S. Navy chose Fincantieri Marinette Marine's modified FREMM design for its future frigates, previously considering proposals from five shipbuilders. The program was officially named FFG-62 after the lead ship of this class. The U.S. Navy's budget request for FY2020 was $1.281 billion for the first frigate, with follow-on ships estimated to cost between $850 to $950 million each.

The Constellation-class design aims to provide a platform capable of networking with the fleet's sensors to enhance the joint tactical picture. It is expected to support the Navy's strike groups and exhibit robust self-defense capabilities during independent operations. The frigates will be equipped with at least 32 cells of the Mark 41 Vertical Launch System and are expected to destroy enemy ships over the horizon, detect submarines, defend convoy ships, and employ active and passive electronic warfare systems. A novel Combined Diesel Electric and Gas (CODLAG) propulsion system, unique amongst U.S. Navy ships, will be utilized to reduce the risk of engine failure seen in past LCS programs.

Fincantieri Marinette Marine was awarded the contract to design and construct the lead ship for $795 million, with options for nine additional ships. The contract for the second ship, the future USS Congress (FFG-63), was awarded in May 2021. The first 12 ships are slated to be homeported at Naval Station Everett in Washington.

Technical specifications