The U.S. Navy’s FFG(X) Program
The United States Navy has a storied tradition of adapting to new challenges and environments. It’s a tradition that requires constant innovation, both technologically and strategically, to maintain America’s maritime dominance. In line with this legacy, the U.S. Navy’s FFG(X) program is generating significant interest within defense circles and beyond. As we sail closer to the expected commission date of the first ship in 2026, it’s time to look under the proverbial hood of this program and understand its implications for the Navy’s future capabilities.
The Genesis of FFG(X)
The FFG(X) program was initiated in 2017, with the Navy issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to five shipbuilders to explore potential designs. One of the key criteria was to rely on an existing hull design to minimize both developmental risk and cost. The Navy had a clear vision: they wanted a multi-mission vessel capable of operating independently or as part of a carrier strike group or surface action group. The focus was on air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare, and information operations.
In April 2020, Marinette Marine Corporation (MMC) from Marinette, Wisconsin, won the coveted contract for the detail design and construction (DD&C) of up to ten frigates. Their design is an adaptation of the European multipurpose frigates, commonly referred to as FREMM, which are already in service with the French and Italian navies.
Meet the Constellation-Class Frigate
Named the Constellation-class, the first ship will be christened the USS Constellation (FFG-62). With a length of 496 feet, a beam of 65 feet, and a displacement of 7,291 tons, this frigate is built for versatility and agility. Its combined diesel-electric and gas (CODLAG) propulsion system ensures a balanced performance — optimal speed and range with one gas turbine, two electric motors, four diesel generators, and two propellers. The ship will be capable of speeds exceeding 26 knots and boast a range of 6,000 nautical miles.
The Arsenal: Advanced Sensors, Weapons, and Systems
The Constellation-class is essentially a floating fortress with high-tech bells and whistles. It comes equipped with the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat System, the next generation of naval warfare systems. This includes the AN/SPY-6(V)3 Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar (EASR) and the Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC), which enable sophisticated air and missile defense.
The armament doesn’t stop there. The Vertical Launch System (VLS) can house 32 cells capable of launching Tomahawk cruise missiles, various surface-to-air missiles, and more. Additional onboard systems include 16 canister-launched over-the-horizon anti-ship weapons, point defense systems, and a range of guns, including a Mk 110 57 mm gun equipped with the Advanced Low Cost Munition Ordnance (ALaMO) projectile.
The Crew and Additional Capacities
The Constellation-class frigate will have a crew of 24 officers and 176 enlisted personnel, providing accommodation for up to 200 people. This design choice ensures the vessel remains highly versatile for future mission adjustments. The frigate can also accommodate one MH-60R Seahawk helicopter and an MQ-8C Firescout unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), thus extending its operational reach and surveillance capabilities. Two rigid-hulled inflatable boats are included for boarding operations.
Future Implications
Expected to enter service in 2026, the U.S. Navy plans to commission at least 20 Constellation-class frigates. These ships will replace some of the older Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates and Littoral Combat Ships. The overarching vision behind this new class is to provide the Navy with a vessel that is not only more capable and affordable but also adaptable to the evolving complexities of naval warfare in both blue-water and littoral environments.
Conclusion
The FFG(X) program and the resulting Constellation-class frigate mark a pivotal point in the U.S. Navy’s modernization efforts. The focus is on multi-mission capabilities that balance lethality, survivability, and interoperability. These new frigates are not merely incremental improvements over their predecessors, but a conceptual leap that reflects the changing nature of maritime conflicts and the complexities of modern naval operations.
