The U.S. Navy has scrapped its Constellation frigate program, citing delays and budget overruns. However, it will continue with two ships currently under construction in Wisconsin.
Navy Secretary John C. Phelan announced the decision, stating that the program wasn’t progressing as expected. Four ships that were contracted but not yet built have been canceled. Phelan emphasized the importance of keeping shipbuilders in Michigan and Wisconsin employed, as their work is crucial for future Navy projects.
Fincantieri, the Italian shipyard that won the contract in 2020, planned to construct up to 20 frigates based on its FREMM design, which is used by several navies. Despite initial progress, a March report from the Government Accountability Office revealed that the program was only 70% complete and three years behind schedule due to numerous design changes. This raised concerns that the frigate now resembles very little of the original design.
As of now, the Navy is reconsidering some specifications, including speed, to adjust for weight problems. Phelan noted that the Navy needs to improve its shipbuilding pace to meet current threats.
Fincantieri anticipates that it will secure new contracts for other types of naval vessels to offset the loss of the frigate program. The company has invested over $800 million in its U.S. operations, employing roughly 3,750 people across various shipyards.
Sen. Roger Wicker, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, supported the cancellation. He commended Phelan for taking decisive action and acknowledged the importance of Fincantieri in the future of U.S. shipbuilding.
This shift in strategy is part of a broader effort to enhance the Navy’s overall fleet and readiness, ensuring that it can effectively respond to global threats more efficiently.
For further information on shipbuilding trends and naval capabilities, you can refer to the Government Accountability Office and the Navy official websites.
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