The U.S. Navy has made a significant decision regarding its future fleet capabilities by announcing a new frigate class based on the HII (Huntington Ingalls Industries) Legend-class national security cutter. This announcement was made by Navy Secretary John Phelan during a public address on social media, revealing plans to develop a vessel that will replace the now-canceled Constellation-class frigate program.
Phelan indicated that the Navy aims to have the new frigate operational by 2028. In his address, he emphasized the importance of utilizing proven designs, stating, “I have directed the acquisition of a new frigate class based on HII’s Legend-class national security cutter design, a proven American-built ship that has been protecting our interests at home and abroad.” This initiative is part of the Navy’s broader “Golden Fleet” concept, although specific details about this strategy have yet to be fully disclosed.
Strategic Needs and Design Foundations
The decision to pursue this new frigate class comes in response to pressing operational requirements. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caude highlighted the need for enhanced capabilities, citing recent operations from the Red Sea to the Caribbean. “The [frigate] requirement is undeniable. Our small surface combatant inventory is a third of what we need,” he stated, underscoring the necessity for more effective blue-water small combatants. This strategy aims to allow destroyers to concentrate on high-end maritime engagements.
While HII will serve as the primary contractor for the frigate program, the Navy plans to conduct a competition to engage other shipyards in the construction process. Phelan noted that leveraging an established design and production baseline will help minimize costs, scheduling delays, and technical risks.
Commitment to Shipbuilding and Industry Support
In a statement following the announcement, HII confirmed that the frigates will be built at its yard in Mississippi, specifically at Ingalls Shipbuilding. Chris Kastner, HII’s president and CEO, expressed confidence in the capabilities of the Ingalls team, stating, “Speed matters, and the NSC ship design is stable and producible and will lead to predictable schedules.” He highlighted the company’s commitment to expanding the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base to meet the needs of the Navy.
Overall, this strategic shift not only aims to enhance the operational readiness of the U.S. Navy but also reflects a broader commitment to modernizing its fleet in response to evolving global security challenges. The introduction of a new frigate class will play a crucial role in ensuring that the Navy remains capable of effectively addressing both current and future maritime threats.
