The U.S. Navy has officially announced the cancellation of its Constellation frigate program due to escalating costs and delays. However, the Navy will continue to build two vessels currently in production at the Marinette Marine yard in Wisconsin, operated by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.
Navy Secretary John C. Phelan articulated the Navy’s strategic pivot, emphasizing the need for a more efficient approach in shipbuilding that better aligns with the evolving threat landscape. “We’re reshaping how we build and field the Fleet… beginning with a strategic shift away from the Constellation-class frigate program,” Phelan stated in a post on X. He confirmed that four additional ships slated for construction under this contract would be canceled.
Phelan acknowledged the contributions of shipbuilders in Michigan and Wisconsin, stating that although work continues on the initial two ships, efforts are underway to ensure the viability of the workforce for future naval shipbuilding opportunities.
Originally, Fincantieri was awarded the contract to develop the frigates in 2020, planning for an eventual fleet of 20 ships based on the FREMM design, a model already proven in service with the navies of France and Italy. However, a report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office revealed that extensive design changes led to significant delays, with the program lagging three years behind schedule and only 70% complete.
As weight issues with the design emerged, the Navy found itself potentially compromising on the frigate’s speed requirements as a solution. Phelan’s remarks highlighted the urgency in delivering a fleet that meets operational demands promptly, stating, “It is time to deliver the ship our warfighters need at a pace that matches the threat environment.”
In response to the cancellation, Fincantieri expressed hope for new business opportunities in special mission ships, such as amphibious and icebreaking vessels. The firm also indicated that it has put over $800 million into its U.S. shipyards, supporting approximately 3,750 jobs. The continuing projects for the initial two frigates, along with indemnities from the U.S. government, are projected to yield significant economic returns.
Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. Roger Wicker praised the decision to end the Constellation program, stating, “This is a clear signal that Navy program management is being fixed and accountability restored.” Phelan reiterated the necessity of accelerating fleet growth, looking forward to collaborating with various shipyards to construct a larger number of capable ships in a more timely fashion.
This decision marks a crucial point for the U.S. Navy as it seeks to adapt and strengthen its maritime capabilities in the face of new challenges. The collaboration between the Navy and its contracted shipbuilders remains vital to sustaining and advancing U.S. shipbuilding initiatives.