Q&A · 3:54:43-3:55:29

Why France's FDI is unlikely to solve US frigate problems

The FDI comparison asks how far a foreign design would have to change to accommodate American systems.

Question

Could the US Navy adopt the French FDI frigate if Constellation continues to struggle?

Short answer

Probably not; fitting American combat systems and operating practices would require another extensive redesign and risk repeating Constellation's problems.

Notes

The FDI is considered unlikely to match US requirements without modification. Accommodating American systems would require changes to the design. The concern raised is a repetition of Constellation's extensive adaptation of a foreign starting point.