Q&A · 1:48:20-1:49:55

Possible uses for two remaining Constellation hulls

Test-ship service and allied transfer are speculative ways to use a pair of hulls after the larger class is curtailed.

Question

What could the US Navy do with two Constellation frigates that lack a wider class?

Short answer

The possibilities raised are test-bed service or transfer to an ally; no final use is established.

Notes

Two remaining hulls would lack the wider class and support commonality originally expected. Drachinifel suggests dedicated test-bed work, drawing a historical comparison with Mississippi and the value of substantial remaining hull life. Alex Clarke raises transfer to allies for whom two modern frigates could be useful. They also joke about grouping curtailed programs as escorts for Zumwalt, without presenting that as an operational plan. The eventual use of the pair remains unresolved.