Why retaining more Constellation-class frigates is not enough

Would retaining eight Constellation-class frigates give the US Navy an adequate frigate force until a replacement is ready?

Retaining ships or choosing a new design would leave the disputed requirements-management pressures in place.

The December 2025 proposal is to retain eight Constellation-class frigates as an interim force. Clarke's concern is that replacing the design leaves the organization managing requirements in place. He regards an unchanged Legend-class derivative as a cutter and the minimal modifications he has seen proposed as less capable than an Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate. Widening doors for damage-control equipment illustrates how a small change can enlarge corridors, reduce compartment space, or require a wider hull. Drawing on conversations with people involved in NAVSEA, he describes capable staff working within a culture that discourages decisions which could attract blame. A chat objection notes that designers follow assigned requirements; his response distinguishes adding equipment to meet them from accepting responsibility for removing equipment.