Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:44:50-1:46:01

FFG(X) is a rushed attempt to reset the US frigate baseline

FFG(X) is being hurried to fill a real capability gap and establish a cheaper baseline after the LCS and over-specified Constellation experience.

Constellation Class FrigatesFfg XFrigatesLittoral Combat ShipNaval ProcurementUS Navy
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Question

Is the US Navy rushing FFG(X) for electoral reasons?

Short answer

It is being rushed, but mainly to fill a capability gap and reset the frigate baseline after LCS and Constellation problems, not simply for an election.

Notes

The FFG(X) timetable is driven more by the need for ships than by an election. The US Navy needs a hull in the water after the Littoral Combat Ship lost credibility and the Constellation class became over-specified. A deliberately bare-bones frigate could reset expectations and make later growth more manageable. The current programme may still be pushing simplification too far.