Navy Kills Last Four Constellation-Class Frigates in 'Strategic Shift'

WASHINGTON - The U.S. Navy announced a major strategic pivot today, terminating the final four ships in the Constellation-class frigate program as part of a comprehensive effort to reshape naval acquisition and modernization priorities.

Navy Secretary John Phelan made the announcement via social media, stating: “From day one I made it clear: I won’t spend a dollar if it doesn’t strengthen readiness or our ability to win. To keep that promise, we’re reshaping how we build and field the fleet-working with industry to deliver warfighting advantage, beginning with a strategic shift away from the Constellation-class frigate program.”

The four uncompleted ships have not yet begun construction, allowing the Navy to redirect substantial resources without immediate financial penalties. Phelan emphasized that the decision aligns with a new framework designed to accelerate ship construction timelines and deliver greater capability to warfighters at an accelerated pace.

The Constellation-class program has faced mounting scrutiny for years. Since Fincantieri Marinette Marine won the initial contract in 2020, the $22 billion initiative has been plagued by significant schedule delays and cost overruns. A 2024 Navy report revealed the program was running 36 months behind schedule, prompting criticism from lawmakers, Pentagon officials, and even former President Donald Trump.

Design changes implemented by the Navy compounded scheduling challenges, contributing to the program’s substantial delays. These modifications, while intended to enhance capabilities, created unforeseen complications for the contractor and ultimately undermined program credibility.

The first two Constellation-class ships—USS Constellation (FFG-62) and USS Congress (FFG-63)—will continue construction at Fincantieri’s Wisconsin facility. According to the Government Accountability Office, the lead ship is expected to enter service in 2029.

Fincantieri responded to the announcement by expressing commitment to partnership with the Navy. The company indicated openness to supporting new initiatives in amphibious vessels, icebreaking capabilities, and special mission ships, while remaining positioned to assist with emerging small surface combatant designs—both manned and unmanned platforms.

The decision reflects broader Pentagon acquisition reforms implemented in recent months. Industry analysts view the termination as part of a larger strategic reorientation toward Indo-Pacific capabilities, particularly as the Navy and White House explore developing a new “battleship” class featuring increased size, armor protection, and enhanced firepower for near-peer competition scenarios.

This represents a significant moment in naval modernization strategy, signaling the service’s determination to prioritize urgent warfighting requirements over established programs.

Source ID: SRCE-2025-1764104674252-960