The U.S. Navy has officially decided to terminate the last four ships in the Constellation-class frigate program. Navy Secretary John Phelan announced this strategic shift today, highlighting a new direction for fleet construction and readiness. Phelan emphasized that the Navy will not allocate funds unless it enhances operational readiness and combat effectiveness.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Phelan stated, “From day one I made it clear: I won’t spend a dollar if it doesn’t strengthen readiness or our ability to win.” He further explained that the Navy is reshaping its approach to building and fielding the fleet, prioritizing a warfighting advantage through collaboration with industry partners.
The decision to halt plans for the final four ships comes after they had not yet entered the construction phase. The Constellation-class frigate program has faced increasing scrutiny since its inception, particularly regarding delays and budget overruns attributed to numerous design changes mandated by the Navy.
Originally, the Navy awarded Fincantieri Marinette Marine the contract for the design and construction of the frigate in 2020, overcoming significant competition. However, the program has been under the microscope of lawmakers and military leaders, with concerns escalating to the point that former President Donald Trump expressed his opinions on the matter.
A 2024 Navy report highlighted that the Constellation-class program is currently 36 months behind schedule, raising alarms about its viability and overall impact on naval capabilities. The Navy’s strategic decision to pivot away from this program reflects ongoing efforts to streamline operations and maximize efficiency in fleet development.
As this story develops, Breaking Defense has reached out to Fincantieri for further comments regarding the termination of the final ships. The Navy’s commitment to enhancing its readiness and effectiveness in a rapidly changing global security environment remains a top priority. Further updates are expected as more details emerge.
