Constellation-class

The Constellation class is a United States Navy program for guided-missile frigates. The program originated with the FFG(X) Request for Information in July 2017, which sought a small surface combatant to follow the Freedom and Independence littoral combat ship classes. In April 2020, the Navy awarded the contract to Fincantieri Marinette Marine for a design based on the Italian version of the European multipurpose frigate (FREMM). Although the Navy initially planned for a class of 20 vessels, the program was canceled in November 2025. Only the first two ships, Constellation (FFG-62) and Congress (FFG-63), are scheduled for completion, with a subsequent frigate program designated FF(X) to be based on the National Security Cutter design.

The vessels utilize a Combined Diesel Electric and Gas (CODLAG) propulsion system, a configuration that incorporates a General Electric gas turbine, electric propulsion motors, and Rolls-Royce MTU diesel generators. The combat suite is centered on the Aegis Baseline 10 system and the AN/SPY-6(V)3 Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar. For undersea warfare, the design includes the CAPTAS-4 variable-depth sonar and a multi-function towed array. The armament suite consists of the Mark 41 Vertical Launch System for cruise and surface-to-air missiles, canister-launched anti-ship weapons, a Rolling Airframe Missile launcher, and a Mk 110 57mm main gun. Aviation facilities include an extra-large hangar and a handling system for an MH-60R Seahawk helicopter.

Construction of the lead ship, Constellation, began in Marinette, Wisconsin, with the keel laid on April 12, 2024. The Navy intended for the class to operate as part of carrier strike groups or as independent units capable of surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and convoy defense. In 2021, Naval Station Everett was selected as the future homeport for the class. The program has experienced delays attributed to shipyard backlogs and labor shortages. As of late 2025, the lead vessel was reported as 12 percent complete, with a planned commissioning date of 2029.