First Vessel Expected to Start Construction This Year

Rolls-Royce has been selected to supply its mtu naval generator sets for Phase 1 of the US Navy’s CONSTELLATION (FFG-62)-class frigate programme, previously designated FFG(X). Rolls-Royce has received a contract for the first shipset, to provide four mtu naval generator sets, each rated at 3000kWe at 1800rpm.

The CONSTELLATION is a multi-mission warship designed for operation in littoral and blue-water environments, to conduct air, anti-submarine, surface and electronic warfare, in addition to information operations. The generator sets are based on the mtu 20V 4000 M53B engine and provide a total power output of 12MW for propulsion and on-board power supply.

Adam Wood, Director, Government Sales North America at Rolls-Royce business unit Power Systems, commented “We have a legacy of strong support for our partners in both the US Navy and the US Coast Guard […] There is no doubt that our systems will perform to the high expectations and unique demands of the US Navy CONSTELLATION-class.”

The flexible design engineering of the frigate’s CODLAG propulsion system will allow for energy-efficient diesel power generation for propulsion at normal cruising speeds with extended range, while enhancing anti-submarine capability in its extremely quiet diesel-electric configuration. The lead vessel will be nearly 500ft long, accommodate up to 200 crew and be capable of over 26kts sustained speeds.

Fincantieri Marinette Marine is expected to begin construction on the lead ship and has a build option for Phase 1 that would bring total vessels to 10. A potential planned second phase would include another 10 vessels.