The US Navy is terminating the last four ships in the Constellation-class guided-missile frigate program, keeping only the first two under construction at Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Wisconsin.
The Constellation warship program was launched in 2020 to replace some of the aging Freedom and Independence Littoral Combat Ships as well as the 1970s-era Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates.
Initially aimed to produce at least 20 hulls with a projected cost exceeding $22 billion, the program has been plagued by repeated design changes and schedule delays.
A 2024 government watchdog report stated that the lead ship is now expected in 2029, three years behind schedule, with unit costs rising to around $1.4 billion.
“From day one, I made it clear: I won’t spend a dollar if it doesn’t strengthen readiness or our ability to win,” US Navy Secretary John Phelan stated.
“We are reshaping how the Navy builds its fleet … a strategic shift away from the Constellation-class frigate program.”
What’s Next
Italy’s Fincantieri responded to Washington’s decision, saying it will continue manufacturing the first two frigates, the USS Constellation (FFG 62) and USS Congress (FFG 63), and work on new orders for vessels supporting amphibious, icebreaking, and special missions.
CEO George Moutafis said the move “provides for the necessary stability for our teams … allowing us to continue investing in innovation and skills.”
Fincantieri’s shipyards in America employ roughly 3,750 workers across Marinette, Green Bay, and Sturgeon Bay in Wisconsin, as well as Jacksonville, Florida.
The company recently expanded its workforce by 850, reflecting investments of over $800 million to modernize the yards and increase production flexibility.
