How far will the US Navy’s FF(X) design deviate from the Legend-class?
The new frigate class’s focus on modularity, speed to build and enhanced armament align with the priorities of the US Navy’s Golden Fleet.
Hyundai Heavy Industries has delivered the Polar-class fleet tanker/replenishment vessel HMNZS Aotearoa to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), following successful completion of sea trials.
SeaQuest Marine Project Management oversaw the shipbuilding process in Ulsan, South Korea, with the vessel departing the site on 10 June.
HMNZS Aotearoa will provide global sustainment capabilities to the NZDF and ensure adequate supply of air, land and maritime equipment including ammunition and fuel.
Jan Andersson, CEO of SeaQuest, said: ‘Once again we have proven that our experience in supervision and familiarity with Far Eastern builders can aid a new building project like no one else. This is the third time we have looked after a naval support ship, first from Royal Fleet Auxiliary UK, second from NDLO Norway and now from NZ Crown.’
The vessel is winterised and ice-strengthened to allow the NZDF to operate and support operations in the Antarctic.
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The new frigate class’s focus on modularity, speed to build and enhanced armament align with the priorities of the US Navy’s Golden Fleet.
The US Navy is set to invest $30 billion in artificial intelligence, cyber, space and autonomy research and development efforts in FY2026 as the force rethinks how it fights in light of China’s naval rise.
The US Coast Guard is expected to acquire new aircraft, helicopters, vessels and ISR sensors this fiscal year using resources from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
Recent developments in France and the UK highlight how autonomous helicopters are becoming central to naval force design as navies seek to integrate crewed and uncrewed systems at sea.
The platforms will be tested in multiple missions to define performance requirements for a coming acquisition programme.
As HII prepares to deliver its latest AI-enabled uncrewed surface vessel later this year, its major UK facility expansion aligns with the UK Royal Navy’s plans for a hybrid fleet.