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.
Image of HMS Glasgow, seen here under construction at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Govan on the River Clyde. (Photo: MoD/ Crown Copyright)
The UK government on 10 March published a long-awaited refreshed National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) that features a pipeline detailing a 30-year timeline for all government vessels displacing more than 150t.
In what may be seen as a worrying development for shipbuilders, the document states that decisions on the procurement approach for each type of RN ship ‘will be determined on a case-by-case basis’, seemingly opening up the potential to build warships in foreign shipyards.
The revised NSS states: ‘As well as considering the specific capability requirements, the MoD will consider the long-term industrial impact of different options, including delivering value for money
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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.