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.
Strengthening the UK’s domestic maritime industry is a ‘key consideration’ of the supplier contract awards being determined by Babcock as part of the Type 31 programme build, which will deliver five frigates to the RN.
Earlier this month, the company announced the second round of subcontracts to UK and overseas firms, with procurement underway of long-lead equipment items such as main engines, diesel generators, reduction gears, shaft lines and integrated platform management systems.
Babcock said this process was being performed in accordance with the Type 31 Master Integrated Schedule, with around two-thirds of subcontracts now awarded.
The company reiterated that its
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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.