US Coast Guard enhances Arctic protection with a new Fast Response Cutter
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
Taiwan is seeking spare parts from the US for naval vessels. (Photo: Taiwan MND)
The Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the US (TECRO) has requested spare parts and related equipment for surface vessels operated by the Republic of China Navy (ROCN).
A potential $120 FMS deal was approved by the State Department on 8 June.
TECRO has asked for unclassified spare and repair parts for ships and ship systems; logistical technical assistance; US Government and contractor representative technical and logistical support; and other related elements of logistical and programme support.
‘The equipment will be sourced from approved US Navy vendors and/or US Navy stock,’ the State Department announced, adding: ‘There is no prime contractor.’
The ROCN operates a number of ex-USN surface vessels that may require spare parts support. Examples include four Kee Lung-class (formerly Kidd-class) destroyers and six Chi Yang-class (formerly Knox-class) frigates.
After commissioning, FRC Frederick Mann will operate in Alaska and perform multiple missions.
The US Coast Guard (USCG) created new units, including five Programme Executive Offices (PEOs), to facilitate and speed up the procurement of new capabilities.
The US Navy does not have a precise date for the award of the procurement contract for the third Arleigh Burke-class destroyer despite having the funds to advance with the programme in FY2025.
The US Navy (USN) is currently reassessing its acquisition efforts and seeking ways to reduce the multiple delays across the shipbuilding initiatives.
The Royal Australian Navy has finally commissioned the first Arafura-class offshore patrol vessel – more than three years behind schedule – highlighting the programme’s delays, design compromises and ongoing industrial restructuring.
The Italian Navy is being refreshed with two new ships ordered, while in the past six months steel was cut for a new frigate, an enhanced frigate was delivered and Horizon-class frigates passed a design review.