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.
A new Underwater Collision Research Facility (UCRF) has been established at the Australian Maritime College in Launceston, Tasmania, the Australian Department of Defence announced on 17 October.
The joint initiative between Defence Science and Technology and the University of Tasmania will support Australia’s national shipbuilding capability. The facility will provide researchers with a better understanding of the impact of underwater collisions at sea, and support improvements in ship, submarine and autonomous underwater vehicles design.
Minister for Defence Industry, Melissa Price, said: ‘The UCRF is an excellent example of the unique facilities developed at the Australian Maritime College.
‘The facility provides an important maritime research capability in Tasmania and will work with researchers not only just here in Australia, but internationally as well.’
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.