USS Constellation (FFG-62) explained

USS Constellation (FFG-62)[1] will be the lead ship of the of guided-missile frigates[2] and the fifth ship in the United States Navy bearing this name. She is named in honor of the first USS Constellation, one of the original six frigates of the United States Navy, which was named for the constellation of stars on the flag of the United States.[2] The ship will be sponsored by Melissa Braithwaite, the wife of Secretary of the Navy Kenneth Braithwaite.[3]

Construction of Constellation began on 31 August 2022[4] and the keel was laid on 12 April 2024. She was originally expected to enter service in 2026,[5] but due to design changes,[6] and projected service life limitations,[7] she isn't expected to be delivered until 2029.[8]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: [{{Naval Vessel Register URL|id=FFG62}} Constellation (FFG-62)]. Naval Vessel Register. 2020-10-26.
  2. SECNAV Names Navy's Newest Class of FFG(X) Ships. United States Navy. 7 October 2020. 7 October 2020.
  3. SECNAV Names Future Vessels while aboard Historic Navy Ship. United States Navy. 15 January 2021. 16 January 2021.
  4. News: Shelbourne. Mallory. Fincantieri Begins Construction of First Constellation-class Frigate. USNI News. United States Naval Institute. 31 August 202. 2 September 2022.
  5. Web site: Ozberk . Tayfun . U.S. Navy's Constellation-Class: New Frigate To Start Construction This Year . Naval News . 15 January 2022 . 17 March 2022.
  6. Web site: Weichert . Brandon J. . 2024-07-22 . The Navy’s Constellation-Class Frigate Nightmare Won't Ever End . 2024-07-24 . The National Interest . en.
  7. Web site: LaGrone . Mallory Shelbourne and Sam . 2024-05-30 . Constellation Frigate 'Unplanned Weight Growth' Could Limit Service Life, Says GAO . 2024-07-24 . USNI News . en-US.
  8. Web site: LaGrone . Mallory Shelbourne and Sam . 2024-04-02 . Constellation Frigate Delivery Delayed 3 Years, Says Navy . 2024-07-24 . USNI News . en-US.