Which American company will build the U.S. Navy's new frigates?

HII's Ingalls Shipbuilding division has been selected to design and build the U.S. Navy's future small surface combatant (SSC) ships.

What is the U.S. Navy's FF(X) frigate based on?

The FF(X) frigate is based on HII's proven Legend-Class National Security Cutter design.

When does the U.S. Navy aim to launch the first FF(X) hull?

The U.S. Navy aims to launch the first FF(X) hull in the water by 2028.

Home / Business and Economy / US Navy Accelerates Future Frigate Production

US Navy Accelerates Future Frigate Production

21 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Ingalls Shipbuilding division will design and build new small combatant ships.
The FF(X) frigate is based on HII's proven Legend-Class National Security Cutter.
The Navy aims to launch the first FF(X) hull in the water by 2028.

US Navy Accelerates Future Frigate Production

The U.S. Navy is set to accelerate the production of its future small surface combatant (SSC) fleet, with HII's Ingalls Shipbuilding division tapped to design and construct the new vessels. This strategic move aims to bolster the Navy's capabilities with more agile and adaptable warships.

The FF(X) class of frigates will serve as a crucial component of the Navy's future fleet, designed to operate alongside larger multi-mission warships. Leveraging HII's established Legend-Class National Security Cutter design, the Navy anticipates rapid and cost-effective manufacturing, a strategy already successfully employed in previous shipbuilding endeavors.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base. Secretary of the Navy John C. Phelan emphasized the goal of launching the first hull by 2028, underscoring the urgency and importance of this program for national security.