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Serco has confirmed it has retained its contract to deliver technical support for the design, construction, systems integration and testing of the US Navy’s new Constellation Class guided‑missile frigates.
The agreement comprises a one‑year base period with four one‑year extension options. Under the renewed deal, Serco will assist in planning, detailed design reviews, construction oversight and delivery milestones for the frigates, as well as the integration and qualification of their combat and support systems.
Serco’s maritime and defence pedigree spans global naval programs, including inshore vessel support and training for the Royal Australian Navy; vessel design, build, operation and maintenance for the UK Royal Navy; backing the NATO Submarine Rescue System; facility management at Belgian defence bases; and maintenance of Belgian and Dutch mine‑countermeasure fleets.
The Constellation Class, officially designated the FFG(X) program, was launched with a request for information in July 2017 as the US Navy’s next‑generation multi-mission frigate, intended to replace its problematic littoral combat ships and enhance surface combatant capabilities. In April 2020, Fincantieri Marinette Marine secured the lead‑ship contract with a modified FREMM design, charting the path for up to 20 vessels in the class.
Built around a European FREMM hull and outfitted to US Navy specifications, the Constellation Class frigates measure 151.8 metres in length and displace approximately 7,500 tonnes, accommodating over 200 personnel with options for dual crewing.
Propulsion is provided by a novel combined diesel‑electric and gas (CODLAG) system, enabling sustained speeds above 26 knots and a range exceeding 6,000 nautical miles.
Armament and sensor suites include a 32‑cell Mk 41 vertical launch system for SM‑2, ESSM and Tomahawk missiles, a 57mm Mk 110 deck gun, canister‑launched anti‑ship missiles and the Aegis Baseline 10 Combat Management System paired with the AN/SPY‑6(V)3 Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar.
Aviation facilities support an MH‑60R Seahawk helicopter or MQ‑8C Fire Scout UAV, while electronic‑warfare and self‑protection suites bolster survivability in contested environments.
The US Navy anticipates initial delivery of the lead ship in 2029, achieving full operational capability by 2030, with Serco’s expertise set to ensure that design maturation, systems integration and final acceptance trials proceed smoothly.
