Rolls-Royce to Supply MTU Generator Sets for U.S. Navy Frigate Program

An artist’s rendering of the Constellation-class frigate. The new small surface combatant will have multi-mission capability to conduct air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, electronic warfare, and information operations. *U.S. NAVY*

RESTON, Va. — Rolls-Royce has been selected to supply its MTU naval generator sets for phase one of the U.S. Navy’s Constellation (FFG 62)- class frigate program, previously known as the FFG(X) program. Rolls-Royce has received a contract for the first shipset to provide four MTU naval generator sets, each rated at 3000 kWe at 1800 rpm.

The Navy Constellation-class frigate is a multi-mission warship designed for operation in littoral and blue water environments to conduct air, anti-submarine, surface and electronic warfare, in addition to information operations. The generator sets are based on the MTU 20V 4000 M53B engine and provide a total power output of 12 MW for propulsion and on-board power supply.

“We’re very proud that Fincantieri Marinette Marine has placed its trust in our mtu naval generator sets for this important program,” said Adam Wood, director, Government Sales North America at Rolls-Royce business unit Power Systems. “We have a legacy of strong support for our partners in both the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Coast Guard, and we are honored to be selected for FFG 62. There is no doubt that our systems will perform to the high expectations and unique demands of the U.S. Navy Constellation class.”

The flexible design engineering of the frigate’s CODLAG propulsion system will allow for energy-efficient diesel power generation for propulsion at normal cruising speeds with extended range, while enhancing anti-submarine capability in its extremely quiet diesel-electric configuration. When completed, the lead ship will be nearly 500 feet long, accommodate up to 200 Sailors and be capable of sustained speeds of more than 26 knots.

Fincantieri Marinette Marine of Marinette, Wisconsin, was awarded the build contract for the project, which includes the design and construction of the lead ship and the option to build up to 10 ships in total for phase one. A potential planned second phase would include another 10 ships.

Construction on the first ship is expected to begin later this year.