FFG-Frigate

The FFG-Frigate (LI 2128) program is a key component of the U.S. Navy's shipbuilding and modernization strategy, focused on procuring the FFG 62-class guided missile frigates. The primary goal of this line item is to deliver a more lethal and survivable multi-mission small surface combatant that enhances the Navy's capabilities in Anti-Surface Warfare (SUW), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Electronic Warfare/Information Operations (EW/IO), and Air Warfare (AW). The FFG 62-class is intended to be affordable while providing advanced warfighting capabilities, supporting the Navy's high-low mix of surface ships. The program is managed under the Shipbuilding and Conversion, Navy (SCN) appropriation, specifically within the Other Warships budget activity.

The FFG 62-class procurement objective is to acquire a new generation of frigates that can operate independently or as part of a surface action group. The program's objectives include maximizing small surface combatant capabilities, integrating advanced sensors and weapon systems, and ensuring survivability in contested environments. The program completed Milestone B and the Detail Design & Construction contract was awarded in April 2020. The Navy's acquisition strategy emphasizes cost control, schedule adherence, and risk management, with delivery schedules reflecting recent programmatic delays.

A significant portion of the budget is allocated to major combat systems integration. This includes the Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar (EASR) for 3D air search and self/local area defense, the AEGIS Weapon System (AWS) for integrated combat management across all warfare areas, and the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Combat Suite featuring the AN/SQQ-89(V)16 and Multi-Function Towed Array. These systems are designed to provide the FFG 62-class with robust situational awareness, targeting, and engagement capabilities against a wide range of threats. The program also integrates the Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block II for early threat detection and soft-kill protection, and the Tactical COMINT System-Spectral for advanced signals intelligence.

The ordnance suite for the FFG 62-class includes the MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) with 32 cells, supporting multiple mission areas such as air warfare, anti-submarine warfare, ballistic missile defense, and land attack. Additional weapon systems include the MK 48 Gun Weapon System, Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) Guided Missile Launching System, and the MK 53 Decoy Launching System (Nulka). These systems collectively provide layered self-defense and offensive capabilities, enabling the frigate to counter a variety of air, surface, and subsurface threats.

The command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) infrastructure is another critical objective of the program. Key systems include the Cooperative Engagement Capability (CEC) for real-time sensor data fusion, Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) UPX-29 for target identification, External Communication Suite (EXCOMM) for secure tactical communications, Navy Multiband Terminal (NMT) for satellite communications, and the Consolidated Afloat Network Enterprise System (CANES) for networked operations. The Network Tactical Common Data Link (NTCDL) enables real-time ISR data exchange across platforms, supporting distributed maritime operations.

The hull, mechanical, and electrical (HM&E) systems are designed to support aviation operations, internal communications, and ship survivability. Notable components include the Aircraft Ship Integrated Securing and Traversing System (ASIST) for helicopter and UAV operations, advanced flight deck lighting, and internal wireless communications. The program also incorporates cyber defense measures such as Situational Awareness Boundary Enforcement Response Navigation (SABER NAV) and Platform Boundary Defense (PBD), enhancing the ship's resilience against cyber threats.

The FFG-Frigate line item supports the Navy's goal of fielding a capable, survivable, and affordable small surface combatant. The program's objectives are focused on integrating advanced combat systems, weapons, and C4I technologies to ensure operational effectiveness in multi-domain maritime environments. The budget also includes Congressional adds for industrial base and workforce development, reflecting a broader objective to sustain the U.S. shipbuilding sector.