Fincantieri selects L3 Harris to support US Navy’s FFG 62 frigate

Fincantieri Marinette Marine has selected L3Harris Technologies to support the US Navy’s first Constellation-class multi-mission guided-missile frigate, FFG 62.

The contract will see L3Harris provide shipboard integration and manufacture key subsystems onboard FFG 62.

L3Harris expressed its support for the US Navy’s plans to build at least ten ships as part of the newest surface combatant programme.

It also said that the value of the programme could exceed $300m, provided all design, development, and production options are awarded.

L3Harris’ integrated systems will include the electric and propulsion systems, bridge and navigation systems, as well as aviation integration services.

The integrated system solutions provided by the company will enable the frigate to perform critical missions.

L3Harris Integrated Mission Systems president Sean Stackley said: “We’re excited by the opportunity to join the Fincantieri Marinette Marine team on the Frigate programme and we look forward to bringing to bear industry-best speed, innovation and affordability as we deliver the advanced integrated capabilities that will ensure the Navy’s ability to operate this ship with impunity upon any sea.”

The FFG 62 multi-mission guided-missile frigate is being developed by Fincantieri Marinette Marine for the US Navy.

Last year, the US Department of Defense awarded a contract to Fincantieri to begin building a new class of guided-missile frigates under the FFG(X) programme. This programme is the service’s first new major shipbuilding programme in more than a decade.

The frigate under the FFG(X) programme will be based on the Italian FREMM multi-mission frigate platform.

It can perform multiple missions, including anti-air, anti-submarine, anti-surface, and electronic warfare.