Navy considers badder FFG design

WASHINGTON – The Navy is considering adding anti-aviation threat features to the future design and development plans of its new frigates via existing Littoral Combat Ship variants. The future frigate plans had already called for anti-submarine and anti-surface threat features. A draft report of the Requirement Evaluation Team (RET), a study group formed to examine how to add a air defense capabilities to the frigates to protect supply and support ships, is to double the load of Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles (to 16) or incorporate a Mark 41 vertical launch system with eight Standard SM-2 missiles. The SM-2 is carried by Aegis destroyers and cruises. The enhanced anti-aviation capabilities would change the Navy designation for the ships from frigate (FF) to guided missile frigate (FFG). The two LCS builders, Austal USA of Mobile, Ala., and Lockheed Martin of Wisconsin, have developed frigate variants from their designs in anticipation of the Navy issuing a formal Request For Proposal (RFP), which was expected in this fall. The switch to an FFG design would likely involve a redesign of each builder’s frigate proposal, which could push back the RFP. (Source: Defense News 04/10/17)