No FFG(X) spec changes: BAE’s out

LONDON – U.K-based BAE Systems shipbuilder told USNI News that it would be “delighted” to enter its Type 26 Global Combat Ship in the U.S. Navy’s FFG(X) future frigate competition – if the sea-service scraps requirements for a proven hull design. BAE has taken an interest in the small surface combatant program, prompting speculation the U.S. might join Britain, Australia and Canada in acquiring versions of the Type 26 platform. However, as the Navy released a final FFG(X) request for proposals. Afterwards, BAE confirmed it will not be submitting a design unless the competition is opened to designs that have not yet been proven at sea. The Navy is not expected to make that U-turn. Four companies are expected to submit bids - Austal USA of Mobile, Ala.; Fincantieri (Wis.) Marine, Bath (Maine) Iron Works and Huntington Ingalls Industries of Pascagoula, Miss. - with deadlines of August 22 for technical proposals and September 26 for pricing proposals. (Source: USNI News 06/21/19)