Rolls-Royce mtu generator sets selected for US Navy’s Constellation-class frigates

Rolls-Royce has been selected to supply its mtu naval generator sets for phase one of the US Navy’s Constellation (FFG-62) class frigate program, previously known as the FFG(X) program.

The engineering company 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 (FFG-62) 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.

As explained, 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 in length, accommodate up to 200 sailors and be capable of sustained speeds of more than 26 knots.

Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) of Marinette, Wisconsin (USA), was awarded a nearly $800 million contract for the project, which includes the design and construction of the lead ship and the option to build up to ten ships in total for phase one. A potential planned second phase would include another ten units.

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