This experience and the errors made during the LCS pro-
gram led to a redefinition of conception adopted for the
expansion of the US Navy. In 2020 the US DoD procured
the first lot of Constellation-class multi-mission frigates,
based on the proven Italian FREMM design. The first vessel
is to be built at Fincantieri Marinette Marine shipyard. Four
vessels as such have been ordered while financing the build
of another six is a matter of upcoming years. Ultimately, the
DoD is planning to procure at least 20, and most of them would
be conducting naval operations in the Pacific.
What Comes Next for the Decommissioned Vessels?
Withdrawal of the LCS vessels from active service resulted in a lot
of speculation on their future fate. One should note that despite
their deficiencies, these warships are young - even by US stan-
dards, they still have many years of service ahead of them. Becau-
NAVY
