TRIESTE – The U.S. Navy has terminated the contract for four Constellation-class frigates previously ordered from Fincantieri, while construction of the first two units continues.
A broad reassessment of the U.S. fleet has led to a reconfiguration of the Constellation program. Fincantieri Marine Group and the U.S. Navy have agreed on a revision that reshapes the original plan for the class of frigates under construction in Marinette, Wisconsin. The restructuring reflects new operational priorities centered on advanced technologies, varied levels of automation, and stricter cost sustainability.
Work on the first two frigates will proceed as planned, while the contract for the subsequent four has been cancelled. The move is part of a wider realignment of the Navy’s approach to small surface combatants, including unmanned platforms.
To offset the industrial and economic impact, Fincantieri will receive dedicated compensation measures.
At the same time, the group is entering new production segments deemed strategic by the U.S. Navy: icebreakers, amphibious operations, and special-mission vessels. Washington aims to strengthen a national industrial base, and Fincantieri is positioning itself as one of the core shipbuilders for the next generation of U.S. naval assets.
The investments made over recent years remain central. More than $800 million have been allocated to the group’s four U.S. shipyards, alongside a workforce expansion of 850 people, bringing total employment to roughly 3,750. The Navy’s priorities remain unchanged: efficiency, production capacity, and delivery timelines.
According to FMG CEO George Moutafis, the agreement «provides stability for the teams and for the Wisconsin shipyard system» and allows continued investment in skills and innovation consistent with the Navy’s evolving needs.
«In the future development model, Fincantieri is positioned as one of the reference shipbuilders for the U.S. Navy, confirming its strategic role in supporting the service’s evolving requirements. The Group stands ready to work with all partners across the supply chain to deliver on the newly defined path, continuing to build on the expertise developed within its U.S. yards and supporting the sustainable growth of the sector», the company stated.
