US Navy wants warships that move faster, hit harder, and stay small

The US Navy is advancing plans to develop a new class of smaller, more agile combat ships known as the FF(X) frigates, intended to address critical shortfalls in surface combatant capacity. Announced by Navy Secretary John Phelan, the first FF(X) hull is slated for launch in 2028. These frigates will be based on the proven US Coast Guard Legend-class National Security Cutter design, built by Huntington Ingalls Industries, aiming to reduce cost and schedule risks that have historically plagued Navy shipbuilding programs. The FF(X) ships are envisioned as flexible, multi-mission platforms capable of surface warfare, modular payload transport, and operating unmanned systems, complementing larger vessels like guided-missile destroyers. Navy leaders emphasize that the FF(X) program seeks to break the cycle of delays and cost overruns by leveraging an existing, mature design already operational within the fleet. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle highlighted the urgent need for more capable small