Rolls-Royce delivers mtu-Gensets for Constellation frigates

Rolls-Royce has been awarded a contract to supply mtu-brand marine gensets for the first phase of the US Constellation-class frigate newbuilding programme (FFG-62). The US Navy project was formerly known as the FFG(X) programme. Specifically, Rolls-Royce has been contracted to supply four mtu marine gensets, each rated at 3000 kWe at 1800 rpm, for the first ship of the new class.

The Constellation-class frigates were designed for use in coastal and deep-sea waters. The gensets are based on mtu 20V 4000 M53B engines and deliver a total output of 12 MW for propulsion and on-board power supply.

Text/Photo: Behrens / Rolls-Royce

The flexible design of the frigate's CODLAG propulsion system (combination of diesel-electric and gas turbine propulsion) will enable energy-efficient power generation for propulsion at normal cruising speeds with increased range, while also improving the submarine-hunting capability of the ships, which can reach speeds of up to 26 knots. The Constellation-class type ship will be around 150 metres long and is designed for a crew of 200.

Fincantieri Marinette Marine (FMM) from Marinette, Wisconsin (USA), was awarded the contract to realise the project, which includes the design and construction of the type ship as well as the option to build a total of up to 10 ships in the first phase. A potentially planned second phase would comprise a further 10 ships. Construction of the first ship is expected to begin this year.