U. S. Navy's New Small Combat Ships: A Familiar Design Takes the Lead
The U.S. Navy has chosen Ingalls Shipbuilding to design and construct new small surface combatant (SSC) ships. These vessels will be based on the proven Legend-class national security cutters, which Ingalls has already built for the U.S. Coast Guard.
Why Ingalls Shipbuilding?
- Proven Experience: Ingalls has a long history of building complex ships.
- Facility Capacity: The shipyard has the necessary space and infrastructure to handle the project efficiently.
Project Goals
The Navy aims to build these ships quickly and efficiently. The Legend-class design is well-tested and reliable, ensuring the project stays on schedule.
"We are confident that our team can handle this project while also working on other ships, such as destroyers and amphibious ships." — Chris Kastner, President and CEO of HII (Huntington Ingalls Industries)
Current and Future Projects
- Ships in Production:
- Three different types of ships
- Upgrades for Zumwalt-class destroyers
- Legend-class cutters for the Coast Guard (since 2004)
- Recent Delivery: The last Legend-class cutter was delivered in October 2023.
Investment and Expansion
Ingalls has invested over $1 billion in improving its facilities and tools to support new technology and systems. Additionally, they have partnered with 23 outsourcing companies and international manufacturers to boost capacity.
- Future Plans: Discussions are underway about adding another shipyard in the U.S.
Strategic Importance
This project highlights the U.S. effort to expand its shipbuilding capabilities to meet the Navy's growing demands. It's not just about building new ships—it's about strengthening the industrial base for the future.
