Why the US Navy Operates with a Small Fleet of Frigates

The United States Navy currently operates with a surprisingly small fleet of frigates, despite historical and strategic justifications for a larger number. This article explores the reasons behind this situation, from the retirement of the Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates to the procurement of the new FREMM-class frigates.

Historical Context: The Decline of Frigates

The last Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates entered US Navy service in 1975, reaching the end of their operational life around 2015. These vessels were part of an era when the focus was on rapid deployment and versatile capabilities, particularly for convoy escort and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) in littoral regions.

The Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) Programme

The Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) was designed to fill the frigate role, offering modular weapons packages and adaptability to various roles. However, this ambitious project faced significant challenges. Initially deployed with a smaller displacement and limited capabilities, the LCS struggled to deliver the viability promised at the outset. The LCSs, despite their potential, were eventually deemed insufficient for the roles traditionally fulfilled by frigates.

Modular Warfare and Deficiencies

The original vision of the LCS was to provide a modular platform capable of adapting to the specific needs of its role, such as ASW or mine sweeping. However, these modular systems have not fully materialized, leaving the LCS fleet with a set of capabilities that fall short of what was envisaged.

The Role of Frigates in Modern Naval Strategy

Frigates have historically served a crucial role in naval operations, both escorting convoys and performing specialized missions like ASW or air defense. Their role is essential in low-threat environments where the fleet speed and size of more powerful destroyers and cruisers are not necessary. In addition, frigates offer a lower cost option for maintaining a robust presence in critical regions without the heavy financial and operational burden of larger ships.

Current Naval Needs and Solutions

When the LCS program faced setbacks, the US Navy recognized the need for a reliable and readily available alternative. As a result, they turned to foreign designs, specifically the Italian-French FREMM (Foreign Multimission Frigate) class. The FREMM-class frigates are designed to be more capable than the Perry-class vessels, offering a versatile platform with enhanced weaponry and sensors. With a displacement of around 7400 tons, these vessels represent a significant upgrade from their predecessors.

Service and Evolution

The FREMM-class frigates offer a solution to the immediate needs of the US Navy. These vessels will be slightly faster than the Perry-class frigates but will not match the fleet speed of the LCS ships. Their introduction resolves the immediate need for light combatants, while their development and production can serve as a stepping stone towards future naval capabilities.

Conclusion

The US Navy’s current situation with frigates highlights a broader issue in naval strategy and resource allocation. As the LCS program failed to deliver its promise, the navy found itself without a reliable fleet for low-threat environments. The introduction of the FREMM-class frigates provides a necessary solution, offering a balance between cost, capability, and adaptability.

Despite the challenges faced, the US Navy continues to evolve its fleet composition to meet contemporary naval challenges. The heritage of the Perry-class frigates and the innovative nature of the FREMM-class reflect a dynamic and responsive approach to maintaining naval superiority.