Rolls-Royce has been selected to supply its MTU naval generator sets for phase one of the US Navy's Constellation-class frigate program, previously known as the FFG(X) program.
Rolls-Royce has received a contract for the first shipset to provide four MTU naval generator sets, each rated at 3,000 kWe at 1,800 rpm.
The generator sets are based on the MTU 20V 4000 M53B engine and provide a total power output of 12 MW for propulsion and on-board power supply. The flexible design engineering of the frigate's combined diesel-electric and gas (CODLAG) propulsion system will allow for energy-efficient diesel power generation for propulsion at normal cruising speeds with extended range, while enhancing anti-submarine capability in its extremely quiet diesel-electric configuration.
The Constellation-class frigate is a multi-mission warship designed for operation in littoral and blue water environments to conduct air, anti-submarine, surface and electronic warfare, in addition to information operations When completed, the lead ship will be nearly 500 feet (152 metres) in length, accommodate up to 200 sailors, and be capable of sustained speeds of more than 26 knots.
