The recent review of shipbuilding progress highlighted cost overruns and schedule slippage. The announcement of a three-year delay for the FFG-62 program disappointed many, affecting the Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capability. The program’s design changes resulted in only 15% commonality with the base ship, indicating a possible error in ship selection or design control.
China’s development of air-independent submarines poses a significant threat to surface ships in the Pacific and Indian oceans. Recurring maritime security issues necessitate a focused approach to small combatant forces. To address the delay in the FFG-62 program, accelerating production by prioritizing Fincantieri and establishing a leader-follower relationship was suggested.
Competition is essential to control costs and maximize productivity, with the DDG-51 program being a successful example. To return confidence in Navy shipbuilding, it is crucial to eliminate unnecessary changes, identify delays, establish efficient production processes, and prioritize on-time delivery and cost control. Leadership urgency is essential in addressing current challenges in Navy shipbuilding.
