Fincantieri Marinette Marine. PC: Fox 11 Online
MARINETTE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – In the wake of President Trump’s announcement for a new class of warships for the U.S. Navy, Fincantieri Marinette Marine says it continues to talk with the administration about its possible role in construction of those ships – but size limits due to the St. Lawrence Seaway may be an obstacle.
In November, the Dept. of Defense canceled construction of the Constellation frigate program. Two ships already construction at Fincantieri Marinette Marine will be finished, but at least four others which had been planned won’t be made.
Last week, the Navy announced a replacement for those frigates, which are expected to be built in Mississippi, but could also include work at Fincantieri Marinette Marine, according to Stars & Stripes.
On Monday, the President detailed planned for a “golden fleet” of battleships, which would be “the largest ships in the history of the world.”
Fincantieri Marinette Marine shared its reaction to the President’s announcement Monday:
Fincantieri is continuing construction on the two contracted ships of the Constellation-class. In parallel, we remain committed to working closely with the Navy as it defines the next generation of surface combatants and specialized vessels required for evolving mission sets, including amphibious operations, icebreaking, and other roles. As the US Navy explores future fleet needs, Fincantieri stands ready to support its vision. We have invested over $800 million not only in modernizing our shipyards but also in strengthening the broader US maritime industrial base, ensuring that America’s shipbuilding capability remains robust and competitive for decades to come.
However, a company spokesman also noted that “We couldn’t get a ship larger than a DDG out of the Great Lakes,” in a reference to the guided-missile destroyers the Navy has.
According to the St. Lawrence Seaway, the aquatic path which connects the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, “Ships measuring up to 225.5 metres in length (or 740 feet) and 23.8 metres (or 78 feet)” in width can fit through the series of locks.
Constellation-class frigates are 496 feet long and 65 feet wide.
According to the U.S. Naval Institute News, the new ships announced Monday would have a length of 840-to-880 feet, and a width of 105-115 feet – making them too big for the St. Lawrence Seaway.
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