Rolls-Royce wins second US navy mtu genset contract

The company has already supplied mtu gensets for the lead ship in the programme, the USS Constellation. For this second contract – for the USS Congress – Rolls-Royce has moved its technology and manufacturing processes to the US, investing in improved facilities and 20 new jobs at its Aiken and Mankato plants.

These improvements include new assembly tooling and material handling equipment, upgraded hoist systems, adapted test cells and building expansion.

“We’re thrilled to bring the manufacturing of our mtu naval gensets to the US,” said Adam Wood, managing director, Rolls-Royce Solutions America.

“Working with our colleagues in Germany for a seamless technology transfer to our Aiken and Mankato facilities has strengthened our ability to meet the high expectations of this project and better position us to compete for future government programs.”

The USS Congress (FFG-63) 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.

The four generator sets, each rated at 3000 kWe, are based on the mtu 20V 4000 M53B engine and will provide a total power output of 12 MW for propulsion and onboard power supply.

Built by US-based Fincantieri Marinette Marine, the vessel will be powered by a combined diesel-electric and gas turbine. When completed, the ship will be nearly 500 feet in length, accommodate up to 200 crew and be capable of speeds in excess of 26 knots, with a range of 6,000 nautical miles at 16 knots.