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  1. Issues and Ideas

Rolls-Royce Completes Casting, Machining Update

Oct. 11, 2022
The naval propulsion systems manufacturer updated its Mississippi specialty alloy foundry and machining operations, in advance of supplying fixed-pitch propellers for new USN guided missile frigates.

Rolls-Royce Naval Marine has completed a reported $22-million update to specialty alloy and stainless steel foundry in Pascagoula, MS, in advance of production of major components of U.S. Navy vessels. The new, 26,000-ft2 operation, with new metalcasting and machining equipment financed by a U.S. Dept. of Defense DPA Title III grant, will improve Rolls-Royce’s production of propellers and propulsor components.

State and local governments also supported the project, including land, roadway and other infrastructure improvements, and workforce development assistance.

“We’re excited to complete a second major U.S. investment in our naval capabilities since 2020, with the opening of this new facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi,” offered Dan Rediger, Rolls-Royce head of Naval Operations - Defense “Rolls-Royce is proud to play a vital role in the shipbuilding supply chain and we remain committed to supporting the growing needs of the U.S. Navy with world-class, American-made products and services.”

Beginning in 2023, Rolls will supply up to 40 sets of fixed-pitch propellers (two per ship) for the USN Constellation-class guided missile frigates, under construction now by Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Marinette, WI.

Rolls-Royce Naval Marine has been designing and manufacturing ship propulsor systems for naval defense customers for more than 50 years, and notes that its propulsion equipment is in place on more than 95% of the U.S. Navy surface warfare fleet.