Congressional hearings press U.S. Navy officials on the three-year delay of the Constellation-class Frigate program. Members of the House Armed Services Committee expressed sharp criticism over the lack of progress and transparency from the Navy and lead shipbuilder Fincantieri Marinette Marine.With growing frustration over schedule slippage and escalating costs, lawmakers are now weighing a dramatic funding shift—pulling $1.17 billion from the frigate project to accelerate procurement of a second Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine instead.This episode includes sourced statements, budget figures, and expert commentary on what this decision could mean for the future of the Navy’s surface fleet.