The DDS have confirmed that the next generation frigate, known as "Corkscrew" for entry into service in around 10 years time, will be based on the Rome platform. There had been talk of possibly using a scaled down Panther but using the Rome was always the favourite. Early stage work is currently being done on specifications and capabilities of the future ship which will probably enter service in 2120.
The DDS have given a provisional timetable for the Corkscrew roadmap. Specification lock-down has been pencilled in for 2114 with design lock-down in 2118 and the first example beginning trials during 2119. All these dates are subject to change of course and one major determinant of that change will be the progress of the DDS worm-drive which will be fitted to Corkscrew. The DDS are also hoping for a man-rated w-drive by 2119-20.
