Q&A ยท 2:15:26-2:15:40

Turning an Abdiel-class minelayer into a super-destroyer

A compact design answer identifies the trade needed to turn a fast minelayer into a heavily armed destroyer leader.

Question

How difficult would it be to modify the Abdiel class into super-destroyers?

Short answer

Not very difficult in concept: reduce the minelaying fit and use the capacity for 4.5-inch guns and more torpedoes.

Notes

The conversion is technically straightforward at the concept level. The ship would give up at least part of its minelaying capacity, trading mission equipment and internal volume for heavier direct armament. The proposed changes are 4.5-inch guns and additional torpedoes. The difficult choice concerns which specialist role and payload the navy wants the fast platform to carry.