Denmark's Absalon class combines frigate functions with command facilities, stores, transport, and operational support. Navies already using common StanFlex modules could adopt that type of flexible support ship more easily. In the counterfactual, New Zealand might want one as its flagship, while Australia might buy several for its operations. The idea fits the 1990s and early 2000s interest in ships able to support littoral operations as well as fight. Such ships could draw on an existing module inventory while adding the ability to carry supplies and support other forces.
Notable Point · 34:40-36:38
A shared modular network could spread the Absalon support-frigate idea
An expanded MEKO-StanFlex ecosystem could make Absalon-style command, transport, and support frigates attractive to Australia, New Zealand, and other littoral operators.