Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:18:09-2:18:32

Turning an Arleigh Burke derivative into a command cruiser

Expanding command facilities would require a longer, roomier hull even if the resulting ship retained the Burke name.

Arleigh Burke Class DestroyersCommand And ControlCruisersUS NavyWarship Design
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Question

Could an Arleigh Burke derivative gain the command facilities needed for a cruiser-style air-defence command role?

Short answer

Yes, but it would need a longer hull and more space, making the derivative increasingly similar to a new class.

Notes

An Arleigh Burke derivative could gain the command spaces needed for a cruiser-like air-defence role. The design would need an extended hull and more internal volume, well beyond a simple equipment substitution. Familiar Burke systems could be combined with a new and more efficient hull form. Calling such a ship another Burke flight would preserve programme continuity, although the scale of the changes would make it functionally close to a new class.