The alternative fit considered here gives ASW priority and treats the other weapons as supporting capabilities. Canister-launched Naval Strike Missiles provide surface-attack capability without taking much deck space. Electromagnetic warfare equipment is accepted as relevant to threats such as drones and missile saturation. An ESSM-only air-defence fit is considered, although acceptance of that proposal within the US Navy is doubted. Standard missiles would add depth, but the argument questions whether that benefit should govern the initial frigate design. The proposal keeps ASW as the capability that determines the hull and treats the other weapons as secondary.
Notable Point · 1:03:01-1:04:55
The proposed weapons fit for an ASW-first frigate
The proposed alternative combines ASW priority with surface-attack canisters, electronic warfare, and a less extensive initial air-defence fit.