Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:41:48-3:43:35

A British Aegis system in the 1980s

Late Type 42 destroyers offer plausible trials platforms for a British Aegis analogue, with Type 45 as a later destination.

Aegis Combat SystemAir DefenceRoyal NavyType 22 FrigateType 42 DestroyerType 45 Destroyer
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Question

Which ships would test and receive a British Aegis-like system developed in the 1980s?

Short answer

Batch 3 Type 42 destroyers, particularly Edinburgh, York, and Gloucester, are plausible testbeds. Type 22 is also suggested, followed by the Type 45 generation.

Notes

Edinburgh, York, and Gloucester entered service at a suitable time to carry trials equipment or an early installation on the Batch 3 Type 42 design. Type 22 is another possibility raised in the exchange. Successful equipment could then pass to the Type 45 generation. The comparison with later British air-defence systems concerns the development path and fleet role.