Auxiliary self-defence complements the frigate escort

Alex Clarke argues that replenishment ships should carry point defence and decoys alongside their escorts. Their size makes concealment difficult, giving chaff an additional role in confusing an attack. Cyclic describes prepared positions for Phalanx or SeaRAM and other defensive equipment, while distinguishing those provisions from weapons actually carried. He also describes replacement of Burke Phalanx mounts as a possible source of equipment. Even armed auxiliaries would still need area defence from an escort, allowing larger surface combatants to serve elsewhere.