Cyclic rejects the suggestion that Constellation's purpose was to organise satellite sensor data for Burke missile engagements. His explanation centres on protecting replenishment tankers and dry-cargo ships during operations across the Pacific. Submarines threaten those auxiliaries with both torpedoes and anti-ship missiles. A frigate therefore needs ASW equipment and enough air-defence reach to protect another ship even when it is poorly positioned for an ESSM engagement. The mission drives a broader requirement than self-defence alone.
Notable Point · 29:12-33:16
Why Constellation's escort mission required ASW and area defence
Cyclic connects the proposed frigate's requirements to protecting the tankers and ammunition ships sustaining a distant fleet.