Why a complete new large-combatant fleet would take decades

If a new large-combatant program proceeds, how long would it take to field a complete force?

Decades, because the design is unsettled and the acquisition cycle outlasts governments; legal program commitments can reduce but not remove that political risk.

A complete force would take decades because the design is not settled and modern warship acquisition extends beyond a single government. French procurement laws make cancellation harder, although not impossible, and both Britain and France still suffer from small fleets and maintenance constraints.