Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:48:17-2:50:23

MEKO 100 and a River-class replacement

A MEKO-based light frigate would exceed River-class patrol needs and could compete with larger warships for funding.

Arrowhead 120Common Anti-Air Modular Missile (CAMM)Meko 100Naval ProcurementOffshore Patrol VesselsRiver Class Offshore Patrol VesselsRoyal Malaysian NavyRoyal NavyType 31 Frigate
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Question

Would NGPV be a good replacement for Batch 1 River patrol vessels?

Short answer

If Malaysia's MEKO-based programme is intended, its capable ships are poorly matched to Royal Navy patrol needs. Domestic alternatives and the effect on funding for larger warships also matter.

Notes

If NGPV means Malaysia's MEKO 100-based ships, they are capable vessels above River-class requirements. Arrowhead 120 and smaller domestic options would be alternatives if Britain wanted a light frigate. Up-arming small ships can also become a justification for reducing more capable ships elsewhere in the fleet. Royal Navy OPVs primarily serve patrol and diplomatic tasks. A preferred improvement would use CAMM and guns based on the Type 31 approach while preserving that role.