Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:30:38-1:32:12

Saudi LCS or FFX: the mission defines the comparison

The comparison asks which ship can handle routine maritime-security duties efficiently and release destroyers for harder missions.

Counter PiracyFfx FrigateLittoral Combat ShipMaritime SecurityUS Coast GuardUS Navy
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Question

Would the Saudi LCS have been a better option than the FFX being designed for the US Navy?

Short answer

It depends on the mission; the FFX requirement described here is affordable maritime-security work that frees Burkes for tasks needing a destroyer.

Notes

The proposed American ship's mission determines the value of the Saudi LCS comparison. FFX is presented as a way to release Arleigh Burke destroyers for missions requiring their capabilities. One alternative would be a much larger overseas role for the Coast Guard. Another is for the Navy to possess ships suited to the same lower-level duties. Anti-piracy and maritime-security work is treated as necessary because neglected problems can expand into costly disruption. Cheap, efficient presence is therefore part of the design requirement.