The Burke design debate asked whether the ship would operate independently or principally within a carrier task group. Choosing the task-group role supported an initial design without its own hangar. Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigates had hangars because their antisubmarine duties placed different demands on aviation support. Later Burkes gained hangars as the class took on a broader general-purpose role.
Notable Point · 1:46:32-1:47:39
Why early Burkes lacked helicopter hangars
The distinction between an Aegis task-group escort and an antisubmarine escort shaped the decision about hangars.