Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:02:25-2:05:10

Designing a patrol ship for the Caribbean

The Barzan's weapons appeal, while a Samuel Beckett-style hull is preferred for the range and capacity needed on longer Caribbean deployments.

Barzan Class Fast Attack CraftCaribbeanEnduranceFast Attack CraftOffshore Patrol VesselsSamuel Beckett Class Offshore Patrol Vessels
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Question

Would an enlarged Barzan-class fast-attack craft be suitable for Caribbean patrol duties?

Short answer

The Barzan offers useful armament, but the preference is for a larger Samuel Beckett-style hull with more range and capacity for sustained deployments.

Notes

The proposed enlargement starts from a Barzan-class fast-attack craft with a substantial weapon fit, including a 76 mm gun and Goalkeeper. The existing class is still a small vessel with limited suitability for long deployments. The preferred approach is to carry a comparable armament on something closer to a Samuel Beckett-class patrol hull. More range and space for additional capability matter to that preference. The proposed enlargement's exact endurance is left open.