Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:56:38-2:58:39

A 144-cell extended Type 45 concept

A personal Type 45 derivative combines extra generation, 144 VLS cells, a 4.5-inch gun, three OTO Melara 76 mm guns and three Phalanx mountings.

4.5-inch GunsAir DefenceMark 41 VLSOTO Melara 76 mmPhalanx CIWSType 45 DestroyerType 83 DestroyerVertical Launch SystemsWarship Design
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Question

If you could build any current ship design, what would you choose?

Short answer

An enlarged Type 45-derived combatant with 144 VLS cells and stronger gun and close-in defenses.

Notes

Clarke describes a personal design developed with his father that lengthens the Type 45 and adds a gas turbine and diesel generators. Its missile fit consists of two banks of 48 surface-to-air cells and two banks of 24 strike-length Mark 41 cells, making 144 in total. Three OTO Melara 76 mm guns would sit behind the forward VLS and on either side of the hangar. Three Phalanx mountings would occupy the hangar roof and the existing sponson positions. A 4.5-inch gun would remain forward. The proposed complement would not be much larger than a Type 45's, and six such ships are envisaged alongside the six existing destroyers.