Should cruiser describe a mission or a ship type?

Should cruiser once again describe a ship's mission rather than a specific type?

Yes, cruiser can describe a mission, while a sustained presence east of Suez also makes a case for larger cruiser-sized ships.

Using cruiser to describe a mission is supported, although a return to that terminology seems unlikely. The proposed Royal Navy force also includes three substantial cruiser-sized ships to maintain a visible presence east of Suez. Three LHDs alongside two aircraft carriers would provide aviation for both an amphibious task group and a carrier group when required, even if some of that capability were limited. This is a preferred force structure for a sustained Far Eastern commitment. Type 31s and Type 32s are possible future performers of the cruiser role, while additional ships associated with the Type 45 successor are suggested as a route to actual cruiser-sized vessels.