The quoted performance figures are 12,000 nautical miles at roughly 15 knots and a maximum speed of 28 knots. That range supports distant presence missions, including responses to piracy and fisheries-protection problems. A patrol ship can show that the US Navy is watching a region and has an interest there. Sending a small vessel can also carry a deliberately dismissive message about a troublesome foreign power's local forces. This diplomatic use of limited force goes beyond simply arriving to handle a security problem. Carrier battle group escort falls outside the proposed job, which gives priority to range and patrol utility.
Notable Point · 7:26-8:20
Long endurance for piracy response and fisheries protection
A stated range of 12,000 nautical miles at about 15 knots supports the argument for a ship that can maintain presence and respond to maritime security problems around the world.