The third-rate principle: enough capability at scale

Age-of-sail ratings provide an analogy for accepting different levels of capability within one fleet. First rates were the largest ships, while third rates supplied much of the fighting strength at a lower price point and fifth rates and unrated vessels filled other roles. Second rates are characterised as offering limited savings when a first rate was needed. Applied to Constellation, the analogy asks whether a frigate is being bought for affordable numbers or pushed toward a more expensive position below the Burke. The use of the word picket prompted a personal expectation that the order might reach only about sixteen ships, although the cut at two was a surprise. The objection is to a procurement expectation that every new vessel must approach the best possible individual combatant.