The proposed deterrence role depends on procuring enough ships to make deployments available. A new frigate could provide an initial visit, with more powerful surface ships used if that signal failed. A Defiant would then make a stronger display before the much larger commitment of deploying a carrier battle group. The example describes graduated deterrence and conflict management through increasingly conspicuous force. It is an illustrative deployment model, rather than an announced sequence of operations.
Chapter · 42:44-43:58
A proposed ladder of naval presence and deterrence
An illustrative escalation ladder places Defiant between smaller surface-warship visits and the commitment of a carrier battle group.