Australia considered acquiring the Kidds as the US Navy prepared to dispose of them. Their air-defense capability made them attractive, but difficulties with two Newport-class tank landing ships recently bought from the United States form part of the explanation for Australia's reluctance. The Kidds instead entered Taiwanese service. By the time of the recording, upgrades had maintained broadly similar missile and combat capabilities. They remained principal warfare assets for that navy.
Notable Point · 57:48-58:37
Kidd's later Australian interest and Taiwanese service
Australian interest and later Taiwanese service illustrate the continued value attributed to Kidd's air-defense capability.