Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:39:13-3:41:50

Why the Type 22 edges the Knox in ASW

The later and larger Type 22 gains an ASW edge through machinery isolation and growth, though the comparison changes across batches and Knox upgrades.

Acoustic SignaturesAnti-Submarine WarfareFrigatesKnox Class FrigatesType 22 Frigate
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Question

Was the Knox class a better anti-submarine frigate than the Type 22?

Short answer

Probably not: the Type 22's later acoustic treatment and greater size give it the edge, though upgraded Knox ships narrow the comparison.

Notes

Type 22 receives a slight ASW preference, partly because its later machinery rafting reduced noise transmitted through the ship. The comparison depends on batches: Knox ships began construction in the 1960s, while Type 22 came from the following decade. Recalled improvements during Knox production narrow the difference for later American ships. Type 22 was also larger, with the displacement gap growing substantially across its three batches. Knox therefore sits closer to Britain's smaller frigate types, while Type 22 occupied a premier-frigate role that the US Navy generally covered with destroyers.