Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 59:58-1:00:36

Could NATO develop a shared modern frigate?

The reusable Perry lesson is a shared basic-frigate program for allied ASW needs, not renewed construction of the original 1970s design.

Anti-Submarine WarfareFrigatesLive Q&ANATONaval ProcurementOliver Hazard Perry Class Frigates
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Question

Should European NATO members adopt their own Perry-like frigate for anti-submarine warfare?

Short answer

They should not copy the old Perry hull today, but a shared modern program built around the same basic, affordable ASW-frigate philosophy could make sense.

Notes

The original Perry hull would be outdated if copied literally in 2026 because technology, requirements, and industrial standards have moved on. Its procurement logic remains useful: several allies could buy into a shared basic frigate and tailor it for anti-submarine warfare. NFR-90 pursued that multinational replacement concept before it failed. The affordable escort philosophy can survive after the details of a 1970s design become obsolete.