Why Norway's minehunter may not fit Britain

Should Britain buy Norway's mine-countermeasure design?

The assessment is that Britain is unlikely to choose it because its expected mine-countermeasure operations require more self-defence in open waters.

The Norwegian Vanguard mine-countermeasures proposal is assessed against the Royal Navy's expected operating environments. Fjords give ships some protection because mountainous terrain constrains aircraft and missile approaches. British operations in the Gulf, parts of home waters, and the South Atlantic can involve much more open space. The objection therefore concerns the level of self-defence required in those settings. Type 32 or adapted Type 31 drone motherships are considered more likely British choices because they fit those requirements. A design can suit Norway without meeting Britain's needs.