The recommendation is to fit at least a 76 mm gun to warships above roughly 1,000 to 1,500 tons, with the threshold expressed approximately. The OTO Melara system is favored for its off-the-shelf availability, relatively low cost, and range of ammunition. It offers smaller ships enough reach and force to deal with moderate surface threats. The Royal Navy's choice of one 57 mm and two 40 mm guns on a frigate is contrasted with the possibility of three 76 mm mounts on its Danish parent design. The 57 mm and 40 mm weapons are acknowledged as good guns, while the preference remains for the capabilities available with 76 mm ammunition. This is an armament recommendation within the wider argument about patrol-ship roles and design limits.
Notable Point · 1:01:22-1:03:11
The case for a 76 mm gun on smaller warships
A 76 mm minimum armament is advocated for warships above roughly 1,000 to 1,500 tons, with ammunition choice and off-the-shelf cost central to the argument.