An uncrewed ship may contribute sensors or weapons, but it cannot host the receptions and face-to-face engagement that turn a port visit into diplomacy. A crewed frigate or destroyer can pair a stern message with a visible but controlled display of force nearby. That presence leaves room for conversation while showing that more ships could follow if the warning is ignored. The value is difficult to measure because failed deterrence produces a memorable crisis, whereas successful deterrence leaves only a war that never happened.
Notable Point · 1:04:24-1:06:04
Port visits explain why diplomacy still needs crewed ships
Uncrewed vessels cannot host the human relationships of a port visit, leaving crewed frigates and destroyers essential to presence and deterrence.