The argument connects the end of Perry procurement with confidence that peer war had receded after the Cold War. In that interpretation, Western technological superiority appeared sufficient to deter future conflict. A plain, effective escort then looked less attractive than equipment that visibly demonstrated transformation. The criticism concerns the political appeal of conspicuous change and the less visible benefits of continuing an established production line.
Notable Point · 13:22-18:04
The peace-dividend interpretation of the frigate gap
In the peace-dividend interpretation, post-Cold War confidence reduced interest in ordinary escorts and encouraged visible technological change.