Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:43:45-2:44:47

A rapid Type 83 from Type 45 or large Type 26 studies

Existing enlarged Type 45 and large Type 26 studies offer plausible starting points if Britain suddenly needs a cruiser-sized air-defense ship.

Air DefenceShip DesignType 26 FrigateType 45 DestroyerType 83 Destroyer
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Question

If the Type 83 decision were reversed and Britain needed a cruiser quickly, could an enlarged Type 45 design be revived?

Short answer

Yes; enlarged Type 45 or Type 26 studies are useful starting points, provided the design meets power, radar-height, speed, and weapons needs.

Notes

An enlarged Type 45 study is offered as one possible starting point if a large air-defence ship were needed quickly. The largest Type 26 hull study is another option because some specialised features of the smaller variants had not yet been incorporated at that stage. An air-defence ship needs substantial electrical power and enough speed to manoeuvre around the fleet. Its hull must also support a radar mounted high above the water. Reusing a study still requires checking those demands against the ship's intended role.