Could Sea Slug have done better in 1982, and what should have replaced it on the County class?
Short answerSea Slug was obsolete; Sea Dart might suit some ships, but Sea Wolf would provide a more practical and valuable close-defense conversion for much of the class.
NotesSea Slug's Falklands use included an unsuccessful shot at a low-flying aircraft and improvised attacks on shore targets whose effects were unconfirmed. The initial answer calls the missile obsolete, while the later discussion distinguishes County-class ships carrying Mark 1 and Mark 2 systems. Sea Dart is considered a plausible choice for Mark 2 ships; Sea Wolf is preferred for older ships after considering their age and available space. Sea Wolf would give up range but add useful close air defense and a deep magazine in the space occupied by Sea Slug. Retaining the twin 4.5-inch guns would preserve a useful gun armament alongside the replacement missiles.