Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:43:21-1:44:16

Why the Type 21 was not a Knox-class ASW equivalent

The Type 21 was ordered quickly to prevent escort numbers falling, not optimized to equal a dedicated Knox-class ASW frigate.

Anti-Submarine WarfareEscort ForcesKnox Class FrigatesNaval ProcurementRoyal NavyType 21 Frigate
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Question

Was the Type 21 a better anti-submarine frigate than the Knox class?

Short answer

No; the Type 21 was primarily an affordable gap-filler, while the Type 22 or Type 23 makes a closer ASW comparison.

Notes

The Type 21 is rejected as the stronger ASW comparison with the Knox class. The Type 22 and Type 23 are considered more relevant. The Amazon-class Type 21s were ordered to fill an escort shortage and keep numbers above a minimum. Their attraction was a relatively inexpensive, available design that could perform the escort role to an acceptable standard.