Diesel machinery is an advantage for maintaining a frigate far from its home yards. A persistent Type 31 presence in the Middle East or Far East could complement the Royal Navy's River-class offshore patrol vessels. Rolls-Royce diesels provide access to parts in many places, while Caterpillar machinery on some variants would broaden the supply options. That makes distant support a practical part of the case for the class. The same propulsion choice criticized for power and noise therefore has a useful logistical benefit.
Notable Point · 40:24-41:05
Common diesels support distant Type 31 deployments
Access to common diesel parts strengthens the case for Type 31 presence in the Middle East or Far East.