Q&A · 1:31:55-1:32:34

Why Type 81 Tribals were frigates, not sloops

Although designed for global and Persian Gulf service, Type 81 Tribal-class ships were categorized as second-class frigates rather than sloops.

Forward Presence Frigates Persian Gulf Tribal Class Frigates Type 81 Frigate

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Question

Were the Type 81 frigates originally classed as sloops?

Short answer

They were considered for related roles but were built and classified as second-class frigates, not sloops.

Notes

The Type 81 mission echoed the global reach and presence associated with interwar sloops, and the postwar class revived the Tribal name. These ships were nevertheless designed and understood as second-class frigates. Similar missions do not necessarily make two ship types identical.