Why Type 83 could become a quasi-capital ship

Could the Type 83 destroyer become a quasi-capital ship?

Quite possibly: a 12,000- to 14,000-ton general-purpose escort could provide depth and presence when Britain's two large carriers cannot cover every task.

The 2021 forecast imagines Type 83 as a general-purpose destroyer of roughly 12,000 to 14,000 tons, large and powerful enough to take on some capital-ship roles. Carrier size follows the number and dimensions of its aircraft through the hangar space required. Replacing Ocean and the three Invincible-class ships with two larger carriers reduces the number of places where British naval aviation can be present at once. A powerful intermediate surface combatant could provide additional presence and defensive depth. The proposed displacement and role remain expectations at the time of the discussion.