Nearly thirty years separated the early Type 42 replacement studies from the first Type 45 entering service in 2009. Type 83 was still at an early stage in the March 2026 discussion, so a replacement ship could remain many years away. That history supports planning another Type 45 upgrade beyond the Power Improvement Project and the additional missiles already being fitted. Future laser weapons will place substantial demands on electrical power. Preparing for those demands remains necessary while the replacement programme develops.
Notable Point · 1:40:10-1:41:34
Type 83's development leaves time for another Type 45 upgrade
The long Type 42 replacement history supports planning another Type 45 upgrade, including power for future laser weapons, while Type 83 develops.