Acoustic discipline across the whole ship drives much of an ASW frigate's cost. Machinery and other systems are rafted and managed to reduce vibration. More powerful computers require cooling systems whose harmonics and sound also need careful control. Even footsteps and deck coverings enter the design problem because the frigate is hunting submarines whose survival depends on detecting sound without revealing themselves.
Notable Point · 52:24-54:55
Why anti-submarine frigates demand expensive quieting
ASW frigates cost more because machinery vibration, cooling systems, and even routine movement aboard have to be controlled when hunting quiet submarines.