I got the impression from the article that it’s based on a Type 26/Hunter hull & drivetrain. With all the design work for integration of the CEAFAR radars, 9LV & AEGIS combat systems already nearing completion , it reduces the design work required to develop an Air Warfare Destroyer version with a large number of VLS cells.
It looks like a serious BAES proposal to counter the Navantia offer to build 3 more Hobart class AWD’s for the RAN. I suspect that if it gains legs and is approved, 3 ASW Hunters (Batch 1) will be built and then the remaining 6 will alternate between AWD & ASW versions. After the 9 planned hulls are completed, they would be looking at possibly more ASW versions and replacing the existing AWD’s (Hobart’s) which would result in good economies for the RAN’s logistical support as all the Tier 1 vessels would have many common components.
Whilst there’s no detailed data in the public domain, there are reports that the CEAFAR combination of L & S band AESA radars on the Anzacs are performing significantly better than the SPY-1D’s on the Hobarts so this combination of sensors and large weapon load would make a very capable destroyer. With all the joint work going on under the AUKUS umbrella, it’s quite possible that the RN takes this design as their future Type 83.
Last edited by Going Boeing; 13th June 2023 at 11:31.