There have been one or two recent hints that there may be some "rebalancing" of the RN in the offing. It wouldn't surprise me if following the next SDR we end up with a slightly smaller number of FF/DDs which would be freed up to concentrate on proper escort functions, thanks to a number of new low end units to carry out peacetime anti-piracy and similar functions. Cost would be defrayed by trimming a couple of frigates and maybe - because any such new vessels would also be capable of carrying mine hunting kit - by dispensing with some or all of the Sandowns also. Then again I've been wrong before...