Originally Posted by
Not_a_boffin
Go right ahead and identify those requiring a deployed DD/FF or major warship at this particular moment.....
On these words, chiselled into stone by HM Treasury, the Royal Navy died.
I do take issue with your requirements claim regarding OPVs though. Taking the FI as an example the requirements call for a vessel considerably more capable than an OPV and that that vessel should be augmented by another within ‘x’ days to provide a balanced capability when required.
Using OPVs and RFAs in such roles is based on what we have left rather than the military requirement. The RN is being slowly strangled and leaving minor vessels in potential hotspots, with no possibility of roulement by a true combat vessel, is the worst possible outcome. It burns money to give the illusion of military capability whilst providing none.
Others have provided commentary on the wisdom of purchasing OPVs purely to give UK companies something to do, so whilst I will acknowledge it I will not repeat it here.