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From: deichman@cod.nosc.mil (Shane D. Deichman)
Newsgroups: sci.military
Subject: Re: Definitions of naval vessel types?
Message-ID: <1991May2.040351.20571@amd.com>
Date: 1 May 91 18:51:45 GMT
References: <1991May1.030202.19737@amd.com>
Sender: military@amd.com
Organization: Naval Ocean Systems Center, San Diego
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From: deichman@cod.nosc.mil (Shane D. Deichman)


Ahhh, the great political distinction of the classes!  This is a real
hot political potato, since the number of cruisers, frigates, and
destroyers we're allowed to have is a big issue.

The easy distinction is regarding frigates.  While frigates may be of
comparable displacement to destroyers, they invariably will have just
one screw (a la the McNamara School of Cost Effectiveness at
operational expense).

Distinguishing between destroyers and cruisers is a much trickier
business -- especially since the Aegis cruisers are built on Spruance
hulls.  A naive method would be to classify them by means of warfare
areas, but the KIDD-class DDGs (the "Ayatollah" class) have a very
capable AAW ability annd ASW suite.  Also, once the DDGs are outfitted
with the Mk 41 VLS, they'll be able to handle such systems as SM2s,
Tomahawks, and the ever-elusive VLA (Vertical Launched ASROC) in a
vertical-launch mode.

So, if it has one screw, it's an FF or FFG.  Otherwise, your guess is
as good as mine...

-shane