Quote:
Originally Posted by afc wimbledon
I get 1 and 3 as their traditional roles but it would seem unlikely that any Canadian Frigate would ever do either, engaging ships other than Somalian pirates would presumably be conducted by ship to ship missiles at ranges far beyond a 127mm gun.
I didn't know you could use them in an AA capacity
|
Canadian frigates are routinely attached to joint task forces and it is certainly possible they would be called upon to provide support in (1).
For (3):
gun ammo is considerably cheaper than missiles and a ship can carry considerably more bullets.
Missiles are susceptible to EW and decoys. It's easier for CIWS to target incoming missile threats. IE, CIWS would waste all of its ammo engaging a volley of bullets. CIWS could take out a few 127mm bullets, but the rest get through.
Bullets are more efficient taking on fast patrol boats in littoral areas. For example, the Persian Gulf. It isn't cost effective to use an anti-ship missile on a low value target like a gun boat.
Guns are more effective at close range because anti-ship missiles require a minimum distance of 5-10 km. The modern 127mm guns have ranges from 30-120 km which means you can engage at a standoff range without using a very limited supply of cruise missiles.
You need a gun for warning shots.