Quote:
Originally Posted by Baron von Kriterium
It's not designed to be a warship. Its purpose is to patrol Arctic and offshore waters, which could include the Caribbean and the African coasts. It's not designated to operate in conflict zones. Does its role and perceived threat require it to need a bigger gun from Day 1? No. Have the Kingston frigates been in danger of attack recently? No.
However, if push comes to shove, higher calibre guns and/or missile systems can be added to the boat.
I remember the same arguments were made against the MCDVs and they have done their job well. The AOPS will play a significant role performing hydrographic work in the Arctic. This is a significant job because our charts for the Arctic are inadequate. Increasingly, there are more cruise ships up there and it's a scenario just asking for a SAR operation. Thus, it's an important role for the RCN to prevent future SAR ops by doing the hydrographic work now.
Yes, this sounds like a Coast Guard job, but the Coast Guard has its own problems and they need to revitalize their fleet. Even so, the Arctic is large enough that there is room for both RCN and CCG participation.
At the end of the day, at least it's a new ship. |
It seems like it'll do its job as a patrol ship quite well. It's definitely needed
Interestingly enough I believe the coast guard is going to get two now as well once the RCN ships are completed