u/Possible_Average_688

The FF(X) Flight I is starting at basically a slightly up-gunned NSC Legend Class Coast Guard Cutter, with a towed sonar added in place of the boat launch. Flight II is based on a design put forth by HII in some of their promotional videos. Flights III and IV are based on a 48' modular hull plug added between the engine and bridge section of the hull. This plug gives the Frigate enough space to add Mrk 70 containers without compromising Helo operations or losing dual hangers. The final flight also incorporates upgrades to more powerful sensors. Like the F-18 hornet and super hornet design, flights III and IV may look similar on the outside but will be quite different underneath the skin, which by Flight IV will be at least level 2 survivable, if not level 3. The production of these ships will be based on the modular and multi-shipyard built, mandated by the current administration. So I pose this question: is this a path the FF(X) should undergo to max out the design and create a formidable warship?

This is a design option for the NSC to up-gun to a strike frigate. The initial flight would utilize sensors from other naval assets in the fleet via data link to direct Tomahawks and SM-6/3 anti-air/ballistic missiles. Two quad-canister NSM launchers replace the mid-ship boat launches, adding anti-ship offensive capability. Mid-range ESSMs in a short-length quad-packed eight cell VLS forward of the bridge and a Mk 31 GMWS aft make up the main AA defense. There would also be space for close-in remote controlled 30mm cannon, or hellfire launch pits in the superstructure aft of the strike-length VLS cells. Future flights can add upgraded purpose-built sensors depending on specialization and mission. Keeping the stern boat launch and one hanger enables the frigate to platform un-manned assets as a force/sensor multiplier for AAW, ASW and ASuW.

The Strike length VLS cells put a significant weight on the flight deck level (max 40 tons per 8 cell VLS with heaviest loadout). However, the space is there now, and this layout would not need a costly overhaul of the hull design to implement these missile systems into future flights. Thirty-two strike missile cells, combined with the Thirty-two ESSMs and eight NSMs would make this design a formidable weapons platform.