[WIP] Alternate Universe Royal Navy Series - Type 16i 'Town' Class Frigate
The Royal Navy's Type 16i 'Town' Class Frigate
Overview:
The Type 16i 'Town' Class Frigate represents a crucial evolution in the Royal Navy's anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities within this alternate universe. Conceived as an improved iteration of the foundational Type 16 design, the 'Town' class prioritizes advanced stealth, superior sonar performance, and enhanced weapon systems to counter increasingly sophisticated underwater threats. Developed following lessons learned from a period of heightened sub-surface activity by peer adversaries, these frigates are designated as the frontline guardians against the silent threat, working in close conjunction with carrier strike groups and independent task forces. Their designation as 'Town' class harkens back to storied naval traditions, signifying their role as protectors of national interests and maritime trade routes.
Design and Specifications
The Type 16i 'Town' Class Frigate incorporates a radical departure in hull design, emphasizing stealth and hydrodynamic efficiency. With an estimated displacement of 7,000 tonnes and a length of 145 meters, they are larger and more stable platforms than previous ASW-focused vessels, allowing for superior seakeeping in challenging conditions.
Propulsion:
The frigates utilize a Combined Diesel-Electric and Gas (CODLAG) propulsion system. This configuration employs two powerful gas turbines for high-speed dashes and an efficient electric drive for quiet, sustained ASW operations. This hybrid approach ensures both rapid response capabilities and a significantly reduced acoustic signature, vital for remaining undetected by hostile submarines. The system provides a top speed exceeding 30 knots and an impressive endurance of 8,000 nautical miles for sustained deployments.
Stealth Features:
The Type 16i boasts an integrated mast design, housing most sensors within a low-observable structure. Angled surfaces, recessed weapon systems, and advanced radar-absorbent materials contribute to a significantly reduced radar cross-section (RCS), making them incredibly difficult to detect and target.
Complement:
Designed for extended ASW operations, the 'Town' Class typically carries a crew of 170, with additional berthing for specialist detachments, including hydrographic survey teams, special forces, or enhanced medical personnel.
Weapons and Sensors
The Type 16i 'Town' Class is equipped with a formidable array of sensors and weapons, specifically tailored for dominant anti-submarine warfare while retaining robust general-purpose capabilities.
Sonar Suite:
The heart of its ASW capability is an integrated sonar suite comprising a Cutting-Edge Bow-Mounted Medium Frequency Sonar for active search and detection, complemented by a Multi-Function Towed Array Sonar (MFTAS). The MFTAS provides passive long-range detection and precise localization of quiet submarines across various oceanographic conditions.
Anti-Submarine Weapons:
For direct engagement, the frigates feature two sets of Triple 324mm Torpedo Tubes, capable of launching advanced lightweight ASW torpedoes. Additionally, a dedicated Vertical Launch ASW Missile System (akin to a 'hard-kill' solution) provides a rapid-response, stand-off capability against detected sub-surface threats, delivering torpedoes or depth charges at extended ranges.
Anti-Air Warfare (AAW):
Recognizing the need for self-defense, the Type 16i is fitted with a 24-cell Vertical Launch System (VLS) primarily for Sea Ceptor (CAMM) missiles, providing robust point and local area air defense against aircraft and anti-ship missiles.
Guns:
A single 5-inch (127mm) Main Gun provides powerful naval gunfire support for shore bombardment and surface engagements. Close-in defense is provided by two 30mm automatic cannons and two Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS).
Aviation:
A spacious flight deck and a double hangar can accommodate two ASW Helicopters (e.g., advanced Merlin variants), extending the frigate's ASW search and attack range significantly. The hangar is also capable of deploying and recovering Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) for enhanced situational awareness and persistent surveillance.
