[BenLurkin]

The GFE also includes Mark 41 Vertical Launch Systems, specifically the full-size “strike length” version capable of carrying the Navy’s entire array of offensive and defensive missiles. Earlier frigate concepts had made VLS optional; now it’s mandatory, Campbell made clear. 16 VLS cells is the minimum, 32 the preferred or “objective” number. In addition, the frigate needs eight dedicated on-deck launchers for Over-The-Horizon anti-ship missiles. ... These defensive weapons are not just to protect the frigate itself but nearby vessels for which it’s providing “close escort.”

Since these are the main roles for the class why not discard the stern helipad and hangers and replace that space with additional VLS?

Lengthen it, make it thin and fast, and call it a light cruiser.

CLAAG (Cruiser Light Anti-Air Guided)

[Fai Mao]

“Lengthen it, make it thin and fast,”

The broader beamed Arleigh-Burks are faster in actual combat than the older very narrow designs in everything but glass smooth seas. They have much better sea keeping characteristics. They also have more room and use less fuel for ships of similar size.

They are also bigger than a WW2 cruiser

Lastly, the helicopter is one of the most important weapons on the ship for anti-submarine warfare. A helicopter is also a radar platform to help detect and identify other vessels. It is also used to rescue downed pilots and transfer supplies and personnel. You don’t want to remove a helicopter from the ship.

[Spktyr]

The helipad and hangers would carry helicopters and large drones. The drones are critical for extending sensor range in today’s battlespace.

[Jimmy Valentine]

IMHO, sooner or later the Navy is going to have to go up on tonnage in order to carry the hardware they want. The Demoines class cruisers ran at about 18k tons.