Posted on 04/08/2010 5:43:38 AM PDT by sukhoi-30mki
Finland joins US, Germany on warship design
Source: Xinhua [09:24 April 08 2010]
Finland, Germany, and the United States have launched a joint research project in the design of surface battle vessels, reported Finnish daily newspaper Helsingin Sanomat Wednesday.
According to the report, this is the first time the Finnish Navy is working together with the US Navy on naval research in addition to exchange of information. The aim of the study is to develop a new generation of military vessels, which are capable of responding to traditional threats and terror attacks at open sea and near coasts. In addition, it should be applicable to crisis management operations.
The three countries will share equally the cost of about 6.6 million euros (about 8.8 million US dollars). In the project, the United States and Germany will supply the testing equipment, while Finland will provide the maritime testing range.
Germany and Finland began the studies and the tests last year. Two missile boats that have been taken out of commission are to be used in the experiments. In practice, the researchers will measure what kind of effect depth charges and other explosives will have on the vessel's hull.
For Finland, the project is part of a research project for the next-generation warship, which was launched last year. The goal is to design a cost-effective multipurpose fighting vessel for the 2020s. The research is aimed at ascertaining the optimum size, structure, and durability in battle of such a vessel.
According to the report, development of multipurpose fighting vessel has become a global trend. Finland will work on developing anti-mine and anti-submarine surface battle vessels for the 2020s.
Finnish navy's Hamina class missile boat
Gee... does that thing have enough lifeboats for everyone?
It only has a crew of 26.
What is the US paying for here? The vessel design or the damage report from the weapons test? We already have 2 competing designs for the Littoral Combat Ship. Are we saying that we are re-opening the competition for a 3rd design?
It sounds like they are trying to reinvent the old anti-submarine small destroyer. This makes sense in light of the current world-wide proliferation of submarines.
Typically, destroyers acted as escorts, first defending against torpedo boats, then against submarines. In addition to asub operations, I would also expect an emphasis against the new generation of high speed anti ship missiles.
The big question is whether they will be large enough to be independent, or if several destroyers will be accompanied by a destroyer tender, as used to be done.
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