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To: rmlew
Frankly I think it is a mistake by the Navy.

As do I. The RAM is great for point defense, but the ESS would have been a really nice additional layer of self-defense.

I know thay are counting on the Burke's and the Tico's...but that additional level of protection should be there for these high value ships IMHO.

41 posted on 09/08/2003 6:12:16 PM PDT by Jeff Head
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To: Jeff Head
The RAM is great for point defense, but the ESS would have been a really nice additional layer of self-defense.

The thing about RAM is it was designed specifically for Anti-ASM. (Stinger seeker head mounted on a Sidewinder airframe...comes 21 to a pack). The enhanced Sea Sparrow is more of an anti-aircraft design, and only have 8 per launcher...also takes more time to reload. RAM can be reloaded by two guys and a rail...Sea Sparrow is too big to be manhandled in the confined space around the launcher.

RAM is designed to be salvo fired at incoming missiles and is fire and forget. ESS has to have radar lock on the incoming tgt throughout the engagement sequence.

44 posted on 09/08/2003 6:48:40 PM PDT by WestPacSailor (Sorry folks, this tagline's closed. The moose out front should of told you.)
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