DJB wrote:
@navydavesof, my concept is a multi-mission platform.
You and me both, bro!
DJB wrote:
The reason for the Harpoons forward is that the ASROC launcher would have the ability to fire Standard ARMs as well as ASROC similar to how a few of the Knox class were upgraded in the late 70s' before they were switched to Harpoon/ASROC. My other reason for the Harpoon placement is the placement on the Coronado LCS (I know not the best example:),
Indeed, your admission is correct. It's a bad spot. BUT...with the Standards, could they actually be fired from an ASROC launcher? I thought it was limited to ASROC bodies and Harpoons! Also, why would you want to try to make this ship type an area AAW ship instead of an ASW or ASuW ship?
DJB wrote:
...aft was taken by the MK-29, and the top of the hanger was taken by the countermeasures and ECM). I almost switched the Mk-29 and the Harpoon positions, but finally decided on keeping the MK-29 aft to improve flight operations and reduce flight deck limitations.
To me Sea Sparrow is a no-go no matter the era. If we're talking "modern" modern, then I would put a RAM launcher atop the helo hangar and keep the CIWS P/S of the forward super structure.
DJB wrote:
The large platforms for the CIWS was to get the guns higher so that they had more open range...
The 2-3 deck tall Iowa-type structure is unnecessary for that mission. A simple deck extension for the CIWS to sit on would be best. I have my CIWS on the forward super structure instead of the aft. I have left the aft for ECM.
DJB wrote:
As for the SPS-49, yeah with the other improvements it would only make sense to upgrade the radar as well (I also included upgraded communications as well). If it wouldn't make her to heavy I would have added the SPS-48 as well, to give her the extra capabilities that adds since she is a bit of a "light" DDG having the Standard capabilities.
Hey, the 48 is a shockingly good radar. Currently, WDS are behind the SPS-48's capabilities. The radar is phenomenal, ie why the now Taiwanese Kidd-class DDGs (upgraded with Mk99 Aegis target acquisition hardware) out perform our Baseline 9 Aegis ships in targets under 100,000ft. That is also why the Taiwanese are considering sending the Kidds back to the US to have them upgraded with 128 Mk41 VLS, SPQ9B, and Mk45Mod4 and have the SLEP planned for them in the late 1990s performed in order to add between 20 and 25 years to their lives.
DJB wrote:
I know all the improvements would not be considered cost effective given the age of the Gearing's at the time, but that is the fun of "What-If" modeling.
I agree!
DJB wrote:
However, given the life many of the Gearing's had in other navies (when given further modernizations) the cost might have been worth it compared to new builds for lesser roles such as frigates.
Indeed. It was too bad that while the last 6-10 Forrest Sherman-class DDs in mothballs were considered for reactivation and massive modernization in the role of NGFS were instead not reactivated. Perhaps that should be a project for another time! A Forrest Sherman with 2-3 Mk42s, 2 CIWS, SPS-49, SPQ-9A, SLQ-32, Chaff, perhaps a 76mm in place of 1 Mk42, and a modern paint job...fascinating! The SLEPs could have added up to twice their predicted lives.
DJB wrote:
I cannot wait to see your build, the MK 42 should make for a nice looking ship.
Thanks, man! I have things set with rubber cement at the moment to visualize before I find my compressor in my house hold goods somewhere and begin laying paint.