I think the Phalanx is an easier sell simply because we already have them and would meet the minimum requirements. I think its surface model is probably more suitable for a OPV than RAM. Really it doesn't matter, if space, weight and power is allocated, then SeaRAM or Phalanx (or nothing or some future system) could go in depending on what we have. I would imagine if we ever wanted to move these ships on (continuous build etc) then having the ability to mount something defensive like that I think would be a big plus.With a 76mm gun, a pair of 25-35mm light guns, a RAM launcher and a bolt on / off ASM system, along with MCM etc mission modules as needed, these ships would be very useful and actually earn their title of 'minor war vessels'.
I think it all comes down to a credible OPV. Australia has and will operate in some pretty high threat environments (Gulf, Asia etc). We won't always be able to handle situations with strong language and a Austyre. Having systems like 76mm, CIWS, 2 or 3 .50cal, a hanger with an armed helo, flex deck (and the stuff we can operate or put on the flex deck) means we can offer a full range to any OPV mission, right up to the high end. Other countries are more likely to see benefit in us being there with equipment like that. We can train, lead, support others in the region. The cost for these are very minimal per ship because you don't need the radars and other systems (power for the radar, top weight for the radar and missile launchers etc) for these other systems.
For me ESSM makes it a corvette/Frigate. If you need that kind of system to be there, don't muck around, put one giant frigate in there. It might be the OPV operates near the Frigate for that type of cover. OPV's should be able to fend off pirates,
For a lot of the other weaponry I would place it on the helicopter. Hellfires, Hydras, stingers, light weight torpedoes(MD500), 30mm. There is talk about the army getting AH-6's little birds Certainly all the other navy/army helos other than Chinooks will fit. I would assume something like the Zulus could at least lilly pad off them. If you ever wanted something with a bit more offensive teeth that could provide it and launch it from a fast agile platform. Then your not locking up defence money and equipment on a platform that is just an OPV. Those assets can be shifted (even hot environments) instantly to where ever they are needed.
Can you get the 2600 with the sea axe bow?In a perfect world I think they would be ideal. It seems that the sea axe is quite popular with the smaller ships, but I guess they assume that larger ships it less of an issue. But for an Australian OPV I personally would go for something able to handle big weather. Seastate 9 stuff. The Damen design is likely to be faster, and handle those massive seas.Purely personal opinion - I like the OPV 2600 Sea Axe design from Damen...
The BAM I think is also quite good. If we ever wanted some thing could be a corvette the BAM design could be more suited to that. But even as a OPV it seems quite appealing.
The real question is how much and what do we have in the kitty. I have a feeling we will be limited to <2000t which will kill dreams of the larger Damen designs and the even larger Navantia BAM designs.
I also wonder if Ice strengthening will be an aspect we will look at.