In terms of the less cluttered topside (eg with the second mast structure largely removed) and with the knowledge that the ANZAC class is considered to be "top heavy" (generally speaking), does this mean the RNZN ANZAC's will become less top heavy and have a greater margin of stablity?
Certainly if one contrasts and looks at the RAN ASMD (and prior Harpoon) upgrades (thanks
Assail) their ANZAC's appear to have much greater top weight.
I wonder if that also means that fitting additional capabilities in the future could be possible (such as anti-ship missiles)? If so would that be in a similar manner to the RAN ANZAC's with Harpoon canisters? Or as the Mk 41 VLS is apparently being removed could a strike length Mk 41 VLS be fitted in the future (in addition to the CAMM system) as there was meant to be two such spaces for such?
I wouldn't rule out a future anti-ship missile upgrade (Defence seem to be favouring staged upgrades, which politically and budget wise is somewhat "wiser" despite the time factors involved), as according to the recent Defence Capability Plan the idea seems to be the NZDF acquire "enhanced combat capability" in the 2015-2020 timeframe (eg post the standing up of the JATF etc). I guess the 2015 DWP and no doubt follow-up 2016(?) DCP will be when something like this would be signalled?