All good, I would have preferred the Corvette for Op Resolute then jamming people on Armidales.
We have discussed many times the lack of foresight with certain vessel purchases. Im of the mind that a gap is now formed, where Corvette to replace Fremantles was a direct replacement in 2000s. Now, Capes replace Armidales and a new class can be formed that is not directly for SIEV patrol.
Whether thats Frigates or Corvettes, will be up to RAN assessment.
Hats off to you and the crew dealing with the anxiety,expectations and needs of 176 people on such a small vessel.
Certainly a challenge for an 80m OPV, yet alone an Armidale PB.
I can hear your frustration with the conversation.
Maybe in part its about what label we put on all the vessels within the fleet and as such our expectation of them.
We live in uncertain times, so in broad terms I believe we need to be much more flexible in how we use our assets.
Just because it's painted Navy grey does not make it a warship; I get it!
But at the same time it doesn't make it completely impotent.
All vessels should be able to make a contribution to a "certain level of threat ". There are many, many scenarios under the threat level of taking on the Amarda in high end warfighting that need a response.
Opportunity should be explored across all our vessels big and small to enhance their potential in time of conflict and in peace.
Flexibility is key to having options.
Options are amplified by capitalizing and enhancing what you have!
As to the OPV's, we are certain to build at least 12 and maybe more if the survey / MCM option goes ahead.
Regardless of corvette / destroyer combo's, we will get a minimum of 12 large 80 m OPV vessels.
It would be a waste of such an asset if we pigeon hole this vessel in the I only do constabulary roles camp and therefore cannot do anything else.
They are better than that and potentially much ,much better than that.
They need to be, because they many well be tested while doing their constabulary stuff in this changing world to a "certain level of threat."
By the nature of their work they will be on our front line and vulnerable.
The majors cannot escort everything or be everywhere.
At the end of the day the ADF does not have that many assets across the services.
Everything that fly's / floats and drives counts.
Cheers S
PS - Thanks for your service and input.