jedibeeftrix wrote:...but i'd sell them all - as they're a danger to the possibility of building a new sloop based on Venari/MCM.
I can see the point, and have argued similarly that a MHPC Sloop should be part of the future RN fleet, however with the choice of T31 and the broader financial backdrop I think the dream of a new class has died.
Going forwards I think there will much less new class innovation for the RN (maybe restricted to the top tier) and more evolutionary (low risk) changes to existing (OTS) designs.
To keep and extend on the River class is probably the best hope for a RN MHPC Sloop. For example, how about removing the crane on the B2 design and replacing it with a mission bay capable of 2 x Ribs and 2 x larger USVs on davits (one of each port and starboard) with space to squeeze a Widlcat / UAV down the middle, could be one option. By limiting the changes, the risk is managed and keeps commonality with the other ships.
I heard New Zealand may be up for new OPVs - they looked at the River class, but turned it down I understand due to the lack of aviation facilities.