SW1 wrote: ↑10 Jan 2024, 09:49
Very Interesting. Lots to unpick.
Firstly, the scale and ambition is larger than expected for a single LRG.
- 2x MRSS with that level of capability will not be in the 130m class.
- Albion and 1x Bay could achieve this but 1x Bay and Argus could not. Will LRG(S) be configured differently?
- 2x escorts - 1x T32 and 1x DD/FF plus SSN.
- The landing craft assumptions are interesting. 4x FFLC, 8x LCPA (L), 8x LCPA(S), 12x LLMI. Not exactly clear what they are?
- Strat Air: 12x (24x) F35, 8x/6x AH-64. Operated from land but perfect for a LHA if from sea.
- FSS supporting rather than Tide/Wave. Interesting.
- NGS from T32/DD/FF. Points towards Mk45 on the T32.
- 3x 127mm LFP. Interesting.
- Very light vehicles - MRZR, Fox, FATV, CANAM, PickUps etc
Leaving the MRSS and T32 to one side none of this appears to be outlandishly expensive.
A few notable omissions.
- Where are the Merlin’s and Wildcat and what numbers are required?
- How many landing spots are required on the MRSS?
- What are the options for reinforcement and/or rapid extraction if things go catastrophically wrong?
- How likely are today’s politicians to authorise the use of such a force?
- Why are MALE drones for ISTAR not included in Strat Air?
- Is the FSS operating directly with the MRSS? If so that’s a pretty big grouping for only two escorts to protect and simultaneously provide NGS.
Overall, a good attempt to put some flesh on the bone of the FCF concept.