Poiuytrewq wrote: ↑05 Mar 2022, 08:05
donald_of_tokyo wrote: ↑05 Mar 2022, 05:54
Almost all of the work force established at Rosyth needs next order, and it must continue until late 2050s. Not only T32, but also SSS and MRSS will be of very important for Rosyth.
The drumbeat is very important but Rosyth will simply not be able to build 10 T31/T32 plus 3 FSS and 6 MRSS in the next 15 years.
Not sure. Problem is, Rosyth needs something to build AFTER them (from 2040-), until T31 replacement (from 2050-, I guess).
In addition, if Belfast not Rosyth gets MRSS, then, what will they build after that? Zero. As such, UK must focus on Clyde, Barrow and Rosyth to establish sustainable ship building industries. Still there are Cammel Laird (not sure how Appledore and ex-H&W can come in).
Why not build some blocks for SSS and MRSS in Cammel Laird, Clyde and Barrow?
Why not use some Bays for 40 years, until 2040s, to flatten the surge of build?
We are now entering a new era of increased defence spending across Europe and beyond. Many nations will want to increase escort numbers and with a potential Tier1 adversary the capability of such vessels will now need to be compatible with peer on peer conflict. This will raise costs and slow down manufacturing time scales.
Yes, that means UK needs more T26. Clyde can handle 2-3 more hulls for sure. With learning curve, they will have redundant workforces in late 2020s. Also, as we see how Babcock is establishing Rosyth, Clyde can ALSO easily increase their workforce if they have 3-5 years (increasing the existing man-power resource is much easier than establishing new one from zero).
In short, I think enlarging Clyde and Rosyth will benefit a lot. And, both yards must have "sustainable future plan" so that they can increase their workforce with confidence.