Previously we noted that the United States Navy is deploying a force off the coast of Somalia in the Indian Ocean to thwart pirate attempts to reinforce a group of their cronies who are holding a U.S. captain hostage in a small boat. The force will soon encompass three ships: a destroyer, a frigate, and an amphibious assault ship. What’s the difference between the types? Here’s a quick primer:
A destroyer is a medium-sized multipurpose ship designed to neutralize small enemy craft (like torpedo boats) as well as aircraft and submarines. Modern destroyers are heavy, well armed, and fairly powerful, negating the need for battleships and battlecruisers. The USS Bainbridge is a destroyer.
A frigate is like a destroyer, but lighter. Frigates carry weapons similiar to destroyers, but are better suited for operating close to shore, and make excellent escorts. The U.S. Navy’s frigates, including the USS Halyburton, were originally designed for anti-submarine warfare, but modifications have extended their capabilities.
An amphibious assault ship is basically a light aircraft carrier, designed for landing forces on hostile shores, which often look more like rugged floating boxes. Amphibious ships typically carry a bevy of helicopters and landing craft. The U.S. Boxer, a Wasp-class amphibious assault ship, is one of the largest such ships it ever built. It can carry a complement of nearly two thousand U.S. Marines.