Originally designed as a specialist anti-submarine ship, the Type 22 frigate evolved into a powerful surface combatant with substantial anti-surface, anti-submarine and anti-aircraft weapons systems.

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Originally designed as a specialist anti-submarine ship, the Type 22 frigates evolved into a powerful surface combatant with substantial anti-surface, anti-submarine and anti-aircraft weapons systems.

BBC: Four Royal Navy frigates in Portsmouth Harbour for sale

So while there are some things a traditional surface combatant would have that the new warship lacks, there are many things it might one day do that current warships cannot.

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