Since the news of that Norway are going to retire Skjold class in 2025 instead of paying for the expensive MLU upgrade in 2025, but there is still hope, there are many years until 2025 and there is an high chance for a new government by then, and National and international situation can still changes. I decided there is need for an awesome photo of one of the Skjold class vessel, here with HNoMS Glimt:
The argument from the Navy, on why they want to keep the class, is:
- they are fast responding.
- they can operation in an .... area for a week+.
- they can deliver up to 8 advanced anti "ship and land" missile at any target.
- for F35 to deliver 8 missile (NSM), you need 4 F35 and then additional some escort, and for a country with only 52 F35... and when you have 6 skjold class.... you need the entire air force and a little more, just to match the entire skjold class when it comes to NSM-firepower.
- Every time a Russian or other Nation naval vessel traveling close to the Norwegian economy zone, a Skjold class is always out there first, for then at some point hand the "escort-mission" to larger surface vessel.
An former Commander, gave an example on how dangerous small, fast and hard detecting vessel can be. When he was a Captain of the old Oslo class frigates and under any type off exercise where they are operating close to the cost. they would lose 9 out of 10 battle against MTB's and it was always over in minutes. Skjold class do something similar but at range.
But I do agree with the government, they are expensive to operate.... they have 20.000 hp (same as Oslo class frigates) gas turbines, and additional around 1000-2000 hp fans, just to lift the ship when moving. But on the other hand, they are probably one of the most dangerous vessel to meet in a battle.
