Frigates

Frigate is a medium-sized warship class primarily used to escort larger ships, protect shipping, and conduct patrols and security missions at sea. The term originated in the Age of Sail, describing fast, oceangoing ships intended for screening and convoy protection. In modern navies the label typically denotes a multi-purpose, surface warfare ship that is smaller than a destroyer and larger than a corvette, though exact size and role vary by country and era.

Roles and capabilities: Modern frigates are designed to handle anti-submarine warfare (ASW) but also provide air defense and surface warfare capabilities. They usually carry missiles and a medium-caliber gun, torpedoes or anti-ship missiles, close-in weapon systems, and a flight deck and hangar for a helicopter or unmanned aircraft. Sensor suites include radar, sonars, electronic warfare systems, and integrated combat systems for threat detection and defense.

Size, propulsion, and design: Frigates typically displace roughly 3,000 to 6,000 tons when fully loaded and employ a range of propulsion arrangements, including diesel engines, gas turbines, and integrated electric propulsion. They are designed for long endurance at sea and operations away from their home ports.

Classification and examples: The exact classification can be political as well as technical. Notable modern frigate programs include the FREMM multi-mission frigate (France and Italy), the United Kingdom’s Type 26 City-class or Type 31 frigates, and various other national designs that emphasize ASW and maritime security. Some navies have older or smaller escort vessels designated as frigates, while others keep larger ships as destroyers even if they perform similar missions.

Frigates remain a central element of modern navies, valued for their balance of firepower, reach, and endurance in blue-water and littoral environments.