(1) for Mk 45, (2) for Phalanx, (3+4) for Mk 32 torpedoes. VTOL and Trim for Mk 45, Pitch and Roll for Phalanx, VTOL for Mk 32.

Credit to Dllama4 for the Mk 45, the Phalanx gun, and AN/SPG-63.

Summary:

The Alexander Hope-class frigate is a Paternian multirole frigate optimized for missions on the open seas. A stopgap measure, she would serve long careers in the Paternian Navy.

Design:

The Alexander Hope-class frigate is essentially an improved Terrace L. Smith-class frigate. While the Smith-class was considered excellent warships at the time of her construction and their sturdy hulls allowed for a long service life, they were increasingly obsolete against newer threats.

A new frigate was needed, but delays meant that an upgrade to the old hulls were put forth. The Hope-class frigate bring the Aegis Combat System to the Smith-class hull. Additional VLS tubes, relocated to the superstructure versus the sides, were mounted. The 76mm cannon was replaced by the 5"/62 cal Mk 45 Mod 4 dual-purpose cannon. To enhance her anti-submarine firepower, MK 32 torpedo tubes were fitted.

The Hope-class would receive identical radar and electronic systems to the heavier Endurance and California-class destroyers, as well as various modernization upgrades.

These modifications turned the Smith-class frigate into a pocket destroyer that can be had for a third of the cost. At 2,500 tons and $850 million dollars, they are light and cost-effective ships. Consequently, the type was extremely popular among export customers who sought highly capable frigates with at a relatively low cost.

Operators:

Doyterian Navy

Dragon Corporation Navy

Imperial United Oceanic Navy

Aeuran Navy, 5 ships
Imperial Navy, 5 ships

Paternian Republican Navy

Sakartvelo Navy

Royal Tinlandian Navy

Imperial Prussian Navy

Simplandian Navy