The MRNSV adopts a missionized-payload approach to provide
a multi-role platform for navies and coast guards to perform a
wide variety of functions including:
> Border Patrol and Search & Rescue
It could be useful for the Coast Guard as supplementary asset in that function, but many resources already exist. The RCN could deploy this asset for these functions overseas. As I understand it, the CCG has a domestic-territorial mandate, the RCN has the authority and the ability to intervene or provide assistance elsewhere
> Humanitarian and Disaster Relief (HaDR)
At 16 knots, it would take a lot of time to deploy - and which coast would you select for basing? Moreover, how frequently would it be required? Such a ship would have been useful for the Swissair disaster, but how often can we expect such thing. We had a nice deep sea diving support capability with CORMORANT before, but in a tight budget environment, she was decommissioned instead of refitted because the overall requirement did not justify the expense. Permanently forward deploy to a region of the world where transit time is short and there is a base to operate from. {Italy, Cyprus, Crete etc.)
> Forward Ship Maintenance and Repair
I could see that, but again, how often would we need such capability? No idea.
> Submarine Rescue
We have not had a specific submarine rescue capability since CORMORANT was retired in 1997. There has been no pressure to replace that capability and I don't think there will be any in the future unless we greatly increase the number of submarines we operate. No chance whatsoever of increasing the sub fleet, and even if we did those subs would be built long after these ships were razor blades.
> Scientific Research
I could see that, especially in the Arctic, but it is not a naval responsibility nor our area of expertise. That belong in the old Oceans and Fisheries purview (whatever they are called these days). Containerized ELINT suites??
> Coastal Resupply
Not sure what they mean here. I don't see fuelling masts, so we are not talking RAS. If they mean re-supplying coastal towns, I think that is a TC responsibility. If they mean they could go to coastal bays and harbours, take frigates and destroyers alongside and resupply them in fuel and food, etc., I could see that being useful, but really only for Arctic deployment. Such vessel could certainly provide a great support function to the AOPS when deployed up North by combining the shop/coastal supply functions and linking St John's with Inuvik in that capacity and would reduce the pressure to build infrastructure in the North. Agreed. And they could deliver humanitarian supplies but I also do not see a RAS structure, or the room for fuel tanks to perform that function.
> Training (target launch and CQC)
Can't see that one, we already have coastal CFAV's that are much smaller, more economical to run and have only a handful of personnel required to carry that function. The ship proposed here would be overkill.[/i] The UK SBS utilizes the decommissioned Sir Tristam for commando training. There may be a role for that with the enhanced NBP, training of divers and special forces.
I note that there is one possible use for such ship that is not mentioned or even hinted at (and here I know I will please my friend Chris): Such ship would make one hell of a nice forward deployed offshore base for special forces. :nod: Fully agreed. Counter terrorism, hostage rescue, etc. Needs better helo set up though. {more helo's- Griffons, Chinooks and stripped down Cyclones); larger RHIB that are armed with crew served weapons but can also be dropped/recovered by Chinook. An JT seems to understand and endorse the use of special forces. This may the golden answer.
