>>Destroyers were never meant to be a size designation, but a mission
>>designation. The original name was "submarine destroyer", as it was a
>>dedicated ASW platform.
>
>Odd, I thought it was originally "PT boat destroyer"...

Destroyers were always built as fast screening units for fleet action. Initially, while subs were still primarily oxygen breathers, their main function was to scout and screen the fleet. In addition, the totaly unrealistic rules of engagement placed upon submarines effectively emasculated them. Prior to this time, Destroyers would scout, and/or occasionally lay smoke screens to shield their fleet, along with the 'occasional' suicide charge to fire torpedos en mass at an enemy formation. It should be noted that this last function was rarely used, and when it was, it was normally used in flotilla strength (12 ships or more)

It wasn't until the German's moved to unrestricted submarine warfare that the Sub came into its own as a weapon, and at that time, a destroyer's additional duties were changed from sinking PT boats menacing the fleet to sinking subs menacing convoys.

In both times, Frigates were often smaller and lighter guned destroyers who's primary job was convoy escort, as compared to fleet escort. This is still true today. With the advent of effective SAM's, counter missiles have been added to the mix, but still frigates like the Arliegh Burke class have a single rail launcher and one 5" gun (often mounted aft). Destroyers, on the other hand, often have a Double rail launcher for SM2's, a 5" gun, PLUS a separate, dedicated SubRoc launcher in addition to its torpedo tubes.

Its the Cruisers who have seen the most change over the years since the demise of the battleship. Oringally, they were intended to be all-purpose ships, who would often cruise areas showing the flag or otherwise assist operations. In the Nuc age, Cruisers have become primarily specialized for the AA role with the deployment of the Ageis class cruisers, although they still retain some ASW capabilities.

Carriers have only changed marginally in order to meet the new threats, its main weapon always has been its embarked aircraft. The aircraft defend the fleet, and the fleet defends the carrier. It is NOT fair to claim that there are only Carriers, non carriers and Subs... A carrier without her escorts is actually quite vulerable, with very limited self defense if someone gets past her aircraft. And for a sub, there is only two types of ships... Targets, and Non-targets.

And that doesnt even touch the subject of Special Boat Units, operations in the Littoral reagions, or landing marines ashore.

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Vaughn doesn't know I exist. I guess this explains why the rest of reality keeps ignoring me as well. >_<