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Originally Posted by Black_Dingo
2. Technology advances come so fast that it makes sense to invest in fewer subs, so you can replace them with newer ones when new/cheaper technology comes available.
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That reminds me of something.
I read in a report that the initial proposals for the NSSN included some 60+ new and unapproven submarine technologies that could be investigated when choosing a final design. But to test all the technologies, every Virginia Class sub would be a custom model in some way, and none as modular, interchangeable, and easily upgradeable as they would have liked..... and thats not even considering the design flexibility that electric drive would permit.
... chances are, that by the time they got past boat 10, the 11th boat could be so different than the first boat that they might as well think about a redesign anyway...
the USN is probably just being honest with itself. By the time 2012 gets around they would be itching to go back to the drawing board anyway.... why make a 30 boat deal.