Definition

Noun A warship, smaller than a destroyer, designed for escort and anti-submarine warfare, which is equipped with guided missiles as its primary armament.

Usage

A "guided missile frigate" is a specific type of naval vessel. The term is used to classify and describe modern frigates whose main weaponry consists of missile systems, distinguishing them from older frigates armed primarily with guns.

Examples

• The navy deployed a guided missile frigate to patrol the contested waters.
• Modern fleets often rely on the versatility of a guided missile frigate for air defense.
• The guided missile frigate HMS participated in the joint exercise.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in military, defense, and geopolitical contexts to discuss naval capabilities and force structure.
• It can be part of a ship's formal designation, e.g., FFG (Frigate, Guided missile) in the U.S. Navy hull classification system.

Variants and Related Words

• Frigate (noun): A general term for a warship, often used for escort and patrol duties.
• Destroyer (noun): A larger, faster warship typically with more powerful armament.
• Cruiser (noun): A large warship, larger than a destroyer, designed for long-range independent operations.

Synonyms

• Missile frigate
• FFG (as a hull classification symbol)

Related Phrases

• Air-defense frigate: A type of guided missile frigate specialized in defending against aircraft and missiles.
• Anti-submarine warfare frigate: A frigate specialized in hunting submarines, which may also carry guided missiles.

Noun

1. a frigate that carries guided missiles