Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1365706
capabilities of the vessels were expanded indirectly - through procurement of the modern MU-90 torpedoes for the SH-2G Seasprite helicopters. At the same time, one should note that the frigates have lost some of their potential, when it comes to the ability to act against the surface, and air threats. The reasons are simple. First, the Polish Navy decommissioned the AGM-84 Harpoon missiles, then it got rid of the SM-1 Standard effectors. Considering the aforesaid circumstances, the conclusion is clear: the frigates have a limited combat potential at their dis- posal, allowing them to act in an ASW role exclusively. They are not capable of defending themselves from air, or surface threats. Originally, the OHP frigates were to be withdrawn in 2015, after 35 years of service in the US and Polish Navies. The fact that these vessels still remain in active service may only mean one thing - no worthy, modern successor appeared. Surface Combatants Component OHP-Class Frigates Oliver Hazard Perry frigates are still the largest of the surface combatants that the Polish Navy operates. Named ORP Gen. K. Pułaski, and ORP Gen. T. Kościuszko, these vessels were com- missioned in 2000 and 2002 respectively. The OHP-class ves- sels are well known - both in Poland, as well as around the world. This is why we will be focusing here on the modifications that the vessels underwent after induction into the Polish Navy. The main upgrades were focused on the SQS-56 and SQR-19 sonar sys- tems. The task was assigned to the Gdansk University of Tech- nology. The experts, with a limited budget, decided to enhance the signal processing systems and install new operator consoles. Communication systems and datalinks were also upgrades. ASW www.fragoutmag.com