Ann: Macquarie Australia Conference presentation, page-7

Lockheed pulling out of future frigates is huge. My reading was that a modified version of either of the LCS variants would be the likely winner. The new frigate will be seen as fortified command centre coordinating drones and autonomous ships. A larger LCS configuration with a massive deck and cargo would work well. Politically they need to keep the mobile shipyard in work as well. The only downside I can see is the fire safety measures needed for aluminium hull. 20 bill contract would easily see asb doubling from here. Decision July 2020.