Hms Bristol concept

[Terrysummerson]

Found these pictures in Janes fighting ships showing the proposed new type 82 destroyer (HMS Bristol).
Just shows how the initial concept can change so drastically.

[Whickham]

Yes, I was intrigued by your images, the most prominent change being the radar dome. I looked this up and they were initially designed to use an Anglo-Dutch long range radar which eventually didn't materialise. So no need for the huge dome. The model shows her carrying a helicopter, which also didn't materialise. The Ikara & Limbo were seen as an effective anti-submarine defence instead.

[Terrysummerson]

I always wondered why the stiffeners on the wheelhouse top were so large (much bigger than was necessary) so maybe it was a through back to the original design. Also I was under the impression that if necessary a helicopter could land on the after deck but that may or not have been the case. I was surprised that the original design only shows one funnel when it seems that steam and gas turbine machinery was always intended.

[Dennis Maccoy]

You're correct Terry - there was a flight deck, capable of handling a Wasp size helicopter, but it was cramped by the Sea Dart Launcher forward and the Limbo well aft. As there was no hangar a helicopter could not be permanently embarked. The original single aft funnel on the centreline was split to simplify arrangements for replacing the Olympus gas turbines.