Orion-Class Frigate - Revision history

Zekes at 17:41, 19 December 2024

2024-12-19T17:41:00Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:41, 19 December 2024
Line 48:		Line 48:

	==Service History==		==Service History==
−	[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|''Orion''-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)\|ZNS ''Hamilton T. Thratcher'' (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]
	[[File:ZokeScreenshot20852.png\|left\|thumb\|A Flight 1A Orion-Class Frigate with enlarged VLS bays, allowing it to carry the SM-2 long range antiaircraft missile.]]		[[File:ZokeScreenshot20852.png\|left\|thumb\|A Flight 1A Orion-Class Frigate with enlarged VLS bays, allowing it to carry the SM-2 long range antiaircraft missile.]]
	N/A		N/A

Zekes at 17:39, 19 December 2024

2024-12-19T17:39:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:39, 19 December 2024
Line 2:		Line 2:
	\|name = Orion Class		\|name = Orion Class
	\|full_name = Orion Class Guided-Missile Frigate		\|full_name = Orion Class Guided-Missile Frigate
−	\|image =~~ZokeScreenshot10995~~.png \|imagedesc =FFCG-~~127~~ ~~''Robert~~ B. ~~Haverdam''~~	+	\|image =ZokeScreenshot20842.png \|imagedesc =FFCG-113 "Hamilton T. Thratcher"
	\|type=Ship		\|type=Ship
	\|role=Frigate Escort		\|role=Frigate Escort

Zekes at 17:38, 19 December 2024

2024-12-19T17:38:55Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:38, 19 December 2024
Line 36:		Line 36:
	Froston Industries' CRYSTAL system saw its first deployment on the Orions, with two arrays being mounted on the sides of the superstructure aft of the main bridge. While it does not provide full coverage of the combat area, the two arrays combined with secondary SIMPSON radar and illuminators enable long-range tracking of up to 16 enemy contacts, a marked increase from the preceding Acheron Class. Crew and technical data garnered from the radar systems onboard the lead ship HMS Orion during its initial combat trials allowed researchers at FROSTON Industries and VAE Shipyards to perfect system and software integration for their upcoming Future Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser project.		Froston Industries' CRYSTAL system saw its first deployment on the Orions, with two arrays being mounted on the sides of the superstructure aft of the main bridge. While it does not provide full coverage of the combat area, the two arrays combined with secondary SIMPSON radar and illuminators enable long-range tracking of up to 16 enemy contacts, a marked increase from the preceding Acheron Class. Crew and technical data garnered from the radar systems onboard the lead ship HMS Orion during its initial combat trials allowed researchers at FROSTON Industries and VAE Shipyards to perfect system and software integration for their upcoming Future Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser project.

−	One of the most obvious changes made from VSD's initial proposal is the marked increase in maximum speed. While the original design was projected to reach a maximum speed of 20 knots using traditional diesel-electric propulsion, the IRN demanded the ship be capable of reaching 30 knots in order to keep up with Imperial Carrier fleets. To accommodate for this demand, VAE Shipyards replaced their traditional propulsion-power system with Froston Industries' Electric Propulsion Motor Mk3 and a M1800 Gas Turbine generator. Although slightly more costly than their traditional counterparts, it was discovered in HMS Orion's maiden voyage that the new systems were far more efficient and reliable in long-term operations, prompting the IRN to investigate the possibilities of refitting major combatants to utilise the new technology.~~[[File:Screenshot222.png\|left\|thumb\|HMS ''Orion'' conducting a routine operation off the coast of Westray.]]~~	+	One of the most obvious changes made from VSD's initial proposal is the marked increase in maximum speed. While the original design was projected to reach a maximum speed of 20 knots using traditional diesel-electric propulsion, the IRN demanded the ship be capable of reaching 30 knots in order to keep up with Imperial Carrier fleets. To accommodate for this demand, VAE Shipyards replaced their traditional propulsion-power system with Froston Industries' Electric Propulsion Motor Mk3 and a M1800 Gas Turbine generator. Although slightly more costly than their traditional counterparts, it was discovered in HMS Orion's maiden voyage that the new systems were far more efficient and reliable in long-term operations, prompting the IRN to investigate the possibilities of refitting major combatants to utilise the new technology.

	The frigate also boasts an impressive arsenal for its size with 48 VLS cells fore of the bridge, one 57mm naval gun, one SeaRAM launcher, two Phalanx CIWS systems and two 4 cell AshM launchers located amidships. In its standard escort configuration the VLS cells are designed to accommodate ESSM medium range interceptor missiles but they are also able to be outfitted with RIM-66 long-range interceptors or a limited range of cruise missiles to supplement the 8 AshMs stored in box launchers.		The frigate also boasts an impressive arsenal for its size with 48 VLS cells fore of the bridge, one 57mm naval gun, one SeaRAM launcher, two Phalanx CIWS systems and two 4 cell AshM launchers located amidships. In its standard escort configuration the VLS cells are designed to accommodate ESSM medium range interceptor missiles but they are also able to be outfitted with RIM-66 long-range interceptors or a limited range of cruise missiles to supplement the 8 AshMs stored in box launchers.

−	Another noteworthy feature of the Orion-class is the large mission bay located amidships. Despite the frigate's small size, the mission bay is able to accommodate up to two [[K-53B II]] VTOL Fighters or ASW Helicopters as well as two [[BIMO]] (Boat, Inflatable, Multi-service Operational) high-maneuverability boats, giving the Orion its characteristic mission flexibility.	+	Another noteworthy feature of the Orion-class is the large mission bay located amidships. Despite the frigate's small size, the mission bay is able to accommodate up to two [[K-53B II]] VTOL Fighters or ASW Helicopters as well as two [[BIMO]] (Boat, Inflatable, Multi-service Operational) high-maneuverability boats, giving the Orion its characteristic mission flexibility.[[File:Screenshot222.png\|left\|thumb\|HMS ''Orion'' conducting a routine operation off the coast of Westray.]]

	==Contract Award and Foreign Sales==		==Contract Award and Foreign Sales==
Line 49:		Line 49:
	==Service History==		==Service History==
	[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|''Orion''-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)\|ZNS ''Hamilton T. Thratcher'' (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]		[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|''Orion''-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)\|ZNS ''Hamilton T. Thratcher'' (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]
		+	[[File:ZokeScreenshot20852.png\|left\|thumb\|A Flight 1A Orion-Class Frigate with enlarged VLS bays, allowing it to carry the SM-2 long range antiaircraft missile.]]
	N/A		N/A

MiffedStarfish at 00:01, 10 June 2024

2024-06-10T00:01:10Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:01, 10 June 2024
Line 12:		Line 12:
	\|built=23, 20 on order		\|built=23, 20 on order
	\|serv_start=2188\|serv_end=ongoing		\|serv_start=2188\|serv_end=ongoing
−	\|operators=[[Zokesia]]<br/>[[Confederate Coast Guard]]<br/>[[~~Confederate~~ Navy]]<br/>[[Imperial Union]]	+	\|operators=[[Zokesia]]<br/>[[Confederate Coast Guard]]<br/>[[Zokesian Royal Navy]]<br/>[[Imperial Union]]
	{{Craft/Naval Vessel		{{Craft/Naval Vessel
	\|mass= 1000 Tons		\|mass= 1000 Tons

Saturn at 15:11, 8 June 2024

2024-06-08T15:11:13Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:11, 8 June 2024
Line 52:		Line 52:

	[[Category:Naval Craft]]		[[Category:Naval Craft]]
		+	[[Category:Ships of the Imperial Union]]

Zekes: /* Service History */

2024-06-05T01:34:27Z

Service History

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:34, 5 June 2024
Line 48:		Line 48:

	==Service History==		==Service History==
−	[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|''Orion''-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)\|''ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher'' (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]	+	[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|''Orion''-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)\|ZNS ''Hamilton T. Thratcher'' (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]
	N/A		N/A

Zekes: /* Service History */

2024-06-05T01:34:15Z

Service History

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:34, 5 June 2024
Line 48:		Line 48:

	==Service History==		==Service History==
−	[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|Orion-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]	+	[[File:Screenshot10731.png\|left\|thumb\|''Orion''-class Frigate [[ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher (FFCG-113)\|''ZNS Hamilton T. Thratcher'' (FFCG-113)]] in Confederate Coast Guard service.]]
	N/A		N/A

Squiddy at 14:13, 3 June 2024

2024-06-03T14:13:39Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:13, 3 June 2024
Line 30:		Line 30:
	\|Aircraft Carried=Up to x2 K-53B II VTOL Fighters <br/> x2 ASW Helicopters}}The '''Orion-Class Frigate''' is a class of guided-missile frigates currently in service in the [[Imperial Union]] and [[Zokesia]], fulfilling its role as an affordable modern escort/patrol Frigate.		\|Aircraft Carried=Up to x2 K-53B II VTOL Fighters <br/> x2 ASW Helicopters}}The '''Orion-Class Frigate''' is a class of guided-missile frigates currently in service in the [[Imperial Union]] and [[Zokesia]], fulfilling its role as an affordable modern escort/patrol Frigate.
	== Development==		== Development==
−	The Orion-Class Frigate began development in 2185 under [[VAE system]]'s subsidiary [[VSD]] to meet the [[IRN]]'s new requirements for a next-generation escort/patrol frigate that could incorporate newly introduced technology at a lower cost than its traditional counterparts. In consideration of the newly deployed [[Huntsman-class Destroyer]] and the planned requirements of the [[Klaes-Haydn Class Cruiser\|Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser]], the VSD's proposal revolved around the [[FROSTON Industries]]' new CRYSTAL (Combat Radar Yellow, Search and Track Array Luminator) system in order to provide basic-level fleet air protection at a low cost. Due to weak competition from other designers or lack thereof, the proposal was approved by the Imperial Navy Design ~~Committre~~ in 2186, and an initial order of 5 frigates was placed to be delivered by the end of the following year.	+	The Orion-Class Frigate began development in 2185 under [[VAE system]]'s subsidiary [[VSD]] to meet the [[IRN]]'s new requirements for a next-generation escort/patrol frigate that could incorporate newly introduced technology at a lower cost than its traditional counterparts. In consideration of the newly deployed [[Huntsman-class Destroyer]] and the planned requirements of the [[Klaes-Haydn Class Cruiser\|Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser]], the VSD's proposal revolved around the [[FROSTON Industries]]' new CRYSTAL (Combat Radar Yellow, Search and Track Array Luminator) system in order to provide basic-level fleet air protection at a low cost. Due to weak competition from other designers or lack thereof, the proposal was approved by the Imperial Navy Design Committee in 2186, and an initial order of 5 frigates was placed to be delivered by the end of the following year.
	==Design and Armament==		==Design and Armament==
−	[[File:Screenshot237.png\|left\|thumb\|Reinforced keel of HMS Vega]][[File:Screenshot219.png\|left\|thumb\|298x298px\|Lead ship HMS ''Orion'' under-going sea trials, 2189]]As a next-generation surface combatant geared for escort and patrol duties, the Orion-class incorporated a wide range of new Imperial technology that pioneered their use on other vessels through out the Imperial Armed Forces. One noteworthy example is the inclusion of a reinforced keel for greater ASW ~~effectives~~ and survivability in case of a torpedo hit to the keel. While traditional keels would succumb to even indirect detonation, the newly introduced reinforcements will allow current and future Orion frigates to be combat-effective even after a direct torpedo hit.	+	[[File:Screenshot237.png\|left\|thumb\|Reinforced keel of HMS Vega]][[File:Screenshot219.png\|left\|thumb\|298x298px\|Lead ship HMS ''Orion'' under-going sea trials, 2189]]As a next-generation surface combatant geared for escort and patrol duties, the Orion-class incorporated a wide range of new Imperial technology that pioneered their use on other vessels through out the Imperial Armed Forces. One noteworthy example is the inclusion of a reinforced keel for greater ASW effectiveness and survivability in case of a torpedo hit to the keel. While traditional keels would succumb to even indirect detonation, the newly introduced reinforcements will allow current and future Orion frigates to be combat-effective even after a direct torpedo hit.

−	Froston Industries' CRYSTAL system saw its first deployment on the Orions, with two arrays being mounted on the sides of the superstructure aft of the main bridge. While it does not provide full coverage of the combat area, the two arrays combined with secondary SIMPSON radar and illuminators enable long-range tracking of up to 16 enemy contacts, a marked increase from the ~~preceeding~~ Acheron Class. Crew and technical data garnered from the radar systems onboard the lead ship HMS Orion during its initial combat trials allowed researchers at FROSTON Industries and VAE Shipyards to perfect system and software integration for their upcoming Future Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser project.	+	Froston Industries' CRYSTAL system saw its first deployment on the Orions, with two arrays being mounted on the sides of the superstructure aft of the main bridge. While it does not provide full coverage of the combat area, the two arrays combined with secondary SIMPSON radar and illuminators enable long-range tracking of up to 16 enemy contacts, a marked increase from the preceding Acheron Class. Crew and technical data garnered from the radar systems onboard the lead ship HMS Orion during its initial combat trials allowed researchers at FROSTON Industries and VAE Shipyards to perfect system and software integration for their upcoming Future Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser project.

−	One of the most obvious changes made from VSD's ~~intial~~ proposal is the marked increase in maximum speed. While the original design was projected to reach a maximum speed of 20 knots using traditional ~~disel~~-electric propulsion, the IRN demanded the ship be capable of reaching 30 knots in order to keep up with Imperial Carrier fleets. To ~~accomodate~~ for this demand, VAE Shipyards replaced their traditional propulsion-power system with Froston Industries' Electric Propulsion Motor Mk3 and a M1800 Gas Turbine generator. Although slightly more costly than their traditional counterparts, it was discovered in HMS Orion's maiden voyage that the new systems were far more efficient and reliable in long-term operations, prompting the IRN to investigate the ~~possibitilies~~ of refitting major combatants to utilise the new technology.[[File:Screenshot222.png\|left\|thumb\|HMS ''Orion'' conducting a routine operation off the coast of Westray.]]	+	One of the most obvious changes made from VSD's initial proposal is the marked increase in maximum speed. While the original design was projected to reach a maximum speed of 20 knots using traditional diesel-electric propulsion, the IRN demanded the ship be capable of reaching 30 knots in order to keep up with Imperial Carrier fleets. To accommodate for this demand, VAE Shipyards replaced their traditional propulsion-power system with Froston Industries' Electric Propulsion Motor Mk3 and a M1800 Gas Turbine generator. Although slightly more costly than their traditional counterparts, it was discovered in HMS Orion's maiden voyage that the new systems were far more efficient and reliable in long-term operations, prompting the IRN to investigate the possibilities of refitting major combatants to utilise the new technology.[[File:Screenshot222.png\|left\|thumb\|HMS ''Orion'' conducting a routine operation off the coast of Westray.]]

−	The frigate also boasts an impressive arsenal for its size with 48 VLS cells fore of the bridge, one 57mm naval gun, one SeaRAM launcher, two Phalanx CIWS systems and two 4 cell AshM launchers located amidships. In its standard escort configuration the VLS cells are designed to ~~accomodate~~ ESSM medium range interceptor missiles but they are also able to be outfitted with RIM-66 long-range interceptors or a limited range of cruise missiles to supplement the 8 AshMs stored in box launchers.	+	The frigate also boasts an impressive arsenal for its size with 48 VLS cells fore of the bridge, one 57mm naval gun, one SeaRAM launcher, two Phalanx CIWS systems and two 4 cell AshM launchers located amidships. In its standard escort configuration the VLS cells are designed to accommodate ESSM medium range interceptor missiles but they are also able to be outfitted with RIM-66 long-range interceptors or a limited range of cruise missiles to supplement the 8 AshMs stored in box launchers.

−	Another noteworthy feature of the Orion-class is the large mission bay located amidships. Despite the frigate's small size, the mission bay is able to ~~accomodate~~ up to two [[K-53B II]] VTOL Fighters or ASW Helicopters as well as two [[BIMO]] (Boat, Inflatable, Multi-service Operational) high-~~manouverability~~ boats, giving the Orion its characteristic mission flexibility.	+	Another noteworthy feature of the Orion-class is the large mission bay located amidships. Despite the frigate's small size, the mission bay is able to accommodate up to two [[K-53B II]] VTOL Fighters or ASW Helicopters as well as two [[BIMO]] (Boat, Inflatable, Multi-service Operational) high-maneuverability boats, giving the Orion its characteristic mission flexibility.

	==Contract Award and Foreign Sales==		==Contract Award and Foreign Sales==
−	In November 2186, VAE Shipyards was awarded with a 1.5M Kredit contract by the IRN to produce 5 frigates with an option for 15 additional frigates after the ~~intial~~ delivery. However, following the ship's stellar performance during its maiden voyage and combat trials that far exceeded application, the order was expanded to 5+20, all expected to be delivered by the end of 2201.	+	In November 2186, VAE Shipyards was awarded with a 1.5M Kredit contract by the IRN to produce 5 frigates with an option for 15 additional frigates after the initial delivery. However, following the ship's stellar performance during its maiden voyage and combat trials that far exceeded application, the order was expanded to 5+20, all expected to be delivered by the end of 2201.

	Both the [[Confederate Coast Guard]] and Navy expressed interest in the frigate even during its design phase at VSD. The frigate's cost-effectiveness combined with its large mission bay made it a strong contender for the two service's future combatant program, and by 2187, contracts for 10 frigates from the Coast Guard and 8 for the Navy were awarded to VAE Shipyards. All 18 frigates were delivered and are in active service under the two services.		Both the [[Confederate Coast Guard]] and Navy expressed interest in the frigate even during its design phase at VSD. The frigate's cost-effectiveness combined with its large mission bay made it a strong contender for the two service's future combatant program, and by 2187, contracts for 10 frigates from the Coast Guard and 8 for the Navy were awarded to VAE Shipyards. All 18 frigates were delivered and are in active service under the two services.

Saturn at 13:12, 3 June 2024

2024-06-03T13:12:32Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:12, 3 June 2024
Line 30:		Line 30:
	\|Aircraft Carried=Up to x2 K-53B II VTOL Fighters <br/> x2 ASW Helicopters}}The '''Orion-Class Frigate''' is a class of guided-missile frigates currently in service in the [[Imperial Union]] and [[Zokesia]], fulfilling its role as an affordable modern escort/patrol Frigate.		\|Aircraft Carried=Up to x2 K-53B II VTOL Fighters <br/> x2 ASW Helicopters}}The '''Orion-Class Frigate''' is a class of guided-missile frigates currently in service in the [[Imperial Union]] and [[Zokesia]], fulfilling its role as an affordable modern escort/patrol Frigate.
	== Development==		== Development==
−	The Orion-Class Frigate began development in 2185 under [[VAE system]]'s subsidiary [[VSD]] to meet the [[IRN]]'s new requirements for a next-generation escort/patrol frigate that could incorporate newly introduced technology at a lower cost than its traditional counterparts. In consideration of the newly deployed [[Huntsman-class Destroyer]] and the planned requirements of the [[Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser]], the VSD's proposal revolved around the [[FROSTON Industries]]' new CRYSTAL (Combat Radar Yellow, Search and Track Array Luminator) system in order to provide basic-level fleet air protection at a low cost. Due to weak competition from other designers or lack thereof, the proposal was approved by the Imperial Navy Design Committre in 2186, and an initial order of 5 frigates was placed to be delivered by the end of the following year.	+	The Orion-Class Frigate began development in 2185 under [[VAE system]]'s subsidiary [[VSD]] to meet the [[IRN]]'s new requirements for a next-generation escort/patrol frigate that could incorporate newly introduced technology at a lower cost than its traditional counterparts. In consideration of the newly deployed [[Huntsman-class Destroyer]] and the planned requirements of the [[Klaes-Haydn Class Cruiser\|Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser]], the VSD's proposal revolved around the [[FROSTON Industries]]' new CRYSTAL (Combat Radar Yellow, Search and Track Array Luminator) system in order to provide basic-level fleet air protection at a low cost. Due to weak competition from other designers or lack thereof, the proposal was approved by the Imperial Navy Design Committre in 2186, and an initial order of 5 frigates was placed to be delivered by the end of the following year.
	==Design and Armament==		==Design and Armament==
	[[File:Screenshot237.png\|left\|thumb\|Reinforced keel of HMS Vega]][[File:Screenshot219.png\|left\|thumb\|298x298px\|Lead ship HMS ''Orion'' under-going sea trials, 2189]]As a next-generation surface combatant geared for escort and patrol duties, the Orion-class incorporated a wide range of new Imperial technology that pioneered their use on other vessels through out the Imperial Armed Forces. One noteworthy example is the inclusion of a reinforced keel for greater ASW effectives and survivability in case of a torpedo hit to the keel. While traditional keels would succumb to even indirect detonation, the newly introduced reinforcements will allow current and future Orion frigates to be combat-effective even after a direct torpedo hit.		[[File:Screenshot237.png\|left\|thumb\|Reinforced keel of HMS Vega]][[File:Screenshot219.png\|left\|thumb\|298x298px\|Lead ship HMS ''Orion'' under-going sea trials, 2189]]As a next-generation surface combatant geared for escort and patrol duties, the Orion-class incorporated a wide range of new Imperial technology that pioneered their use on other vessels through out the Imperial Armed Forces. One noteworthy example is the inclusion of a reinforced keel for greater ASW effectives and survivability in case of a torpedo hit to the keel. While traditional keels would succumb to even indirect detonation, the newly introduced reinforcements will allow current and future Orion frigates to be combat-effective even after a direct torpedo hit.

Zekes at 22:11, 2 June 2024

2024-06-02T22:11:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:11, 3 June 2024
Line 11:		Line 11:
	\|cost=		\|cost=
	\|built=23, 20 on order		\|built=23, 20 on order
−	\|serv_start=~~2168~~\|serv_end=ongoing	+	\|serv_start=2188\|serv_end=ongoing
	\|operators=[[Zokesia]]<br/>[[Confederate Coast Guard]]<br/>[[Confederate Navy]]<br/>[[Imperial Union]]		\|operators=[[Zokesia]]<br/>[[Confederate Coast Guard]]<br/>[[Confederate Navy]]<br/>[[Imperial Union]]
	{{Craft/Naval Vessel		{{Craft/Naval Vessel
Line 30:		Line 30:
	\|Aircraft Carried=Up to x2 K-53B II VTOL Fighters <br/> x2 ASW Helicopters}}The '''Orion-Class Frigate''' is a class of guided-missile frigates currently in service in the [[Imperial Union]] and [[Zokesia]], fulfilling its role as an affordable modern escort/patrol Frigate.		\|Aircraft Carried=Up to x2 K-53B II VTOL Fighters <br/> x2 ASW Helicopters}}The '''Orion-Class Frigate''' is a class of guided-missile frigates currently in service in the [[Imperial Union]] and [[Zokesia]], fulfilling its role as an affordable modern escort/patrol Frigate.
	== Development==		== Development==
−	The Orion-Class Frigate began development in ~~2165~~ under [[VAE system]]'s subsidiary [[VSD]] to meet the [[IRN]]'s new requirements for a next-generation escort/patrol frigate that could incorporate newly introduced technology at a lower cost than its traditional counterparts. In consideration of the newly deployed [[Huntsman-class Destroyer]] and the planned requirements of the [[Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser]], the VSD's proposal revolved around the [[FROSTON Industries]]' new CRYSTAL (Combat Radar Yellow, Search and Track Array Luminator) system in order to provide basic-level fleet air protection at a low cost. Due to weak competition from other designers or lack thereof, the proposal was approved by the Imperial Navy Design Committre in ~~2196~~, and an initial order of 5 frigates was placed to be delivered by the end of the following year.	+	The Orion-Class Frigate began development in 2185 under [[VAE system]]'s subsidiary [[VSD]] to meet the [[IRN]]'s new requirements for a next-generation escort/patrol frigate that could incorporate newly introduced technology at a lower cost than its traditional counterparts. In consideration of the newly deployed [[Huntsman-class Destroyer]] and the planned requirements of the [[Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser]], the VSD's proposal revolved around the [[FROSTON Industries]]' new CRYSTAL (Combat Radar Yellow, Search and Track Array Luminator) system in order to provide basic-level fleet air protection at a low cost. Due to weak competition from other designers or lack thereof, the proposal was approved by the Imperial Navy Design Committre in 2186, and an initial order of 5 frigates was placed to be delivered by the end of the following year.
	==Design and Armament==		==Design and Armament==
−	[[File:Screenshot237.png\|left\|thumb\|Reinforced keel of HMS Vega]][[File:Screenshot219.png\|left\|thumb\|298x298px\|Lead ship HMS ''Orion'' under-going sea trials, ~~2169~~]]As a next-generation surface combatant geared for escort and patrol duties, the Orion-class incorporated a wide range of new Imperial technology that pioneered their use on other vessels through out the Imperial Armed Forces. One noteworthy example is the inclusion of a reinforced keel for greater ASW effectives and survivability in case of a torpedo hit to the keel. While traditional keels would succumb to even indirect detonation, the newly introduced reinforcements will allow current and future Orion frigates to be combat-effective even after a direct torpedo hit.	+	[[File:Screenshot237.png\|left\|thumb\|Reinforced keel of HMS Vega]][[File:Screenshot219.png\|left\|thumb\|298x298px\|Lead ship HMS ''Orion'' under-going sea trials, 2189]]As a next-generation surface combatant geared for escort and patrol duties, the Orion-class incorporated a wide range of new Imperial technology that pioneered their use on other vessels through out the Imperial Armed Forces. One noteworthy example is the inclusion of a reinforced keel for greater ASW effectives and survivability in case of a torpedo hit to the keel. While traditional keels would succumb to even indirect detonation, the newly introduced reinforcements will allow current and future Orion frigates to be combat-effective even after a direct torpedo hit.

	Froston Industries' CRYSTAL system saw its first deployment on the Orions, with two arrays being mounted on the sides of the superstructure aft of the main bridge. While it does not provide full coverage of the combat area, the two arrays combined with secondary SIMPSON radar and illuminators enable long-range tracking of up to 16 enemy contacts, a marked increase from the preceeding Acheron Class. Crew and technical data garnered from the radar systems onboard the lead ship HMS Orion during its initial combat trials allowed researchers at FROSTON Industries and VAE Shipyards to perfect system and software integration for their upcoming Future Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser project.		Froston Industries' CRYSTAL system saw its first deployment on the Orions, with two arrays being mounted on the sides of the superstructure aft of the main bridge. While it does not provide full coverage of the combat area, the two arrays combined with secondary SIMPSON radar and illuminators enable long-range tracking of up to 16 enemy contacts, a marked increase from the preceeding Acheron Class. Crew and technical data garnered from the radar systems onboard the lead ship HMS Orion during its initial combat trials allowed researchers at FROSTON Industries and VAE Shipyards to perfect system and software integration for their upcoming Future Air Warfare Destroyer/Cruiser project.
Line 43:		Line 43:

	==Contract Award and Foreign Sales==		==Contract Award and Foreign Sales==
−	In November ~~2166~~, VAE Shipyards was awarded with a 1.5M Kredit contract by the IRN to produce 5 frigates with an option for 15 additional frigates after the intial delivery. However, following the ship's stellar performance during its maiden voyage and combat trials that far exceeded application, the order was expanded to 5+20, all expected to be delivered by the end of 2201.	+	In November 2186, VAE Shipyards was awarded with a 1.5M Kredit contract by the IRN to produce 5 frigates with an option for 15 additional frigates after the intial delivery. However, following the ship's stellar performance during its maiden voyage and combat trials that far exceeded application, the order was expanded to 5+20, all expected to be delivered by the end of 2201.

−	Both the [[Confederate Coast Guard]] and Navy expressed interest in the frigate even during its design phase at VSD. The frigate's cost-effectiveness combined with its large mission bay made it a strong contender for the two service's future combatant program, and by ~~2167~~, contracts for 10 frigates from the Coast Guard and 8 for the Navy were awarded to VAE Shipyards. All 18 frigates were delivered and are in active service under the two services.	+	Both the [[Confederate Coast Guard]] and Navy expressed interest in the frigate even during its design phase at VSD. The frigate's cost-effectiveness combined with its large mission bay made it a strong contender for the two service's future combatant program, and by 2187, contracts for 10 frigates from the Coast Guard and 8 for the Navy were awarded to VAE Shipyards. All 18 frigates were delivered and are in active service under the two services.

	==Service History==		==Service History==