OVERVIEW: The ROTHESAY class (Type 12M) is a steam-powered guided missile Frigate (FFG) primarily intended for ASW.

DETAILS:    The ROTHESAY class was originally designed as an ASW escort for fleet units.  In the 1960's, the addition of a SEA CAT missile gave it a multi-role capability.

Specifications: 

       Displacement:  2,380 tons (standard);  2,800 (full load)
       Speed: 30 knts
       Engineering: 2 shaft, 2 steam turbines 
       Range: 5,200 nm @ 12 knts
       Complement: 235 
       In Commission: 1960-1988
       Completed: 9 (+5 to New Zealand and South Africa)

NOTES: Units in class: ROTHESAY (F107); YARMOUTH (F101); LONDONDERRY (F108); RHYL (F129); PLYMOUTH (F126); BERWICK (F115); FALMOUTH (F113); LOWESTOFT (F103); BRIGHTON (F106). A successful design, the Type 12M design was subsequently modified to create the LEANDER-class frigate. The ROTHESAY class was also used by the South African and New Zealand navies.  


SOURCES: Moore, John Evelyn. Jane's Fighting Ships 1987-88.  London: Jane's Pub, 1987, pg. 668 ;  "Rothesay-class Frigate." Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Accessed May 18, 2015. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rothesay-class_frigate ; http://www.leander-project.homecall.co.uk/Type%2012m.html.