This is interesting. Australia is apparently forgoing any customization to its proposed class of 11 "Tier 2" frigates. A truly MOTS purchase. They cite time as the leading factor in this decision, but I believe AUKUS has strained the Australian defence budget to such a high degree that cost is an equally important criteria. Otherwise, why not just expand the Hunter class build. I hope this idea doesn't gain traction here.
The Royal Australian Navy’s two-star capability head has made a robust defence of the ‘shrink-wrapped’ procurement strategy being pursued for the accelerated acquisition of 11 new Tier 2 general purpose frigates.
www.navalnews.com