Been fiddling with these designs for a while:
During the mid-90's the Navy was looking for a replacement for it's Type 42 (AAW) and Spruance Class (GP) vessels with a single class of ship. The main requirements were very long range and room for future upgrades. Several companies responded to the RFP which didn't state a weapon system and was designed to give maximum capability. Several designs were considered including the Arleigh Burke, Horizon Class and some new designs, all of which said one vessel should replace both types allowing for double the number of ships. The design settled on actually was the only one using the same basic design but modified for use in each role.
The first batch to be built were the AAW batch which consisted of the Sampson and S1850M Radars and the Guardian missiles. This vessel, although capable of carry a large variety of missiles in its A70 VLS only carries MRCAMM (Quad Packed), and Guardian AAW/ABM missiles. It retains a 4.5 inch gun for ASuW/NGS. It was decided during the design phase that these vessels would have a high end sonar fit to allow them to act as ASW search vessels and then bringing outside assets or their helo to "kill" the sub.
The second batch (they were built in alternation so one AAW then one GP and so on) were the GP batch which added Sea Streagle SSM and a wider range of VLS missiles are carried. It's electronics fit is based around an IMast as it wasn't deemed to need a high end electronics suit. This means that it doesn't carry LRSAMs but it is capable of doing such if operating alongside a vessel with a better radar fit.
Still large amounts to do in detailing etc but it would be good to gather opinions first.
Regards
Nick