What type of ships are referred to as the Navy's "workhorse"?

The term "workhorse" in the context of naval ships typically refers to destroyers. Destroyers are highly versatile and capable vessels that perform a wide range of missions, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare. They are designed to be fast, agile, and equipped with advanced weaponry and technologies, making them essential for fleet defense and offensive operations.

Destroyers play a crucial role in various naval operations, including escorting aircraft carriers, leading amphibious assaults, and providing surface and air protection to other ships. Their ability to adapt to different roles and missions is what earns them the designation of the Navy's "workhorse."

Frigates, corvettes, and landing ships each have specialized roles in the naval fleet, but they do not match the overall versatility and presence of destroyers in a wide variety of operational scenarios. This divided specialization among the other types of vessels prevents them from being labeled as the primary "workhorse" of the Navy.