Which type of destroyer typically carries Tomahawk missiles?

The Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is designed to fulfill a wide range of missions, including anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, as well as strike missions. One of its key capabilities is its ability to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles, which are primarily used for land-attack missions. This class of destroyer is equipped with Vertical Launch Systems (VLS), allowing it to carry and fire Tomahawk missiles effectively.

The Zumwalt-class destroyer, while advanced and carrying various weapon systems, is more focused on land attack and is tailored for other specific missions. The Type 42 destroyer is an older British design that predates the Tomahawk and is not typically associated with this missile system. Coastal defense destroyers are designed for operations close to shore and do not typically carry Tomahawk missiles, focusing instead on other capabilities suitable for protection and shallow waters.

Thus, the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer's integration of Tomahawk missiles represents its versatility and capability in modern naval warfare.