Gryphon does not want Hammers or Cyclone Reapers - neither are suited to its other stats or the fact that ECCM exists and should be installed. Luckily, Locusts are a thing and are amazing. Squalls work well until the ammo runs out (because of ECCM), but even with x4 ammo are a bit limited. Same with Hurrican MIRV - effective, but limited even with 4x ammo.
Apogee vs Gryphon for missile support:
The Apogee gives 1 Large missile slot (Locust), a very good defensive shield for tanking, and 1 Large energy for standoff support or medium assault. It will not have extended racks or ECCM in the vast majority of builds: it simply cannot afford those OP if it wants to be good at its other roles. A very good ship to have, but its missile support is significantly lesser to a Gryphon. Its tank + moderate missiles, a totally different role (and if the fleet isn't using lots of missiles in the first place, a better one, and Apogees need less escorts.)
A Gryphon gives a Locust, 2 Harpoon Pods, and 3 sabot racks, with ECCM, EMR, and then an extra reload. Its single heavy needler or HVD gives light anti-shield support. The Locust will last 4 times longer while being more effective. The 96 Harpoons it can carry (with systems) will be effective. 36 sabots means it can actually get attacked from the front several times and either beat back or even kill the enemy.
I'm not saying the Gryphon is a S-tier or anything. It has its problems - low defense chief among them - but if you want missiles, it brings a ton of high performance missiles.