Roman hulls were heavier than the lighter Carthaginian ships, which could be quicker and more agile. Heavier construction made Roman ships harder to accelerate and demanded more effort from their rowing crews. The same mass and solidity delivered a more substantial impact when a Roman ram struck an enemy hull. A warship's preferred tactical action determined whether speed, manoeuvrability, toughness, or striking weight mattered most in its design.
Notable Point · 20:27-21:16
Heavier Roman hulls trade speed for impact
Roman ships were heavier and slower to accelerate, but their solid construction suited the violent collision at the heart of ramming warfare.