The British pursuit squadron combined Africa with a 32-gun frigate, a 36-gun frigate, and two 38-gun frigates. Africa supplied the squadron's ship-of-the-line strength behind those smaller vessels. At least two of the frigates are judged capable of holding their own against Constitution, but Africa is assessed as the principal threat. In the hypothetical direct encounter, Constitution is expected to fare badly against the 64.
Notable Point · 31:58-33:47
Why Africa was the principal threat to Constitution
The pursuit squadron's ship ratings explain Africa's position as its strongest threat in a possible fight with Constitution.