How did the Arethusa class compare with the Brooklyn and Cleveland classes?
Short answerThey occupied different ends of the cruiser spectrum: Arethusa maximized hull numbers and global utility, while the much larger American ships emphasized Pacific fleet scouting and escort firepower.
NotesThe small Arethusa is closer in scale to an Atlanta than to a Brooklyn or Cleveland. Britain was trying to obtain enough cruisers within a limited cumulative tonnage allowance, while the larger American ships reflected different requirements. A Cleveland carried twice an Arethusa's six-gun main battery on more than twice the displacement, making a comparison between one and two ships relevant. The British cruisers retained torpedoes and equipment for a wider set of duties; the American examples focused on Pacific fleet escort and reconnaissance. Brooklyn also helped prompt Britain to replace the proposed fifth and sixth Arethusas with larger Town-class ships.