Q&A ยท 2:39:28-2:39:46

Six-inch guns would not automatically make Bristol a cruiser

A larger gun battery does not by itself establish a reason to reclassify a destroyer.

Question

Would fitting Bristol-class destroyers with six-inch turrets turn them into cruisers?

Short answer

They would probably remain destroyers with six-inch guns. The conversion first needs an operational purpose.

Notes

The first issue is why the conversion is wanted. Six-inch guns alone do not explain a change in the ship's intended role. The proposed vessel would probably remain a destroyer with larger guns.