Amphibious fire support offers a specific role for the disputed game cruiser. Six autoloading eight-inch guns could deliver substantial fire against a defended shore, while lighter anti-aircraft weapons cover nearby amphibious ships. The sustained rate quoted for the gun is twelve rounds per minute, with higher theoretical rates distinguished from practical operation. This role could justify a few specialized ships, although the panel remains doubtful that the design would receive approval. A possible mission leaves the question of whether a navy would fund the vessel unresolved.
Notable Point · 2:26:50-2:29:09
A narrow amphibious role for automatic eight-inch guns
Rapid shore bombardment and protection of amphibious ships offer a limited role for the automatic-gun cruiser, with its funding still in doubt.