Nelson's arrangement recalls HMS Warrior. The central battery concentrates broadside fire while retaining guns that can fire forward and aft. Stability and effective movement at sea were central requirements because an overseas ship faced rough conditions far more often than battle. This daily demand for resilience explains why the design could not devote every available space to guns.
Chapter · 7:22-9:14
A central-battery cruiser built for combat and the open sea
Nelson's central battery offered broadside and end-on fire, while the hull emphasized stability and the resilience needed for years of overseas service.