Choosing between flagship space and extra armor

The two twelve-gun Constitution proposals leave the judges with a close choice. Clarke's design has more displacement available for later additions and carries a 14-inch belt and approximately 7-inch deck, compared with Drachinifel's 13.5-inch belt and 6-inch deck. Both include flag facilities, but Drachinifel's are roomier. Constitution's historical presence missions provide the reason for one verdict favoring the extra accommodation. Another interpretation of the Old Ironsides name favors the heavier armor, while Fleet's eight-gun proposal loses ground through its smaller battery and lighter protection.