The 1708 Cruisers and Convoys Act assigns the Royal Navy a regular obligation to defend trade instead of relying on privateers alone. Existing frigates emphasized speed, scouting, and interdiction, but convoy duty demanded numerous ships sturdy and well armed enough to defeat the more typical privateer. An 18-gun vessel could handle raiders carrying roughly ten guns, though larger privateers existed. Once trade protection becomes a continuing mission in peace as well as war, governments must also create the infrastructure and funding that support a modern standing navy.
Chapter · 29:07-30:57
The 1708 Cruisers and Convoys Act reshapes fleet design
The 1708 Act assigns trade protection to the Royal Navy, encourages suitable escort construction, and makes permanent funding part of modern naval development.