The counterfactual exercise explains British capital-ship design practice. A pair built for one scarce role has to be treated differently from a standardized class of five or six ships. The larger class can accept less individual protection in exchange for common speed, wider availability, and greater loss tolerance. The size of the order therefore changes the design requirement before engineers begin choosing armour, machinery, or layout.
Chapter · 40:16-41:03
Why a two-ship pair produces a different design
Nelson and Rodney's unusual priorities suit a unique two-ship capability. A standardized class of five or six would begin from different requirements.