One proposed explanation for unusually elaborate French battleship designs is that their appearance helped project technological strength while the fleet caught up. Babylon 5 supplies a fictional analogy: less advanced powers make ships look sophisticated to deter conflict while rebuilding. The comparison is an interpretation of visual signaling, not proof of the designers' intentions. It leads into a comparison with the more standardized outward appearance of contemporary destroyers.
Notable Point · 24:29-25:38
Could unusual French battleships project technological strength?
A speculative comparison with Babylon 5 links unusual battleship appearance to deterrence and perceived technical status.