Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 8:11:55-8:15:47

A diesel-powered Hermione in the Napoleonic Wars

The replica frigate's engine offers an advantage against sailing ships, but fuel supply and capture in port constrain the scenario.

Diesel EnginesHermione FrigateIndustrial RevolutionRoyal NavyShip Propulsion
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Question

What would happen if the diesel-powered replica frigate Hermione appeared during the Napoleonic Wars?

Short answer

She could perform well while fuel lasted, but the Royal Navy would likely try to capture her in port and examine the engine.

Notes

The modern Hermione replica could use her diesel propulsion to move independently of the wind in a Napoleonic-war scenario. That advantage would depend on keeping her supplied with fuel. The Royal Navy is expected to wait until she is in port and try to capture her, making the engine a potential source of technological knowledge. Whale oil, vegetable oil, and powdered coal arise as possible fuels in a discussion of early diesel concepts. A distinction is made between those early engines and a modern diesel, so the suggestions do not establish that Hermione's existing machinery could use every proposed substitute.