Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 45:05-45:54

Why warship launches sometimes failed

Launch accidents could prevent completed hulls from entering service, with an uncertain Napoleonic-era example.

Napoleonic WarsRoyal NavyShip LaunchingShipbuilding
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Question

Which failed ship launches are less well known?

Short answer

An uncertain example concerns two Napoleonic-era Royal Navy frigates damaged in launch accidents; the class is not identified.

Notes

Shipbuilders took time to develop reliable launching methods through experience and study. Failed launches could therefore cost a navy ships before they entered service. One recollection concerns two launch accidents affecting a planned group of Napoleonic-era Royal Navy frigates. The class and exact numbers are not established in this brief answer.