One, two, three, and four-hull fleets provide different levels of practical availability. Two ships are more than a prestige one-off, yet refit cycles or accidents can still reduce them to a single usable hull. Three usually preserve the capability, while four provide the stronger basis for guaranteeing one ship at sea. Small classes therefore become strategically precious, and nominal fleet size can overstate the presence actually available.
Chapter · 23:56-26:50
Why two ships are not a dependable capability
A two-ship class can test a design, but maintenance or damage quickly leaves only one hull available.