Turning the bow into the fighting position

A hypothetical N3 redesign with an F-style battery, labelled O3, would put all nine 18-inch guns in a position to fire forward. It could then face an opponent with a narrow aspect while the opponent turned broadside to use its full battery. Such a layout could reduce the usual disadvantage of having its T crossed. A narrow end-on target would also complicate visual range estimation. The advantage is most natural in an independent chase or hunting role, while a conventional battle line is more likely to fight broadside.