A coastal-defence ship could support a fortress while leaving an attacker uncertain about its position. Gorgon's large torpedo bulges offer a specific counterfactual at Narvik: given the performance of German torpedoes, there was a good chance it could absorb hits and continue firing at the destroyers. Rules of engagement also contributed to the losses of the Norwegian coastal ships that were actually present. Behind Oscarsborg, a mobile heavy-gun ship would force German commanders to divide their attention between the fortress and the vessel. Such ships would probably face heavy air attack, so the proposal also depended on opportunities to upgrade them.
Notable Point · 13:16-15:08
How Gorgon could have complicated the German landings
Gorgon's torpedo protection and mobile heavy guns could have complicated attacks at Narvik or Oscarsborg, although heavy air attack remained a likely threat.