A design dispute began with the First Sea Lord's objection that a larger destroyer would require too many sailors. Henderson answered that extra internal space made machinery easier to reach and maintain. Better access reduced the manpower needed for upkeep, allowing the larger ship to operate with a smaller complement than the J class. Displacement and crew size therefore depended on maintainability as well as hull dimensions.
Notable Point · 15:13-16:30
Henderson's shipyard knowledge and maintainable warship design
Henderson answered objections to a larger destroyer by showing how accessible machinery could reduce maintenance work and crew requirements.