Why HMS Hood remained a battlecruiser

Hood retained her eight 15-inch guns while successive refits substantially changed her secondary and anti-aircraft batteries. By 1939 her fit included twin 4-inch anti-aircraft guns, octuple 2-pounders, heavy machine guns, and 20-barrel anti-aircraft rocket launchers, while her torpedo armament had also changed. Her great size, heavy weapons, and additional protection can make the fast-battleship label seem attractive when judged from specifications alone. Intended employment provides the stronger distinction: Hood was meant to hunt weaker ships and operate across the world's sea lanes. A battleship was built to accept battle, absorb punishment, and continue fighting even when withdrawal was impossible.