Hood's public image differed from her usefulness as a command ship. Her size made her an impressive symbol, and the 1924 Empire Cruise established her as the Royal Navy's global poster ship. In the Mediterranean, commanders often preferred Warspite or another vessel as their headquarters. Prestige and naval presence could therefore point to one ship while command requirements favoured another.
Notable Point · 4:26-5:35
Hood's prestige role versus an operational flagship
Hood's global fame and imposing appearance made her the Royal Navy's public symbol, but commanders did not always choose her as their working flagship.