Scaling HMS Mersey into Warrior

Isaac Watts reduced design risk by enlarging a hull form he already understood rather than inventing every element at once. HMS Mersey supplied the basic lineage, while tested armor, engines, and structural techniques were combined in a much larger ship. Warrior displaced 9,284 tons at full load, developed more than 5,000 indicated horsepower, reached 14 knots, and retained a 40-gun layout. She was built by Thames Ironworks, while sister HMS Black Prince went to Robert Napier in Glasgow. Britain could support this approach with experienced designers, dependable yards, and immense stocks of seasoned timber.