Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:18:31-1:20:05

Refitting Monmouth-class armored cruisers in 1912

A cruiser-refit answer separates missions the Monmouth class could still perform from the heavy-gun fight that exposed its weakness at Coronel.

Armoured CruisersBattle Of CoronelMonmouth Class CruisersNaval GunneryRoyal Navy
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

How could the Monmouth class be refitted in 1912 to remain useful in modern war?

Short answer

Their 6-inch armament might be replaced or reorganized for more useful range, while their speed and numerous guns still suited anti-torpedo-boat and fleet-screening work.

Notes

The ships retained useful speed, flexibility, and a large battery for screening a fleet against torpedo craft. A refit could investigate replacing or rearranging their turrets for a more effective gun, especially to gain range against cruisers. Their usefulness would still depend on the mission: they could protect a fleet but lacked the heavy firepower needed when used as at Coronel.