Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:45:17-3:48:26

How a Bofors-armed motor gunboat could dominate Trafalgar

Modern speed, range, tracer ammunition, and rapid fire would let a small motor gunboat disable sailing warships without accepting their preferred engagement range.

Age Of SailAlternate HistoryBattle Of TrafalgarBofors 40 mmMotor Gun Boats
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Could a modern Bofors-armed motor gunboat defeat the Franco-Spanish fleet at Trafalgar?

Short answer

Yes, given unlimited fuel and ammunition, because it could remain outside effective return fire while destroying crews, rigging, and ships with rapid 40 mm fire.

Notes

In this counterfactual, the British fleet at Trafalgar is replaced by a motor gunboat carrying a pair of 40 mm Bofors guns and unlimited fuel and ammunition. The proposed tactic uses the boat's speed to keep its distance and attack the Franco-Spanish fleet repeatedly, including at night. Rapid fire could clear exposed decks and shred masts, while tracer ammunition offers a means of starting fires. The operation would take a long time, and its favorable outcome depends heavily on the stipulated freedom from ammunition and fuel shortages.