Q&A · 2:32:46-2:33:10

Why new merchant-style hulls beat old cruiser conversions

Rebuilding old C-class cruisers into tenders would cost more and impose more compromises than constructing simple new hulls for the role.

Cruisers Naval Procurement Seaplane Tenders Warship Conversion

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Question

Could surplus C-class cruiser hulls have been converted into seaplane tenders?

Short answer

A new hull would be easier and cheaper than the extensive conversion of an old cruiser.

Notes

Surplus C-class cruisers offered existing hulls, but their conversion into seaplane tenders would require extensive rebuilding. That work is judged more expensive than constructing a new hull. A new ship could be made to suit the tender role from the outset.