Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 9:37:44-9:38:36

How the Union could build an ocean-going monitor

A deeper four-turret monitor was possible in principle, but it would sacrifice the river access needed by the Union.

American Civil WarLittoral WarfareMonitorsShip DesignUSS Monitor
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Question

How large could the Union have made USS Monitor, and could it build an ocean-going version?

Short answer

A deeper multi-turret ocean-going monitor was technically possible, but it would lose the shallow-water access the Union actually needed.

Notes

An ocean-going Union monitor is considered technically possible, with a larger hull and as many as four turrets. Two could sit in wing positions, with others forward and aft. A deeper hull and a raised bridge over the middle of the ship would support the proposed sea-going arrangement. That greater draft would prevent access to rivers needed for Union operations. A shallow-water combat ship suited the requirement better.