Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:01:05-2:02:49

A gun-based close-defense layout for Queen Elizabeth

Multiple 57 mm and 40 mm mounts could create overlapping defensive arcs around the carrier without introducing flight-deck missile debris.

40 mm Guns57 mm GunsCarrier DefenceClose-In Weapon SystemsQueen Elizabeth Class Aircraft Carriers
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Question

How would you strengthen Queen Elizabeth's close-in defensive armament?

Short answer

Use four 57 mm and four 40 mm guns in paired positions, with possible twin 30 mm additions, to create overlapping all-round coverage.

Notes

The alternative close-defense fit uses four 57 mm guns paired with four 40 mm guns around Queen Elizabeth. Their placement would create overlapping arcs so several weapons could converge on an approaching threat. Additional twin 30 mm mounts could strengthen the innermost layer. This gun-heavy arrangement can defend the ship without scattering vertical-launch debris across the flight deck.