Renown served as Fisher's headquarters and as the social setting through which a peacetime commander represented the fleet. A special Malta refit moved the low main-deck 12-pounders to the superstructure and incorporated Fisher's additional requirements. When Fisher's Mediterranean command ended in 1902, the incoming commander preferred a more traditional battleship and reduced Renown to private-ship status. Flagship selection therefore depended on communications, accommodation, prestige, and a commander's operating preferences as well as armour and gun calibre.
Notable Point · 24:14-25:37
A flagship tailored to Fisher's way of command
A Malta refit adapted Renown to Fisher's practical and social requirements, while his successor's rejection of her reveals competing ideas of a proper flagship.