Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:11:05-1:11:47

Could Russian first rates defeat the Royal Navy?

British numerical strength could outweigh the size of individual Russian first rates in a hypothetical fleet action.

First RatesImperial Russian NavyRoyal NavyThird Rates
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Question

Could a Russian fleet of first rates defeat the Royal Navy?

Short answer

The hypothetical British response is to concentrate more ships, placing four third rates against each first rate and drawing on further squadrons.

Notes

In this hypothetical comparison, the Royal Navy could concentrate four third rates against each Russian first rate. The larger individual ship would then face several opponents. Further British squadrons would provide additional strength. The example concerns fleet numbers and concentration, without describing an actual Anglo-Russian battle.