Salamis combined a German-built hull with American 14-inch guns because the German industry did not yet offer the required weapon. Yarrow boilers were selected, with AEG turbines chosen after a planned deal for Parsons turbines could not be arranged. The proposed secondary weapons include 6-inch and 3-inch guns, but their suppliers are identified only tentatively. Drachinifel recommends paying a premium for one exceptionally capable ship when a small navy cannot compete in numbers, forcing a larger opponent to commit several ships against it. Georgios Averof provides the practical comparison: modern equipment and good maintenance helped an armoured cruiser defeat an Ottoman force with heavier ships. Salamis's 14-inch guns promised a range and penetration advantage over the Ottoman ship that became Agincourt. Its belt also offered a plausible defence against Agincourt's 12-inch fire at suitable ranges.
Chapter · 2:03:14-2:09:42
Salamis combined a German hull with foreign naval technology
The Greek dreadnought combined a German hull, American 14-inch guns and Yarrow boilers, while the choice of turbines depended on the suppliers the yard could secure.