The initial force is built around third rates, with a division of fifth rates and a few sixth rates. After that selection turns out to be the opposing fleet, the British lineup is assembled with a second rate, several third rates, a fourth rate, and fifth rates. The contrasting selections make the rating system a practical guide to fighting weight and expected employment. They also show how a fleet combines line-of-battle strength with lighter supporting ships, although the custom battle uses more ships than a realistic exercise would.
Chapter · 2:19-2:49
Building an Age-of-Sail battle fleet
The custom battle pairs an opposing fleet built around third rates with a British mix of second, third, fourth, and fifth rates, illustrating how ratings shape fleet composition.