Britain and its rivals had different reasons to value comparable ships. A British three-decker could reinforce or replace heavy fleet strength in an emergency and fire down into an enemy already worn by earlier battles. Other navies needed enough firepower to overcome Royal Navy advantages in sea time and training. That need could outweigh the better sailing qualities of a longer two-decker. The same broad ship category therefore answered a different strategic problem for each navy.
Notable Point · 22:12-23:52
Three-decker firepower against stronger opponents
Britain held second rates as reserve heavy ships, while rival navies could use comparable firepower to offset Royal Navy advantages in sea time and training.