Q&A · 1:07:18-1:07:55

What HMS Victory's broadside could do to a container ship

A modern container ship is not designed for concentrated cannon damage and might survive one broadside at some ranges but probably not repeated hits.

Question

Could a modern container ship withstand a close broadside from HMS Victory?

Short answer

It depends on range, but it might survive the first broadside and would be unlikely to survive the second.

Notes

Range is the first variable because it determines the energy and pattern of the incoming shot. A container ship is large, but its structure is designed for cargo service rather than this form of concentrated violence. The hull might survive the first broadside. It would be unlikely to remain viable after a second comparable strike.