Q&A · 3:28:05-3:29:38

What modern design tools might have meant for Fisher

A speculative question considers how Admiral Fisher might have used modern naval design tools to produce faster early dreadnoughts.

Question

What might Jackie Fisher have designed if he had modern naval CAD software and people who could use it?

Short answer

Probably a very fast, powerful dreadnought: a longer, narrower hull could support roughly 24 knots and perhaps heavier 12- or 14-inch armament.

Notes

With modern design software and capable staff, Fisher would very likely pursue fast, powerful dreadnoughts. Once he accepted superfiring arrangements, the tools could help explore a narrower and longer hull within the capabilities of contemporary yards. The improved length-to-beam ratio might raise a dreadnought from about 21 to 24 knots. Depending on the gun and turret choices available, the resulting ship might retain 12-inch weapons or move toward 14-inch guns in twin or triple arrangements.