In 1906, heavier-than-air aviation was still new, and aerial reconnaissance was the immediate threat to a fleet. Zeppelins created a problem because they could observe ships from above. One proposed response was to engage a distant airship with battleship guns despite a mounting elevation of only about 15 degrees. A hit by a 12-inch or 13.5-inch shell would be destructive, but getting a hit was a separate problem. The guns' rate of fire and their useful reach against an elevated target restricted this approach. Smaller guns with more energy and longer barrels offered another way to obtain the height needed for air defence.
Chapter · 9:24-12:39
Could battleship guns defend against Zeppelins in 1906?
Early air defence considered firing battleship guns at distant Zeppelins, then confronted limited elevation, slow fire and the need to reach high targets.