Fleet composition- another example from the past

Here's a summary of the RN in 1804, with some suggested FT equivalents: 
1st Rates:  100-120 guns, SDN 
10;  3-gundeck ships of the line

2nd Rates:   90- 98 guns, BDN->SDN
21;  typically 98, 3-gundeck ships of the line

3rd Rates:   64- 84 guns,  BC->BB
158(!) typically 74, 2-gundeck ships of the line

4th Rates:   50- 60 guns   BC
27; typically 50, 2-gundeck ships of the line (obsolete)

5th Rates:   32- 46 guns   CE->CA
164; 1-gundeck frigate

6th Rates:   14- 30 guns   DD->CL
192; typically 14-20, 1-gundeck frigates, sloops, brigs.

Unrated:		   SC->FF; Ortillery; Amphib vessels
154;  "Transports, Bomb Vessels, Cutters and other small vessels"

The comparitive lack of "escort" types is notable- no means for little
ships
to thump the big ships at sea.	I think that's quite like the current FT
situation.

The source is an old print, reproduced in "Nelson's Navy"

Rob

"Rob Paul

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