Admiral's Flagship, 5th Rate (ETW Unit)

Admiral's Flagship, 5th Rate (ETW Unit)
Class	Admiral
Unit Size
Weaponry	47 Guns
Morale
Melee Attack
Ranged Attack
Defence
Charge Bonus
Accuracy
Range
Ammunition
Region	Worldwide
Recruitment Cost	1570
Upkeep Cost	390
Turns to Build
Unit Limit
Building Requirements
Technology Requirements
Attributes

Flagship frigates are single-deck warships, combining good handling, firepower and endurance at sea.

Overview

These handy frigates are used for pursuit, convoy protection, commerce raiding and reconnaissance work and, when operating as a detached squadron, as a flagship for the admiral in charge. Excellent sailing characteristics, especially in inshore waters, make it a useful addition to any blockading fleet, and perfect for aggressive admirals. Accommodations for the flag officer and his small staff may be a little on the snug side, as these are fighting vessels with little spare room for many creature comforts. This is a footling inconvenience when considered against the chance to carry the fight to the foe! An admiral’s flagship, normally a somewhat staid appointment, is an excellent appointment for men who are hungry for glory – when that flagship is a frigate.

Historically, the term “fifth rate” is a Royal Navy one, and applies to the largest single-deck frigates, mounting some 44 12-pounder guns. However, every navy that used European designs found a use for this class of vessel.

Tactics

These ships make very good flagships for small fleets and squadrons raiding ports and enemy shipping and dealing with pirates. They are highly manoevurable as is any other frigate, and have a decent amount of firepower for their size. They are also widely available in the early game, unlike larger frigates such as the Razee or 24 Pounder Frigates. Despite their better overall stats than normal 5th Rates, they will still struggle against larger early game pirate vessels such as the Galleon, and to a lesser extent the Fluyt. As such, in this situation they should be handled with care, and make the most of their mobility. If the player wishes, the 5th rates can be replaced by Razees or 24 pdr frigates later on in the game, but thouhg they are more powerful, they are also more expensive.