Proposal for a semi submersible torpedo battleship by W.S. Sims, USN according to the Australian newspaper Lachlander and Condobolin and Western Districts Recorder dated Wednesday 10 January 1917

An item reported that the US Navy captain W.S. Sims handed a proposal for a large semi submersible torpedo battleship to a Naval Affair Committee. She was to be built in the near future with a length of 600 feet, an armament of 16 torpedo tubes and some small guns, a possible displcaement of 20,000 tons and an estimated speed of 30 knots. It was however not a replacement of the common battleships but a supplementary ship. Naval constructors asked to comment his proposal were very cautious. Instead of 20,000 tons and 30 knots they reduced the battleship into a vessel of maximum 3,000 tons and 25 knots. More alike a semi submersible scout/light cruiser.(1)

Note

1. William Sowden Sims (15 October 1858 Port Hope, Canada-28 September 1936 Boston, USA) served in the US Navy between 1880-1922 ending in the rank of admiral.

Source

Trove.nla.gov.au