Civil War USS Roanoke Ironclad

USS Roanoke began as a wooden steam frigate before being converted into an ironclad monitor during the American Civil War. The conversion added an armored deck and three revolving turrets, but the resulting ship was heavily burdened and poorly suited to sea service. Machinery and structural difficulties limited the success of the ambitious rebuilding. Roanoke’s wartime importance is therefore chiefly as an example of rapid naval experimentation, showing the problems that could arise when new turret-and-armor concepts were imposed on an existing hull. Unlike purpose-built monitors, the converted frigate retained the limitations of a hull never designed for such concentrated weight. Its three turrets made an imposing arrangement but did not guarantee an effective fighting ship. Roanoke spent much of its converted career in defensive duties around Hampton Roads.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in the Global War series of games by Historical Board Gaming and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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