From:	Paul J. Adam Paul@********.demon.co.uk
Subject:	Submarines (was RE: Shipping (was Re: the value of education))
Date:	Fri, 16 Jul 1999 19:48:03 +0100

In article <Pine.GSO.3.95.990716132948.20719G-100000@*******>, Marc
Renouf <renouf@********.com> writes
>
>
>On Fri, 16 Jul 1999, Paul J. Adam wrote:
>
>> Warships have to operate over a much greater range of speeds and so do
>> not use bulbous bows.
>
> Only partly true. In many cases, there's a bulbous bow and
>its conveniently isolated internal space houses a bitchload of sonar
>equipment.

...which is why USN destroyers and frigates thus equipped have to have
tugs nudge them into port, while other ships less encumbered can come
alongside unassisted :)

I've got a nice picture of the USS WILLIS A LEE in drydock, with her SQS-26
proudly displayed, and that bulge is not the same as a merchantman's
bulbous forefoot.

The merchie's bow extends some way forward below the waterline, rather
like a galley's ram of old: and able to act as such, as the USS RADFORD
recently discovered when she collided with the MV Saudi Riyadh. Although
damage to the RADFORD's forecastle was spectacular and her forward
Mark 45 was crushed and warped, the real damage was done below the
waterline by the Saudi ship's forefoot.

> But yes, for most frigates, pickets, cutters, and coastal vessels,
>the sharp prow is the preferred hull form.
>
>Marc
>
>
>

--
Paul J. Adam