Modern naval ships no longer have guns mounted inside the hull, like the cannons on pirate ships or older warships, due to several key design considerations that prioritize performance, safety, and operational efficiency. While cost plays a role, the primary reasons are more related to advances in naval technology, weaponry, and ship design.
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Size and Weight of Modern Guns: Modern naval guns are much larger and more powerful than those used on older ships. For example, the 5-inch or 127mm guns commonly used on modern destroyers and cruisers are not only larger but also heavier, requiring substantial support structures to withstand the forces generated during firing. Placing these guns inside the hull would significantly reduce the available space for other critical components, such as ammunition storage, crew areas, or advanced systems like radar and electronics.
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Firing Angles and Range: Modern naval combat relies on long-range engagements, and guns are designed to be mounted above deck for maximum elevation and firing angles. Placing guns on the upper decks allows them to fire at greater distances and engage targets more effectively. The fixed positions inside the hull of older ships would have severely restricted the angle at which the guns could fire, limiting their range and flexibility.
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Access to Ammunition: On modern ships, guns are loaded from below deck, where large magazines store the shells. Having the guns mounted on the upper deck allows for more efficient transfer of ammunition from the storage area to the gun positions through automated systems. This layout is crucial for ensuring rapid firing rates, especially in combat situations.
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Protection from Enemy Fire: Mounting guns on the upper deck also makes them easier to defend from enemy fire. On older ships, having guns inside the hull would have made them harder to protect, particularly if the ship sustained damage. The exposed positions on modern ships, though vulnerable, are optimized for combat and damage control strategies.
In conclusion, the absence of guns inside the hull on modern warships is largely a result of technological advancements in weaponry, the need for greater firing flexibility, and considerations for operational efficiency. While cost may be a factor, design and functionality are the driving forces behind the choice to place guns above the deck.