Third class cruisers were generally similar to second class cruisers but were much smaller with the largest only reaching 3,000 tons. They too had protection focused primarily on key components, but their size meant they lacked the fuel for long-distance operations and generally operated in home waters or from garrisons overseas. Of course they were often less armed than their first and second class brothers. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay In addition to the traditional roles of protecting trade routes, racing warfare, and reconnaissance, there were a number of third-rate cruisers that had more specialized roles. These included ships such as the Archer class which displaced just over 1,000 tons and was intended to protect the main fleet from the emerging threat posed by other torpedo boats, a role that would eventually give way to the first destroyers during the First World War. .“Another common role for third-rate cruisers was that of flotilla leader for small destroyer formations. "The vessel would carry the destroyer flotilla commander (Captain "D") and his small crew who would direct and coordinate the small force's operations which would often be convoy escorts or reinforcing a blocking line for the enemy or enemies in the First World War.” “Ships such as the Archer class, intended to protect the main fleet from the emerging threat posed by torpedo boats, a role that would eventually give way to the first destroyers.” Before the First World War steam torpedo boats were larger and more heavily built armed with those used so far. The new internal combustion engine generated much more power for the same weight and size than steam engines and allowed the development of a new class of small and fast boats officers of the destroyer force at Harwich suggested that small motor boats carrying a torpedo might be able to travel over protective minefields and attack Imperial German Navy ships at anchor in their bases. In 1915, the Admiralty produced a Staff Requirement requesting designs for a coastal powerboat for service in the North Sea. Today's torpedoes can be divided into light and heavy classes; and in straight, autonomous and wire-guided homers. They can be launched from a variety of platforms. Torpedoes were used extensively during World War I, both against ships and submarines. Germany severed supply lines to Britain largely through the use of submarine torpedoes (although submarines also used firearms extensively). “In 1917 they were conducting experiments with pure oxygen instead of compressed air. Due to the explosions they abandoned the experiments but resumed them in 1926 and by 1933 they had a working torpedo. They also used conventional wet heater torpedoes. In conclusion, Robert Fulton was responsible for several turning points in history. His torpedo, submarine, and steam-powered battleship were turning points that changed warfare forever. Fulton intended to end wars with his weapons of mass destruction. Instead, they made strong navies even more important. * Robert Fulton died in 1815 on February 25th. He is always remembered and appreciated for his inventions of the steamboat and submarines. Robert”.