ARMED EN FLUTE Meaning and
Definition
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Armed en Flute refers to a distinctive military formation employed by naval vessels during battle and specifically, during the Age of Sail. The term "armed" refers to a ship equipped with cannons, while "en Flute" indicates that the ship is stripped of its armament apart from a few light guns. This formation was often used during times of peace or when the vessel was commissioned for non-combat purposes like transporting troops or supplies.
In the armed en Flute formation, the ship would typically carry a reduced crew, allowing for more space to accommodate extra cargo and personnel. By removing most of the heavy cannons, which significantly reduced the vessel's weight and increased its cargo capacity, naval commanders were able to optimize their ships for an increased transportation capacity, making them ideal for carrying supplies or troops during peacetime.
This strategy was frequently employed by nations that relied heavily on their naval power and needed to swiftly redeploy forces or resources. The armed en Flute formation allowed for the economical transportation of personnel and supplies while maintaining a level of defensive capability through the retention of a small number of light guns.
Overall, armed en Flute can be seen as a tactical naval configuration that facilitated efficiency and flexibility in the movement of goods and troops, highlighting the adaptability of naval vessels during different operational requirements.
