PBA Target,
I tend to agree. Admiral said similar in his interview. A ship can only be in one place at a time. I believe we need more smaller "general purpose" ships able to carry out a number of roles rather than anti air or anti sub. However, what the hell do I know about it. I am sure there are many in Pprune land more able to comment on this.
Anyway, must say that when visiting sons various on their assorted bit of the Grey Funnel Line, I have been impressed with what they have and how they employ it. Stuff might be old, but it looks good at 30 odd knots off "Guzz" (as I understand it is called)
Widger,
Poor old Nelson was dead in Oct 1805, which was before Wellington set foot in Portugal. While I take your point that the RN kept the sea lanes open for supply and reinforcements, Wellington didn't get much help from Horatio in beating the French in the Peninsula, or at Waterloo 10 years later.