In response to Triton's Post regarding the Tillman design studies, these were not fictional but part of the capability assessment process. I was using these as an example of how few people understand the capability development process, which Triton appears to be one.
The "Tillman's" were genuine design studies which were to explore the maximum size a battleship could be built that would still be capable of transiting the Panama Canal, Though they were never considered for development into a design that could be built.
Design studies are part of the capability assessment process were the options available are considered before a commitment is made to develop a particular capability, be it a ship, an aircraft, a new structure for infantry regiment or intelligence gathering equipment. Issue such as cost, technical and engineering, manpower, support structures can be assesses including any negative aspects.
Design studies are not fictional if they are created by an organisation (either military or civilian*, that has input into the capability development process such as aircraft company's, ship builders, weapons constructors and military organisations.
(*this process also takes place for televisions, lawnmowers, cars etc).
Fictional designs are those created for other purposes such as entertainment, self gratification or to deceive someone. Eg all the "Super-Yamato" battleship "designs" with 12/15/18 x 20" guns, Spitfires with Napier Sabre or Bristol Hercules engines and the many "own design" WW2 that are probably being created as I write this.Loading...