With original planned design features similar to the Nelson's, the N3 class ships would have been considerably larger in all aspects, with thicker armour and nine 18 inch guns, all mounted forward in three triple turrets. They would have topped 50,000 tons displacement and been amongst the most powerful warships afloat, representing the height of the dreadnought concept within the Royal Navy. Although names were never officially given, they have since been linked to the four patron saints of the UK.