 The design for these ships was actually ready in 1905 or 1906. Two variants were offered — a 10-gun version on 20,500 long tons (20,829 t) and a 12-gun alternative on 24,000 long tons (24,385 t). The larger ship was rejected as too expensive for the firepower it offered, even after its displacement was reduced to 22,000 long tons (22,353 t) tons. Also, because C & R was required to consider private designs, construction on the Delawares did not commence until 1907. None of the private designs was considered remotely satisfactory by the Navy. However, Fore River later developed its version into the battleship Rivadavia, which was built for the Argentine navy. While the C & R design was considered superior, it still came under criticism, particularly for the poor placement of and lack of protection for the secondary armament.
