gunport

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

A gunport is an opening through which a gun can be fired. These openings can be found in various structures, including a ship's side, a gun turret, a pillbox, or even an airplane's fuselage or wing.1

Historically, the development of gunports in warships, particularly in English vessels during the early 16th century under Henry VIII, was a significant advancement. Initially placed low in the ship's waist and later along the broadside, these gunports enabled the mounting of heavier artillery, transforming the design of warships and allowing them to become more distinct from merchant vessels.2

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warship
Gun-armed warships
Following him, Henry VIII initiated gunports in English warships, a development that was to have a far-reaching effect on man-of-war design. Neither stability nor structural strength favoured heavy guns in the high castles built upon the deck, so that Henry’s introduction of gunports, at first low in the waist of…
Read More
Following him, Henry VIII initiated gunports in English warships, a development that was to have a far-reaching effect on man-of-war design. Neither stability nor structural strength favoured heavy guns in the high castles built upon the deck, so that Henry’s introduction of gunports, at first low in the waist of…
Read More