One faction advocated a traditional surface battle fleet, while a second believed a fleet composed of aircraft carriers, torpedo boats, and submarines would be ideal.

The original rationale behind their design was that they were intended to operate as adjuncts to the main battle fleet.

When more ships became available, it could become the nucleus of a full-sized battle fleet.

They realise they are outside of the galaxy, and part of an intergalactic battle fleet.

They argued that a dedicated battle fleet would allow for faster reaction.