Brigantine

We care not for these martial men
That do our states disdain;
But we care for those merchant men
Who do our states maintain.

— Traditional English song, arr Thomas Ravenscroft, Deuteromelia (1609)

In game

Brigantine — Vital statistics
Brigantine	Light ship, slightly weaker than normal war galleys but with a cheap pricetag, added attack and speed. Strong versus light units, fireships Weak versus siege weapons, heavy ships
Prereq:	Build time	HP	LOS	Attack	Attack speed	Movement speed	Upgrade of
LEgalism; Level 4: Chemistry;	10s (150t)	200	12	17	1.6s (25t)	60	War Galley
Cost			Created from	Armour	Weapon range	Specialty
Base	Ramp	Pop
: 30; : 30; : 10	: 1	1		1	0–5	Attack bonus versus Fireships.

Overall strategy

The Caravela Redonda is by far the most influential ship in Naval history. This ship alone resulted in the creation of a long line of new ships that goes as far as the supercarriers of today, and although small, it was yet durable and so capable of sailing across oceans, making the Age of Discovery possible as well.

The caravela is one of two warships which are known for being the fastest and the least complicated to build (the other being the baghlah hrbiya). On its own, the caravel is cheaper than the brigantine, making it a powerful vessel off its own accord. To note, the caravela also has another bonus: it does not require Legalism as does the brigantine, thus making it easier for both Portugal and Spain to experience the Age of Discovery by removing one layer of research required to build it. As with other light ships, however, it is always vulnerable to heavier warships: well-aimed shots by the far-reaching lanternas or the formidable carrack will easy sink a caravela if it strays too close into range.