The Justinian class is the latest in the long line of Byzantine battleships and a cumulation of the "All-or-Nothing" armor design. The ship has 9 16"/50 guns, unlike the 12 in the Basil II class. The Basil II class, though regarded highly, faced some degree of criticism from many quarters. One criticism heaped, was that the armor of the ship was not sufficiently proof against its own guns, and the ship was too slow. The Justinian class was thus born and the ship was notably faster by 1 knot and long cruising range. Provisions were also made so that the ship could fire heavier shells, though the could in principle fire those as well. Another aspect of the ship was the use of inclined armor to provide her with greater protection against future threats, such as the 18"/45 guns in development