The model represents a Greek bireme from the 6th Century BC. The garrison force consisted of 50 oarsmen, who sat in two rows one above the other (25 on each side), and around 10 soldiers. In the event of a struggle, the oarsmen left the oars and skulls and fought with shields and swords. The protrusion on the forward of the ship was intended to sink enemy ships as the boat strove to crash into the hull of the adversary boat. The ship was handled by two rudders on the stern. Oars were the main method of propulsion, the sail serving only for longer-lasting voyages. During battle the sail, together with the mast, were laid down on the stern and the ship was driven entirely by oars.