The Portuguese were one of the first European powers to use heavy cannons on their naval ships. In the 15th century, the Portuguese began to equip their ships with large wrought-iron guns that could fire stone balls weighing up to 200 pounds. These guns were mounted on the forecastle and the stern of the ship, and they could be used to devastating effect against enemy ships. The Portuguese also developed a new type of ship, the carrack, which was larger and more heavily armed than previous Portuguese ships. The carrack was ideal for long-distance voyages, and it helped the Portuguese to establish a global empire. By the 16th century, the Portuguese were the leading naval power in the world, and their heavy cannons played a major role in their success.