Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:24:43-1:26:54

Alaska versus Scharnhorst: radar and first salvo

In a one-on-one duel, Alaska is favoured because radar-controlled fire might secure damaging early hits before Scharnhorst can exploit its armour.

Alaska Class Large CruisersNaval GunneryRadarScharnhorst Class Battleships
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Question

Who would win between Alaska and Scharnhorst?

Short answer

Alaska is favoured because its radar-directed gunnery could land the first damaging salvos, though Scharnhorst's armour could matter in a longer engagement.

Notes

The Alaskas are classified as very large cruisers rather than battlecruisers, and the comparison turns on detection and fire control. In imperfect visibility, Alaska's radar-directed gunnery could strike exposed directors before Scharnhorst establishes an effective response. Armour still matters in a long fight, but the proposed engagement is decided by who lands the early salvos.