Completing USS Washington gives the United States another modern 16-inch-gun Colorado-class battleship and answers domestic concern about new British construction. Retiring one or both Florida-class ships offers a practical way to remain near the treaty tonnage ceiling. Five Lexington hulls can then enter service as battlecruisers because their funding and construction have already begun. Their armament might revert to 14-inch guns for better protection, use newly designed 15-inch weapons, or retain 16-inch guns as a specific American concession. Each option preserves the politically decisive battleship ratio while giving the United States a powerful fast scouting force.
Chapter · 57:19-1:03:30
Washington and the Lexingtons in the American compromise
The United States completes USS Washington and five Lexington battlecruisers while negotiating armament compromises that preserve confidence in the battle line.