Q&A ยท 1:09:01-1:09:38

Could Baltic operations coexist with bombardment off Belgium?

Fleet size, refit speed and older ships could support separate Baltic and coastal tasks after a decisive British victory.

Question

Could bombardment off Belgium accompany Baltic operations after a decisive British victory at Jutland?

Short answer

Yes, in the counterfactual assessment. Fleet size, quick refits, and the availability of older ships could support both tasks without requiring the 13.5-inch capital ships for coastal bombardment.

Notes

In the decisive-Jutland scenario, Baltic operations would not necessarily prevent bombardment along the Belgian coast. The size of the Grand Fleet and the speed of its historical post-Jutland refits are offered as reasons both tasks could be supported. Additional ships becoming available would widen those options. A later clarification suggests using the pre-dreadnoughts assigned to Channel defence and HMS Dreadnought, without needing the 13.5-inch ships for the coastal task.