Q&A · 4:02:07-4:03:00

Why Blucher would fare poorly against Harwood at the River Plate

Modern fire control does not cure Blucher's limited gun elevation, leaving Harwood's cruisers able to damage and eventually torpedo her from advantageous ranges.

Question

What happens if Harwood meets SMS Blucher with 1930s fire control at the River Plate instead of Graf Spee?

Short answer

Blucher's limited gun elevation lets Harwood fight from beyond her effective reach, damage her heavily, and finish with torpedoes.

Notes

Blucher carried heavier armor and armament than Admiral Graf Spee, so at first glance she looks like a more dangerous opponent for Harwood's squadron. Her main battery's limited elevation is the decisive weakness even if she receives 1930s fire control. Exeter, Ajax, and Achilles could exploit range with six- and eight-inch fire while Blucher struggled to reply effectively. The likely result is a burning battlecruiser finished by torpedoes rather than an easier German victory.