What happens if Harwood meets SMS Blucher with 1930s fire control at the River Plate instead of Graf Spee?
Short answerBlucher's limited gun elevation lets Harwood fight from beyond her effective reach, damage her heavily, and finish with torpedoes.
NotesBlucher 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.