The historical outcome reflects technological path dependence. By the time the Royal Navy began reconsidering its boiler standard in the mid-1930s, designs, suppliers, training, and construction plans were already committed too deeply for a rapid fleet-wide change. A proven alternative ready in 1934 would arrive before that lock-in became decisive. The counterfactual therefore depends as much on procurement sequence and institutional commitment as on engineering feasibility.
Notable Point · 46:31-47:07
Standardization closed the adoption window
The Royal Navy's long commitment to the three-drum boiler made a rapid mid-1930s change difficult, whereas a proven 850 psi plant available in 1934 could enter service before rearmament accelerated.