Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:29:08-2:32:11

Britain destroys Russia's Second Pacific Squadron

A British intervention removes Tsushima from the scenario, increases Japan's regard for the alliance, and offers Britain an earlier combat test.

Battle Of TsushimaDogger Bank IncidentImperial Japanese NavyRoyal NavyRusso Japanese WarSecond Pacific Squadron
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

What if Britain destroyed the Russian Second Pacific Squadron after the Dogger Bank incident, leaving no Battle of Tsushima?

Short answer

Little doctrinal change is expected in Japan, with greater appreciation of Britain as an ally and a possible early British investigation of armor and gun-manufacturing weaknesses.

Notes

Japanese naval doctrine is expected to change little if Britain destroys the Second Pacific Squadron after the North Sea incident. Existing fleet plans would appear vindicated, and the value of the British alliance would rise. Russia could then point to direct British intervention as an explanation for defeat. The Royal Navy is expected to use its full available squadron despite jokes about offering a sporting contest. Fighting could expose weaknesses in British armor or gun manufacture early enough for investigation before World War I.