Q&A · 2:53:02-2:54:15

Britain learns the Yamato and A-150 plans

An intelligence counterfactual makes mobilization speed more important than an ideal paper design.

Question

What would Britain build if it learned the true Yamato and A-150 plans in 1938?

Short answer

Britain would accelerate Lion-class battleships and carriers already in production rather than wait for a wholly new answer, likely putting major yards onto round-the-clock work.

Notes

The fastest credible response is to complete ships whose designs, guns, and yards already exist. The Admiralty could use the Japanese plans to secure three-shift working for capital ships and carriers before war begins, bringing more hulls into service sooner.