A 15,000-ton cruiser allowance could produce larger-gun cruisers

What would Britain and the United States do if the Second London Treaty allowed 15,000-ton heavy cruisers?

Britain would likely pursue a 9.2-inch cruiser, while the United States might seek an Alaska-like ship sized to the new allowance.

Britain would likely favour an enlarged cruiser designed around 8-inch-size mountings but capable of more powerful armament. The United States might move toward a smaller Alaska concept while retaining the option to upgun later. Treaty thresholds invite designs built for future escalation.