One counterfactual questions whether Russia should have attempted every early dreadnought at home while its industrial base remained weak. Fewer first-generation ships would be bought from Britain, the United States, or Italy, with Russian constructors sent abroad to learn from their construction. The remaining capital would strengthen domestic yards and the factories producing shells, turrets, and army equipment. National construction would begin after that supporting capacity existed. Foreign dependence still carried risk, especially when orders were placed in the yards of a potential enemy.
Notable Point · 58:48-1:00:15
A buy, learn, and build strategy for Russian dreadnoughts
One counterfactual buys an initial generation abroad while Russian constructors learn overseas and domestic money builds the yards, shell plants, and turret works needed for later ships.