Q&A · 59:28-1:00:24

A standardized triple 6-inch gun in the Cold War Royal Navy

Continued development of a triple 6-inch mounting could give the Royal Navy unusually powerful naval gunfire support, including during the Falklands War.

Question

What if the Royal Navy retained and modernized a triple 6-inch gun for Cold War surface combatants?

Short answer

It could give Britain one of the world's most powerful naval guns and prove especially useful for Falklands-era surface and shore fire.

Notes

The Royal Navy could standardize and progressively modernize a triple 6-inch mounting instead of abandoning the calibre. Such a weapon would provide heavier surface and shore fire than the 4.5-inch guns carried by later British escorts. The extra firepower could be particularly valuable during the Falklands War. A successful British programme might also encourage other navies to retain or develop comparable medium-calibre weapons.