Early 16-inch/50 guns could reshape the Washington treaty

What if the United States could build the Colorado class with 16-inch/50 rather than 16-inch/45 guns?

The ships gain a major ballistic advantage, but heavier designs and tougher British and Japanese treaty demands likely follow.

A workable 16-inch/50 in 1916 would give the Colorado class a more conspicuous range and penetration advantage over British 15-inch/42 ships. Its longer barrels, heavier charges, and possible super-heavy shells could drive the treaty displacement limit from 35,000 tons toward 40,000. Britain might demand permission to rearm Queen Elizabeth-class ships and Hood with 15-inch/50 guns or secure a new F3-style capital ship. The American gain would therefore come with stronger British and Japanese demands during the Washington negotiations.