The proposal connects naval construction with an interpretation of the Empire's transition to the Commonwealth as a long-term plan. Sloops offer a manageable starting point for patrol, escort, and training, while Hawkins-class cruisers could train personnel in forces that lacked cruisers. Australia and India could acquire or build sloops as their maritime industries developed. Sending sloops for repair at Freetown and ports elsewhere in Africa or the Caribbean would also encourage local facilities. Those facilities would then be available to support naval operations.
Notable Point · 18:29-21:43
Sloops and cruisers as foundations for Commonwealth navies
Distributing and locally building sloops could help emerging Dominion and colonial navies develop crews, yards, and maritime institutions alongside political transition.