Q&A · 2:01:53-2:02:40

Why dividing the High Seas Fleet would be a diplomatic nightmare

A postwar division of intact German warships would sharpen Allied competition over modern capital ships and cruisers.

Question

How might the High Seas Fleet have been divided among the victors if Germany had not scuttled it?

Short answer

The division would have produced intense bargaining: Britain would seek modern ships, France would demand useful squadrons, Italy would seek parity, and the United States would compete for valuable technology and hulls.

Notes

Britain would seek the newest ships while resisting transfers that strengthened other fleets, especially the United States. France would want cruisers and complete battle squadrons to offset shipbuilding limitations, while Italy would demand parity with France; the resulting competition could also undermine British support for the Washington Naval Treaty.