Q&A ยท 1:24:09-1:26:02

Dutch Lion-class battlecruisers in the Far East

Modernized Dutch Lions could bring 14-inch guns, improved machinery, flag facilities, and radar-directed anti-aircraft fire to Force Z or ABDA.

Question

What would the careers and modernization of two Dutch Lion-class battlecruisers look like?

Short answer

They would likely gain 14-inch guns, stronger machinery, modern anti-aircraft control, and serve as Far Eastern flagships with Force Z or ABDA.

Notes

The Dutch would likely replace the 13.5-inch battery with 14-inch guns and fit more powerful machinery to preserve speed. Because the ships would spend much of their careers in the East Indies, they could be present when the Pacific war began. Their size would support an admiral, staff, communications, and a genuine flagship function within Force Z or ABDA. Dutch fire-control development might also give them radar-directed anti-aircraft guns, creating a much harder problem for attacking torpedo bombers.