German built-up gun construction allowed the Deutschland weapon to be lengthened and strengthened with a modest increase in size and weight. The newer weapon grew by about five tons and 600 millimeters while remaining close to the earlier gun's handling assumptions. Because shell weights remained similar enough for related systems, the improved gun retained a strong rate of fire. For a surface raider and cost-conscious capital ship, available guns, turrets, and production knowledge mattered more than an ideal caliber that would delay the whole program. The choice illustrates how a mature weapon can produce greater wartime value than a theoretically superior armament still years from service.
Chapter · 50:11-53:44
Why the 11-inch gun suited Scharnhorst
An enlarged, available 283 mm gun delivered high rate of fire and useful battleship power without waiting years for new 15-inch weapons and turrets.