If Queen Elizabeth introduced small-tube boilers, the R class would be more likely to adopt them too. A ten-gun R-class option could then lead to Renown and Repulse losing one twin turret for greater speed, producing an imagined eight-gun, 32-knot arrangement. The larger consequence is a British battle line operating at 26-28 knots opposite an American standard fleet of about 21 knots. A five- or seven-knot advantage would give Britain far greater control over range and disengagement. That difference could change the Americans' view of treaty restraint. A later fleet battle and a Washington agreement remain possible in this branch of the scenario.
Notable Point · 2:07:12-2:10:51
Faster R-class ships and eight-gun Renowns
Improved machinery could pass into the R class and leave Renown and Repulse with eight 15-inch guns.