A 15-gun Bayern class accelerates the dreadnought race

Why might an alternate Bayern carry fifteen 13.8-inch guns, and how would Britain respond?

The 15-inch gun might not be ready. The heavier broadside could prompt British Admiral-derived fast battleships with triple turrets and twelve or possibly fifteen 15-inch guns.

An unavailable 15-inch gun is the suggested reason for an alternate Bayern carrying fifteen 13.8-inch guns in five triple turrets. Its broadside is judged stronger than eight 15-inch guns. Britain might respond by taking the Admiral design toward a fast battleship with triple turrets. Twelve or even fifteen 15-inch guns and about 28 knots are suggested possibilities. This is a hypothetical arms-race response, with the British design left open.