Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 8:15:03-8:15:17

Could a 15-inch Mark II refit exceed 30 degrees elevation?

A lighter 15-inch/45 weapon would make a higher-elevation turret conversion more practical than retaining the older gun.

15-inch GunsBattleship ModernisationFire ControlGun TurretsNaval ArtilleryRoyal Navy
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Question

If the Royal Navy upgraded its existing 15-inch guns to the Mark II, could turret elevation rise above 30 degrees?

Short answer

The lighter 15-inch/45 gun would make increased elevation easier, but the brief reply does not settle a maximum angle above 30 degrees.

Notes

The proposed lighter 15-inch/45 gun is judged to make an elevation upgrade easier. The reply accepts the prospect of increased elevation when asked about exceeding 30 degrees, then specifically refers to reaching 30 degrees. It supports the general advantage of the lighter gun without fixing a higher maximum angle.