Two political routes could bypass the historical restriction. Britain could claim that Tiger's conversion was already under way and seek treatment similar to Renown, or it could give up 16-inch ambitions in exchange for standardizing future capital ships on the 15-inch gun. Standardization would simplify fleet logistics while surrendering little practical striking power. Either route depends on securing language in the Washington settlement, since the technical case alone could not override the reconstruction rules.
Chapter · 32:07-34:19
A 15-inch standardization bargain changes the treaty path
Britain could seek either an exemption for work already begun or a treaty bargain that traded 16-inch prestige for 15-inch fleet commonality.