Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 10:46-16:12

Putting the Fifth Battle Squadron in the van

A more integrated Fifth Battle Squadron could have given the German scouting force a much harder fight at Jutland.

Battle Of JutlandBattlecruisersGrand FleetQueen Elizabeth Class Battleships
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

How might Jutland change if Beatty led the Fifth Battle Squadron from a Queen Elizabeth?

Short answer

The German battlecruisers could be badly mauled, and closer integration might improve British coordination, though it changes the command problem too.

Notes

The counterfactual hinges on the Queen Elizabeths' speed and long-range 15-inch guns. Their trained crews and concentrated fire would make an engagement with the German First Scouting Group extremely costly. Putting Beatty's flag in the squadron would also force closer integration with Evan-Thomas instead of treating the battleships as an adjunct. That relationship could improve reporting to Jellicoe, though Jellicoe might worry that Beatty would be reluctant to release such a powerful fast force.