Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:03:46-3:06:37

A 1935 Royal Navy rearmament blueprint

The proposed fleet combines fast 16-inch capital ships, larger carriers, convertible fleet oilers, standardized 4.5-inch weapons, and a Commonwealth-wide sloop program.

Aircraft CarriersCommonwealth NaviesFleet OilersNaval ProcurementRoyal NavySloops
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

What ships would you design as First Sea Lord in 1935?

Short answer

Fast capital ships and larger carriers matter, but oilers, standardized escorts, and a huge Commonwealth sloop program are the foundation of the fleet.

Notes

The proposed 1935 fleet begins with a faster Nelson-style battleship carrying 16-inch guns and carriers built to the largest practical treaty displacement. Fast fleet oilers designed for rapid conversion into escort carriers treat logistics as a combat capability rather than an afterthought. Destroyer and cruiser secondary armament would standardize around 4.5-inch guns, while older C- and D-class cruisers would become anti-aircraft ships with the same weapon. Turbine-powered, ASDIC-equipped sloops across the Royal Navy and Commonwealth navies would provide the mass escort force needed against submarines.