Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 12:52-13:44

Fisher in the 1930s: bigger guns and naval air power

A hypothetical Fisher return changes the expected battleship armament and gives carriers and Fleet Air Arm control a stronger advocate.

14-inch GunsAlternate HistoryFleet Air ArmJohn FisherNaval AviationRoyal Navy
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Question

What might change if Jackie Fisher took over the Royal Navy in the 1930s?

Short answer

The proposed navy would abandon 14-inch-gunned King George Vs and press harder for carriers and control of the Fleet Air Arm.

Notes

A Royal Navy led by Fisher in the 1930s would take a different course in capital ships and aviation. The proposed counterfactual rules out a King George V design armed with 14-inch guns. Fisher's enthusiasm for aircraft would also encourage carrier development. Control of the Fleet Air Arm would become a forceful institutional priority.