France: fast capital ships, carriers, and Mediterranean deterrence

The projected Alsace class offers a fast-battleship force, potentially armed with twelve 15-inch guns in French quadruple turrets and capable of 32 knots. Entry into service around 1944 is considered plausible in this scenario. The 15-inch option offers a practical route because France already has the gun and experience with divided quadruple turrets, whereas a 16-inch weapon demands more development. French construction would probably concentrate on capital ships, carriers, large destroyers, and submarines instead of a large new heavy-cruiser programme. German carrier construction and the removal of cumulative treaty limits would encourage France to add at least a third Joffre-class carrier to the first pair, drawing Italy into a Mediterranean carrier race. French access to British and American industrial networks strengthens its ability to keep pace with Italy. A fast task force could also support British operations against surface raiders and help protect French imperial interests.