Who might use a hypothetical 17-inch treaty limit?

Which navy would pursue a 17-inch gun under the larger treaty limit?

France is suggested, or would at least investigate it, because French designers were already considering that calibre.

A treaty allowing 17-inch guns would leave Britain deciding whether the small increase over an established 16.5-inch weapon justified another development program. France is suggested as the navy more likely to pursue the larger calibre. The reason offered is that French designers were already considering a 17-inch gun historically. Building such a ship remains a prediction within the altered treaty scenario.