Germany turns to diesel-turbine hybrid capital ships

Prince Henry and officers such as Holtzendorff might reconsider the German battlecruiser path once British turbine supply becomes uncertain. A four-shaft hybrid could use diesel engines on the outer shafts for economical cruising and turbines for the extra power needed in battle. Diesel fuel offers range and makes use of a propulsion technology Germany can expand domestically, although suitable fuel and machinery would still require investment. The concept gives Germany a plausible qualitative distinction, while Britain's armament output remains far larger.