Q&A ยท 52:01-52:35

When a treaty-era cruiser would replace the battlecruiser Australia

Australia would probably remain until a new 20,000-ton, 12-inch cruiser could take her place.

Question

How long would Australia remain after the Washington Naval Treaty if 20,000-ton, 12-inch cruisers were allowed?

Short answer

She would probably serve until one of the new cruisers was ready to replace her.

Notes

In a fleet already building 20,000-ton cruisers with 12-inch guns, Australia would no longer fill a distinct role. She would probably remain until one of those ships could replace her. Her Indefatigable-class design would count for less once a newer cruiser offered comparable firepower. Retirement would follow replacement availability instead of an immediate Washington-era disposal.