Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:22:22-2:23:23

A focused Hood modernization could prepare a Far East flagship

A proposed six- or seven-month refit could prepare Hood for a Far East flagship role once KGVs cover her European duties.

BattlecruisersForce ZHMS HoodMarine EngineeringWarship Modernisation
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Why expect Hood to finish modernization in time to lead Force Z?

Short answer

Earlier KGV availability frees her for a priority refit, tentatively placed between January and July or August 1941.

Notes

Earlier KGV availability frees Hood from the Denmark Strait commitment in this scenario. A refit beginning around January 1941 and finishing in July or August would allow six or seven months of modernization. That is a proposed schedule for a limited refit, with the Scottish yard still uncertain. Hood would receive priority because sending her east as flagship would make a strong statement of Britain's commitment to the Far East.