Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:20:38-2:21:43

Numbers did not settle the Adriatic fleet balance

Italy's numerical advantage depends on concentration, while the proposed Ersatz Monarch and Francesco Caracciolo classes change the qualitative balance.

Adriatic SeaAustro-Hungarian NavyCapital ShipsFrancesco Caracciolo Class BattleshipsItalian Navy
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Question

How would the Italian and Austro-Hungarian fleets compare with their proposed new battleships?

Short answer

Italy has more ships if all are available, but the proposed Ersatz Monarchs would be formidable; completed Francesco Caracciolo-class ships would strengthen Italy's position.

Notes

Italy has the numerical advantage in this hypothetical fleet comparison if all its ships are available. Missing units could leave it at a disadvantage against the Austro-Hungarian force. The proposed Ersatz Monarch battleships make that force a serious opponent, while Italy's proposed Francesco Caracciolo class provides a powerful response. The comparison therefore depends on which ships have been completed and concentrated for the action.