Italy versus France in the 1930s

Which navy would win without outside help, Italy or France?

Italy has the early-1930s edge, while the late-1930s balance is much closer and may turn on command quality.

The naval balance changed during the decade, so a single ranking would mislead. Italy appears stronger in the early 1930s. Once the Dunkerque class enters service, France closes much of the material gap. By the late 1930s the contest looks close enough that command quality and operational performance could decide which fleet prevailed.