Italy's rapid naval build-up outpaced integration

Italy invested heavily in naval power to reinforce national unity and protect a strategically exposed peninsula. The new Regia Marina combined older vessels from the Sardinian and Neapolitan fleets with armoured ships entering a single national service. Much of the new fleet came from foreign yards, including construction in Britain and the United States, while Austria had built its own ships. British banks and intermediaries also arranged loans for some American purchases. Rapid procurement produced impressive hull numbers before Italy's industry, crews, and doctrine had time to mature together.