What changes if King George V replaces Prince of Wales at Denmark Strait?
Short answerBismarck faces a reliable, worked-up flagship and sustained 14-inch fire, possibly from King George V and Prince of Wales together.
NotesKing George V would arrive with a fully worked-up crew and machinery rather than Prince of Wales's commissioning problems. As a flagship carrying a more senior admiral, her presence could also change which second capital ship joined the interception. A pairing with Prince of Wales is plausible, producing two 14-inch batteries. King George V could sustain the engagement long enough for the newer ship to resolve temporary faults, making Bismarck's escape much less likely.