Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 3:43:03-3:46:55

What the extra displacement bought in Lion and Vanguard

Lion's greater size funded 16-inch guns, more power, and heavier protection, while Vanguard used a larger hull for speed and existing turrets.

BattleshipsHMS VanguardKing George V Class Battleships (1939)Lion Class BattleshipsNaval ArchitectureShip Design
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Question

How much larger would King George V need to be to carry 16-inch guns?

Short answer

The Lion comparison suggests roughly 4,650 extra tons, buying larger guns, more power, and heavier protection.

Notes

Moving from King George V to Lion required about 4,650 extra tons. Lion was 12.2 metres longer and only 30 centimetres wider, while gaining nine 16-inch guns, extra shaft horsepower, and heavier belt and turret-face armour. Vanguard was larger still but carried eight 15-inch guns and thinner armour in several areas. The comparison shows how speed, machinery, available weapons, and wartime expediency redirected weight.