If a German sortie and its ensuing battle were settled around May 1941, the scenario envisages a substantial Anglo-French carrier and fast-capital-ship force in the Far East by November. The possible pool comprises Richelieu, Dunkerque, Strasbourg, Hood, Renown, Repulse, King George V, Prince of Wales, and Duke of York. This is a pool of ships to choose from, with Richelieu's readiness uncertain. Losses against German capital ships would reduce availability, and some ships would still have to cover Tirpitz. Exceptionally effective carrier torpedo hits might disable German manoeuvring enough to limit Allied losses, although such a favourable outcome is considered unlikely. Queen Elizabeth, Valiant, and Warspite could provide a slower second echelon if freed from Mediterranean duties and spared Italian attacks at Alexandria. Nelson or Rodney are also suggested as possible additions.
Notable Point · 1:11:55-1:14:30
Which capital ships could reinforce the Far East in late 1941?
A hypothetical pool of nine fast capital ships gives the Allies more Far East options, subject to battle losses, ship readiness, and the need to contain Tirpitz.