The Colorado choice was defensible because it strengthened an already formidable battle line. The alternative would have kept two Lexingtons as battlecruisers, preserving speed and heavy guns for the scouting force. After modernization, such ships could have accompanied carriers, divided enemy attention, and given commanders confidence during high-risk strikes. Their task against a stronger enemy battleship would be delay rather than victory, buying time for the carrier force to escape. Force H's use of Renown alongside Ark Royal supplies the operational analogy. The point is a different capability mix without treating the Colorado class as a mistake.
Chapter · 1:05:59-1:11:00
The missed Lexington battlecruiser option
Keeping two Lexingtons as battlecruisers could have preserved a fast scouting force and given American carriers heavy escorts for high-risk operations.