Modernizing Nelson and Rodney as missile battleships

What would happen if HMS Nelson and HMS Rodney appeared today in pristine condition with ammunition and replacement barrels?

They would be accepted for extensive modernisation, with new propulsion, sensors, missiles, and aviation facilities. The main debate is whether to retain all nine 16-inch guns or replace one turret with VLS.

Pristine Nelson and Rodney are welcomed as unusually promising candidates for conversion into guided-missile battleships. Removing their six-inch batteries would free barbettes and after spaces for missile cells and helicopter facilities. Replacing the steam machinery with modern propulsion is proposed alongside the rebuild, although recruiting and training crews remains a substantial task. One proposal removes C turret for a large missile battery, while another retains all nine 16-inch guns and uses the vacated secondary-gun positions for smaller VLS groups. A rebuilt after superstructure could put fixed radar arrays above a helicopter hangar, with Sea Ceptor and deck-mounted Mark 41 modules among the suggested additions. The armour belt would remain, while much of the superstructure armour would be removed. Retaining the main battery is favoured for shore bombardment and visible naval presence, with firing arcs and machinery protection requiring attention during the rebuild.