What happens if both Lord Nelson-class ships arrive at Portsmouth with automated 12-inch and 9.2-inch guns, modern electronics, and new engines?
Short answerThe Royal Navy would probably find uses for them, add missiles such as CAMM, and employ them for fire support and presence.
NotesThe scenario grants both ships new engines, modern electronics, and fully automated 12-inch and 9.2-inch guns before they arrive at Portsmouth. Those capabilities would make the ships attractive to a Royal Navy short of hulls. CAMM missiles would be a proposed addition, with extra sensors needed only if the supplied electronics did not already include them. Suggested duties include fire support, a Gulf presence backing mine-clearance forces, and a conspicuous deployment to the Baltic. Their heavy guns would also prompt debate about reviving large-gunned ships elsewhere.