When would giving Britain modern night vision produce the greatest historical change?
Short answerGiving it in 1914 could transform the night action at Jutland by preventing the German fleet from escaping unseen.
NotesGiving Britain modern night vision in 1914 would affect fighting throughout the First World War. The advantage would be smaller in earlier wars fought largely with close-range weapons, although archers could still benefit. Night vision also restricts the user's field of view, creating problems for cavalry and other troops that might overlook nearby hazards. At Jutland, British forces could see German ships that historically escaped observation in darkness. The scenario therefore makes the battle's night phase a major opportunity to retain contact with the German fleet.