By April 1940 the alternate Kriegsmarine could field three 11-inch ships, two 15-inch ships, and a carrier, all capable of about 31 knots. That strength would prevent Britain from dispersing ships casually and could make the fight for Norway even more strategically important. Yet the new German ships and air group would be barely worked up, German torpedo failures may persist, and the destroyer force could still be consumed around Narvik. British carrier pairs, fast capital ships, reliable Swordfish, and night-fighting doctrine give the Royal Navy the stronger chance in a sustained action, although losses and damage are likely on both sides.
Chapter · 1:45:36-2:16:16
Norway becomes a carrier-and-battleship fleet action
Five fast capital ships and a carrier turn the Norwegian campaign into a probable fleet battle, but German torpedoes, escorts, and work-up standards remain weak points.