Plan Z embodied competing ambitions in this interpretation. One was a prestigious miniature counterpart to the Royal Navy; the other was a force suited to German requirements. Hitler's attraction to impressive new weapons complicated the political choices facing naval leaders. The counterfactual asks what happens if Raeder and Dönitz commit more fully to the efficient approach associated here with Holtzendorff. Diesel propulsion therefore depends on different strategic and political priorities as well as engineering choices.
Chapter · 21:34-22:57
Plan Z and the political choice behind a diesel fleet
The scenario requires Raeder and Dönitz to favour operational efficiency more consistently when balancing capability against prestige.