Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 7:11:26-7:13:02

Using restored pre-dreadnoughts in 1939

Restored pre-dreadnoughts could deter raiders, escort convoys, release cruisers from stations, and provide bombardment.

Commerce RaidingConvoy EscortCounterfactual HistoryKing Edward VII Class BattleshipsLord Nelson Class BattleshipsMonitorsPre-Dreadnoughts
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Question

How could the Royal Navy use fully restored King Edward VII- and Lord Nelson-class ships appearing on 2 September 1939?

Short answer

Use them as convoy escorts and overseas station ships, with their heavy guns also suitable for work as bombardment monitors.

Notes

The scenario returns the complete King Edward VII and Lord Nelson classes in working order on 2 September 1939. Their 12-inch and 9.2-inch batteries would make them useful convoy escorts despite their age. A German surface raider might defeat one, but damage sustained in the fight could still make the encounter unattractive. Stationing them around the world could also release cruisers for other duties. Shore bombardment as monitors provides another proposed use for their heavy guns.