Extra time for Plan Z also gives Germany's rivals more time to build. German yards would need substantial investment to expand capital-ship construction, while Britain could continue the Lion line and carrier development. France could strengthen its navy and complete army reforms, including better radio provision. American construction adds another unfavorable comparison for Germany. Soviet cruiser and destroyer expansion is considered more plausible than a large completed battleship fleet by 1950.
Notable Point · 2:24:09-2:27:32
Why a delayed Second World War still hurts Plan Z
Extra construction time benefits Britain and France as well as Germany, leaving Plan Z behind larger Allied programs rather than delivering naval parity.