Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 59:39-1:00:35

A modernised R class as a Far East deterrent

Modernising R-class battleships would improve their survivability and flexibility, even if they remained second-line ships.

BattleshipsFar EastRoyal NavyWorld War II
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Question

What difference would a modernisation make to the R class in the Second World War?

Short answer

They would be more survivable and flexible, potentially contributing more to Far East deterrence and escort work.

Notes

A Royal Sovereign-style modernization would markedly improve the R class without turning the ships into ideal front-line units. They would remain hard second-line battleships rather than ships to send against the most capable enemy capital units. Better protection and machinery would make deployments more flexible. Britain could use them more actively for convoy cover and base some in the Indian Ocean or Far East as part of a broader deterrent presence.