Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:01:42-2:02:15

Renown's modernization might not save Force Z

Renown's stronger anti-aircraft battery improves her chances, but Repulse's historical maneuvering was already exceptional and the strategic loss would be greater.

BattlecruisersForce ZHMS RenownHMS RepulseNaval Anti Aircraft Warfare
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Question

Could modernized Renown have survived if she replaced Repulse in Force Z?

Short answer

Possibly, because of her better anti-aircraft fit, but Repulse already maneuvered superbly and Renown would be the more valuable ship to lose.

Notes

Renown would bring a better anti-aircraft fit than Repulse. Repulse handled the actual attack extremely well, manoeuvring with remarkable effectiveness before cumulative strikes overwhelmed her. Modernization does not guarantee that Renown escapes the same tactical problem. Her loss would also hurt Britain more because the navy would sacrifice a more comprehensively modernized capital ship.