How Britain planned a 22- or 23-ship capital fleet

The Royal Navy expected war around 1942 and used Queen Elizabeth-class reconstructions to preserve numbers until new ships arrived. Its target of about 22 or 23 capital ships would support deterrence or defence in two theatres and active prosecution of a third. Logistics and the threat would determine which theatre received the offensive effort, with forces shifted after each victory. Five King George V-class ships, six Lions, and perhaps two Vanguards would provide thirteen new hulls, while Hood, Renown, Repulse, the five Queen Elizabeths, Royal Oak, and another R-class ship supplied the rest. Later deliveries could replace the oldest ships or temporarily expand the force. Rebuilt shipyard capacity might lift deliveries from two ships at a time to three or four, while experience with 15-inch-gun ships supported a well-kept reserve when regular crews were scarce.