The Yamato programme absorbs enough capacity to curtail Japan's cruiser programme and other major construction, even while destroyer building continues. Further giant battleships could therefore leave the fleet's overall composition little changed despite several extra years of peace. Shinano might remain a battleship, while the fourth hull, numbered 111, is another project laid down in 1940. Japanese yards can build ships of this size, but doing so restricts what else they can produce. The eventual balance depends on which naval leaders retain influence and whether they keep favouring giant battleships. Japan has enough industrial flexibility to redirect construction toward carriers, destroyers, cruisers, or submarines if it changes that priority.
Notable Point · 30:43-34:49
Shinano as a battleship and Japan's construction choices
Shinano could remain a battleship in an extended peace, while further giant ships would restrict Japan's other major building programmes.