Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:56:46-1:59:23

Testing a 6:6:4:2:2 capital-ship ratio

An alternative treaty ratio is tested against fleet security, existing British ships, and a possible 39,000- or 40,000-ton design ceiling.

French NavyImperial Japanese NavyNaval TreatiesRegia MarinaRoyal NavyUS Navy
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Could a 6:6:4:2:2 treaty ratio with eighteen capital ships and a 39,000-ton limit have worked?

Short answer

Possibly, but acceptance would depend on US security concerns and French and Italian resistance to their reduced shares.

Notes

The ratio could be written, but France and Italy would lose relative standing and the United States might still doubt that eighteen ships provided enough security. Britain could retain its fifteen-inch fleet and build three new ships, with a 39,000-ton limit likely rounded to 40,000 for ease of negotiation and design.