The settlement established equal totals rather than a ratio, so there was no lower ratio to revise. Its 52,700-ton figure is presented as an arbitrary minimum with too little room for replacement construction. A ceiling set at the bare minimum can leave a navy feeling unable to renew its force even when every signatory is formally equal. That sense of weakness may prompt angry or poorly considered reactions. A 60,000-ton allowance adds only 7,300 tons and would not transform the balance, but it could give procurement a modest margin. The proposal aims to make the limit politically and operationally sustainable rather than maximize submarine numbers.
Notable Point · 26:59-28:04
A 60,000-ton submarine compromise
Raising the submarine allowance from 52,700 to 60,000 tons is offered as a modest cushion that could reduce insecurity and permit fleet renewal.