Q&A · 2:14:03-2:14:43

Sweden and Norway's naval balance in 1905

Sweden is favoured in the hypothetical 1905 confrontation, with uncertainty about how much ship design or command would explain the advantage.

Question

Would Sweden have defeated Norway at sea in 1905?

Short answer

Sweden is favoured, but the relative importance of ship design, fighting qualities, and Norwegian command remains uncertain.

Notes

Sweden is favoured in this hypothetical confrontation, although it is unclear how much of the advantage would come from ship design. The Swedish navy's fighting qualities also influence the judgment. Norway's operational personnel receive a favourable assessment based on the 1940 campaign, while its strategic command attracts criticism. Whether those command problems also applied in 1905 remains uncertain.