Turbines could give Edinburgh and Belfast more speed and protection

The Edinburgh subclass might rise from about 82,500 to roughly 120,000 shaft horsepower if eight 15,000-horsepower gas turbines replaced its steam plant. Using only four units at cruising speed could reduce fuel consumption while retaining the full installation for high speed. The estimate puts maximum speed around 35 knots, with machinery savings also available for armour and subdivision. Edinburgh and Belfast would be the most likely Town-class ships to receive the change because they were the largest and latest members. Even with lighter propulsion machinery, quadruple 6-inch turrets are considered unlikely to fit within their tonnage.