The County design addressed features Britain disliked in the Hawkins class. Without the treaty ceiling, Britain could develop an enlarged continuation of the E-class light cruisers with twin six-inch turrets. A second, larger type might carry 9.2-inch guns. Both types could be built together. American cruiser construction would still depend on Congress and could remain close to the historical Omaha programme.
Notable Point · 50:43-51:35
British six-inch and 9.2-inch cruiser possibilities
Without the treaty ceiling, Britain could combine an enlarged light cruiser with a larger, more heavily armed type.