Q&A · 1:40:04-1:43:31

A Washington Treaty that transfers surplus capital ships

An alternate treaty distributes British battleships and battlecruisers among Canada, India, Australia, and New Zealand, with major Second World War consequences.

Question

If the Washington Treaty allowed surplus capital ships to be transferred, which countries might receive them?

Short answer

Britain would likely divide battleships between Canada and India and send surviving battlecruisers to Australia and New Zealand.

Notes

Battleships would most plausibly go to Canada and India, while Australia and New Zealand received fast battlecruisers. A Renown would be easier for a Dominion navy to sustain than a larger Admiral-class ship. Those extra ships could change Atlantic patrols, the Norway campaign, and the escort available to HMS Glorious. The scenario demonstrates how transferred hulls impose personnel and support costs while also creating operational options.