HMS Duke of Kent (BB-1939)

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With the 16" mk1 fitted into the Nelson class having proved a disappointment in service the Royal Navy was left with the dilemma of what type of weapon should arm their next generation of Treaty battleships. With the London Treaty of 1930 failing to curb the Japanese expansion programs and another arms race in view, the British (like the other nations), had to lay down ships or be left behind. The 3 choices for the new ships were, 12x14" in 3 quadruple turrets, 9x15" in three triple turrets or 9x16" again in three triple turrets. New designs for the 14" and 16" would have been required while the navy had the battle proven 15" guns in service. A new modernised version of both gun and turret to improve range to compete with other modern guns was required. The lesser weight could be used to further improve protection.

New Duke of Kent Class:

Planned with twin turrets in the traditional two forward, two aft, layout, they would have matched any of the types competitors. These would have been modern Mk.2 15" guns with the 20x4.5" secondary armament.

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