TzoliNot long after the previous proposal in July, was a New Scheme A was prepared, and which was the most radical modernization so far. It included the complete reconstruction of the tower bridge structure similar to that of the Queen Elizabeths, (I presume Warspite which was used as a prototype bridge for the KGV class) new hanger and 100ft cross deck catapult in place of the boat stowage. The changed bridge structure also meant the replacement of the forward mast with a light tripod or simple polemast.
As in the other rebuilt ships, replacing the existing machinery with modern ones would not only add more power but reduce size and weight as well. The expected increase was to 70.000shp, for a speed of 25.5knots at 36.000tons. Funnel too would had to be risen by 10ft or 3meters.
Armour wise not just the belt armour might be extended forward to improve trim of the ships but the internal belt was expected to be replaced by an external one. The thickness would not change but the inclination would be removed as the new external belt was to be a vertical one.
Armament wise the most notable change are the inclusion of the 5,25" QF Mk I guns in twin turrets 6 aft (3 per side) near the catapult and 2 forward just ahead of the first or A triple 16" turret and behind the forwardmost breakwater. This would not only provide 8 gun broadside of heavy AA firepower but also 4 direct ahead fire capability with the increased pro of a single director could control these two turrets. It is accepted that the first turret fire arc was to be restricted in and elevation of 9° and over 15° either side. This was considered acceptable because it corresponded to a range of 15.000 yards or 13.700meters. Alternatively these turrets could be depressed in the hull to reduce these firi9ng restrictions. While the forward 5.25" magazines were outside the citadel they deemed acceptable because they were now below the extended armoured deck.
The design had the following characteristics:
Dimensions: 201,2 (pp) x 214,4m (wl) x 216,4 (oa) 32.3 x 10,2 meters
Displacement: 35.000tons (standard)
Engines: 70.000shp Steam Turbines engines, 2 shafts
Speed: 47km/h (25,5knots)
Range: 10.200km (6.500nm)
Armour: 356mm Belt over Magazines, 330mm over Machinery, 159mm Deck over Magazines, 95mm over Machinery, 108mm Slopes
Armaments:
3x3 16"/45 (406mm/45) BL Mark I Cannons,
8x2 5,25"/50 (133mm/50) QF Mk I Guns,
6x8 40mm/39 QF Mk VIII AA Guns
4x4 12,7mm/62 MG Mk III AA Guns
3 Supermarine Walrus Floatplanes
Sensors:
2x Type 79 Air-Search Radars
2024-12-16 18:35:14 +0000