Barrow-in-Furness, United Kingdom
November 10, 1937
Winston Churchill took a puff from his cigar as he watched the ship take shape.
In spite of the 1935 treaty, the Kriegsmarine had been engaging in an alarming buildup. Of particular concern was the two aircraft carriers. Although the German government swore that they were adhering to the 35,000-ton limit imposed by the treaty, Churchill was sure that they were being economical with the truth, to say the least.
The Admiralty had apparently shared Churchill's concerns, for they had ordered two modified Illustrious-class carriers, one of which was being laid down in Barrow-in-Furness right now. These ships had a second hangar deck for extra aircraft capacity. Churchill knew, however, that a higher capacity meant nothing if the planes couldn't stand up to the latest fighter aircraft. While the Royal Air Force was introducing new and advanced designs, the Royal Navy was stuck with aircraft that would not look out of place in the Great War. Therefore, Churchill had advocated for bringing the Fleet Air Arm back under the control of the Admiralty so that they could develop more modern designs.
Churchill turned his attention back to the keel in the yard. He didn't know why, but he was sure that ship was destined for greatness.
