Bayern

In 1910, it became apparent that the caliber of guns on upcoming battleships of Great Britain, the U.S., and other countries would exceed 305 mm. In view of this, Germany started developing a potential counter to these ships. After a period of study and discussion, a design for a ship armed with eight 380 mm guns in four turrets was approved. The lead ship of the series, SMS Bayern, engaged in patrolling and raiding activities during World War I; however, her only combat mission was Operation Albion, which aimed at occupying the Moonsund Archipelago, then under the control of the Russian Army and fleet.