The strength of the Italian navy according to the Dutch newspaper Nieuwe Tilburgsche Courant dated 24 February 1902

Regina Elenea-class

According to the journalist of this Dutch newspaper was the Italian navy the weakest of the major European navies. Although France tried to persuade Italy in many ways to join her in case a war broke out between France and England he thought that this was of not much military value. The Italian navy was in in 1902 hardly increased in strength. This was caused by the annual complaint of lacking finances. Of the 12 battleships nowadays in service were just two modern ships while the 10 others were of hardly any military value and in fact nothing worth during a sea battle. Despite this all things were changing. According to the recently announced naval program were in the years 1903-1904 7 battleships of which 6 of the Vittorio Emanuel-class to be completed of nearly completed.(1)

Note

1. The Regina Elena-class consisting of the Regina Elena, Vittorio Emanuele,Roma and Napoli, preceded by the Regina Margeherita-class and succeeded by the Dante Alighieri, built between 1901-1908 and in ser veice between 1907-2927. Displacement 14.029 tons and as dimensions 144,6 x 22,4 x 8,58 metres or 474 x 73 x 28.1 feet. Speed 22 knots. Main armament 2x1-30,5cm//12" cal 40 guns and 6x2-20,3cm/8" 45 cal guns.