What was a key provision of the Anglo-German Naval Agreement signed in July 1935?

The key provision of the Anglo-German Naval Agreement that was signed in July 1935 was that Germany's navy could comprise 35% of Britain's fleet. This agreement represented a significant moment in interwar relations, as it allowed Germany to rebuild its naval strength, which had been severely restricted by the Treaty of Versailles after World War I. By permitting Germany to have a navy that could be up to 35% of the Royal Navy, Britain effectively recognized Germany as a legitimate maritime power once again.

The agreement also reflected Britain's desire to contain the naval ambitions of other nations while maintaining a balance of power in Europe. It can be seen as part of Britain's broader strategy of appeasement, where they aimed to settle grievances and limit conflict through compromise. The acceptance of a defined percentage allowed for some level of rearmament without leading to an immediate arms race at sea, although it set the stage for future tensions as Germany continued to expand its military capabilities beyond the agreed terms.