American and British torpedo bombers served different doctrines

American doctrine expected fighters, dive bombers, and torpedo bombers to attack as one coordinated daylight package. The TBD was therefore judged as one part of a massed air group, with fighter cover protecting its exposed torpedo run. British requirements emphasized long-range night attack, which made the Swordfish's extra range more valuable than raw speed. Its wooden torpedo fins and tension-wire release system also encouraged an airframe designed around reliable water entry. The two aircraft consequently answered different tactical requirements, so a table of speed and range alone cannot show which navy had the more suitable torpedo bomber.