The hypothetical Mediterranean encounter would normally involve balanced task forces. The Austrians would probably try to remain concentrated in a battle line. The British would have an incentive to break the action into a freer engagement, where speed and manoeuvrability could matter more. An Austrian force that remained concentrated would present the harder problem.
Notable Point · 56:31-57:26
British manoeuvre against an Austrian battle line
Breaking up a concentrated Austrian formation would let the British exploit speed and manoeuvrability.