British sea power, reach, and logistics

Britain's imperial reach depended on command of sea communications and a navy able to act worldwide. During the Russo-Japanese War, Russian fears of Japanese torpedo boats hiding among freighters contributed to an attack on British fishing boats. Russian planners also feared that Royal Navy squadrons might intervene anywhere along their route to Tsushima. British colliers supporting the American Great White Fleet show how overseas infrastructure could enable another navy's global voyage. That assistance served British diplomacy by helping elevate a manageable partner over less welcome contenders for second place.