The participants attribute part of Ukraine's Black Sea success to Russian neglect of the explosive-small-craft threat. Western target boats of comparable size are cited as evidence that other navies had already trained for such attacks. Earlier concern about Iranian craft in the Strait of Hormuz provides the background for comparing 40 mm, 57 mm and 76 mm guns. Type 31's gun outfit is offered as an attractive defensive arrangement because it can deliver substantial fire against small surface targets.
Notable Point · 56:13-58:32
Small-craft threats had already shaped naval gun development
Present USV threats are connected to earlier small-craft defence work and the Type 31 gun fit.