In this interpretation, large German torpedo boats were not interchangeable with destroyers. A torpedo boat concentrated on high speed and torpedo attack, while a destroyer was built to fight another small combatant. Different internal subdivision reflected that distinction in purpose. Both could carry powerful weapons without being able to withstand equivalent damage, but the destroyer was expected to survive a glancing hit and continue fighting. Technological change complicates comparisons: a torpedo boat from 1906 or 1907 could outclass a destroyer from the 1890s without sharing its original design priorities.
Notable Point · 54:47-56:55
Construction and survivability separate destroyers from torpedo boats
Destroyers and torpedo boats differed in construction and fighting purpose, while rapid technological change could let a newer torpedo boat outclass an older destroyer.