The maxim that naval strategy is build strategy applies equally to convoy operations. Commanders may devise many ideal schemes, but only plans based on ships already available have an immediate chance of working. The same limit applies to merchant shipping as to warships, because cargo capacity, speed, and defensive suitability cannot be improvised instantly. This makes peacetime construction and fleet composition part of wartime convoy readiness.
Notable Point · 14:09-14:39
Convoy plans must follow the ships already available
Hear why convoy strategy begins with the merchantmen and escorts that exist when war starts, not an ideal fleet drawn on paper.