The two destroyers zigzag and manoeuvre, constantly trying to obtain the range and outmanoeuvre one another instead of fighting like miniature battleships. Speed, turning room, firing arcs, and torpedo timing matter greatly in this kind of engagement. One simulated ship's battleship-like behaviour provides a visible contrast with the rapid positional contest. The sequence shows how quickly a close destroyer action can become tactically unstable.
Notable Point · 2:39:38-2:40:01
Destroyer combat as manoeuvre and range-finding
A destroyer fight is presented as a fast, dangerous contest to manoeuvre, find the range, and create a weapon opportunity.