The destroyers were capable ships for their period, yet repeated changes of boilers and engines burdened the force supporting them. Great powers needed to project strength, and a strong image required practical capability behind it. Specialists examining the machinery would recognize the inconsistent choices as a logistics weakness. People judging by outward appearance were more likely to notice ship numbers, guns, and torpedoes. Different engines therefore brought little benefit to that public image while exposing weakness to informed observers.
Notable Point · 36:03-37:43
Machinery variety weakened Russia's deterrent image
Distinctive machinery offered little public prestige while making Russia's support problems conspicuous to naval specialists.