The Russian attack on British fishing boats raises the possibility of Anglo-Russian war. Rapid diplomacy averts escalation, while allowing the fleet to continue towards Japan is interpreted as a way to expose it to greater logistical strain. Britain's worldwide coaling, supply, and repair network gives it extensive experience of the difficulties of moving fleets over long distances. Denying Russian access to British facilities and coal makes the voyage harder. British assistance with coal for the later American Great White Fleet illustrates how diplomatic relationships govern access to that network.
Notable Point · 29:05-31:03
The fishing-boat crisis and Russia's long supply route
The Russian attack on British fishing boats illustrates how diplomacy, coaling access, and the condition of a distant fleet affect strategic choices.