Lion and Princess Royal could make 27.5 knots, while Tiger and the proposed Tiger Cubs could reach 28. That gives the fast battlecruisers enough support to advance without waiting for the slower capital ships. The escort screen would also divide by speed: Southampton's official 25.5 knots would leave her behind, while enough of the Harwich Force could accompany the leading group. The First Light Cruiser Squadron could support the slower battlecruisers as the faster cruisers and destroyers pressed ahead. This arrangement would bring a stronger British force into contact sooner against German ships whose speed was limited by Blücher.
Notable Point · 1:11:44-1:16:24
Fast squadrons need escorts that can keep up
Tiger Cubs let Lion, Princess Royal, and Tiger pursue together, while escort speeds determine which light cruisers and destroyers can accompany them.