Speed was a conditional defensive asset rather than a substitute for armour. It could help a commerce raider evade or dictate a fight, but convoy protection removes much of that freedom because the escort must remain with slower ships. The comparison with stealth-dependent aircraft shows how a defence built around one favourable condition can fail abruptly when that condition changes. The First Battle of Sirte, Cape Bon, and the Duisburg convoy fighting are reminders that Mediterranean cruiser actions could develop at punishing ranges. In those conditions, light protection became a much sharper liability.
Notable Point · 12:12-14:59
When speed stops being protection
Speed could let a solitary cruiser choose an engagement, but it was a weaker defence once Duquesne had to protect convoys or fight at close range.