Tactical speed was only part of Germany's problem. Its fleet first had to fight through British control of the North Sea before it could operate globally. A small force that slipped past would then face uncertain resupply, making specialized long-range battlecruisers a poor fit. Fast battleships offered the protection to survive the initial contest and the speed to engage or withdraw. Simplifying early hexagonal turret layouts could also release weight for machinery and fuel without reducing the broadside.
Notable Point · 27:54-30:56
Why Germany needed fast battleships
A fast battleship better suited Germany's geography because its fleet first had to fight through British control before it could operate globally.