Fisher's layered force structure treated torpedo warfare as support for the fleet. Local flotilla defence, submarines, destroyers, and minefields could make an attack on Britain costly and buy time, while the battle fleet remained free to operate where needed. Surface warships also supplied the visible presence needed for conventional deterrence in a way that an unseen submarine could not reliably reproduce. New systems usually became useful adjuncts within a combined force instead of eliminating the older forces they were supposed to supersede.
Notable Point · 19:41-22:16
Fisher's flotilla defence as a force enabler
Jackie Fisher used destroyers, submarines, and minefields to free the battle fleet for operations elsewhere.