A destroyer must attack for the fleet and defend it, while a fleet torpedo boat concentrates on torpedo attack and uses its guns mainly for its own protection. German torpedo boats were shaped for maneuvering at high speed. Low-speed handling remained difficult even in calm seas, and in a moderate sea problems persisted at about 15 to 20 knots. That behavior suited a fast attack run better than escort duty. Protecting a more valuable ship required reliable maneuvering at cruising speed across a much wider range of sea states.
Notable Point · 8:47-11:51
Fleet torpedo boats versus escort work
Torpedo boats optimized for fast attacks struggled to maneuver at the cruising speeds required for fleet escort.