Plan Z had not prepared the Kriegsmarine for war in 1939, but Hitler still expected its incomplete surface force to produce decisive offensive effects. His rules of engagement treated losses and damage to cruisers and capital ships as unacceptable. Destroying convoys and disrupting North Atlantic trade nevertheless required exposing ships and crews to combat. Unexpected damage and chance hits could affect either side, even when a plan appeared sound. Raeder had to find commanders willing to work within these incompatible demands, which helps explain Kummetz's appointment.
Chapter · 32:31-36:20
Hitler demanded offensive results without accepting combat risk
German surface commanders were ordered to destroy convoys while avoiding loss or even serious damage to the ships needed to do it.