Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 43:26-45:30

Fisher made flotilla defence support the battle fleet

A viewer suggests retaining Jeune École for coastal defence; Fisher's model shows the viable distinction between a local flotilla that enables a battle fleet and one expected to replace it.

Coastal DefenceFlotilla DefenceJeune EcoleJohn FisherRoyal Navy
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Question

Could Jeune École still work for coastal defence even if it failed as a complete naval strategy?

Short answer

A flotilla could defend local waters, but Fisher made it an enabling arm that freed the battle fleet rather than a replacement for the battle fleet.

Notes

Jeune École could contribute to coastal defence without serving as a complete naval strategy. Jackie Fisher's use of mines, submarines, and torpedo-boat destroyers provides the comparison. Fisher did not ask those small forces to substitute for battleships. He used them to secure local waters and release the battle fleet for offensive and worldwide commitments.