The class mounted three triple 5.9-inch turrets, but their arrangement clashed with the demands on a light cruiser expected to accompany larger forces into action. Twice as many guns could fire astern as ahead, so the design favoured withdrawal over closing an engagement. At sea, retreat cannot indefinitely replace the ability to fight forward, especially while screening heavier ships. If minelaying had truly driven the design, an all-forward battery with mines aft would have separated those functions more cleanly.
Chapter · 0:59-7:32
A light cruiser designed to fight while withdrawing
The Leipzig class's asymmetrical nine-gun arrangement shows how a stern-heavy battery can conflict with a light cruiser's escort and fighting role.