While the capital ships reduce the range slowly, three light cruisers catch the French battleship with nearly ten knots in hand. Together they carry 72 ready torpedoes, giving the screen an attack of its own once the cruisers leave formation. By 57:16 they also enter six-inch-gun range, so the faster ships can pressure the target before the battle line completes the pursuit. The action shows how a fast screen can become an interception force rather than merely protect heavier ships.
Notable Point · 53:13-57:16
Turning a fast cruiser screen into an interception force
Three fast light cruisers overtake the capital ships and bring 72 ready torpedoes plus six-inch guns into the pursuit.