The design is held at 23 knots because that is presented as the speed at which it can maintain regular, accurate fire despite a much higher theoretical maximum. The simulation also limits the nominally 30-knot ships to 29 knots to represent possible engineering trouble. Those numbers distinguish rated top speed from the speed used to keep up regular fire. The trial treats operating margin and firing stability as part of speed's tactical value.
Notable Point · 8:46-10:19
Speed is a gunnery trade-off, not a free advantage
The Lion-class trial uses cruising speed to keep firing steady, contrasting a ship's rated maximum with a tactically useful speed.