Lord Hill-Norton's definition links long-range patrolling to endurance, all-weather sea-keeping, speed, and gun power. A maritime power may need the same class both to defend merchant shipping and to disrupt an enemy's trade. This makes the cruiser a compromise between independent reach and the ability to impose costs without being a line-of-battle ship. Land powers and maritime powers can therefore use the same basic type for very different offensive or defensive economic strategies.
Notable Point · 6:03-7:18
Long-range patrol, scouting, and commerce warfare
A cruiser needs endurance, sea-keeping, speed, and enough force to scout, protect trade, or threaten an opponent's shipping.