The MAS 500 series is presented as a light, high-speed craft carrying two 450 mm torpedoes and a machine gun. The Mediterranean rewarded this compact design, which could make a torpedo attack, force the target to react, and withdraw while attention focused on the weapons in the water. Speed functioned as the boat's protection, so the hit-and-run method left little margin once weather or enemy gun boats prevented a clean withdrawal. Its limits became clear when boats had to endure rougher conditions or fight other fast craft directly.
Chapter · 30:31-33:18
MAS boats and Mediterranean hit-and-run warfare
Italian MAS boats suited the Mediterranean as extremely fast torpedo craft, but their strengths depended on striking quickly and escaping rather than sustained combat.