Prewar exercises brought the Home or Atlantic Fleet into the Mediterranean to oppose another fleet under a short scenario. The instructions could fit on a page or less, leaving the opposing forces to work through the encounter. One anticipated sequence involved damaging an enemy capital ship, forcing the fleet to slow down and engaging it at night. Cape Matapan resembled that sequence, although cruisers occupied the place envisaged for an enemy capital ship.
Notable Point · 1:05:48-1:07:56
Cape Matapan resembled a prewar exercise problem
British exercises anticipated slowing an enemy force through damage and exploiting the opportunity at night, a sequence later recognizable at Cape Matapan.