Myoko's concentrated forward layout reflected Japanese interest in crossing an enemy's T, a tactical geometry associated with Tsushima. The middle of the three forward turrets could not meaningfully fire ahead or astern because of the bridge and surrounding structure. Its usefulness depended on a broadside geometry in which the cruiser had already achieved the positional advantage it wanted. Four triple turrets or a redistributed after arrangement are offered as more flexible uses of the displacement. A headline ten-gun broadside could therefore conceal a less adaptable fighting ship.
Notable Point · 1:20:16-1:22:58
Myoko's gun layout and the problem of firing arcs
The five-twin-turret arrangement reflects decisive-battle thinking, but one forward turret had poor forward and aft usefulness.