Large Royal Navy destroyers illustrate the difference between combat utility and peacetime presence. In battle, their guns could help torpedo-oriented destroyers close for an attack. In peacetime, their cruiser-like size let them perform presence missions around the world. A submarine may provide formidable but invisible protection, while a surface ship can reassure communities and demonstrate national reach. Sea power therefore includes the political value of visible forces as well as the battle fleet.
Notable Point · 5:43-7:14
Visible presence and real naval security
Royal Navy destroyers illustrate the difference between security that exists and security that a population can see and trust.