An offensive convoy system uses concentration to create enough escort mass for protection and pursuit. A small convoy might consume several escorts merely to pass a submarine contact, whereas concentrating dozens of merchant ships allows a much stronger screen for a smaller escort cost per freighter. Extra ships can then leave the formation in pairs or larger hunter groups and prosecute the submarine until it is no longer a threat. The system works only when enough escorts exist to protect the convoy and hunt at the same time.
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Convoys as an offensive anti-submarine system
Learn why a large convoy can concentrate enough escorts to protect shipping and detach hunter groups to pursue submarines.