Q&A · 2:54:00-2:54:16

Where rate of fire overtook accuracy before Jutland

Before Jutland, parts of the battlecruiser force and some cruiser squadrons could value firing speed over accuracy.

Battle Of Jutland Battlecruisers Cruisers Gunnery Doctrine Naval Gunnery Royal Navy

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Question

Did the Royal Navy ever prioritise rate of fire over accurate gunnery?

Short answer

Yes, particularly in parts of the battlecruiser force and some cruiser squadrons before Jutland.

Notes

The mismatch appeared in the run-up to Jutland rather than throughout the Royal Navy. It was most evident in the battlecruiser force and some cruiser squadrons, where rate of fire could be prioritised over accurate gunnery. The passage identifies the affected formations without claiming the problem was universal.