The Russian commander only needed to survive until nearby squadrons and bases shifted the balance decisively. Sweden sent coastal vessels to support its sailing fleet, but they arrived after the day's fighting and withdrew before the battle resumed. Prince Charles then withdrew when he learned of the approaching Russian reinforcements, a choice made understandable by Russia's heavier first rates. Sweden's twenty-two ships could theoretically have concentrated pairs of third rates against the seventeen heavier Russian ships, but that plan required accepting losses. Charles's reluctance to take those risks left the Russians able to gain time simply by holding out. Gustav III also bears responsibility in this assessment for restricting other commanders' freedom to take risks.
Notable Point · 3:21:06-3:24:51
Prince Charles cannot convert numbers into victory
Near Kronstadt, Sweden had more ships but lighter guns and a commander unwilling to accept the calculated losses needed to press the attack.