Fleet tactics remained tied to line formations even after battles such as Lissa and Tsushima. Flag signals were still the primary command system, while radio was improving without yet being fully integrated into battle practice. A more fluid formation required staffs and communications personnel who knew how to turn new equipment into reliable command and control. Technology alone could not create distributed tactics. First World War operations demonstrated that modern ships needed a different fighting style.
Notable Point · 29:19-30:51
Radio and staff work enabled more fluid fleet tactics
Moving beyond rigid battle lines required more than capable ships: navies also needed radio procedures, trained staffs, and personnel able to control a fluid engagement.