The simulated design review checks sensors, guns, torpedo mounts, machinery, steering, and weight before changing an established cruiser. Faster torpedoes are rejected because their reduced range conflicts with the way the ship is meant to fight. Engine changes are also judged against the survivability they might sacrifice. A balanced design can be complete for its role even when spare tonnage and newer components remain available.
Notable Point · 2:13:54-2:18:16
Torpedo speed can cost the range a cruiser needs
In the campaign's design screen, a mature light-cruiser design is retained because faster torpedoes would shorten useful range and the remaining weight margin offers no improvement worth sacrificing survivability.