A contemporary First Sea Lord presentation frames geography as a continuing limit on naval power. Moving a force to Australia can still take roughly a month, which makes reaction time part of strategy. A few ships may sprint above 30 knots, while an entire formation must keep a sustainable speed closer to that of its slower members. Higher speed also increases fuel demand and creates more frequent replenishment requirements. Distance, endurance, formation speed, and supply all constrain global power projection.
Chapter · 34:04-37:27
Sea logistics and the dictatorship of geography
A discussion of modern power projection explains why distance, fuel consumption, and the speed of the slowest ships still govern fleet movement.