The available destroyer hull cannot carry the desired anti-submarine fit, so the mission moves to a light-cruiser hull. The new ship is assigned long-range ASW and reconnaissance. Reducing speed to 33 knots frees weight for protection, while several rangefinders improve aiming speed. The cruiser has little gun power for its size, but its speed, protection, rangefinders, and ASW equipment suit submarine hunting and fleet screening.
Chapter · 34:07-43:56
A specialist cruiser substitutes for an inadequate ASW destroyer
A light cruiser is designed around long-range submarine hunting, reconnaissance, speed, and rapid target acquisition rather than heavy firepower.