The two-knot advantage only begins separating the fleets after both sides have accelerated to about 28 knots and the faster force can run in a straight line. Until then, manoeuvres consume the small margin and leave the Japanese squadron under continuing fire. A withdrawal also reverses the apparent armament advantage: only six Japanese guns can bear astern while all nine British main guns are arranged to fire forward. The Japanese design is therefore faster but poorly placed for a prolonged stern chase against an all-forward opponent. The passage distinguishes possessing a higher maximum speed from having enough speed to control disengagement.
Notable Point · 19:08-20:24
Why two knots are not enough to escape
A 30-knot ship cannot quickly disengage from a 28-knot pursuer when turning away exposes its weaker aft firepower.