The simulation sets Number 13's eight 18-inch guns against a modernized South Dakota's twelve 16-inch guns. South Dakota would not realistically operate alone, but the duel isolates the interaction between speed, range, and gun volume. Number 13 can choose the range with a 30-knot maximum speed, yet its best long-range firing speed is described as roughly 24 knots against South Dakota's 23-knot maximum. That narrow practical margin suits the long-range doctrine attributed to both navies but becomes fragile once damage slows the faster ship. If South Dakota closes the distance, its twelve-gun battery can overwhelm the eight-gun opponent.
Notable Point · 33:09-37:28
Speed, range control, and South Dakota's twelve guns
Number 13's 30-knot speed could keep a 23-knot South Dakota at long range, but damage would quickly erode that advantage.