Fast coastal fights rewarded the boat that could hit first and hardest, especially once opponents carried weapons such as 37 mm guns. More displacement brought a steadier weapons platform and greater firepower, but also a larger target and less manoeuvrability. The smallest boats remained difficult targets yet could neither retain performance in rough seas nor carry as many guns. Beyond a certain size the supposed coastal craft began to enter destroyer territory. The motor torpedo boat's evolution into a motor gun boat was therefore a continuing choice among competing combat advantages.
Chapter · 1:20:31-1:22:53
The final balance: speed, seaworthiness, and firepower
Coastal craft faced a fundamental compromise: bigger boats carried more guns and rode better, but became less agile and more exposed.