Japan combined concentrated long-range gunfire with specialized light forces ready for skirmishing. Admiral Togo had many destroyers and torpedo boats available, with further supporting forces coming up. Their numbers let him risk losses in individual encounters while retaining the means to destroy the Russian fleet. This freedom did not mean that he wanted to sacrifice his ships. Defeating the expedition promised to settle the war at sea, giving him a reason to accept losses that achieved that larger result.
Notable Point · 47:28-48:15
Togo turns fleet depth into operational freedom
Concentrated gunnery and abundant light forces let Admiral Togo control both the main action and its skirmishes while accepting risks Russia could not match.