An enemy cruiser stays at gun range even though it would be more dangerous closing for a torpedo attack. A cruiser on a distant station may have no nearby battleship cover and little chance in a prolonged gunnery duel with a stronger opponent. Torpedoes create a close-range threat that can force the heavier ship to manoeuvre. The passage treats torpedo armament as a way for an unsupported cruiser to complicate an unequal fight.
Notable Point · 46:31-47:11
Why a distant-station cruiser needs torpedoes
A cruiser operating away from battleship support needs torpedoes for protection and to create a close-range threat.