Visible conventional deterrence works differently from the hidden survivability of nuclear submarines. A conventional warship signals presence and capability only when the potential opponent knows it exists. Revealing Yamato's 18-inch guns could make current American battleships appear inadequate and encourage a more defensive posture until the Iowa class arrived. That pause could buy Japan time to consolidate bases, strengthen aviation, and finish more ships even though American industrial superiority remained decisive.
Chapter · 2:15:18-2:19:57
Secrecy squandered Yamato's deterrent value
Japan builds the world's most visibly intimidating battleship and then conceals it, forfeiting the delay that public knowledge could impose on rivals.