The Invisible Enemy

[Fisherking]

I think we are in agreement for the most part.

We can use a longer zigzag.

However, I was not thinking of columns making turns but individual ships maintains approximate stations but turning. If only the leading ships turn it defeats the purpose of the zigzag. Then it is only a course change. They are still ducks in a row to be hit by aimed torpedoes. If each ship turns at a precise time on a precise course it is another matter.

The convoy is arranged in a box formation so that it reduces chances for collusion, keeps structure and cohesion, and need not reshuffle position. The Convoy Commodore is not the leading ship but nearer to the center of the convoy to maintain control. The other ships should more or less wheel about him.

If you think of the formation as marching men the zigzags are not column movements but flanking movements, or half flank in this case.

If you don’t think they have enough time to practice this or that professional merchantmen are not smart enough to navigate a water ballet, we can just drop it.

[Franconicus]

Just one question to get you right: zigzag at daytime, night or all day long?