At Liu Xiangzhen's end, the deployment of the 43rd Special Mixed Fleet into battle actually made things difficult for him.
Although according to the original plan, the mission of the 21st Special Mixed Fleet was to provide cover for both the 42nd and 43rd Special Mixed Fleets, Liu Xiangzhen had not intended to engage in combat between main battle ships. Moreover, from his viewpoint, the most effective cover was an aggressive and proactive attack.
Otherwise, the 21st Special Mixed Fleet would not have moved forward.
Receiving a telegram from Zhang Guodong aboard the "Longxing," Liu Xiangzhen wasn't worried at all.
In a four-on-four scenario, the 42nd Special Mixed Fleet had an absolute advantage; even if they couldn't annihilate the enemy fleet, they would certainly cripple the four Newland battleships.
The "Longxing" class had always been touted as the "strongest pre-treaty" battleship.
