This is something you do while proof reading anything you have written, but it is a classic Naval tactic as well. Crossing the T is pretty much what it sounds like. One group of ships crosses over another group of this. This allows one group to pass the other which is in a single file line. The crossing group can then bring its fullest amount of guns to bear on the other group. The crossed group can only fire a few guns, if any.

This tactic has since become obsolete due to missiles and aircraft. With the advent of steam powered ships and rotating turrets this tactic became more important. During the sailing age, it was harder the cross the T because the ships of course were dependant on the wind. It did happen during the sailing day, but it was a skillful captain that was able to pull it off. Nelson modified this tactic at Trafalgar.

Notable uses of this tactic include Battle of Tsushima, The Battle of Jutland, Battle of Cape Esperance, and Battle of Surigao Strait. During the Battle of Jutland the British fleet was able to cross the German fleet twice, but the German’s were able to escape both times due to low visibility and reversing their course. The battle of Surigao Strait was the last time in warfare that a battleship fired its guns at another battleship. During the battle of Tsushima the Japanese fleet crossed the Russian fleet twice and won a total victory.

It is not always the largest fleet wins in Naval warfare. It comes down to which commanders know how to fight.