Treaty parity with Italy limited French construction even though the navy still had Mediterranean commitments and a worldwide empire. American neutrality made the United States an unreliable security partner in this period, leaving Britain as the practical ally. French naval aviation had to support independent operations while contributing capabilities the larger Royal Navy lacked or needed in greater numbers. That combination tied Mediterranean defence, imperial reach, and alliance planning into one doctrine.
Chapter · 8:44-10:58
French naval aviation as an allied capability
Treaty limits, Mediterranean commitments, and a worldwide empire pushed France to make its naval aviation useful alongside Britain.