How would the British Pacific Fleet have fared against the Japanese centre force at Leyte?
Short answerIt would have been a hard fight, but the Royal Navy's night-fighting experience would make it more willing and better prepared to attempt one.
NotesMediterranean actions, convoy fighting, Matapan, and North Cape gave the Royal Navy a substantial pool of officers and ratings accustomed to night operations. A British battle force might therefore accept the engagement that Admiral Lee declined, close to very short range, and possibly risk a night air strike. Its ships would still have their own limitations. Confidence and doctrine make the fight plausible without guaranteeing its result.