The November 1940 action came soon after the Taranto raid and demonstrates that the Italian fleet still went to sea. Southampton, Sheffield, Manchester, and Newcastle operated within a powerful British force that also included Ark Royal, Renown, Ramillies, destroyers, and other cruisers. Manchester received damage, while the combined British formation gave the Italian force a difficult engagement without producing the decisive result either side might have wanted. Town-class speed, maneuverability, and six-inch firepower compared well with the lighter Italian cruisers, making the British ships effective components of a mixed fleet.
Chapter · 11:39-14:08
Town-class cruisers at Cape Spartivento
See how Southampton, Sheffield, Manchester, and Newcastle contributed speed and six-inch firepower within a powerful British force at Cape Spartivento.