Notable Point · 1:13:39-1:14:49

A larger carrier force could improve Ark Royal's damage control

A steadier carrier program could provide more officers trained for carrier damage control and allow Ark Royal more time for maintenance.

Notes

Additional carriers would let Ark Royal receive maintenance and enter operations in better condition. They would also create a larger pool of officers trained specifically for carrier damage control. The losses of Courageous and Glorious had forced rapid conversions of officers for carrier duties, which a larger training pipeline could help absorb. Better preparation might reduce Ark Royal's problems after a torpedo hit, although some would remain. Alternatively, she could be in maintenance or serving with a North Atlantic force when the historical attack occurred. Survival is therefore a possibility through several changes in deployment and readiness.