The Royal Navy valued these punitive raids for their policing effect and their training value. The account places HMS Hermes at the center of the carrier strikes and also associates HMS Eagle and HMS Argus with anti-piracy operations. Carrier aircraft could support landing forces drawn from sailors, marines, and police, giving the service practice in rapid island seizures. These were live amphibious exercises under more realistic conditions than a planned fleet drill. They also demonstrated the capability to Japan as tensions rose in the Far East.
Notable Point · 7:49-8:37
Anti-piracy raids double as amphibious demonstrations
Royal Navy carrier-supported raids against pirates also demonstrated an ability to mount rapid amphibious operations under Japanese observation.