Routine naval operations depend on enough spare forces to absorb unexpected demands without stopping work already under way. The Royal Navy and US Navy could sustain many commitments because they had forces available to cover disruptions. An opponent sought to break that rhythm and impose dilemmas in which every available choice carried a cost. Repeated supplies to Malta, the Mediterranean Fleet, and the North African campaign depended on maintaining that reserve of capacity.
Notable Point · 59:53-1:01:31
Spare forces kept repeated supply operations moving
Repeated convoy and carrier runs depended on enough spare capacity to absorb disruption.