The German airborne attack and the seaborne reinforcement that helped secure Crete are separate parts of the campaign. In this scenario, a much more destructive Taranto strike leaves the Italian battle fleet unable to cover that amphibious movement. British forces may therefore recover from the parachute assault and retain the island. Crete would then support fighters, protect movement around Malta, and provide another bomber base against Romanian oil.
Notable Point · 2:06:57-2:07:47
Why Crete may remain an Allied base
Crippling the Italian battle fleet removes the amphibious reinforcement treated as decisive after the airborne assault on Crete.