How could the Royal Navy use six additional Dido- or Atlanta-type anti-aircraft cruisers during the destroyers-for-bases period?
Short answerThey would strengthen training and could materially improve Mediterranean convoy defence by adding enough anti-aircraft firepower to disperse enemy attacks.
NotesThe extra cruisers would begin in training, helping the Royal Navy prepare crews for anti-aircraft warfare. If they arrived early enough, a mixed Dido and Atlanta force could then reinforce Mediterranean convoys. Their concentrated firepower would ease pressure on other escorts and force attacking aircraft to spread their effort across more defensive guns. A small number of specialized cruisers could therefore affect force preparation and Mediterranean operations.