With three operational carriers, the fleet could compare carrier forces directly and feed exercise results back into aircraft selection. The immediate choice of the Flycatcher over competing fighters shows exercise results directly shaping procurement. Daylight trials showed unescorted torpedo bombers were highly vulnerable, encouraging fighter escort where range permitted. The same evidence strengthened the preference for night attack, when defenders might not detect the aircraft until after weapon release. Carrier-versus-carrier practice linked aircraft selection, escort tactics, and the developing night doctrine.
Chapter · 39:01-42:00
Eagle and Hermes enable carrier-versus-carrier trials
The arrival of Eagle and Hermes lets the Royal Navy test carrier combat and exposes the vulnerability of daylight torpedo attacks.