Earlier carrier availability could let Eagle receive repairs before the Taranto operation. She could then join Illustrious and Formidable for a three-carrier strike. The assumed force of roughly seventy-two Swordfish would be much larger than the historical attack. Heavier damage to the Italian fleet could make Britain's Mediterranean advantage last longer and change subsequent operations. The scenario therefore depends partly on restoring an existing carrier's readiness, alongside completing new ships.
Notable Point · 26:30-28:31
Eagle's repairs could make Taranto a three-carrier operation
Earlier carriers could give Eagle time for repairs before joining Illustrious and Formidable in a much larger Taranto strike.