How would three converted G3 or Admiral-class carriers affect the Royal Navy and the Italian fleet?
Short answerGreater carrier depth could enlarge the Taranto strike, reduce maintenance pressure, and free fast battleships for other commitments, although exact battle results remain uncertain.
NotesIf Courageous or Glorious survived into the Mediterranean campaign, the fleet could operate three carriers around Taranto. With greater depth, Eagle could receive overdue fuel-system maintenance instead of being pushed continuously as one of only two available decks. More aircraft would not guarantee more kills, but they would raise the probability of additional damage and longer Italian battleship absences. Those losses could release Queen Elizabeth-class ships for the Home Fleet or Far East, allowing early carrier availability to reshape several theatres.