The counterfactual requires more than hulls because a larger tender organization would also expand Fleet Air Arm aircraft, maintainers, and naval aviation personnel. This pressure might move the Inskip Award settlement earlier than its historical 1937 timing. Earlier naval control would then give the Royal Navy more freedom during the late-1930s struggle over British aircraft production. Buying Consolidated PBY Catalinas from an established American production line in 1938 becomes plausible in that setting, especially given their later Royal Canadian Air Force and Royal Air Force use.
Notable Point · 47:17-49:12
Fleet Air Arm growth could bring Catalina orders forward
A larger tender force might accelerate naval control of aviation and make an American Catalina purchase plausible before war.