Earlier victories in the Atlantic and Mediterranean would release capital ships, cruisers, carriers, and even some submarines for the Far East before December 1941. Force Z could center on a modernized Hood, King George V-class battleships, Renown, Repulse, two Illustrious-class carriers, Eagle, and Hermes. The force would still be short of destroyers, which would limit its screening strength. Japanese land-based torpedo bombers historically stripped out defensive guns to maximize fuel and range. Operating that way in an area with enemy carriers would create a different problem for their fighter protection. British carrier pilots might be unfamiliar with Japanese tactics, yet they were well trained in air-defense drills coordinated by shipborne radar. Concentrating fewer heavy ships in the Atlantic would also release escorts for convoy protection and submarine hunting. A fleet of this size would force Japan to revise its opening air and amphibious plans before the two sides fought.
Notable Point · 1:09:17-1:11:53
A larger Force Z complicates Japan's opening moves
A modernized Hood, King George V-class ships, battlecruisers, cruisers, and several carriers at Singapore would force Japan to alter long-range air and amphibious plans.