Damage control keeps the carrier flying

The forward bomb started a fire in engine-maintenance spaces, but the armoured hangar and flight deck remained usable. Although the forward liftwell was distorted, the lift stopped only nine inches below deck and a short ramp restored aircraft movement. That resilience vindicated a costly, controversial requirement that the lift continue working after damage. Formidable launched a two-aircraft combat air patrol within roughly thirty to sixty minutes and kept putting aircraft aloft until dusk. The result demonstrated a design meant to survive damage in the Mediterranean or Far East, where safe repair facilities might be distant and air attack inescapable. A glancing stern hit caused shaft, rudder, and electrical damage, yet the carrier could still make about twenty knots. The comparatively low casualties, nine killed and eight wounded, were attributed to protected action stations and extensive subdivision that dispersed blast effects and preserved structure.