The Scarpanto operation followed other Mediterranean moves in which an attack and a convoy passage supported one another. A fleet action could distract enemy attention and provide distant cover for shipping even if its air strike caused little immediate damage. Cunningham had used this pattern around Taranto, and Formidable's earlier support of the Tiger convoy followed similar logic. Before dawn, Formidable prepared six Fulmars to escort six Albacores against the airfield.
Notable Point · 44:13-46:43
Diversion operations and the Scarpanto strike plan
The planned raid followed a Royal Navy pattern of using conspicuous carrier and fleet activity to cover a convoy or separate operation elsewhere.