The idea that the Fulmar was built chiefly because Germany lacked aircraft carriers does not fit the wider requirement. The Royal Navy also had to plan for Mediterranean and Far Eastern operations, where long-range navigation and night work were central. In that setting, the navigator and wireless operator were operational necessities rather than evidence that the aircraft was not expected to meet serious opposition. A Germany-only reading uses hindsight and mistakes the war Britain eventually fought for the full range of threats shaping the 1938 requirement.
Chapter · 3:14:24-3:18:51
The Fulmar was shaped by long-range maritime strategy
The Fulmar's two-seat layout and long-range emphasis reflected Royal Navy expectations of night and ocean operations against several possible enemies.