Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:02:19-1:02:37

A surviving Hermes remains useful after newer light carriers arrive

Relief by a newer carrier would not end Hermes's service because she could continue in escort-carrier duties.

Aircraft CarriersColossus Class Aircraft CarriersEscort CarriersHMS HermesRoyal Navy
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Question

If HMS Hermes survived, would a Colossus-class light carrier replace her after 1942?

Short answer

A newer carrier could relieve her, but Hermes would probably continue serving in an escort-carrier role.

Notes

Relief from a front-line station would not necessarily mean retirement for HMS Hermes. A Colossus-class or other newer carrier could take over her main assignment after 1942. Hermes could then continue in work resembling an escort carrier's role. Her smaller air group would still be useful for convoy cover and secondary aviation tasks.