The Mediterranean-only explanation is introduced as a myth to be addressed in a longer study of the Illustrious class. Royal Navy plans expected the class to operate in other theatres, so Mediterranean conditions alone cannot explain its requirements. Interpreting the design requires a broader view of where and how the ships were meant to serve. A complex carrier design cannot be reduced to one operating area.
Notable Point · 38:41-39:00
The Illustrious class was not built only for the Mediterranean
Royal Navy plans for the Illustrious class included service beyond the Mediterranean, challenging a familiar one-theatre design story.