Italian carriers reshape the Mediterranean naval war

How would the Mediterranean war change if the Regia Marina had built aircraft carriers?

Italy would gain responsive fleet-controlled air power, but Britain and France would react with additional carriers, producing a more aviation-heavy and costly campaign.

Carrier aircraft on scene would avoid the delay and divided command of land-based air support, making Mediterranean battles bloodier and more complex. Plausible Italian options include liner conversions or several roughly 15,000-ton light carriers within treaty allowances. Their construction would also alter Royal Navy priorities, likely preventing a pause in British carrier building and encouraging French countermoves.