A torpedo boat that penetrated the formation could restrict the escorts' fire because ships risked hitting one another across the convoy. Radar existed in 1941, but equipment reliability, operator experience, and tactical practice were still developing. HMS Cossack's move into HMS Firedrake's position illustrates how a Tribal-class destroyer could substitute for a light cruiser and reinforce the forward defense. Submarines and heavier forces beyond the immediate formation also watched the Italian fleet and reduced wider risks. The attack on Sydney Star shows that even a strongly organized escort could not eliminate every threat at close range. Reports that an Italian torpedo boat was then lost remained disputed.
Notable Point · 35:20-40:42
Motor torpedo boats, early radar, and convoy geometry
An Italian motor-torpedo-boat attack demonstrates how attackers could exploit escort geometry and immature radar while submarines and distant forces managed risks beyond the visible convoy.