No navy could fund every part of naval aviation equally, so strengths and weaknesses emerged from allocation choices. The United States developed a very large aerial torpedo but saved money on testing, leaving it with serious reliability problems. Britain invested heavily in torpedo-delivery systems while conflict between the Admiralty and Air Ministry constrained aircraft development, helping keep the Swordfish central despite its night-strike and maintenance strengths. Japan emphasized high-performance aircraft while accepting demanding engines, expensive maintenance, and limited night capability. Capability gaps followed the money and attention that each institution assigned to its preferred systems.
Notable Point · 30:20-33:34
Naval aviation budgets force choices between platforms and weapons
Comparisons with American, British, and Japanese torpedo programs show how investment in one subsystem can leave testing, aircraft, or maintenance behind.