Operation Coat was both a Malta reinforcement convoy and a means of transferring major warships eastward. Its ships carried troops and anti-aircraft guns while Force H covered the passage before turning back west of Sicily. Barham strengthened the Mediterranean Fleet's battle line and Berwick brought a modern heavy cruiser into theatre. Renown did not take part, and any effect her presence might have had on Ark Royal's assignment remains an open counterfactual. The convoy moved people, matériel, and combat power at the same time.
Chapter · 24:54-26:24
Operation Coat moved reinforcements through Malta
Coat carried troops and anti-aircraft guns to Malta while moving Barham and Berwick toward the eastern Mediterranean under Force H cover.