Operation Tiger's layered convoy deception

Operation Tiger protected its cargo through several overlapping movements. A large convoy sailed from the Clyde toward Gibraltar before splitting toward destinations in Africa and the Mediterranean. Its heavy escort looked appropriate to the size and importance of the original convoy, helping conceal the purpose of the ships that continued east. Five merchant ships carried tanks and aircraft to Alexandria, accompanied by Queen Elizabeth and other reinforcements for the Mediterranean Fleet. Four delivered 238 of 295 tanks and 43 of 53 Hurricanes. Malta supply runs and a simultaneous bombardment of Benghazi gave the Axis additional movements to track while the main convoy crossed the Mediterranean.