Building an eastern fleet when the Mediterranean is quieter

What might a stronger Royal Navy force in the Indian Ocean look like in late 1940 or early 1941?

It could combine three carriers, battleships, numerous cruisers, and multiple destroyer groups operating from Aden and Trincomalee.

A reduced Mediterranean burden makes Ark Royal, Eagle, an Illustrious-class armored carrier, and substantial surface forces available for the Indian Ocean. Battleships, cruisers, and Repulse would give the force staying power and speed. Fast destroyer strike flotillas are distinguished from older vessels assigned to anti-submarine escort, since hull numbers alone do not describe fleet capability. Operating between Aden and Trincomalee would let the fleet exercise, rotate ships, and respond across a wide theater.