The worst-case interception could destroy the first landing wave and much of the German surface force committed to defend it. The consequences would extend beyond the immediate military losses. Barges and tugboats taken for the invasion also belonged to Germany's wider transport and logistics system. Losing them in large numbers would damage the movement of goods as well as eliminate the troops and equipment carried across the Channel.
Notable Point · 53:28-54:25
The transport cost of losing the invasion flotilla
Destroying Sea Lion's first wave would cost Germany troops and warships while removing barges and tugboats needed to move goods.