The British screen combined light cruisers, a converted C-class anti-aircraft cruiser, and destroyers against Littorio, heavy and light cruisers, and Italian destroyers. British smoke and gunfire accompanied the defence of the convoy. Driving off the stronger Italian force supports the interpretation of a tactical British success. The convoy nevertheless failed to achieve its purpose, giving Italy the strategic advantage in this assessment.
Chapter · 2:07:29-2:09:14
Second Sirte: tactical success, strategic failure
British light forces drove off a much heavier Italian squadron at Second Sirte, but the convoy's failure made the engagement a strategic defeat despite its tactical achievement.