Q&A ยท 1:29:19-1:31:42

Who commands at Savo when Warspite brings Somerville?

Including Warspite's admiral changes where the Allied commanders meet and who directs the force before the night action.

Question

If Warspite arrives with her own crew before Savo Island, does she also bring an admiral who takes command?

Short answer

The panel identifies Somerville aboard his Operation Stab flagship and expects his seniority to put him in command of the Allied force.

Notes

The follow-up asks whether the crew swap also brings Warspite's flag officer. The panel identifies her as Somerville's flagship during Operation Stab in August 1942, the diversion intended to distract Japan from Guadalcanal. On that premise, his seniority changes the Allied command arrangement at Savo. Other commanders would come to Warspite for their meeting instead of a flagship leaving its position to attend elsewhere. Clearer command and the battleship's command facilities become advantages before its radar and 15-inch guns enter the fight.