The Swordfish needed so little wind over the deck that Avenger rarely had to sprint away from the convoy to launch aircraft. Its low-speed handling was more valuable on a 17-knot escort carrier than the higher performance of a faster but less forgiving aircraft. The biplane could become airborne in a slight breeze, almost like a helicopter, which helps explain why it outlasted more modern-looking types in this role. Continuous patrols could force submarines down without every sortie producing a sighting or attack. When carrier or cruiser radar detected an incoming air raid, Avenger could stop routine flying and move into one of the convoy's protected air-defence positions.
Notable Point · 52:23-53:47
The Swordfish makes small convoy flight decks practical
The Swordfish's very low takeoff requirements reduced how often a slow escort carrier had to leave formation to chase favorable wind.