Point-blank attacks bring the first wave to three torpedo hits

The Swordfish that had reached Taranto ahead of the formation finally entered as two surviving attackers were leaving. Its pilot crossed the breakwater at wave-top height and reported that most of the flak passed overhead, with no searchlights visible. Falling flares silhouetted Littorio, allowing a torpedo release from only about 400 yards before the aircraft escaped between the battleship's masts. Two more Swordfish followed with room to select their targets. A later correction credits another hit on Littorio, bringing the first wave to three hits from six torpedo carriers.