The map makes clear that attacking Taranto meant reaching well inside the heel of Italy rather than striking an exposed fleet anchorage. Although the harbour was not as formidable as Wilhelmshaven, its depth inside defended territory still made surprise essential. British fleet movements and reconnaissance therefore had to look routine enough that the Italians remained confident in their superiority in the Ionian Sea. The November raid followed a longer period of planning, manoeuvres, reconnaissance, and intelligence work.
Notable Point · 1:37-2:50
Reaching Taranto required operational deception
Taranto was less heavily protected than Wilhelmshaven but still lay deep inside Italy, so the British needed to keep Italian attention away from the Ionian Sea.