Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:52:16-2:58:43

Taranto's losses and Fleet Air Arm confidence

Taranto's two aircraft losses were far below the casualty estimates discussed, while Fleet Air Arm identity helps explain the crews' willingness to accept the risk.

Battle Of TarantoFleet Air ArmMilitary CultureNight Operations
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Question

Were much higher aircraft losses expected at Taranto?

Short answer

Yes. Estimates of fifty percent or higher are mentioned, compared with only two aircraft actually lost.

Notes

The Taranto force expected much heavier losses than the two aircraft actually lost. Casualty estimates of fifty percent and higher are mentioned. By 1939 and 1940, the Fleet Air Arm already regarded itself as an elite organization, and that self-image helps explain its crews' willingness to accept such danger. Professional pride, in this interpretation, would have brought the pilots and observers back to their aircraft for another raid if ordered, despite their objections to repeating it.