Was there really no plausible version of the attack on Taranto in which the Italians won?
Short answerMany tactical failures could have defeated the raid, but the historical British plan exploited Italian complacency and gained extra surprise by attacking before HMS Eagle was available.
NotesThe Italian command had seen British night exercises but little comparable wartime activity, encouraging a false sense of security. Attacking with only one available carrier strengthened the surprise. The Italians expected the British to wait for HMS Eagle and assemble the largest possible strike.