Twin-engine aircraft and the Taranto problem

Could twin-engine naval aircraft have worked in a Taranto-style raid?

Yes, but with different tactics: range, heavier loads and air-defence suppression could offset the loss of the Swordfish's slow manoeuvrability.

The Swordfish's low speed and manoeuvrability helped at Taranto. A twin-engine aircraft would compensate through range, payload and a different attack method. Heavier torpedoes, bombs, cannon or developing rocket weapons could suppress the harbour's air defences. Cannon fire against barrage balloons might open cleaner approach paths before the torpedo aircraft arrived. The attackers could launch from farther away, make the drop at the required speed and accelerate out of danger after release.