Target geometry inside Taranto harbour

Target value alone could not determine the attack. Torpedo nets, barrage balloons, cruisers, and firing arcs shaped which approach paths were practical. Littorio was comparatively exposed, while Giulio Cesare was much harder to reach without crossing other ships and defences. A single torpedo could still be decisive when it struck the right place, as Conte di Cavour demonstrated. Shallow water also limited how far damaged ships could settle or capsize, preserving opportunities for salvage even when the immediate damage was severe.