The Mediterranean campaign exposed a mismatch between capable boats and outdated employment. Static patrol sectors reflected limited communications and command-and-control capacity, while high command did not translate its broad concept of operations into effective tactics. The submarines caused serious trouble when used more aggressively around the Malta convoys, but the concentrated theatre also imposed the force's heaviest losses. Advanced hardware could not compensate for weak doctrine and coordination.
Notable Point · 30:42-33:15
Good submarines undermined by weak employment
Italian technology outpaced the tactics, communications, and command arrangements needed to coordinate submarines effectively.