Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:59:29-2:00:44

Courageous, Glorious, and Ark Royal transform the Eastern Fleet

Three additional surviving carriers create a much larger Royal Navy carrier force in the Indian Ocean.

Battle Of TarantoEastern FleetHMS Ark RoyalHMS CourageousHMS Glorious
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Question

How much changes if Courageous, Glorious, and Ark Royal all survive to Pearl Harbor?

Short answer

The Mediterranean and Eastern Fleet both become much stronger, with several more usable carriers available for the Far East.

Notes

Their survival also changes earlier Mediterranean operations, potentially producing a larger strike on Taranto. By late 1941 the Royal Navy could have three more functional carriers available and a stronger Indian Ocean base. Courageous and Glorious were imperfect designs, but they remained usable fleet units. Their air groups and decks would greatly expand the Eastern Fleet's options and reduce pressure on the surviving modern carriers.