Forbes's proposal assigns several distinct naval jobs to the force supporting the opposed landing. HMS Valiant and HMS Renown would protect the carrier HMS Glorious, an early-war example of battleships serving as concentrated anti-aircraft escorts. HMS Warspite was wanted for shore bombardment because she carried 6-inch secondary guns as well as her 15-inch main armament. At least four anti-aircraft cruisers, about twenty destroyers, and numerous landing craft would provide the remaining air defence, escort, gunfire support, and troop delivery.
Notable Point · 3:18-4:04
Building a fleet around carrier cover and shore bombardment
The proposed Trondheim force assigns battleships, a carrier, anti-aircraft cruisers, and destroyers distinct roles in protecting and supporting an amphibious assault.