Britain could assemble a substantial carrier force against Japan in early 1939. The proposed deployment leaves Furious nearer Europe while sending Eagle, Hermes, Courageous, and Glorious east, with Argus potentially supporting the Indian Ocean. This concentration matters because Japan has not yet assembled the later Kido Butai and several British decks are already available. Keeping a carrier for European deterrence also avoids stripping every other theatre. Carrier numbers, readiness, and competing commitments shape the scenario before aircraft quality is considered.
Notable Point · 32:01-32:42
Concentrating British carriers in the Far East
The Royal Navy could seek early superiority by concentrating Eagle, Hermes, Courageous, and Glorious while retaining Furious for European cover.