Why Italy could not safely divide its battle fleet

Why did Italy not maintain two major battle squadrons at Taranto and Naples?

It lacked enough capital ships: dividing them would have left each squadron vulnerable to a concentrated Royal Navy force.

The Regia Marina would have liked major squadrons at both Taranto and Naples, but lacked enough capital ships to make the division safe. Halving the force could expose either group to four British battleships from the Mediterranean Fleet, while Force H remained a second strategic pressure. Even a damaged Italian battle fleet retained value by tying down large British resources. The choice captures the classic dilemma between dispersing against surprise attack and concentrating enough strength to contest command of the sea.