247: Taranto Pt. 1 - Plans and Preparations

In November 1940, the Royal Navy launched one of the most audacious carrier operations of the Second World War—a nighttime air attack on the Italian fleet anchored at Taranto. This episode explores the planning and preparations behind Operation Judgement, examining why Admiral Cunningham and his Mediterranean fleet turned to airpower when traditional fleet engagements proved elusive. From the capabilities of the seemingly obsolete Fairey Swordfish biplane and its torpedoes to the Italian defenses protecting their prized battleships, this episode sets the stage for an attack that would fundamentally shift the balance of naval power in the Mediterranean and foreshadow the future of carrier-based warfare. Contact advertising@airwavemedia.com to advertise on History of the Second World War. History of the Second World War is part of the Airwave Media podcast network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You can listen to 247: Taranto Pt. 1 - Plans and Preparations online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

247: Taranto Pt. 1 - Plans and Preparations is an episode from History of the Second World War by Wesley Livesay.

This episode is 25:19 long.

This episode was published on Feb 9, 2026.

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