ABSTRACT
As a result of the reorganization of the fleet on 10 December 1940, lachino was promoted to commander of Italy’s main battle fleet. He proved a decisive tactical commander but his operational plans were hampered by the Italian Navy’s tactical shortcomings, fuel shortages, and overly-restrictive strategic instructions from the main naval staff. He tried to develop a sea-based naval arm, but Italy left the war before the aircraft carriers could be com pleted (seeAircraft Carriers, German and Italian).
