I would also draw the readers' attention to the fate of the Mediterranean Fleet at the hands of the Luftwaffe in May 1941. Not many torpedo planes there either.
Having said that, the actions of the fleet were truely magnificent in rescuing a good proportion of Force W from the island. As Admiral Cunningham said on being advised that heavy losses would result from the evacuation, "It takes 3 years to build a ship - it takes 300 years to build a tradition. We will go". Where are these leaders today?