On 2 December 1942, "Ranger" was again requested for in a cable from Churchill to Roosevelt, this time in connection to American misfortunes. The loss of "Hornet" in the Battle of Santa Cruz Islands kicked off a confused series of messages seeking British carrier reinforcement in the Pacific. To meet the request, Churchill offered both "Illustrious" and "Victorious" in exchange for "Ranger" replacing "Victorious" in the Home Fleet. King accepted one carrier but retained "Ranger" to use in the Atlantic or the Pacific at his discretion.