Why would the strategy in the Middle East change if Britain retains Malaya and Singapore? At the highest levels Allied Strategy is Germany First, and for the British the only theatre in which they can engage the Germans is in North Africa. The C-in-C Middle East is under pressure to defeat Rommel and clear the Axis from North Africa.Fatboy Coxy wrote: ↑26 Nov 2022 19:32I’m currently writing a What If, that see Britain doing much better in Malaya/Singapore on the beginning of war with Japan.
The question I pose here is, with Britain holding Japan somewhere near the Malaya/Thailand border, with Japan facing logistical problems restricting her advance, what might Britain’s strategy be in North Africa.
The likely impact is on reinforcements no longer needed in the Far East. The 18th Infantry Division was originally earmarked for the Middle East and could have been diverted back from Singapore. 7th Armoured Brigade would not be needed in Burma. There would be less pressure to return Australian divisions to defend Australia. The aircraft diverted to the Far East might be returned to the Middle East.
That looks like an extra corps for the Eighth Army - 1st Australian(?). Would it have made a difference at Gazala - or would the British commanders still have screwed up?