From the desk of the NZ PM, the Right Honourable Mr Bruce.
16 May 1940
The Axis forces in Italian East Africa are now much reduced. More importantly, they are cut off from Europe, having lost their last port, and must rely on local supplies.
Progress in Italian East Africa: 19 February 1940 on left and 16 May 1940 on right
Initially, ANZAC units mounted a naval invasion of the northern port of Massawa, but the Axis reinforced faster than the ANZAC units could gain a secure footing and the invasion was called off after some losses.
Much more successful was a land assault from the south, then along the border with (Vichy) French Somaliland to the coast and port. Australian infantry first engaged, then New Zealand armour joined and finally motorised units were added to be ready to exploit any success. Once a breakthrough was made, the armour and motorised were able to race north while infantry followed to hold the area taken. Massawa was only lightly held and was quickly taken from the land side.
Finally, special mention must be made for the Australian navy in the Red Sea that, assisted by the air forces of both countries, killed 230 Axis transports this year. That is more than the 200 transports that Italy started 1939 with!
What fresh ANZAC triumphs await as the pocket in Italian East Africa is closed? Only time will tell…
Interesting campaign.
ReplyDeleteWhat is fascinating is how this plays out compared to World in Flames. In Hearts of Iron things moved a lot quicker and much greater forces are deployed.
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