After the fall of France in 1940, the British War Council was particularly concerned about the fate of the French navy. In the event that the French navy pass under the control of the Kriegsmarine, a strong enough force is created that can upset the balance at sea. Keeping open the Atlantic is vital for the British, who rely on maritime transport to import goods.
The terms of the truce state that the German government has no intention of using the French navy, something that the British dispute.
Today, July 3, 1940, "Force H" is in Algeria outside the port of Mers-el-Kebir where a strong force of the French fleet with 4 battleships has anchored.
French Admiral Gensoul is at a disadvantage. An officer from HMS Hood carries the ultimatum from Somerville for the surrender of his fleet.
16 окт 2024
