How much pre-planning and coordination went into moving the US Asiatic Fleet from Subic Bay to Australia?
Short answerThe withdrawal had substantial preparation; how much of the earlier plan specifically selected Australia is uncertain, and ABDA coordination helped identify British fuel stocks there.
NotesThe fleet had prepared to move, but how far that plan already selected Australia as the destination remains uncertain. ABDA coordination helped reveal the location of British fuel stockpiles and made Australian facilities attractive. Those stocks reflected a long period of British preparations in the region. The discussion emphasizes how fuel infrastructure could support retreating Allied forces or benefit Japan when bases and supplies were captured.