A mature Sydney dockyard would give the Royal Navy a major repair centre far from the early fighting. Ships from the Mediterranean Fleet that historically went to the United States could instead go to Australia, avoiding a journey around South Africa. Warspite, Formidable, or other capital ships and carriers might consequently be near the Far East before Japan attacked. Force Z could form around vessels already present for repair and working up, rather than depending on Prince of Wales and Repulse as late reinforcements. Sailing north from Sydney would also let it gather cruisers, escorts, and other regional forces along the route. Its composition would depend on which ships were available, so the scenario does not prescribe a particular replacement fleet.
Notable Point · 1:21:00-1:25:55
An Australian repair base changes Force Z before war begins
Capital ships and carriers historically sent elsewhere for repair might already be in Australia, producing a larger and more balanced Force Z.