The seaborne landings have already failed to reach Crete, so the Germans need an airfield to convert their foothold into a sustained operation. Without Maleme, airborne troops run short of supplies and cannot receive mountain troops and equipment in useful quantities. Even after the air bridge opens, the attackers remain under enough pressure to seek additional Italian support. The campaign turns on logistics as well as battlefield attrition.
Notable Point · 34:45-35:52
Maleme turns an assault into a sustainable invasion
Holding Maleme would have left German paratroops without seaborne reinforcement or an air bridge; its loss gives the invasion the supplies and troops it needs to continue.