The quoted planning assessment recognizes that holding every possible beach would overstretch the garrison. Air superiority and mobile reserves were central to the island's prospects. It called for three brigade groups of four battalions each, a motor battalion, and naval-base troops. Wilson warned that holding Crete would be dangerous unless all three services could keep that force up to strength. The decision to defend the island accepted requirements that had already been clearly stated.
Notable Point · 14:57-17:31
The early assessment warns that Crete may be indefensible
The pre-invasion assessment called for strong brigade groups, a motor battalion, and naval-base troops, while warning that air superiority and dispersed beach defence made Crete hazardous.