The counterfactual requires someone with authority to order the whole French fleet to continue fighting. François Darlan combined the naval chief of staff's position with the navy ministry from 16 June 1940. Those offices placed both naval command and political administration within his reach. Departure would need to occur by about 22 June, allowing roughly six days after his appointment as minister, before the armistice took effect on 25 June. His existing control of the navy could permit preparations before the final departure order. The scenario depends on Darlan choosing this course.
Chapter · 39:55-41:53
Could Darlan have sent the fleet out of France?
The scenario identifies Admiral François Darlan's combined naval posts as a possible route to a fleetwide departure in June 1940.