A Japanese attack on French interests in the Far East would probably draw in both Britain and the United States. Neither Anglo-American power could comfortably let the other defeat Japan alone and emerge as the sole dominant outside power in the region. Their assistance would serve their own interests, including protected positions that each might seek to expand. If France contributed little to its defence, Britain could claim that French territories required British custody or protection. A French carrier presence therefore mattered for combat power, sovereignty, and bargaining weight inside an alliance.
Notable Point · 1:11:00-1:13:08
The political cost of Far Eastern alliance aid
Britain and the United States would likely oppose a Japanese attack on French possessions, but France still needed forces present to protect its postwar political position.