A stronger Free French fleet could change its leadership

A French hunting group operating from Britain when France falls is unlikely to return to Vichy control. Its Dunkerques and Joffre would either be interned and transferred or join the Free French directly, creating a much stronger naval core than existed historically. Such a force would arrive with a senior admiral already commanding important combat units outside metropolitan France. That officer might become the leading Free French figure instead of Charles de Gaulle. A naval-led movement could then alter command relationships, North African politics, and the later organisation of French forces.