Germany could still rescue Italy in Greece, but an early end to the Libyan campaign gives the Allies more supplies and a less divided command. Crete requires only a modest improvement in preparation and leadership to make the airborne assault much more costly or unsuccessful. Holding the island also supports fighters and bombers that can contest Axis air and sea movement. A later Axis crossing of the Mediterranean would demand shipping, escorts, and surprise that alert French and British fleets make extremely difficult to assemble.
Chapter · 41:43-43:45
Greece, Crete, and the limits of Axis sea power
An early Libyan victory releases Allied strength for Greece and may improve Crete's defense without enabling an easy Axis response at sea.