Holding Crete could leave British carriers less exposed to damage in the Mediterranean. A nonfunctioning Italian fleet raises the possibility that the Axis would not launch the historical assault at all. If an assault went ahead, its ability to obtain resupply would be uncertain. Greater British confidence at sea could encourage resupply and reinforcement of Crete rather than evacuation. The island's survival could affect the Greek campaign and the wider Axis position in North Africa.
Notable Point · 1:21:19-1:22:38
Holding Crete could reduce carrier damage and encourage reinforcement
With the Italian fleet badly weakened, an Axis assault on Crete would face resupply problems and Britain could be more willing to reinforce the island.