World War II exposed how little naval depth South Africa had around the Cape and the wider African coast. British action against Vichy Madagascar responded to fear that Japan might exploit the island as it had used Vichy territory in Vietnam. With few local forces, such a move could threaten South Africa and imperial routes around it. The criticism applies to government investment and explicitly leaves the bravery and quality of South African personnel intact. The passage also shows how imperial defence costs became contentious when some governments contributed less than their geography demanded.
Notable Point · 32:40-35:01
Madagascar exposed South Africa's missing naval depth
British concern that Japan might exploit Vichy Madagascar showed how little local naval protection South Africa and the Cape routes possessed.