Mediterranean sea control makes North Africa a logistics war

North Africa is a campaign governed by the length and security of supply lines, with each side advancing near its supplies and retreating when interdiction stretches the route. A badly damaged Italian fleet allows British capital ships and carriers to threaten Axis convoys while remaining closer to Allied air cover along the southern shore. Malta-based submarines can concentrate on fewer fuel shipments, especially if attacks on Romanian oil have already reduced the total available. Timing naval interception with a ground offensive could leave Axis units without the fuel needed to manoeuvre. A retained Crete adds another air base and creates defence in depth with Malta along the southern Mediterranean route.