Naval fire support slows the Malayan campaign

A surviving fleet could keep Singapore resupplied and interfere with the pace of the Japanese advance down Malaya. The coastal roads beside the Strait of Malacca give the old R-class battleships a potential bombardment role, while cruisers, destroyers, and the fast capital ships could threaten landings. The campaign lasted into February, allowing delays to accumulate and giving defenders more time to reinforce their positions. The argument rests partly on Japanese forces already reaching the limits of their food, water, ammunition, and artillery support when Singapore surrendered. Naval gunfire could help hold a defensive line, provided commanders accepted the risk of sending ships forward. Preserving the naval force after Force Z's loss had discouraged that risk, whereas a headquarters under Phillips in Singapore would have a direct interest in defending the base.