An Anglo-Japanese naval coalition would confront Soviet interests from opposite directions while the Soviet fleet lacked comparable reach. Recent fighting with Japan and longstanding suspicion of Britain would complicate cooperation with either power. The scenario considers Soviet alignment with the coalition, closer alignment with Germany, and continued neutrality. It develops a wait-and-see course, with Stalin delaying a commitment while the strategic situation changes. If Germany still invaded the Soviet Union, a neutral Soviet position beforehand could benefit the Allies. Avoiding commitments in North Africa, Greece, and possibly Yugoslavia could permit an earlier invasion, but a change to German plans is uncertain.
Notable Point · 1:05:11-1:08:26
Soviet neutrality under pressure from Britain and Japan
The scenario considers how pressure from British and Japanese naval power could affect Soviet neutrality and the timing of Germany's eastern campaign.