Matching fleet command to theatre logistics

The proposed redeployment raises separate questions about command at sea and coordination across a sprawling Far Eastern theatre. Dudley Pound would probably accompany most of his Mediterranean Fleet as the operational fleet commander. Percy Noble, already trusted and experienced as a cruiser commander on the China Station, is presented as the theatre coordinator. This arrangement uses Pound's organisational strengths and Noble's local responsibilities without forcing one admiral to direct every base, route, reinforcement, and battle formation. Large naval operations require both fleet command and administrative control of the wider theatre.