Force Level: Low
Complexity: Medium
Advantage: Favors Axis
Historical Background: Operation Battleaxe was an Allies offensive launched on 15 June 1941 in the area of the Libya-Egypt border. The objective of this operation was to lift the siege of Tobruk and, if possible, push Axis forces out of Cyrenaica. In the end, the three-day operation was unsuccessful. The British lost over half their tanks on the first day, and only achieved success along one of their three axes of advance. The second day was indecisive; each side successfully parried the offensive thrusts of the other. On the third day, the British withdrew back to their start line just ahead of a German encircling movement that had the potential of cutting them off and destroying them. The Germans and Italians later called this action--The Battle of Sollum.
Axis Mission. Defend to retain the Libyan frontier strongpoints--especially Halfaya Pass (hex 26,22).
Allies Mission. Attack to destroy enemy forces defending in the vicinity of the Egyptian-Libyan border. Be prepared to continue the offensive to the north and west to seize Bardia and/or relieve Tobruk.
