Operation Sealion was clearly possible. There are historical records of the movement of barges and other assorted ships from occupied countries that give clear credence to an actual plan that was being implemented.
Would it have been successful, well that is a big what-if.
If one is to look at Japan, the axis certainly had the expertise to carry it off.
If the Luftwaffe had won the battle for air superiority over the UK they could have closed the channel to enemy ships.
The sinking of the HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse clearly indicate how well the British fleet would have faired with out overwhelming air superiority.
Not saying it would have been a cake-walk but one has to remember that France was a super-power stronger than the UK and it’s population/government quit when it became clear all was lost.
My guess is even a half-hearted landing on British soil would have lead to a British surrender/armistice.
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06-30-2010, 09:22 AM
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