The attack on Pearl Harbour saw allied naval forces in South East Asia face the mighty Imperial Japanese Navy. Japanese strategic objectives were the capture of Malaya, Singapore and the Dutch East Indies. Despite British Admiralty warnings Prime Minister Churchill had ordered Force Z comprising HMS Prince of Wales and HMS Repulse sent to Singapore in a forlorn hope to deter Japanese aggression. Meanwhile existing British, Australian, American and Dutch ships in the area were hurriedly formed into a small fleet that would be hopelessly outclassed against their opponents.
This presentation looks at the gallant but futile allied actions at the start of the war against Japan, the ships and men, the reasons for failure and the lessons learned that would help the allies to eventual victory.
Presented by Kez Hasanic from the Museum's Speakers Group.
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