740.0011 European War 1939/7253: Telegram
The Minister in Egypt (Fish) to the Secretary of State
[Received December 24—10:50 a.m.]
368. Following for Miles, War Department, from Fellers:
“1806. Elements of British armored [apparent omission] in contact with Italians in Bardia. Support group of armored division confronts Bardia-Tobruk roads. British plan immediate coordinated attack on Bardia by land, sea and air forces. At least 1830-infantry tanks, Australian division, armored division, 7 regiments of artillery, 16th brigade will attack western desert, Italian forces lost equipment, material, [Page 489] supplies, and transport of 5 divisions. Parts of 3 divisions now occupy fortified Bardia. British estimate 20,000 enemy in Tobruk.
Supply situation alleviated by naval transport to Sollum and captured trucks. Fourth Indian Division will go to Sudan. New armored division and heavy equipment of motor transport and supplies arriving.”