8. Army Libya. Work continues on Gazala Tobruk and Salum Maddalena
positions which get continually stronger. 7 Army Div now concentrating
in reserve and for training in Capuzzo area. Recent recce in force
satisfactorily concluded and produced valuable information besides
contributing towards apparent evacuation of Italian fighters from
Martuba to aerodrome further west. Enemy has apparently strengthened
his outposts on Tmimi Mechili line which is not undesirable.
Primary object operation namely to draw off aircraft during passage
Malta convoy apparently successfully affected but this should be
treated as most secret. 2 S.A. Div now moving forward/to replace
Polish and 5 N.Z. Bde Gps in forward area under 13 Corps. 4 Ind Div
less 7 Ind Inf Bde working on Salum Maddalena positions in antici-
pation relief by 5 Ind Div.
 
9. Morale high generally among troops excellent. Tank situation
steadily improving and equipment new units proceeding well. Grant
Tank generally most satisfactory in spite of difficulties connected
with ammunition. Six pdr Anti-Tk guns now under issue to 7 Armd Div.
Inclusion of Anti-Tk guns in motorised Inf Bns proving great success.
Exchange of Indian Inf Bns from 6 and 8 Ind Divs of 10 Army
about to begin and should result in valuable spread battle experience.
Similar process will take place with Fd Arty Regts and Armd C units.