U. S.
BRITISH
 
Development of Land Offensives on the Continent
 
16.  It does not seem likely that in 1942 any large scale land offensive against Germany except
on the Russian front will be possible.  We must, however, be ready to take advantage of any
opening that may result from the wearing down process referred to in paragraph 15 conduct
limited land offensives.
 
17.  In 1943 the way may be clear for a return to the Continent, across the Mediterranean,
from Turkey into the Balkans, or by landings in Western Europe. Such operations will be the
prelude to the final assault on Germany itself, and the scope of the victory program should be
such as to provide means by which they can be carried out.
 
The Safeguarding of Vital Interests in the Eastern Theatre
 
18.  The security of Australia, New Zealand and India must be maintained and the Chinese war
effort supported. Secondly, points of vantage from which an offensive against Japan can
eventually be developed must be secured. Our immediate object must therefore be to hole:-
 
     a.   Hawaii and Alaska.
 
     b.   Singapore, the East Indies Barrier and the Philippines.
 
     c.   Rangoon and the route to China.
 
     d.   The Maritime Provinces of Siberia.
 
     The minimum forces required to hold the above will have to be a matter of mutual
discussion.
 
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