WW2 February 4, 1941: North Africa Battles, Ultra Codebreaking, and Allied Advances

As World War II rages across multiple fronts, February 4, 1941, marks significant military and political movements that shape the conflict's trajectory. From the deserts of North Africa to the intelligence operations in Britain, Allied forces continue their strategic advances against the Axis powers.

North Africa: Commonwealth Reinforcements and Italian Retreat

In North Africa, British Commonwealth reinforcements begin arriving from Tobruk, strengthening Allied operations in Libya. The British 4th Armoured Brigade, alongside the Australian 6th Division, advances westward in an effort to cut off the retreating Italian 10th Army. With their forces unable to mount an effective resistance, the Italians withdraw toward Benghazi, seeking to regroup before further engagements.

East Africa: Allied Advances in Eritrea and Abyssinia

The East African campaign also sees intensified action. The Royal Air Force (RAF) launches air raids on Italian positions in Eritrea, targeting strategic enemy fortifications. Meanwhile, in Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia), Allied troops, including British, Indian, and Sudanese forces, advance toward the town of Gallabat on the Sudanese border, pressing their offensive against Italian colonial forces.

Diplomatic Efforts: Willkie Meets de Valera

In the realm of diplomacy, Wendell Willkie, former Republican presidential candidate and now President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s special envoy, visits Dublin. There, he meets Irish leader Éamon de Valera to discuss Ireland’s policy of neutrality. Willkie is scheduled to travel to London next, where he will meet King George VI and British officials to strengthen U.S.-British cooperation against the Axis powers.

Intelligence Breakthrough: The Ultra Program at Bletchley Park

At Bletchley Park, roughly 80 kilometers from London, Allied cryptographers continue their top-secret work on the Ultra program. The effort to break the German Enigma cipher is progressing, allowing British intelligence to intercept and decode crucial German military communications. This development will soon provide the Royal Navy with vital intelligence on U-boat movements in the Battle of the Atlantic.

Australia’s Military Expansion

On the home front, Australia ramps up its war effort. The government prepares to incorporate 120,000 additional soldiers into the army, reinforcing its commitment to the Allied cause. At the same time, the country’s aircraft factories accelerate production, supplying much-needed planes to support operations in the Pacific and beyond.

Conclusion

As the war enters its second year, the events of February 4, 1941, illustrate the growing momentum of the Allied forces. From the deserts of North Africa to the codebreaking rooms of Britain, each development contributes to the eventual turning of the tide against the Axis powers.