DESERT BATTLE

Timaru Herald, Volume CLI, Issue 22183, 29 January 1942, Page 5

DESERT BATTLE

Position More Stable By Telegraph—Press Association —Copyright (11 p.m.) LONDON, Jan. 27. Latest news concerning the battle in the Western Desert suggests that the situation has become more stable. It is thought that Rommel's forces may have paused for supplies, and that they may advance further before the British counterattack. Correspondents tell how bad. weather assisted the advance of the Axis forces, wide stretches of water preventing the Imperial forces from coming to grips with the enemy. It is authoritatively stated that strafing by the R.A.F. and the R.A.A.. - '. on Monday checked General Rommel's advance. The Cairo correspondent of the "Daily Express” reported that the pilots, with guns blazing, roared down to 50 feet over moving enemy columns leaving a trail of destruction. Troops dashing to safety were shot down as they ran. The Cairo correspondent of the “Daily Mall” says it is hoped to h-ve the initiative again in our hands in a day or two. A Royal Air Force Middle East communique says: Despite severe sandstorms our fighters were extremely active over the entire battle area In Libya yesterday. Intensive, highly tccessful machine-gunning attacks were made on enemy tanks and armoured car units moving along the desert tracks, leading from Msus to Charruba, Soluk, Saunnu and Antelat. Many enemy vehicles were completely destroyed or severely damaged, and many fires were seen. Heavy casualties were inflicted on enemy troops. “Our aircraft destroyed a Macchi 200. Our bombers on Sunday night raided enemy forces in the Jedabya, El Agheila and Antelat areas. Fires and explosions were observed. One of emplanes is missing. A communique issued at Cairo states that there has been little change in the general situation in the last 24 hours. The main battle area is still north of Jedabya. Our fighters have been verv active over the operational area and inflicted considerable damage on the enemy.