Introduction

Air Power and Allenby’s Army: Combined Arms in Palestine 1917–1918

“…However, these concerns were subordinated to wider strategic considerations. 96 By September 1918, Ottoman troops occupied a 60-mile-long line in central Palestine with only 15 per cent of the numbers required for zoned defence. 97 It was vital that the EEF broke Ottoman forces quickly and prevented them from forming new defensive lines that would be contested with their trademark determination.…”

“…That Ottoman intelligence remained unaware 2 days before the battle demonstrates deception succeeded. 104 The EEF which fought in Megiddo was a changed force. Reinforcements were needed in France after the German spring offensive of March 1918, and Allenby lost the manpower equivalent of several divisions.…”