Quote Originally Posted by Brenus
“The Germans wanted to clear the decks for an assault on Russia” The war between Greece and Italy, Greece being a UK ally, allowed the British to use Greek airport. THAT was a direct menace from the Halifax bombers on the oil field of Ploesti (sp?) which couldn't be ignored by Hitler.
Good point. Once Greece had been made a belligerent by the Italians, it would have been only a question of time until a raid was staged through Greece to Ploesti.

The Greeks fought well, but (as noted above) lacked equipment.

Not so sure as to how much the Balkan campaign delayed Barbarossa. Waiting for dry road/ground conditions was just as much a factor.