The first two reels of a record of the Italian conquest of British Somaliland.

Maps illustrate the strategic importance of the area to Britain. Film of the desert terrain show the harsh conditions in which the operations took place. The French and British try to play down the Italian success, but the fascist forces react with actions not words - aircraft, troops and tanks are mobilised; supplies (fuel and water) are built up. The film uses maps to show how the campaign began. General shots of troops (including colonial forces) and armour, protected by Italian aircraft, illustrate the operation. There is fighting between the Italians and local Somali forces. Casualties are taken by ambulance to a military hospital for treatment.

Notes

Translation and picture summary. PICTURE COMMENTARY Somalia Map, Aden Gulf. For Britain Somalia had an important strategic meaning: it means total control on every link between Red Sea and Indian Ocean. That's why it was in our war planes to conquer it. African desert. Field and weather are our principal enemies. Map of Africa The French and English press tried to discourage our military operations in Africa. But their previsions were wrong. Printing Press working and Even now the English press is trying to deny our English newspaper titles: success... (Italian translation of the press titles) "How strong is Italy? DUCE WOULD BE RINGED BY FOES" - "BRITISH TO BLOCKADE ENTIRE ITALIAN COASTS" Italian aeroplane and soldiers But fascist Italy answers with actions, not with words. We have a good strategy: our aircraft is preparing actions of other forces discovering enemy's military bases. Battalion of tanks We are stocking the water and arranging mobile garages for cars and tanks. We have many hidden weapons stocks. Map of Somalia At the end of July the Italian Forces were settled this way: in Adele there was Bertoldi brigade. In Giggiga was De Simone brigade. In Dagabuk was Bertello brigade. On the 3 of August all the troops crossed the border of Somalia. On the 19 of August.. (sound gap). African desert Here there is a battalion in a concentration area. Soldiers on military cars smile to the camera. Colonial brigades, black brigades, colonial police Tanks and other troops start the brilliant manoeuvre. Battalion of natives with donkeys The natives are everywhere in the territory. Battalion of Italian cars and tanks Italian aeroplanes The Italian Aircraft is defending the head and the left and right flank of the other corps. The enemy retired. Way destroyed by English mines Native troops Fascist Command studying enemy position Radio war operators Battle between Italians and Somalia natives Italian ambulance We are ready to take care of the first people injured Military hospital. African transported to a tent. in battle Italian doctors. Italian soldier in surgery room. Radiological service in open space

Technical: some breaks in the soundtrack.