Malta History Siege, 1940-1943

After Italy entered WWII in 1940, Malta was subjected to severe aerial attacks by German & Italian bombers based in Sicily. The island became vitally important as a base of operation. For 3 years it was defended by the garrison and people. At the height of the siege it was possible to send supplies of aviation gasoline and munitions only by submarine, while additional fighter aircraft were flown to the island from distant points. The siege ended in 1943.