The second attack on Tobruk failed

The attack that ended on 4 May 1941 ended in failure for the Germans, although the Australian counterattack fizzled out, as well. In stark contrast to the battles in Greece and Crete, the RAF in the form of No.73 and No.274 Squadrons flew cover over the battle scene during daylight hours. The cost to the Germans had been 650 casualties and 500 to the Italians. General Paulus thought it went well, and the result was a bulge into the defences. Give the overall German strategic priorities, with the pending attack on Russia only about 7 weeks off, General Paulus wanted to see the Germans go on the defensive to consolidate their gains. Of course, General Rommel saw the situation differently. This is based on the account in Vol.II of the Official History.