2) Back on strategy, I have wondered for some time whether there is a certain "minimum overextension" option to go for auto victory, and a recent PM has me thinking along those lines again. In other words, beyond the "normal" perimeter, what is the minimum bases needed for a real shot at auto vic? Is this at all viable or is it necessary to go big in India, Oz, etc? The basic idea might be normal conquests plus the big SOPAC bases (Noumea, Fiji, etc) plus a heavy push in China plus whatever is needed to go "over the top." Is that Perth? More? I haven't crunched any numbers on this, has anyone else? I am leery of going for an Indian conquest or a total occupation of Oz (remember Between the Storms add lots of ships but few troops). Is there another way?
I think it depends on how aggressive a defense the Allied player runs. If he contests your advance then you are unlikely to be able to maintain a 4::1 ratio in material damage so need more territory. If he follows a Sir Robin approach then it may be sufficient to take China, Northern Oz and the South Pacific.
I think there is a potential option to pick up significant VP from damage to Australian industry. VP that will be useful whether or not AV is obtained 1st Jan 1943.