How badly did poor Dutch and Allied command decisions damage the defense of the East Indies?
Short answerThey dispersed scarce submarines and aircraft and abandoned prepared strategy, while Phillips's death removed a commander who was hard to replace amid the crisis.
NotesSubmarines and aircraft were diverted from useful positions, basing decisions became confused, and plans developed over several years were abandoned. These choices dispersed scarce Allied striking power just as the Japanese advance demanded concentration. Admiral Phillips was imperfect but still stronger than the improvised leadership that followed his death. Somerville later improved matters, yet he arrived overworked and on a much tighter leash because the strategic situation had already deteriorated.