What changes if the French and Dutch navies and personnel fully transfer to Britain in 1940?
Short answerBritain gains capital ships, cruisers, destroyers, and submarines while shedding the need to guard against them, producing compounding advantages across the Home Fleet, Mediterranean, convoys, and carrier force.
NotesAn intact French and Dutch naval evacuation would give Britain more ships while removing uncertainty about those fleets becoming hostile. Dunkerque and Strasbourg could reinforce northern forces watching for German surface raiders. Their presence could release Hood for a refit and provide extra heavy ships for an encounter such as Denmark Strait. Other French battleships and cruisers could strengthen Mediterranean operations. More escorts and capital ships would also permit stronger Arctic convoy protection and a larger Force Z. Avoiding Mers-el-Kébir and similar contingencies would reduce demands on British carriers, which would themselves benefit from the additional escorts.