The ranges of Type II, VII, and IX boats show why bases in Norway and France mattered. In this scenario, boats leaving Germany must negotiate a watched North Sea or Channel, then face the same gauntlet returning. Routes from France also remain exposed to British patrols. Atlantic convoys can concentrate their strongest escorts near the danger area and approach Britain from the north, reducing the chance of a sustained U-boat offensive or resupply by milk cows. Escort groups cover a shorter portion of each crossing and can be stronger without requiring more ships overall. The second U-boat Happy Time likely disappears, and even the first may never develop.
Chapter · 1:52:20-2:02:12
The Atlantic convoy war without Norwegian U-boat bases
German submarines can still attempt to reach France, but the Channel and North Sea gauntlets shrink their Atlantic campaign and may prevent both U-boat Happy Times.