Which smaller navies would rank behind the Dutch in January 1949, and what should determine the comparison?
Short answerChile and Australia lead the suggested next group, with Sweden and Finland also considered; the order depends on fighting power, training, and whether Commonwealth fleets count separately.
NotesThe Dutch receive first place because of their submarines, destroyers, and other assets. The next places depend on whether the comparison rewards total combat power or unusually strong capability within a small fleet. Chile is placed high because it has a battleship and is judged to get considerable practice, with Australia following in the suggested order. Sweden and Finland are further contenders, while Greece and Yugoslavia are considered too small to reach the leading group. The discussion also asks whether Commonwealth fleets should be judged independently or as part of the combined strength of several Royal Navies. Actual exercise and readiness matter alongside the number of ships. The question is transcribed as January 1949 twice, but the fleet examples leave the intended date uncertain.