The contrast with Spain after the Spanish-American War explains the deterrent value of ships such as Schorpioen. Dutch possessions in the Caribbean and Southeast Asia occupied regions that also interested the expanding United States. The Netherlands was unlikely to defeat the United States once the American fleet expanded. Maintained and capable Dutch ships could still create the chance of a damaging upset, adverse press, and difficult questions in Congress and the Senate. Naval power shaped an opponent's calculations without requiring the smaller state to seek a decisive fleet battle.
Notable Point · 23:04-24:55
Deterrence without expecting victory
A smaller navy need not expect to defeat a great power outright if it can make intervention costly, uncertain, and politically embarrassing.