Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 41:03-42:58

Dutch battlecruisers and carriers for the East Indies

A hypothetical 1939 Dutch order could create a powerful mixed force in the East Indies, but occupation would complicate ownership, crews, and deployment.

Aircraft CarriersBattlecruisersDutch East IndiesForce ZRoyal Netherlands Navy
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Question

How would two Dutch 12-inch battlecruisers and two carriers ordered in 1939 affect the East Indies?

Short answer

They could reinforce Force Z and create a two-carrier, three-fast-ship core, though the fall of the Netherlands would make crewing and control uncertain.

Notes

British-built 12-inch capital ships and carriers ordered in January 1939 might be available by 1941. Their crews and legal ownership would depend on what happened after the Netherlands fell. If they retained Dutch crews and flags, one carrier and one large cruiser might reinforce Force Z, perhaps prompting Britain to add another carrier. Such a formation would remain beatable, but it would materially complicate Japanese operations.