The scenario lets the Royal Navy hold the northern exits with smaller blocking forces instead of keeping large numbers of capital ships tied to Atlantic convoy cover. Even an older R-class battleship becomes useful when backed by Norwegian and British torpedo boats, destroyers, submarines, and aircraft around the Skagerrak. It also removes the proximity that Norwegian air bases gave Germany to Scotland and industrial centres around the Clyde. Long-range raids remain possible, but reduced disruption and the loss of Scandinavian lubricants and chemicals help British production accumulate its advantage over time.
Notable Point · 51:53-56:23
Norwegian geography frees ships and eases pressure on Britain
If German raiders cannot readily leave the North Sea, Britain can use capital ships elsewhere while northern British industry faces fewer attacks from Norwegian-based aircraft.