Britain's preferred approach uses the Royal Navy, the Indian Army, and other imperial forces rather than accepting a symmetrical fight. Cutting Japanese trade could isolate an import-dependent enemy while British commerce continued through a much wider network. The Peninsular War supplies a historical comparison for Britain's use of sea power and financed partners to apply pressure. War would also provide political cover to accelerate defense spending and set aside peacetime treaty constraints.
Notable Point · 32:18-33:55
Imperial resources and economic warfare
The proposed eastern war favors British blockade and imperial resources, while Japan's dependence on trade becomes a strategic vulnerability.