What if the Dutch had standardized on a Type IX-like long-range submarine with a snorkel and improved torpedoes?
Short answerThey would gain a few formidable Pacific boats, but too few hulls to alter the wider campaign decisively.
NotesPlatform quality could not solve the shortage of hulls in this scenario. Better range, snorkels, and torpedoes could make several boats dangerous in the Far East. Dutch crews had the skill to exploit that capability against Japanese shipping. Three or four excellent submarines could inflict extra damage without changing the Dutch strategic position.