How should the Republic of China have allocated the money spent on two light cruisers in the early 1930s?
Short answerBuy submarines for concealed local sea denial, because cruiser presence and flagship roles require a supporting force.
NotesSubmarines are the preferred alternative to the two light cruisers bought by the Republic of China in the early 1930s. They could hide and provide local sea denial. Cruisers are useful for presence and as flagships, but those advantages rely on a wider supporting force. The recommendation follows from the weaker navy's immediate need to deny waters to its opponent.