The Republican Navy generally possessed far more destroyers and began the war with twelve submarines. The Nationalists had few official submarines, but Italian and German assistance altered what they could accomplish beneath the surface. They also maintained a substantial force of armed merchant ships, often around ten vessels. Comparing categories rather than a single fleet total explains why the Republic's apparent numerical superiority did not translate automatically into effective sea control.
Notable Point · 24:33-26:21
Fleet composition complicated Spain’s naval balance
Republican advantages in destroyers and submarines were offset by Nationalist armed merchant ships and covert Italian and German support.