Cruiser submarines could receive more investment without the treaty system. They appear to offer a surface cruiser's commerce-warfare capability at lower cost. Submergence promises greater survivability and makes the design attractive on paper. In this assessment, those apparent advantages would still fail to make it operationally viable. Governments could nevertheless pursue the concept because its promised economy and ability to hide seem appealing.
Notable Point · 55:33-56:29
Cruiser submarines promise a cheaper commerce-warfare offset
Apparent savings and the ability to hide could attract cruiser-submarine orders despite poor operational prospects.