really? but the japanese weren't that of an thread back then, right? or weren't these the ones that were designed in coöperation with the germans?
The main enemies were in Dutch eyes The Japanese, since early 1930s Dutch Naval spi's saw Japan's Navy grow every day. Also when the Japanese leaders ( or high in rang) occupied the Dutch east indies in like saying a political view, the Dutch wanted to defence them against it. Also don't forget The Japanese were the first Asian nation whish won from a European country at sea far, even Chine loss even they got battleships the Japanese didn't in the battle of Yalu. The Germans were not the first point to arm at. Don't forget, you all might don't believe, but The Dutch wanted to defence there self against the Aussies. After they were indepencence from Britain, they wanted a Navy right after it, that was a shot for the grow for a Navy at the Dutch East Indies.