Yes, but I would sink the fleet in the Med without to much cost, so that offsets again. I can hold out in Europe for quite some rounds more, but Japan is not in a good enough position to win. That is why it is hopeless.
I am not sure if you ever found a game or not. I am new to the forum but there is the ability we could play by email if thats of interest. Let me know, I am actually yet to attempt that format either