Nope, you've avoided what I think is the most aggravating error, stacking mods on top of each other until nobody can predict what kind of weirdness is going to result. A clean installation like yours is the best. I'm considerably more complicated right now, but it takes experience and a willingness to listen to avoid pitfalls. When you post a screenie of your JSGME config and some modder says, "YOU IDIOT!!" that's a clue...
Lurker is author of RSRD, and that is the main source of enemy traffic. He's the one who can most fruitfully answer questions. Remember that the whole Japanese Navy is off having invasion parties while you're off to mainland Japan. Early in the war you get more action by far in the Asiatic fleet.