Chapter 418 Invade Russia?
The battle of the Baltic Sea, lasting ten hours, had decisively tilted in France's favor, marking a revolutionary moment in naval warfare. Aircraft had proved their decisive role, sinking the majority of the Russian fleet. The news relayed to the Hexagon Balard, drew a satisfied smile from Napoleon.
"So, victory in the Baltic," mused Grand Admiral Marshal Murat. "Aircraft were the key. What then of our investment in battleships? Hundreds of millions of francs..."
Napoleon leaned back, his expression contemplative. "True, battleships are vulnerable without robust anti-air defenses. This was the Russians' downfall. But this doesn't render battleships obsolete. Improved anti-air capabilities could counter this threat. The Russians will be analyzing this defeat closely, no doubt."
Murat nodded slowly. "Indeed, Your Majesty. But the implications are clear. Perhaps it's time to shift our focus. Instead of commissioning more battleships, why not invest in developing our own aircraft carriers? We have a strategic window now, especially as the Russians are still reeling."
Napoleon's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "An interesting proposition, Marshal. The landscape of naval warfare is evidently shifting. We must adapt swiftly. I'll convene with the Ministry of the Navy. We'll explore the feasibility of accelerating our aircraft carrier program."
Well, this was part of Napoleon's plan of introducing the aircraft carriers in the game. One of his goals before dying is to introduce a battleship, now it's time to introduce the countermeasure of the battleship. He glanced around and saw the other Marshals agreeing with the plan.
"Your Imperial Majesty, if I may," Marshal Davout raised a hand, getting the attention of everyone.
"You may speak," Napoleon granted. Davout cleared his throat and began.
"Your Imperial Majesty, our win in the Baltic is significant. This is supposed to be a feint operation to lure some of the Russian forces in Central European to the North. But with the Russian Baltic Fleet heavily casualties we've gained a substantial advantage. One of which, the Russians won't be able to defend their capital, St. Petersburg. And if our North Sea Fleet reached St. Petersburg, there is a high chance that the Russians would sue for peace and end this war within this year."
"Hmm…that's a good point," Napoleon acknowledged. "The Baltic victory does open up significant strategic opportunities. A push towards St. Petersburg could indeed compel the Russians to negotiate peace. However, I don't think the Russians would surrender that easily."
As he was saying that, recalled the original timeline where Napoleon invaded Russia and reached Moscow, only to find out that the Russians deserted the city and relocated to Saint Petersburg. They could do the same here in this timeline if they capture Saint Petersburg.
"It would be very humiliating for the Russians to surrender so quickly. They have pride and a strong sense of nationalism. They might retreat and regroup, possibly drawing us deeper into their territory," Napoleon mused.
"How can you be so certain about that, Your Imperial Majesty?" Davout inquired curiously.
"Because the current Tsar of Russia, Paul I is not a man who would easily yield," Napoleon replied. "He's known for his stubbornness and strategic acumen. Even under pressure, he is likely to choose a tactical retreat over surrender. He understands the cost of war, but he also understands the value of perseverance."
Marshal Murat added, "This means we need to be tactically astute. Instead of a direct assault, we could use our naval advantage to blockade and apply pressure. Controlling key ports and trade routes could strangle their economy and force them into a more favorable position for negotiations."
"Let them starve…I see," Davout concurred. "With the Baltic Fleet gone, there's no way the Russians would be able to break the naval blockade in the north. It's also the winter season so many people in Russia will be suffering from food shortages and harsh weather conditions. This will weaken their morale and make them more likely to capitulate."
"Never invade Russia during winter…" Napoleon muttered under his breath.
"Uhm…Your Imperial Majesty, did you just say something?" Berthier asked.
Napoleon shook his head slightly, bringing his thoughts back to the present. "Nothing of concern, Berthier. Just reminding myself of the lessons of history. Speaking of which, it's winter right? When does it end for the Russians?"
Napoleon inquired, though he already knew the answer, he just wanted it to be answered by one of his marshals.
"It's hard to predict with precision, Your Majesty," replied Marshal Lannes. "Russian winters can be harsh and long. Typically, the severe weather lasts until late March or early April, but it can vary. The terrain becomes more navigable as the weather improves."
"We already came up with a plan to invade Russia from the south right? Well, let's make some adjustments to it. After the winter, we will invade Russia from all directions. The Northern Front which would take Saint Petersburg. Our coalition allies in the Center with Moscow as the target, and our Southern coalition forces to take Crimea and secure the Black Sea," Napoleon stated decisively.
Marshal Davout. "A multi-front offensive could indeed stretch the Russian defenses. However, coordinating such a large-scale operation will require meticulous planning and flawless communication between our forces and our allies. Like there's always politics in military planning. What if the Germans and the Poles don't agree on one thing but agree on another."
"We are the leader of the coalition forces, so they must follow us," Napoleon stated firmly.
Marshal Ney then raised a practical concern. "We must also consider the supply lines for such a widespread offensive. Each front will have its unique challenges in terms of logistics and resources. We need to ensure that each army group is adequately supplied and supported."
"I'll leave that to Marshal Berthier, who has done miraculous things during our campaign in Italy. I still remember the day you proposed to overhaul our logistics
system, and it has served us well ever since," Napoleon said, turning his attention to Berthier.
Marshal Berthier, well-known for his organizational skills, nodded in acknowledgment. "Your Majesty, rest assured, I will coordinate with our quartermasters to ensure efficient supply lines. We'll establish depots and contingency plans for rapid resupply, especially in areas where our forces are most vulnerable."
"Okay then…let's wait for the winter to end," Napoleon clapped his hand. "Now, what are we looking forward to?"
"An engagement of the French forces and her allies against the Russians inside the Polish border and a naval battle in the Ionian Sea. If we win any of those two, the fate of the Ottoman and the Russian Empire is certain."
"Okay…let's wait for that news."
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