Chapter 0018: Shock
Before Wilhelm II lay the design schematics of the new battleship drawn by Qin Tian. Though merely a concept on paper, it evoked a profound shock within the emperor.
Despite not hailing from a naval background, Wilhelm II had been instrumental in the swift development of the German navy through his unwavering support. Thus, he possessed a measure of understanding in naval matters.
"This battleship designed by Oscar is unlike any before! The second-tier guns have been eliminated, replaced entirely by heavy artillery in triple turrets," Wilhelm II mused, furrowing his brow.
The battleships constructed and under construction by the German navy had traditionally featured two calibers of main guns, typically in twin mounts; triple mounts had never been attempted.
For the German navy, the concept of fully heavy artillery and triple mounts was entirely novel, not to mention that this ship was powered by a combination of heavy oil boilers and steam turbines, which the navy had never explored.
However, Wilhelm II recognized the distinct advantages of this battleship.
"This type of battleship seems considerably more formidable than our current fleet. Once operational, it could greatly enhance the strength of the German navy," he murmured. While the technical challenges were substantial, they did not detract from Wilhelm II's appreciation of the new battleship's advanced nature. He sensed that such a design represented the future direction of battleship development.
"Essen, please see if Marshal Count Tirpitz is still available. If so, summon him to me immediately," Wilhelm II decided. If this battleship were to be built, gaining Tirpitz's endorsement was essential. Furthermore, Wilhelm II sought to ascertain whether they possessed the technological capacity to construct such a vessel.
"Yes, Your Majesty," Essen von Jonalett replied promptly before departing.
Minutes later, Marshal Count Tirpitz entered Wilhelm II's office.
"Your Majesty, you are exceedingly diligent for the empire, even forgoing the Christmas banquet," Tirpitz greeted, flattery evident in his tone.
Wilhelm II waved his hand dismissively, though inwardly, he appreciated the compliment.
"The empire faces a formidable crisis; I must devote all my energy to state affairs. There will be time for festivities after we have vanquished our foes."
"Your wisdom is unparalleled, Your Majesty!" Tirpitz praised.
"Marshal, take a look at this. It is a Christmas gift from Oscar—he claims it is a battleship he designed, unlike any we have seen before," Wilhelm II stated proudly.
If Qin Tian's design proved successful, it would undoubtedly reflect his brilliance in battleship design, casting a favorable light upon Wilhelm II as a father. The revelation that his son possessed such talent was indeed a pleasant surprise.
"A battleship designed by Prince Oscar?" Tirpitz's eyes brightened. If he had previously held disdain for Qin Tian, his perspective had fundamentally shifted after their conversation at the banquet.
Tirpitz approached the desk, and upon seeing the schematics, he was similarly taken aback.
"Three triple turrets, with the second-tier guns removed, and the bow ram and torpedo tubes eliminated. The hull design is notably more compact," Tirpitz observed keenly.
Wilhelm II nodded, "And that's not all. In the notes, Oscar proposes utilizing heavy oil boilers and steam turbines to elevate the battleship's speed to over 21 knots."
"Heavy oil boilers and steam turbines? While we have conducted research in this area, we have not achieved significant breakthroughs. Besides the British, no other nation has experience using steam turbines on large warships," Tirpitz frowned.
"Do you believe this new battleship is vastly more advanced than our current fleet?" Wilhelm II inquired.
Tirpitz nodded, "The layout of fully heavy artillery is indeed refreshing. However, second-tier guns remain crucial in naval combat, as evidenced by the Battle of Tsushima. Relying solely on heavy guns may compromise the battleship's overall firepower."
As the Battle of Tsushima had yet to commence, naval powers were still exploring battleship design. Even the British had constructed numerous pre-Dreadnoughts armed with second-tier guns prior to their Dreadnought era.
"Regarding heavy oil boilers and steam turbines, while we may face technical limitations, we could substitute coal-fired boilers and reciprocating steam engines, albeit with some impact on speed," Tirpitz continued.
Wilhelm II considered, "What leads Oscar to believe that fully heavy artillery battleships are the future?"
"Perhaps it is the prince's personal insight. During our lengthy discussion at the banquet, I must admit that he demonstrated a remarkably clear understanding of the future international landscape and naval developments—perhaps even more foresight than many high-ranking officials in the empire. It is possible his ideas hold merit," Tirpitz remarked with approval.
Wilhelm II was taken aback; he had not anticipated such high regard from Tirpitz for Qin Tian.
"Essen, find Oscar. I wish to inquire about his thoughts on this matter," Wilhelm II commanded.
"Your Majesty, Prince Oscar has likely already departed the banquet hall. He left shortly after our discussion, as he seems to prefer avoiding such gatherings. Among the princes and young generation, he is rather unconventional. It is rare for a young man to be so comfortable with solitude."
Wilhelm II hesitated, then insisted, "Even if he has retired for the night, summon him."
"Yes, Your Majesty," Essen von Jonalett nodded and promptly set off to find Qin Tian.