Chapter 0089: Commissioning

On November 18, 1907, at the Germania Shipyard in Kiel, the entire facility was under strict military supervision; even workers required thorough inspections before entering the premises. While the procedures were somewhat cumbersome, the laborers remained unfazed, aware that this day was of immense significance for the shipyard.

Today marked the completion of sea trials for the first vessel of the "Nassau" class battleships, the SMS Nassau, and its readiness for commissioning into the navy. From this day forth, the German Navy would bid farewell to its era devoid of dreadnoughts, officially stepping into the age of modern naval power.

Emperor Wilhelm II and Crown Prince Qin Tian would personally arrive from Berlin to attend the commissioning ceremony. Key figures including Admiral von Tirpitz, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral von Pohl, Commander of the High Seas Fleet Prince Heinrich, General Müller, and a host of experts from the Naval Technical Committee were all set to grace the occasion. Although the commissioning of the Nassau class was, in many ways, a slap in the face to the Naval Technical Committee, they had little choice but to attend, acknowledging their earlier misjudgment, even if their pride was bruised.

The Chief of General Staff General von Moltke, Deputy Chief General Waldsee, and Minister of War von Falkenhayn were also present. While the commissioning of the Nassau was a naval celebration, it bore immense implications for strengthening Germany's military might. Future conflicts could not rely solely on the army; naval power would equally prove indispensable, perhaps even decisive.

Moreover, both Wilhelm II and Crown Prince Qin Tian placed significant importance on the navy, necessitating respect from others towards naval endeavors.

"Everyone, stay sharp! We must not embarrass the Crown Prince. Security arrangements must be flawless—any slip could have dire consequences for us," urged the proud manager of the shipyard, Brütt, despite his fatigue, brimming with excitement. He understood the gravity of this day for the Germania Shipyard; a failure would not only tarnish Qin Tian's reputation but would also be a setback for the burgeoning shipyard, which had garnered substantial orders, inciting envy among its competitors.

"Yes, sir!" the shipyard staff responded with enthusiasm.

Soon, the attendees arrived at the shipyard's dock. The completed SMS Nassau lay majestically afloat, its massive hull resembling a small mountain on the water.

"Truly magnificent! Such a formidable battleship is precisely what the German Empire's navy needs. I can hardly wait to see this giant engage the British fleet in battle!" exclaimed Wilhelm II, gazing at the Nassau with admiration.

"Your Majesty, should we engage the British, I assure you our battleships will secure overwhelming superiority. At present, intelligence indicates that neither the completed, under-construction, nor planned British battleships stand a chance against our Nassau class. Moreover, our Helgoland class is already in production. In the competition of new battleships, we have surpassed the British!" declared Admiral von Tirpitz, his excitement palpable.

As the head of the German navy, few things could bring him greater joy than witnessing powerful battleships enter service.

"Yes, we have indeed surpassed the British. In the future, we shall continue to advance until they dare not oppose us!" Wilhelm II responded, exhilarated.

The sight of the Nassau instilled tremendous confidence in Wilhelm II, reinforcing his belief that a robust navy would compel the British to yield, preventing interference in continental conflicts. This reflected his naive hope that showcasing Germany's strength would lead Britain to abandon its opposition. However, this notion was far too idealistic.

Both Qin Tian and Admiral von Tirpitz dismissed Wilhelm II's assertion, firmly believing that Britain would never voluntarily relinquish its maritime dominance. To compel British submission would be nearly impossible; their only viable strategy would involve strengthening their naval forces to maintain superiority over the German fleet.

Thus, genuinely surpassing Britain would prove exceedingly challenging. The British possessed an unparalleled shipbuilding legacy, with a plethora of shipyards and skilled workers capable of producing numerous battleships in remarkably short timeframes—an achievement unattainable by any other nation.

The German navy must be prepared; should war arise, defeating the British fleet in naval engagements was imperative. This belief was steadfast in both Qin Tian and Admiral von Tirpitz. The idea of compelling the British to submit without conflict was a delusion they had never entertained.

Meanwhile, the experts from the Naval Technical Committee regarded the imposing Nassau class battleship with a mixture of shame and indignation. During the sea trials, they had dispatched experts to scrutinize the vessel for flaws, aiming to salvage their reputation. While the Nassau did exhibit minor issues, none were significant enough to affect its performance or combat capabilities, ultimately forcing the committee to concede the vessel's undeniable strength.

At 10 AM, the commissioning ceremony commenced. Wilhelm II delivered an address as the proceedings began.

"Gentlemen, welcome to the commissioning ceremony of the SMS Nassau. This represents the first dreadnought of the German Imperial Navy, symbolizing a new dawn for our naval power…"