Chapter 230: The Chauchat Machine Gun?

Chapter 230: The Chauchat Machine Gun?

In the conference room of the Ritz Hotel, Charles gave Stede a rundown of the specifications for aerial bombs, particularly focusing on the type of fuse needed.

Airborne bombs required a different kind of fuse. If they were equipped with a standard impact fuse at the front, like those used in mortar rounds, there was a significant risk: the high wind speeds during flight could jostle the bombs, causing them to strike each other mid-air, potentially triggering a premature explosion. This was one of the main reasons bombs were rarely used in aerial operations during this era. Even with low-speed hand-dropped bombs, accidents were common.

The solution was to use a "windmill trigger fuse," specifically designed for aerial bombs.

The design included a small propeller attached to the bomb's tail fin. After the safety pin was removed, the propeller would spin from the airflow, but the bomb would not detonate. Only upon impact, when the airflow ceased and the propeller stopped turning, would the bomb detonate.

Charles emphasized to Stede, "This is classified. Every technician and worker involved in producing these bombs must undergo strict screening!"

"No problem, Colonel!" Stede assured him confidently. "I'll make it happen quickly."

Saint-Étienne Armory had a well-established management system, with security protocols that even surpassed those of the government, given the importance of safeguarding the armory's trade secrets.

However, Stede's expression grew hesitant as he added, "Though I'm facing a bit of trouble, Colonel. I know you're busy, and this may be trivial, but…"

"What's the problem?" Charles asked.

"Well," Stede hesitated, taking out a cigar but then thinking better of it, "have you heard of the Puteaux Armory?"

"I've heard a bit," Charles replied, nodding.

"It was originally a machine tools manufacturer," Stede explained, "providing us with equipment. But now they've started producing rifles—specifically, the Berthier rifle."

"The Berthier?" Charles was vaguely familiar with the name but didn't recall specifics.

"Yes," Stede continued. "It's essentially a shorter, modified version of the Lebel rifle, originally intended for cavalry use."

Charles nodded in understanding. The Lebel's tube magazine had made it impractical for mounted troops, leading to the development of a modified rifle for the cavalry.

The Berthier wasn't just shorter—it also featured a three-round vertical magazine, unlike the cumbersome tube magazine of the Lebel. Surprisingly, this cavalry model became quite popular among infantry, who found it much easier to use.

Stede went on, "Originally, they planned to collaborate with the Remington company to improve the rifle for infantry use. But now that project has been handed over to the Puteaux Armory instead."

Charles raised an eyebrow. It would make more sense to assign such a project to the larger and more experienced Saint-Étienne Armory.

Stede added, "This was reportedly arranged by Schneider."

Hearing that, Charles understood instantly: Schneider was systematically obstructing any collaboration with him. This wasn't just about limiting Charles's expansion—it was a direct warning to others not to work with him either.

"I suspect Puteaux is also developing a new machine gun," Stede said, a trace of worry in his voice. "You know that Saint-Étienne's foundation is in rifles and machine guns. If we lose orders for both the Lebel and our machine guns…"

Saint-Étienne Armory would be a shell of its former self.

Charles understood the gravity of the situation. Saint-Étienne's capabilities, from producing bombs to mortars, hand grenades, and even 37mm cannons, were possible thanks to its skilled workforce and solid infrastructure. Losing contracts for rifles and machine guns would lead to a talent drain and, ultimately, a loss of production capabilities.

"So, you're looking for a new, more advanced rifle?" Charles asked.

"A new rifle would help, but we're more in need of an improved machine gun," Stede replied. "We've actually been developing one, but we haven't managed to resolve some of its flaws…"

After Saint-Étienne's existing machine gun model was deemed outdated, Stede had begun working on an upgrade, hoping to stay competitive.

"What type of machine gun?" Charles asked, curious.

"Just a moment, Colonel." Stede glanced toward the door. "My son is bringing the prototype. He's the expert on this, so I thought it'd be best if he explained it to you."

A knock at the door interrupted them, and in walked Dominique, carrying a long case. Charles looked at him, surprised. "Sergeant Instructor, what are you doing here…?"

Seeing the case in Dominique's hand, Charles suddenly made the connection. Dominique was Stede's son!

Dominique seemed equally taken aback, as Stede hadn't mentioned that he would be meeting with Charles.

"Do you two know each other?" Stede asked, surprised.

"Of course, Father!" Dominique replied with a smile. "I'm an instructor at the police training base."

Stede nodded, realizing that Dominique's training work involved equipment developed by Charles, which explained their acquaintance.

With a slight gesture, Stede introduced his son, "This is my son, Dominique. He has few passions outside of firearms."

Dominique reddened slightly, a bit embarrassed. He thought of an incident at the officers' club, and was relieved that Charles didn't seem to remember.

Stede motioned for Dominique to proceed. Dominique opened the case on the conference table, removed a machine gun, and began describing it with enthusiasm. "This is our latest model, compatible with 8mm Lebel rounds. It has a 20-round magazine…"

The moment he laid eyes on the weapon, Charles's enthusiasm dimmed. He recognized it as the notorious Chauchat machine gun, infamous for its poor performance in wartime.

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