WesWorld

January 5th, 1936
Cabinet Meeting
All proceedings classified

War Minister Herman Loeder : After the turmoil of last year, with the wars in Grand Uruguay and Lithuania, and especially with the cataclysm the latter foreshadowed, as well as the founding of SAER and the hostility of Bahrat client states, I ordered a Defense Review to occur.

Each presenter will only review the summary for the cabinet, full detailed reports will be available after the meeting. Before we begin, we have a brief presentation by Brigade-Generaal Jakob Snellensoon.

Snellensoon Report
To: Netherlands Military Ministery of War
From: Jakob Snellensoon, Brigade-Generaal, CO - Legion Oranje

Subject: Military Report on conduct of operations in Lithuania

After careful reflection and the study of our recent combat and training operations in Lithuania, during it's civil war and the following cease-fire, the following matters deserve special consideration for future Dutch military operations, restructuring or education.


Staff Operations
- Lithuanian staff resources / personnel are well established and capable, although often seriously overworked, ongoing efforts to train and select new staff officers are ongoing, Insurrectionist staff resources are at best described as indifferent, due to a combination of fewer personnel, plain inexperience or neglect, the result in the field was often poorly executed tactical decisions or miscarried attacks and defenses

- Lithuanians made much use of radio equipment, field telephones and signalers and dispatch riders of all sorts to handle their formations with it must be said considerable success, Insurrections communications were generally poorer, having few radios, even fewer field telephones, having to rely on civil telegraph and telephone exchanges, and mounted dispatch riders or battalion runners



Infantry Operations
- Lithuanian troops marked by high morale and fighting ability, strict drill at arms instilled in troops at an early period and a high tempo of practical training in weapons and small unit tactics maintained thereafter

- Lithuanians make special emphasis of the heavy use of machineguns both light and heavy types in the attack, well forward with the troops, was particularly necessary to halt the human wave assault tactics the Insurrectionists were want to use

- Lithuanians also emphasis heavy and widescale use of infantry crewed mortars: 50/81-mm types, and rifle grenades, this is to make up for the lack of heavy support artillery which is widespread in the current Lithuanian army

- Russian tactics of using massed machinegun and artillery fire to lead attacks or defenses - which the unusually high number of automatic weapons and guns and howitzers within their infantry and cavalry divisions and artillery support brigades afforded them - were particularly effective against Insurrectionist and Polish formations and positions in Vilnius


Cavalry Operations
- contrary to fashionable opinion in some quarters, mounted operations are still a feasible practice on the modern battlefield, both Russian and Lithuanian - and similarly it must be said Insurrectionist horsemen -mounted troops conducted themselves with great gallantry, and battlefield success in the roles of scouts, screening units, dispatch riders, battle cavalry and dismounted infantry


Artillery Operations
- bulk of Lithuanian field artillery is of mixed origin, being German, Russian, French or even English. Standardization of calibers is ongoing

- Lithuanians emphasis the use of artillery weapons of all types and calibers well forward and when possible massed on a single target in both the field and urban fighting as direct infantry support, to quickly smash enemy strong points and centers of organized resistance, this often leads to high casualties among their gun crews, but equally often pays off with spectacular battlefield results

- Mobile artillery, typically horse-drawn or cavalry styled horse artillery, played an active and useful role in many actions, as did motorized or mechanized units either via towed weapons, or by directly mounting them on a motor chassis


Armour Operations
- Lithuanians when possible tended to use their armoured vehicles, both tanks and armoured cars directly with infantry and artillery in close support, a laudable combined arms approach

- On several occasions, armoured units either by the Lithuanian Army or Security Troops, or the Legion Oranje volunteers, were massed in company and sometimes battalion level and used in attacks against either Insurrectionist or later Polish battlefield positions with very positive results, particularly when well supported by infantry and field or heavy artillery

Logistical Operations
- whenever possible, Lithuanian commanders took special pains to see that their troops had an adequate stock of military essentials at hand before mounting any sustained operation, staffs paid equally special attention to keep said units supplied while in the field, Insurrectionist logistics were by comparison, often jury-rigged, ad hoc and barely adequate particularly regarding supplies of ammunition - units often could wind up expended their entire stocks of munitions in the first minutes of a single battle



I recommend this points of interest be taken into serious account in the next staff discussions within the Royal Army General Staff and the Ministry of War.

/s/ Jakob Snellensoon, Brigade-Generaal
(all credit to Agent 14

Rost van Tonningen, Staatssecretaris of the Army:

The focus of this summary is on the future armor requirements of the Netherlands.

Armor requirements of the Kingdom of the Netherlands


Armored Cars : Pantserwagen
The Skoda PA-IV has served quite well and should remain viable for years. They are superior to the previous, older, Romsfell armored cars. The is a valuable asset and considerably cheaper than tanks.


Current procurement : ceased.

Recommendation : A successor to the PA-IV should be produced. There are no domestic designs, though DAF has expressed interest in submitting a proposal. Evaluate existing foreign designs.
The Italian Autoblinda AB.34, German SdKfz 231, and Landsverk 181 should be considered for current acquisition.

Skoda has no new design available. Italian, Denmark, German, Nordmark and SAE should be preferred. DAF has indicated a desire to submit a design. Request formal tenders from DAF, Imperia and Minerva for long term development.

Assault Gun : Gemechaniseerd geschut
This role has been newly filled by the Semovente 75/18. Vehicles have not been released to infantry units at this time. The initial expectation was a company shall be attached to each Infantry and Cavalry Division to provide direct support. The Snellensoon report highlights the use of artillery placed far forward in direct support of infantry, suggesting greater dispersal and allocation to lower echelons may be recommended.

Current procurement : Continuing.

Recommendation : Production of the Semovente 75/18 should be continued. Two companies should be shipped to Dutch Guiana for development of tactics in conjunction with infantry.

At 15 tons, this vehicle may be oversized and overarmored for the role, a matter which exercises should evaluation. Exploration of alternative platforms and evaluation of requisite armor should occur to identify the most efficient and affordable combinations of armor and weapons on the smallest platform feasible.


image by Red Admiral

Self-propelled gun : Pantserhouwitser
This role has been filled in the past year by the Semovente 100/35. Limited quantities have been procured and doctrine for use is theoretical.

Current procurement : Production continuing.

Recommendation : Exercises in Dutch Guiana, reports in Lithuania, reports from Grand Uraguay all indicate that massed armor can create, at least temporarily, fluid front situations.

Self-propelled artillery would be far more flexible in a defensive or counter attack role in such situation.

Two batteries should be dispatched to Dutch Guiana for testing.

Production should be continued and allocated to artillery units attached to the BENL Korps. Additionally, artillery tractors should be obtained for existing medium guns in areas with more open terrain.

Half-tracks
This mission has not been formally created. With the consideration of motorized and mechanized units, half tracks may prove of value. German half tracks are world leaders and would be leading candidates. Danish halftracks should be evaluated, and the Belgians also have a heavy half track which should be considered.

Artillery tractors

This mission has been filled for heavy artillery batteries by CAT 60s since shortly after the great war.

Current procurement : Ceased
Recommendation : The CAT 60s are mechanically worn out. New artillery tractors should be obtained for all heavy artillery and cluster spigot mortar batteries. Divisions selected for motorization should have their medium artillery and antiaircraft guns provided with tractors. The 1932 contract to Skoda has resulted in a suitable vehicle, produced by Praga. This should be obtained to fulfill these roles.


Tankettes : amfibisch tankette
The Carden-Lloyd M1931 amphibious tankettes have proven popular in service and have promise as mobile machine gun nests in infantry support, and as a light recon element. The amphibious element has been useful in exercises by allowing flexibility in flooded areas and at riverine crossings, but the vehicle is to light to exploit this advantage.


Current procurement : Marines are finishing an order of 51 tankettes. This provides one battalion per Brigade.

Recommendation :
1. The type is sufficiently attractive that follow- on M1931 tankettes should be acquired, and the type dispersed in low numbers to infantry divisions.

2. In June of 1932, Fabrique Nationale and Skoda were each requested to take the lead develop replacement vehicles. Fabrique Nationales offering is an enlarged version of the same vehicle, with a new transmission, which has given substantial problems. Skodas offering is an entirely new vehicle, which is in trials and proving acceptable.



3. Investigation of preparing a version of the new vehicles as a troop or gun carrier could give impressive returns. The Fabrique Nationale version may be best suited for such, and a study should evaluate the possibility of a using the chassis as a base for a mobile infantry or anti-tank gun, or as an artillery carrier.

Light tanks : Lichte tank, verkenner tank
The Vickers 6-ton G model has been useful but is being rapidly outclassed in armament and armor. At this time it is quite foreseeable that this tank will become obsolete for front line service in the near future. However, use of the tank in a defensive role to support infantry or ambush enemy tanks will be viable for some time.

Current procurement : ceased.

Recommendation : This tank can be used in the same role as the Belgian T-13 is intended to fill. The existing tanks units should be withdrawn from the mounted reconnaissance role and converted to mobile 8 vehicle ATG/IG batteries and attached at a rate of one to each the regular home divisions. The remaining 14 vehicles can be used as spares.

Medium tank : Gevecht tank
The Skoda-Davao Lt-33B is a capable tank. The Lt-33A upgrades to the 45L48 have been accomplished, giving superior armament to the 37L40 used in the interim.


Current procurement : Manufactured by Skoda at a rate of 10/ month.

Recommendation : Continue production. As suitable scout tanks become available, withdraw from mounted reconnaissance companies and consolidate as strike battalions under divisional command.

It is expected that future tanks will be more massive with increased arms and armor, with the result that this vehicle will be relegated to scout and hunter duties.

For the near term, examine possibilities of expansion on existing chassis. For the long term, it appears a tank in the 15-20 ton range will be required for this role. The Skoda SIII may prove a sufficient basis to develop.


Assault tanks : Bestorming tank
The Skoda-Royal Armory Lt-35 has proven acceptable in service. Some confusion has persisted among newspaper writers that the SRA Lt-35 is the same as the Skoda Lt-35, a much smaller tank. The development time and prototypes successfully eliminated most faults and availability rates exceed that of the Vickers 6 ton. However, foreign tank design has advanced at a higher rate than expected, generally favoring a larger main gun, up to 57mm in size. The Lt-35 armor should be sufficient for engagement on equal terms for some time, but it must be conceded that the Lt-35 may be only a midsized tank in the future.



Current procurement : Manufactured at Skodas Netherlands factory at a rate of initially 5/ month. Lt-35B production with 75mm howitzer planned at 5/month. Total expected Lt-35A procurement to be 153, total Lt-35B procurement yet to be determined.

Recommendation : Continue procurement of Lt-35A beyond original 153 tank expectation.

Conduct studies on potential for design alteration to C model, with upgraded main gun and or armor. Evaluate if there are existing suitable guns, or if a new weapon must be developed. Fit additional cooling fans and filters for improved serviceability in tropical service. Continue work on serviceability considerations and availability rate.

General Conclusions:

The Dutch army has requirements for amphibious tanks, light reconnaissance tanks, primary battle tanks, and heavy assault tanks.

Experiments on the test range in Dutch Guiana has highlighted the flaws in the dispersed approach versus the mass approach. Additionally, the tactical flexibility of speed to allow seizing of the initiative and applying massed firepower to a discrete point has been underestimated. However, it must be realized that lessons from the Savannas of Dutch Guiana may not translate well to the flooded fields and urban environs of the Netherlands, or the jungles, rivers and rice paddies of the Malay Archipelago.

If mobile mechanized units are to operate independently, supporting arms should be capable of similar movement, much like the old horse artillery. Anti-aircraft, artillery, infantry and pioneer elements may be useful. Identification of a suitable chassis should include the consideration of use for multiple roles. Further, installation of an exterior phone on the rear flanks of vehicles for communication with dismounted troops.

Command and control in fluid situations required enhanced communications gear. Current radio systems are older s 2-channel systems and cumbersome for the vehicle commander to use while the vehicle is in motion. Phillips electronics has improved 4 channel radios which can and should be retrofitted.

With advances in foreign tanks, development of a new anti-tank gun or anti-armor methods should be undertaken to ensure that the next generation of Dutch tanks is sufficient.

Availability rates during exercises for armored vehicles run between 60 and 70%, with substantial mechanical attrition after 200km road marches. Increases in mechanical reliability and reduction in maintenance time will effectively expand the available armored vehicle numbers.

The foundation of future armored vehicles is the running gear. Development of enlarged or new transmissions and suspensions for vehicles should be a priority. Further development of existing transmissions should continue, but the Lt-35B transmission should be the priority, as it can be fitted to smaller vehicles as well. In the event that armored vehicle development mimics ship development, designs may expand until reaching infrastructure limits. As common bridge ratings are 40 tonnes, development of suspension and transmission for a hypothetical tracked 40 tonne vehicle capable of up to 50kph on roads should be undertaken as a research measure.

As the armor forces expand, current repair companies should be expanded to specialized mechanized support companies with recovery vehicles and repair capacity. A study should be conducted to establish an efficient ratio of combat vehicles to support vehicles. There is a high likelihood that dispersal in small numbers results in higher maintenance requirements and lower availability rates. Repair facilities need expansion to allow for rapid repair and salvage of inoperable equipment.

Industry

The Fairmilleax Heavy casting facility in Maastricht is reported complete. Skoda and Royal Armory have preliminary plans for a cast-hull tank, with flanges to allow riveting of face hardened armor plates. This is expected to both solve the problems of welding armor steel, facilitate rapid replacement of damaged plates, and the cast hull will provide protection from high velocity rivet detachment when plates are struck.

The Skoda factory in Holland is performing to expectations.

Reports of efficiencies in overseas factories indicate that there is a high likelihood that domestic production techniques can be adjusted to achieve similar quality while substantially reducing time and material costs. Government subsidy of this effort would greatly aid in the transition.

Wartime production needs can partially be met by transitions from single to triple shifts. However, excess capacity should be planned to allow wartime expansion. This should be government funded.

I like this news peice, I can see a few players shamelessly copying this format, including myself!

Well, the posted version is a little more disjointed than I like, but that is a result of it being done in little bits here and there, and then pieces swapped around.

In general, most of the groundwork I laid in 1928-1935 is done, so I figured I would sit down and take a look forward.
The one worry is that events from August-Dec in South America may change some considerations, in particular I'm looking for SPAAG rationale and attrition, with perhaps urban warfare later.

I may get the air summary out tomorrow.

Air Force Summary

Fighters.

There are demands for several types of fighters. A, figher, a zerstorer and a jachtkruiser. A lightly armed air superiority fighter emphasizing speed and maneuverability. A fast, heavily armed bomber interceptor or Zerstorer. A twin engine long range / over water fighter, preferably with some strike capacity, the jachtkruiser.


Currently, these missions are filled.

Fighters :
Currently filled by the D.XVIIbis and the D.XIXB-C. The D.XVIIbis is rapidly being removed from frontline service and is slated for disposal. The D.XIXC is acceptable for the mission. The D.XIXD is expected to rectify armament issues.

Future : Attrition rates in South America argue that abandonment of the reserve fighter wings may have been premature. In the later stages of a conflict, even an older aircraft such as the D.XVIIbis may be quite adequate. Of the 736 D.XVIIbis which were in active service, 256 should be retained as reconstituted reserve wings in the DEI and NL, while the remainder can be sold or scrapped.

D.XIX airframe and HS-12Y combination are likely to be acceptable for a further three years. Consideration to diversifying fighter types to include the D.XXI or D.XXII or foreign models should be undertaken.



The D.XXI and D.XXII are both comparable fighters, the D.XXI uses a different engine, allowing production to more easily increased. The Belgian R-37, Me-109, and the DAF 4 Falcon should also be considered. Consideration should be given to characteristics desirable in a fighter to be adopted in 1939.

Zerstorer : The Zerstorer mission is filled by the FW-187A and G.1C. The FW is 12mph faster and longer ranged, and has been a popular plane in service. The G.1C is equal or superior in most other aspects and is also popular.

Future : The G.1Cs can be expected to perform the mission for several years, potentially extended by engine improvements. It is expected that the D.XXIII may prove an adequate replacement when the ejection seat and cooling problems are corrected.



Jachtkruiser :
The Jachtkruiser mission was to be filled by the T.VII and G.1A, with the T.VII emphasizing the bomber capability, while the G.1A was to emphasize the fighter aspects. T.VII as developed is not adequate for a jachtkruiser mission. The G.1A performs the mission extremely well.



Future : The T.VII should be considered strictly a bomber, though experimentation with heavy fixed nose armaments may be worth consideration. The G.1A has proven quite acceptable, but future acquisition should focus on the G.1B once the radial engines reach serviceability. This will both enhance resistance to damage and reduce reliance on one engine source.

Bombers
There are demands for several types of bombers. These include heavy bombers for deep attacks on opposing industrial bases, medium bombers for destruction of infrastructure, maritime strike, and tactical bombers. Tactical bombers can be further subdivided into the traditional level bombers and the newer dive bombers.

Heavy bombers :
This mission is not filled.

Future : At this time heavy bombers remain individually expensive and manpower intensive, and lack the range to attack opposing industrial bases of high probability aggressors. Losses in South America among the Nordmark B-17 bombers, as well as other types have been heavy and suggest that large bombers are unreasonably vulnerable to both anti-aircraft and fighters. High altitude would reduce vulnerability, but the current bombsight development program has not reached a point where reliable strikes from a single squadron could reasonably be expected to destroy a factory. The current D.119 prototype lacks the range, altitude performance and survivability to adequately perform the mission. The D.121 prototype being constructed has been modified to attempt to address these concerns.


Medium bombers :
The T.Va and T.VII fulfill the medium bomber mission. While both planes have been adequate in service, the T.VII is a more competent plane and well suited for future procurement.

Future : The T.VII is best suited for future development. When the engines for the G.1B are accepted for service, trials on a modified T.VII airframe should occur. Areas for improvement include the newer model bombsights and the ventral armament. Consideration should be given to utilizing the FN-Browning 13.2mm or German 15mm MGs for additional capacity against enemy fighters. Reports from South America indicate that survivability is an important feature and means to further improve this should be explored.

Maritime Strike :
Currently the T.IV, T.VII and T.VIII perform this mission. This mission as currently conceived is one of torpedo delivery against warships and fleet supply trains. The T.VII is the only land based plane for this purpose.



Future : The T.VII and T.VIII would seem still capable in this mission for the torpedo delivery mission. Reports from South America have repeatedly mentioned the success rate of dive bombing. This latter role is one the naval T.VI is capable of performing in addition to dive bombing. Trials of all three aircraft in the divebombing role should be undertaken, and development of naval dive bombing sights and doctrine should occur.

Tactical bombers :
Battlefield and near battlefield support has been a role entrusted to the C.X biplane bomber. The F.A.10A has entered service in the DEI. The South American war has seen a high attrition rate in planes performing this mission, both from enemy aircraft and groundfire. The C.X does not appear adequate in the future wartime environment, and the F.A.10A appears more suited.

Future : Efforts should be made to replace all C.X. in service. Further emphasis on dive bombing doctrine, training and equipment should be explored, with evaluation of level bombing vs. dive bombing in a troop support role. The F.A.10A is the available near term replacement for the C.X, and is designed for dive bombing, forming an adequate interim airframe until such a time as close support doctrine evolves to properly encompass both level and dive bombing.

Reconnaisance
There are demands for several types of reconnaissance platforms. Recent requests for proposals by other nations have highlighted the demand for specialist roles. Currently these roles are fulfilled by conversions of regular airframes.

Strategic
A primarily theoretical role at this time. A long range aircraft capable of deep penetration over enemy terrain for photoreconnaissance purposes. Mission would include identification of critical transportation and industrial infrastructure, target marking, anchorage monitoring and post bombing evaluation. This role is unfilled at this time.

Future : Conversations with Fokker indicate conversions of the G-1C and T.VII may be capable of fulfilling this role, but would not be as suited as a dedicated platform. Primary consideration at this time is sufficient range to reach potential anchorages combined with performance to execute and return from the mission.

Tactical
Currently filled by C.X light attack planes with a centerline camera fitted and G.1C jachtkruisers with cameras fitted in the bomb bay. The G.1C is far superior in this role, combining a large performance envelope with a spacious and stable camera installation in the bomb bay.

Future : The C.X is likely to be to vulnerable for use over enemylines. The G.1B will have somewhat enhanced survivability due to the lack of a liquid coolant system, while having adequate performance to serve in the role. A glazed nose version of the G.1B would provide additional stations for camera installation. A limited number of dedicated planes to supplement the temporary conversions would be advisable.



Forward observers
Currently filled by the C.X light attack..

Future : The C.X is likely to be to vulnerable for use in all circumstances. G.1C low speed performance in a race track flight path is good. The G.1C usefulness in this role can be enhanced, as experiments with temporary plexiglas panel installation have proven. The G.1B is expected to exhibit superior resilience and a glazed nose production version would enhance usefulness in this role. A specialist aircraft would be superior. Visibility, resistance to ground fire and low altitude maneuverability would be at a premium. Fokkers design 137 may be suitable for development.



Maritime
Currently filled by the Dornier Do-18G.1, with range assisted by tenders.

Future : The Fokker Design 122 with the Dornier hull should have the range necessary for strategic photo reconnaissance. Speed and vulnerability to interception if near land would be an issue. Exploration should be undertaken of fitting cameras to a faster seaplane and extending range via use of a tender.

Transport
Long range
Airliner and or cargo transport with strategic range. Currently unfilled.

Future : There are several airliners available on the export market, and Fokker is working on two aircraft domestically, the Design 121 and the 160 Flying Wing. No aircraft available meet the full range requirements currently. As such, aircraft meeting these requirements would be useful, but are not mandatory.



Unpaved
These conditions are met via contract with KLM airlines. The Fokker F.36 airliner is the superior candidate for this position. The wing and landing gear allow operations in most conditions with a relatively short roll for such a plane. The DC-2 and DC-3 are excellent planes as well.



Future: The F.36A and DC-3 should be procured and fitted for troop transport or cargo transport. This would eliminate dependency on KLM aircraft availability for most considerations. Squadrons in the Netherlands, and two in DEI would provide a useful option.

Short field
Currently there are no small capacity, short unimproved field transports available. Koolhoven has one small cargo aircraft, but the plane is to limited to be of use.

Future :
Field commanders have expressed that having a small, cargo capable, aircraft available would be useful. At this time the expected cargo need would be for a single light tank or offroad car plus equipment and staff. A total of a 4 or 5 ton capacity. Aircraft designers indicate that this is optimistic for a small light aircraft. A single field gun, unit of fire and crew, displacing perhaps 2 tonnes, is more feasible. Recommend Koolhoven to proceed with design work.

Maritime
Currently the Dornier flying boats provide this capacity.

Future : The Fokker-Dornier flying boat should meet this need.

Armament
The South American conflict has seen high losses in aerial combat. Primary weaponry used is light and heavy machine guns. Cannon are present in limited numbers of aircraft. Machine guns are proving adequate for destroying fighters, and bombers are proving vulnerable as well.

South African F-6B fighters carry similar armament to the D.XIXC, though the -6Ds have an additional pair of machine guns. The FD-2 is comparable to the G.1 series. Argentinean I-100 Barons are known to be armed with 4 browning 13mm MGs.

Conclusion : Current fighter armament is adequate, planned exploitation in the D.XIXD of the HS-12Y capability to mount a motorcannon should ensure our fighters have superior firepower. The G.1 series armament is heavier than any South American combatant and should be maintained, with the possible exception of replacing the rear 7.92mm twin MG with 13.2mm.

Protection
The South American conflict is yielding unexpectedly high attrition rates. The South Afrikan Empire has been supremely uncooperative, it refused all requests to send observers, and rejected those personnel who wished to volunteer. This restricts us to after action reports and third hand information, making evaluation of the exact reason for the loss rate difficult. Frustratingly, due to SPEARFISH we must presume Bahrat is receiving detailed reports.

However, it is clear that should the Netherlands be involved in a war, we will suffer unacceptable loss rates which will severely impair our ability to field an effective air force. There are three primary steps that must be taken.

1. Reconstitute the reserve wings. Reserve wings should be dispersed in squadron format, and training aircraft provided to each squadron for regular training of reserve crew. Participation in the air reserve should be mandatory subsequent to regular service, and recruitment of individuals directly to the reserve considered.
As the D.XVIIbis retires, and the T.V starts to be replaced by the T.VII, warehouse those airframes in good flying condition to form the core of the new reserves.

Doctrine for the employment of the reserve. The reserve force should not be committed to operations at the onset of any war. Rather the reserve force should engage in training and use as replacement crews for the first month. Committing the reserve prior to that point should be done only in extremis. Once the reserves are at fighting peak, and attrition has removed the cream of the opposing aircraft, the elderly airframes of the reserve should not be at a great disadvantage.

2. Pilots represent the most difficult to develop aircrew and a limiting factor in employment of airframes. Pilot training programs should be reexamined to develop a rapid development program for wartime. Establishment of a reserve pilot program shall occur in conjunction with the reserve wings. Consideration should be given to a subsidized civil pilot program to broaden the private pilot base.

Controversially, following the Bulgarian example of women pilots should be considered. As we know, Fokkers Ms. Rianne Rijker performed respectably at Cordoba and there is a Japanese Mercenary flying unit which has apparently awarded kills to several women. While Ms. Rijker has pressed to attend Fighter school, it is a scientific fact(1) that women lack the high potential athleticism and killer instinct of men, so are generally not suited for Fighter, bombardier or gunner duties, and they are not stable enough to be placed in command of a bomber. However, a pool of women pilots for transports, serving as copilots, or employment as flight engineers may be acceptable.

3. Aircraft protection should be improved. As further details from the South American conflict filter through, the means to accomplish this will be more clear. At this time we have to work off the information we garnered from the 1934 exercises (2).

There are many areas to explore including visibility and gunnery arcs, pilot armor, engine failures, fuel tank fires, frame and wing failures, crew egress, serviceability kills, and maintenance attrition.

We have attempted to provide acceptable visibility and arcs for our planes and these have seemed acceptable in the Talons over Cordoba contest which included a wide variety of foreign airframes.

Current protection is limited to pilot armor in some airframes. This should likely be made standard, and should be robust enough to withstand the expected 15mm machine gun armaments of fighters.

Losses due to engine damage are unclear. The liquid cooled engines have superior profiles allowing higher speeds, but the cooling system represents an additional key system. While the radial engines have theoretical greater survivability when hit, there is insufficient data to establish if the performance loss for fighters simply increases the chances of being hit. Where ground fire is expected, performance would appear to be a minor issue and radial engines should be considered. This will also help diversify our engine base.

Fuel tanks have long been a potential source of loss, and it should be possible to adapt the self sealing fuel cell developed for the LT-35 (3) for employment in aircraft. Fitting self sealing tanks would incur a weight and volume penalty which will burden the aircraft and restrict range. Without a tests and comparison to better data on losses, it is hard to establish if such a thing is needed, or if it inflicts an unacceptable performance penalty. Funding should be made available for fitting and live fire testing of self sealing tanks to assess their penalties and effectiveness.

There is insufficient data on structural failures as a source of aircraft loss. Further, different manufactures have different engineering tolerances, making comparisons difficult. While the F.IXD testing was informative, we should indulge in destructive live fire testing of some front line airframes, though ones damaged in accidents should be acceptable.

Crew egress : There is little data on this. All Dutch crewmembers have parachutes. Further drilling on emergency exits and proper packing and use of parachutes is likely advisable. Known problems are limited and seriousness unevaluated. Fighter cockpits are known to be cramped in the D.XVIIbis and D.XIX series, and the passage to the tail gun of the T.V and T.VII cramped. Fokker has been working on an ejection seat for the D.XXIII to avoid the rear propeller, and the Danes have recently fielded one. However ejection seats require more weight.

Serviceability and maintenance considerations have already entered into our planning. With the D.XIXA we feel we overreached by adopting an engine before it was truly broken in. Availability rates were not acceptable, and the Navy did not feel confident in accepting the plane for service until the B version. Small boosts in notional performance are not acceptable if they require adopting engines barely out of the prototype stage (4).

(1) In this time period, I think that would be a very progressive view for a Minister born about 1880.
(2) Which never made it past the bullet point stage in my Q4,1934 report. That is where many of the old F.IXD bombers were expended in airfield attack exercises, after which battle damage was evaluated.
(3) an idea stolen from the OTL French Char B1 series
(4) For a bit I had +5 engines, then I dropped to +4, since the last discussion on the topic seems to have endorsed a 3 year guideline, I am at +3, which is delaying some aircraft.

Quoted

Originally posted by Kaiser Kirk
Controversially, following the Bulgarian example of women pilots should be considered. As we know, Fokkers Ms. Rianne Rijker performed respectably at Cordoba. While Ms. Rijker has pressed to attend Fighter school, it is a scientific fact(1) that women lack the athleticism and killer instinct of men, so are not suited for Fighter, bombardier or gunner duties, and they are not stable enough to be placed in command of a bomber. However, a pool of women pilots for transports, serving as copilots, or employment as flight engineers may be acceptable.

You might also wish to note that a Japanese "mercenary" air squadron boasts several female pilots, including, as I understand, at least one female ace.

I had forgotten that part. The Dutch have always held the Japanese in high esteem, so pigheadedness wouldn't discount them. I will go change it.

Edit: changed it, modified some of wording to be less absolute.

Good stuff! It tallies with what I'm writing for Argentina at the moment.

One small point, the FMA-100 can carry six 13mm HMGs and all fighters used in anti-bomber operations have six guns. Those for dogfighting have four, the FMA-100C (built by Tucan) however has four 7.92mm MGs due to shortages of 13mm Brownings and are only used against fighters and ground targets.

As yet there are no plans for 20mm cannon in the Argentine AF.

Very good posts! Much welcome!

On fighter armament - I´m curious why the Dutch ignored the "turreted fighter" topic at all. While the G.1 is heavier armed regarding fixed guns she lacks the turret the FD-2 has. The roles both planes were designed for also seem different....

Regarding observers - IIRC the Dutch (or was it the Belgians) and the Nords were the only ones allowed combat observers if interested.....?! Hope I haven´t mixed up anything. :o/

Good bits and pieces in there.

Quoted

At 15 tons, this vehicle may be oversized and overarmored for the role, a matter which exercises should evaluation.

The Semovente 75/18 is maybe a bit over armoured but you can't reduce the weight a great deal and keep a 75mm gun. I thought the armour sprang from Dutch requirements as well...

Quoted

The Dutch army has requirements for amphibious tanks, light reconnaissance tanks, primary battle tanks, and heavy assault tanks.

Given the limited numbers and capacity of the Netherlands, I'm surprised that the requirements aren't made simpler into a smaller number of vehicle types. The suspension types in use for the Lt-35 and other tanks aren't really suitable for a vehicle with higher speeds and maybe not the higher weights.

Various answers.

1. FMA I-100, the version in the Argie encyclopedia has 4 guns, so I figure the 6 gun version was unknown, though I recall the Argie intention to make that standard.

2. I ignored the turreted fighter in part because I forgot, at one time I meant to. As Hood observed, SA events create an argument for a Defiant type. However the conclusion I would reach was that the perceived broader uses, greater speed, and survivability of the twin engines of the FW187 and G1 series make the heavy forward armament suite superior to a specialist anti-bomber fighter.

Also the G.1A and B have a conical rear turret with a GAST twin 7.92mm MG. The single seat G.1C disposes of that. Under armament there was mention of upgrading that to a GAST twin 13.2mm. However given the weight Planebuilder assigns turret that is a luxury that foresight likely does not overcome.

3. I was told no on the observers when I asked. The Dutch have persisted with other offers of aid regardless, so while vexing it did not significantly sour matters. The Dutch would most happily peep in.

4. The semovente 75/18 was uparmored to Dutch specs. Like most people with a budget they got what accomplishes the mission, but want something really good for really cheap, and are wondering if a 75mm gun on a tankette chassis might work. Its a path I may take to a failed vehicle.

5. The observation is correct- they want a great many things. The Dutch are richer than OTL, certainly have more industry, but still must constrain their ambitions. I try to evidence this in picking up foreign designs, trying to cut little corners, testing vehicles before buying. So no half-tracks for now, selective use of artillery tractors, limited SPA use, etc.

As designs evolve, the amphibious and light categories will merge. Depending on others designs, the primary battle tank category may fade and the Lt-35C simply be adopted. I'll confess I have not checked the scale on the Lt-35 picture I put in, I think it is in the ballpark.

As for the transmissions, it seemed a good way to present typical government desire to standardize to reduce costs, despite not being the best choice.

I expect that some heavy SPA may wind up on the LT-35 chassis, while the amphibian hull gains a open-topped cargo/troop version.

Note : While I have further Army and infrastructure reports partially written, and Agent 148 has kindly provided more Snellensoon material, I’m going to run with what I have and finish those in a tad. Those will get posted out of sequence sometime next week. But for now : January


The Hague Herald January 2nd.
The announcement of a three way treaty between Nordmark, Germany and Great Britain was greeted with some enthusiasm in many quarters and trepidation in others. Foreign Minister van Grootveld stated : In the Great War, the Netherlands found herself caught between two behemoths, our trade was destroyed and our nation starved under a British blockade aimed at the Germans. For years after the war, the North Sea barrage posed a danger to shipping. We Dutch have deep links to the Germans, and we are a mercantile nation like the British and Norse. Germany and Great Britain are not natural foes, and it is a sign of great progress that they, in conjunction with Nordmark, have formed an alliance of this nature.

The Batavia Bugle, January 10th
The government announced today the capture of the final band of rebels from last Easters post office massacre. Village elders provided the information necessary to find the secluded camp on the flanks of Mount Merapi.

The Kinshasha Klarion, January 18th
The final voting occurred today on a plan to add two Expeditionary Brigades to the Kongo Army. The brigades are to have increased organic components, allowing easy deployments to foreign theaters. The Kongo army has been strained these past months, with Brigades deployed in support of our South Afrikan neighbors. The Dutch have retained their infantry division and independent regiments in-country to deal with raiders along the north eastern borders. The Dutch units were slated to be redeployed to the Malay Archipelago.

The Hague Herald , January 21st
The vote to allow Malay Achipeleago representation in the Staats-Generaal was underway and the DMZSBD and allies looked to be defeating it when DeBerg filed a procedural motion shelving the bill. The measure has already passed the Staats-Generaal during the Land administration and the People during the last elections, and simply has to be reconfirmed to alter the Constitution to allow territorial votes.

The Amsterdam Advocate January 23rd
The reports of a bloody massacre in Asir has led to many inquiries as to what occurred. This afternoon Foreign Minister van Grootveld consented to a brief press conference.
van Grootveld : Ladies and Gentlemen, at this time reports are vague, there does appear to have been an altercation in Asir, there is no evidence that it signifies a renewal of the violence there. As we are all aware, the Asir mandate is expiring and that of course leads to instability and disparate factions jockeying for future power.

Preliminary information is sparse, but it appears that Imperial troops were forced to fire into a mob to prevent a riot, and the commander has been severely reprimanded. . The Bahrat Empire has taken pains to ensure their conduct in Asir has been exemplary, and have generally succeeded in that effort. It is unfortunate that such an incident would mar the imminent departure of Bahrats forces, but such sad events are sometimes unavoidable.

The Amsterdam Advocate , February 1st
Foreign Minister Pieter van Grootveld announced today the formation of a new alliance. The AEGIS alliance replaces the AANM alliance. The former AANM members will be joined by the Republic of Peru, the Kingdom of Siam, and the Empire of Ethiopia. The new treaty is public, designed to allay concerns stemming from the secretive nature of the AANM text. The treaty design will help maintain peace for all their peoples, and bring increased prosperity to their nations.

Minister van Grootveld said : The new AEGIS treaty is designed to create a league of friendly countries with worldwide distribution. The openness not present in AANM has been addressed, and several important nations with which AANM members have long had close ties to have been added. We look forward to strengthening our existing links with these nations.

The Minister was asked regarding the absence of the Kingdom of Belgium and the Kingdom of the Kongo from the new treaty and responded : Neither state was party to AANM either, nor did they have ties with our allies that the other new nations have.

The Paramaribo Paramecium February 2nd
The anti-piracy patrol, consisting of De Hollandia, 2nd Cruiser Division and newly arrived 2nd Destroyer squadron, departed Havana today for Lima, Peru to pay a courtesy call on the peoples of Peru.

The Amsterdam Advocate February 4th
Preliminary reports from the Empire of Bahrat indicate that those in Asir who voted, chose the ballot measure which linked Asir to the Kingdom of Hedjaz. This creates a strong state on the Red Sea and one more likely capable of independent prosperity. The Kingdom of the Netherlands maintains diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Hedjaz and Royal Netherlands Lines maintains a cruise route to the Kingdom, serving our Muslim population.

The Amsterdam Advocate, February 8th
Reports are the Saudi Ambassador is steamed over the War Ministries recent refusal to allow the sale of bombers. The War Ministry has reportedly declined the request for 20 Fokker T.VII jachtkruisers and 20 T.III torpedo bombers. The War Ministry has also reportedly declined requests for tractor drawn 150mm artillery.

The War Ministry has reportedly approved recent credit expenditures requests for a variety of weaponry, including rifles, old schwarzeloze MGs, surplus HIHSiderius 37L40 ATGs and Madsen 20mm AAGs, Bourges-FRC 75mm AAG as well as 30 S.9 trainers and 12 new Fokker D.XXI fighters with the new desert fittings.

The Saudis have already turned to foreign suppliers, and are likely to simply acquire bombers and heavy guns elsewhere, costing our industry sales. Why the DMZSBD would sacrifice our industry and goodwill is puzzling.

The Hague Herald, February 11th
Education Minister Coenraad Haighton issued a statement today calling on the Queen to sign the Education reform act of 1935. Introduced and hastily passed prior to the Christmas break, the bill has received little press. The stated goal of the bill is to increase students knowledge in, and pride of their country and basic Dutch values. The Minister would gain responsibility for the content of standardized history books, basic military training would be substituted for exercise classes in later years, and all students would be required to attend two-week summer camps.

Queens spokesman Frederik Mercurr had no comment.

The Batavia Bugle, February 13th
A scientific team has been reported missing while engaged in research on a small island off the Sumatran coast. Meteorological vagrancies cloak the island in persistent fogs, delaying its rediscovery until modern times and isolating the island. A small outpost established to claim the island has repeatedly come under attack by indigenous warriors, making search parties problematic. The researchers were apparently desirous of cataloging the presence and habits of Megaprimatus.


The Hague Herald, February 15th
Queens spokesman Frederik Mercurr outlined plans today for an extended Holiday by her Majesty which is to last until the end of May.

Crown Prince William will serve in the Queens stead as chair of the advisory councils, the Raad van Staats, to both the Netherlands and Belgium. Should an emergency occur, the Queen may designate the Prince as regent for the purpose of signing necessary legislation.

Mr. Mercurr stated that the Queen intends to sail the Nassau to Nordmark, thence to Ireland to call on the Abbot of Costello, and then travel to the Americas. The Queen intends to revisit Nieuw Amsterdam and surroundings, and then take a train through the American South, stopping at a Lodge named for her and visiting an Alabaman coal mine she owns. The queen will be attended by a small honor guard from the Netherlands, Belgium and Kongo, her maids, and a small group of friends, riding in a private car.

Rejoining her yacht in Mobile, the next ports of call are to be Havana, Paramaribo and Cleito. Mr. Mercurr said that Her Majesty would then continue on to South Afrika, to be present at Prince Alexanders May graduation from the South Afrikan Naval Academy. Fleet elements currently on anti-piracy patrol will join the Queen at Paramaribo and escort the Nassau to Capetown.

Prince-Consort Hendrik is expected to travel from his home in Kalemi to attend the Graduation. The Royal family has indicated what Prince Alexanders plans are after his graduation.

The Hague Herald, February 23rd
War Minister Herman Loeder presented his plan for the adjustment and expansion of the armed forces to the Staats-Generaal today.

The plan features a revision to the reserve air force wings while retaining the training squadrons. Once this is achieved, an expanded pilot training program and an expansion of the air force is to occur.

Herr Loeders plan forecasts increasing mechanization of the army, with larger dedicated tank units and a limited number of fully motorized counterstrike formations.

For the Navy, the focus is to be on current capital ship and carrier construction, to be followed by a fleet wide refit and expansion of the escort and submarine force. The Naval base at Balikpapan is expected to become active. Port security enhancement work continues, with an order placed with Phillips for enhanced surveillance kit. Work has commenced at Ambon on a communications and coordination center. During the next several months, naval forces are expected to call on our allies.

Within the regular infantry forces, adjustments to tables of organization and equipment established to reflect the urban, plantation and jungle environs different units are stationed in. Additional focus on calisthenics and field exercises are intended to raise the base level of training.

In the Malay Archipelago, current defense plans are to be continued, training expanded, . An adjustment in deployments will see regular units from home and the Kongo assigned to the Malay Archipelago. New army units are to be raised among Moluccan and Peranakan populations. The provincial battalion system, left in shambles after the Land Administration is to be revived and expanded. The Marine base at Donnagula will be used to train army staffs in jungle combat scenarios, while additional Marine sniper and Kommando formations are trained. With the return to service of the Andaman and Nicobar the test rate of coastal defenses is planned to increase.

Quoted

Originally posted by Kaiser Kirk
The Batavia Bugle, February 13th
A scientific team has been reported missing while engaged in research on a small island off the Sumatran coast. Meteorological vagrancies cloak the island in persistent fogs, delaying its rediscovery until modern times and isolating the island. A small outpost established to claim the island has repeatedly come under attack by indigenous warriors, making search parties problematic. The researchers were apparently desirous of cataloging the presence and habits of Megaprimatus.
*Snort*

Quoted

Originally posted by Kaiser KirkMr. Mercurr stated that the Queen intends to sail the Nassau to Nordmark, thence to Ireland to call on the Abbot of Costello.

Ireland will be pleased to welcome the Queen and hopes she enjoys her stay.

(For those who have joined since, I long ago wrote up the Abbot of Costello as the brother to the late King Albert of Belgium, who declined the crown)


The Hague Herald, March 3rd
During a news conference Foreign Minister van Grootveld was asked his opinion regarding the news of recent successful exercises of the Chinese Airborne Division. Minister van Grootveld replied I am afraid that many look at the China of the 1800s as typical and forget that China was long a dominant and cultured empire. China is merely regaining its natural position in the world, and avante garde exhibitions such as the Chinese Airborne Division are to be expected from a such a nation.

The Amsterdam Advocate March 5th,

Naval Minister Theodoor Van Deventer has issued a directive to the Netherlands Mercantile Marine directing that when transiting or in the proximity of the Straits of Hormuz, any Netherlands flagged vessels are to stay within the 3-mile limit of British protectorates along the southern Persian Gulf or Bahrat Ocean.

The Batavia Bugle March 8th
Sumatra : After a century of rumbling, increased volcanic activity at Mount Kaba has once again triggered lahars (mudflows) on the flanks of the volcano, which threaten several villages. Construction battalions at work on nearby airfields have been redeployed to help evacuations. While several villages are imperiled by the existing flow, the engineers Davao-skoda tractors are engaged in construction of a dike downstream to divert flow across the plain to the river, sparing the town of Talang.

The Batavia Bugle March 11th
Sumatra : Engineers completed work on a dike to divert mudflows yesterday. Volcanic activity imperiled several villages and the government responded by redirecting two Engineer battalions at work on local playing fields to save the villages. The battalions are expected to help secure the area and help reconstruct lost bridges and structures in Klingi, and Bliti villages.

The Amsterdam Advocate, March 20th
The Dutch Ambassador attended a small ceremony with Imam Yahya ibn Muhammad today linking Sanaa and Ma’rib with a hard surfaced road with modern bridges spanning several washes. The road was built by the 579th engineer battalion. The other Dutch battalion committed, the 299th engineer battalion is engaged in construction of the mercantile enclave permitted under the treaty. Future plans call for the 579th to continue work improving interior roads to Safir and Al Hazam and eventually connecting north to Al Buqa and As Sulayyil. The 299th, after completion of the enclave, shall work first on airports and then on improving the coastal road. Survey teams of the Boundary Commission continue work south of Al Buqa, marking the Saudi-Yemeni border agreed to in the treaty of Taif.

Me too!

OOC:Ha, had to check my geography.

IC: The Turkish government commends the Dutch for helping the saudi's and Yemeni's improve their delapitated infrastructure so that they can improve their economy and with it the standard of living for their peoples.

Quoted

The Batavia Bugle, February 13th
A scientific team has been reported missing while engaged in research on a small island off the Sumatran coast. Meteorological vagrancies cloak the island in persistent fogs, delaying its rediscovery until modern times and isolating the island. A small outpost established to claim the island has repeatedly come under attack by indigenous warriors, making search parties problematic. The researchers were apparently desirous of cataloging the presence and habits of Megaprimatus.

I can see red flags going up all over New York, again ...

it's merely a follow on to that story. After all, once this mysterious island was found off the coast of Sumatra, the Dutch are going to be interested. I suppose I could have mentioned the castaways they found, they set out for a 3 hour tour...