章 105: Japanese
Cardo, with a broad smile, explained the capabilities of the new artillery. "This type of artillery is designed to counter the formidable super fortresses constructed by the Red Army on the Crimean peninsula. It can effectively target ammunition depots and barracks deep underground, and easily obliterate the enemy's turrets and fortifications."
The French representatives present were visibly disgruntled. Cardo had just mentioned the Maginot Line and then introduced a significant weapon, implying it was to combat a different enemy. This shift in narrative left them uneasy. Why introduce such a weapon at the German-French border if its intended use was elsewhere? Despite their concerns, the French officials were of too low a rank to voice any protest against Cardo's statements and had to reluctantly accept the information, planning to relay it back to their government for early preparation.
Back at a cozy log cabin on the outskirts of Kaiserslautern, the atmosphere was lighter, filled with casual conversation and laughter around the fireplace. Smith and Cardo engaged in some small talk, carefully steering clear of any discussion about train guns. Cardo's diplomatic maneuver was a calculated part of Germany's arms diplomacy, orchestrated by seasoned diplomats from the German Foreign Ministry. They had shown their military prowess, and now it was time to offer more palatable incentives.
"Colonel Smith, I must sincerely congratulate the British Royal Navy," Cardo said, skillfully steering the conversation towards naval achievements.
Smith, intrigued, narrowed his eyes and responded with a smile, "And what brings about this congratulation?"
"The launch of the Soviet Union's fourth battleship is troubling news for Europe, indeed," Cardo continued, "but Germany has just completed a new battleship specifically designed for the United Kingdom. It is currently undergoing trials and will be ready for the Royal Navy within a month."
Smith was genuinely impressed, recognizing the strategic offer as a significant chip in their ongoing discussions. "Thank you for your generosity," he acknowledged. "In return, the United Kingdom will strengthen cooperation with Germany in various areas and, in principle, agrees to Germany's acquisition of oil from Saudi Arabia at a normal price."
Cardo, although inwardly scoffing at the feasibility of procuring Middle Eastern oil given Germany's recent establishment in Romania, maintained a cordial expression. "Thank you! The German people will always be good friends of the British."
He then subtly shifted the conversation, "However, Germany hopes to ship additional arms to the Far East under British credentials. Colonel Smith, would you be interested in participating?"
Smith, visibly agitated by the mention of Japan's actions in China, exclaimed, "Japan's greed knows no bounds! They've swallowed vast areas of China. What more do they want?!"
During the economic turmoil and the aftermath of the First World War, Japan had aggressively expanded into China, which directly affected British interests. Hence, Britain's alignment with Germany on Far Eastern issues was strong.
"The Japanese are overreaching, and it will be their downfall. They aim to provoke both the British Empire and the United States, eventually forcing them to relinquish their gains," Cardo reassured.
Smith, frustrated, questioned, "Why hasn't China responded militarily?"
Cardo explained, "Their leader, Chairman Jiang, has strategically conceded control of the Northeast to mask their military capabilities and to manage internal political rivals."
Smith, aware of China's potential yet underreported military strength, nodded. "So, we should bolster China's confidence by showing some support."
Cardo agreed, "Indeed, but maintaining peace in the Far East aligns with our interests. How about we send six shipments of munitions? We have surplus fighters to dispatch as well."
Smith concurred, "The Japanese must not be allowed free rein. We have our limits!"
Days later, the French government, spurred by the developments, passed a significant arms development program known as the "Big Cannon Act," initiating the study and production of large-caliber train guns. Meanwhile, the British commenced mass production of their 381-mm caliber "Queen" train guns, deploying them strategically within the month.
In contrast, Colonel Frederick of the Wehrmacht's 7th Infantry Division was ordered to dismantle an immovable "super cannon," recycling its steel for other military applications. Despite Germany's historical fascination with large-caliber train guns, the current focus shifted to more practical military needs, like enhancing anti-aircraft capabilities and tank designs.
Krupp, feeling somewhat humiliated by the shift in priorities, focused on smaller caliber train guns for tactical support, aligning more closely with Germany's strategic military objectives. Meanwhile, Germany continued to innovate, purchasing designs and entering agreements to bolster its artillery and anti-aircraft arsenal.
The German arms industry thrived, producing advanced tanks and aircraft, and securing significant sales to allies like Italy, Spain, Romania, Hungary, Turkey, and Bulgaria. The Luftwaffe expanded its fleet with more advanced fighters, marking a significant milestone in its capabilities.
Amid these developments, German intelligence continued to manipulate and mislead their European counterparts, ensuring a strategic advantage in the ongoing arms race. As Germany fortified its military might, Cardo closed a report on the sacrifices made by countless unnamed agents, a somber reminder of the covert battles waged in the shadows of diplomacy.
Just then, his secretary interrupted with news of a Japanese envoy's arrival, signaling another diplomatic engagement aimed at broadening alliances and fortifying Germany's position on the global stage.
"Respected Yuan is born first," Kosuke Yamashita declared as he stood and bowed deeply at a 90-degree angle, a gesture of profound humility. Akado couldn't help but admire such a nation; they could embody the pinnacle of civility when necessary, or completely discard it when it suited their purposes.
"Mr. Yamashita! It's been too long! How have you been feeling lately?" Akado approached with a wide smile, extending his hand warmly as if greeting an old friend. Though their handshake seemed cordial, Anna noticed Akado discreetly wiping his hand on his clothing after the exchange.
Kosuke Yamashita's visit to Europe was Japan's attempt at an "ice-breaking journey." In 1932, Japan had aggressively deployed its military in Northeastern China, securing a near-complete victory. However, this action had alienated them from Europe, as disrupting the lucrative Far Eastern market—a critical source of wealth for many European nations—was akin to a cardinal sin.
Yamashita, the Japanese diplomat, bowed again, his demeanor still marked by humility. "Yuan was born first! The military actions of the Great Japanese Empire in the Far East were entirely provoked by the Sina people! The reckless support from Europe for the Sina has brought trouble to Japan and threatens peace in the Far East!"
Akado, while internally seething at the slight, maintained his diplomatic smile. "Mr. Yamashita, Germany does not wish to see China dominated by any one power. We align more with the American stance that maintaining peace in China is crucial for everyone's prosperity. However, should the Japanese Empire attempt to monopolize China, it will indeed come at a great cost."
Yamashita internally scoffed at the notion of any cost, given Japan's victories in the northeast, but he maintained his diplomatic poise. "Yuan first born, the entire incident was instigated by the Chinese government. The Great Japanese Empire is merely defending itself."
"It's pointless to argue with me," Akado responded with a gesture of helplessness. "This time, it's the British, Americans, and French who are upset. We're merely counting together."
Yamashita, deciding to cut through the diplomatic dance, made his request directly. "We need German diplomatic support, cessation of arms strengthening to China, withdrawal of your military advisors, and a halt to Seekert's operations. We seek to ensure a lasting friendship between Germany and Japan."
"The Great Japanese Empire asks for much," Akado noted, signaling to Anna. "I cannot promise what you ask for. Supporting Japan in the Far East would cost us the trust of Britain and France, which is not in Germany's interest."
Yamashita, shifting tactics, inquired about purchasing German fighter jets, specifically the ME-109c, for testing and potential imitation.
"You should speak directly to the Messerschmitt company," Akado advised, his smile unwavering. "Our government does not meddle in business affairs, which garners strong support from the business community."
Indeed, Germany's policy of non-interference in business had fostered a robust industrial sector. Moreover, Japan and Germany had previously collaborated on aircraft materials, with Japan using advanced German aluminum alloys in their aircraft designs.
Yamashita, understanding the official stance, knew that negotiations would hinge on price. Despite the cost, he was prepared to secure the aircraft to ensure Japan's aerial superiority, particularly after losses to the Chinese Air Force equipped with German planes.
"Thank you for your generosity! The Great Japanese Empire considers Germany a steadfast ally," Yamashita expressed, though Akado internally chuckled at the thought of future historical ironies involving atomic bombs.
"What else brings you to Europe? Surely not just this," Akado probed, sensing more behind Yamashita's visit.
Yamashita then expressed interest in acquiring British battleships from Germany, hinting at deeper strategic alignments between Japan and Germany, reminiscent of their eventual Axis partnership in World War II.
"You must understand, German-designed warships are without equal," Akado boasted, confident in the superiority of German naval engineering.
"That's precisely why I'm here," Yamashita affirmed, signaling his readiness to discuss serious commitments, including revisiting the rights over the German Shandong Peninsula in exchange for strategic cooperation.
Akado, however, had practical needs. "I want rubber—100,000 tons, smuggled from Southeast Asia without any trace of the transaction reaching Germany."
Yamashita agreed to the terms, planning to disguise the shipment under a Dutch flag while receiving protection from Japanese cruisers en route to Germany.
The discussion then turned unexpectedly to the subject of German canned lunch meat, which Yamashita sampled during a meal at the state palace. Despite its unappealing taste—made from low-grade meats and considered junk food by contemporary standards—Yamashita saw potential in its utility for simplifying military logistics.
"Yuan is born first!" Yamashita, intrigued despite the poor flavor, inquired about purchasing the canned meat, recognizing its value in maintaining soldier morale and streamlining supply chains.
Thus, their meeting encapsulated a complex weave of diplomacy, military strategy, and the mundane details of supply logistics, highlighting the intricate dance of international relations on the eve of greater conflicts.
Japanese soldiers, often depicted in dramas as lacking intelligence, actually exhibit remarkable bravery, tenacity, and superior shooting skills on the battlefield. Their greatest advantage, however, is their logistical support, reminiscent of the Mongols who triumphed centuries ago. Akado, pondering the potential consequences of selling canned luncheon meat to Japan, realized the urgent need for time and capital. With the future uncertain, he decided to embrace the opportunity that had presented itself. "Sell! Of course, sell! We'll sell all finished products," Akado resolved, choosing to seize the business opportunity without hesitation. Smiling, he told his prospective buyers, "This time, no raw materials needed! We want foreign exchange—US dollars, pounds, anything!"
Yamashita, visibly excited, responded, "No problem! The Great Japanese Empire is looking to form a strategic partnership with Germany, supporting each other in future endeavors for greater benefits."
Akado, reflecting on the alliance, knew the importance of having Japan as an ally rather than an enemy, a lesson learned from World War I. Consequently, he engaged in a series of secret agreements with Yamashita, which included the introduction of German military technology and intelligence cooperation against the Communist International.
As Yamashita prepared to return to Japan, Akado and his aide Gascol revisited their intelligence strategies, particularly their unsuccessful attempts to manipulate Stalin's purges. "Our plan to use Stalin's hand against his own people failed. Instead, he turned our schemes to his advantage," Akado lamented. Gascol, taking responsibility, promised to rectify past mistakes and prevent future ones.
The conversation shifted to the pressing issue of a spy hidden within their ranks, a remnant of a broader network disrupted by their counter-intelligence efforts. Akado, determined to root out this threat, considered leveraging their intelligence assets for a strategic deception against the Soviets.
Gascol, acknowledging the challenge of outsmarting their adversaries, listened intently as Akado unveiled plans for a feigned gift to Stalin: a set of detailed plans for a massive artillery piece designed by Krupp. "This cannon, while a true engineering marvel, represents a strategic bluff to entice and distract our enemies," Akado explained, confident in the dual utility of the deception.
Back at his desk, Akado contemplated the broader challenges facing Germany, particularly in advanced weapons development like rocket technology. Despite incremental progress and the dedication of his teams, the realities of scientific innovation were proving stubborn. Reflecting on his journey from a young man thrust into an alternate reality to a pivotal figure in global politics, he acknowledged the heavy burdens of leadership.
With a deep sigh, Akado steeled himself for the ongoing struggles, both on the home front and internationally. As he prepared to join Anna for lunch, he locked away his documents, masking his concerns with a practiced smile, ready to face another day of relentless challenges.
In this complex web of military strategy, international diplomacy, and internal security, Akado navigated his role with a blend of pragmatism and visionary tactics, constantly adapting to the shifting tides of a world at war.
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