Larger German army for WWI

[Peter Palchinsky]

Assuming no naval arms race between G and GB, imagine that G focuses on building up its army instead and is able to field an additional 7-9 corps by 1914. However, F and R would be hard pressed to match this increase, but an additional 3 corps for F and 3-5 corps for R might be conceivable given a strong desire. In addition, without the naval race GB is less likely to become officially associated with F and R by 1914, and might be neutral, yet cautious, should war break out because of the assassination in Sarejevo. Also, it is assumed that the Schlieffen plan is devised regardless of the state of the G navy (as was the case historically); however, it is not likely that western G could support these additional troops, so they might likely be earmarked as a high command reserve or as a new army in eastern G. How do you place the additional corps as the G player (assume 8 corps)? Would additional artillery and airforce units be likely; if so, how many of each? Also what ships would not have been built by G and GB? Next, assuming G invades Belgium, what is the reaction of GB; are they neutral but with a 30% increase in mobilization, or do they declare war regardless of the naval race not taking place? Lastly, if GB is neutral through 1915 and assuming no secret talks in London take place, then how likely will Italy honor its alliance with G? Does Italy mobilize in 1914 or early 1915, or stay neutral no matter what unless F were on the verge of collapse (<25% NM)?

[Glabro]

Aha, so you're building a WW1 with no major naval component.

Well, surely the German assumption was that GB would get involved with France, otherwise the naval focus makes even less sense.

But he effects of the naval operations are not strong enough compared to the investment (at least in MPPs), at least before max corps are reached.

The scenario you're proposing is quite favourable for the CP compared to the normal setup, but interesting regardless. More troops would be followed by 1 more art in my mind, 1 st 5 scout plane could be possible (but not really useful).

The troops would be deployed as the Eastern reserve on the Polish border, while the rest of the army would go ahead with Schlieffen.

[Bill101]

It's an interesting premise. I wonder if this would make a Russia first strategy for Germany more viable?

[Glabro]

But isn't it already the most viable option? At least in my games this has been true, yet to see CP success from Schlieffen. The advance halts at the Somme, and it's downhill from there. Never tried it myself though, just my opponents.

[Bill101]

I've seen the German advance halted at all kinds of places, including at the edge of Paris and even further west than Paris. Sometimes barely out of Belgium!!