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06 Maestro -> RE: Janissaries Forward! (4/19/2010 5:59:32 AM)
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June 1800
Belgrade Area
Here we are, six months later and the Austrians are still sitting in Krajina-it is a powerful fortress. I was very much aware of the deterioration of the garrison-it was not going to last beyond June.
While Austria recaptured its various provinces north of Wallechia, I prepared for the coming battle of Belgrade. Initially, I concentrated my best forces in Belgrade. As time wore on, the 1st Army, commanded by the Sultan, was brought up to full strength.
I began to contemplate the possibility of the 1st Army being able to hold its ground on its own-or at least to make a very good showing in battle. I was finally able to get another training doctrine at this time. Due to the upcoming major battle, and the past contests, I chose the "organized withdrawal" doctrine.
With the first Army holding Belgrade on its own, I finally had an opportunity to take the initiative with the 2nd Army and some independent corps. I had long been contemplating a strike into Poland (which was conquered by Austria) and it looked like the time had finally come. The general idea was that Ottoman forces would sweep into eastern Austria, into southern Poland and possibly get within striking range of Vienna. The first Army, even if defeated, would still be able to block any further advance by Austria to the south. In any event, at some point Emperor Matto would have to address the threat in the north east. So, even if the battles did not go well, I would achieve another major bout of marching to and fro; further wearing down the Austrians. By this point in time I had ample replacements available. I could fight a major battle or two and quickly regain unit strength.
So, the stage was set. I was confident of hanging on and doing more damage than ever before, but there was still great concern as to how well the organized withdraw would work-if needed. If the first Army was routed, with the resulting loss of the best units and artillery in the Army, the future would be dim indeed.
There was another little Austrian operation going against Zara. The city had been under siege for a month, but was holding out OK. The Austrian army was rather small-about 45,000 men IIRC. I decided to try to help the garrison by sending the fleet-it actually work. Reports indicated that the garrison were receiving support from the Fleet.
[image]local://upfiles/18421/377B7373CAAC4BDCBD147DB34BA23E63.jpg[/image]
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