After hearing Qin Tian's words, the Krupp couple fell into deep contemplation. Undoubtedly, the request for them to develop a 380mm naval gun placed an overwhelming burden on the research department of the Krupp company. The substantial financial investment required would undoubtedly strain their resources.
However, faced with Qin Tian's demands and the needs of the imperial navy, they found it difficult to refuse or justify a denial. As the largest armaments manufacturer in Germany, Krupp's fate was irrevocably entwined with that of the German Empire. The prosperity of Germany translated directly into the strength of Krupp. Indeed, the company had a vested interest in war, as conflict would inevitably lead to an increased demand for armaments.
Conversely, should Germany falter in future wars, the repercussions for Krupp could be catastrophic, even threatening the company's very existence. Therefore, it was imperative for Krupp to devise every possible means to aid Germany in securing victory, an endeavor of utmost importance to them.
"Your Highness, although your request poses significant challenges for us, we shall strive to fulfill it for the sake of the Empire. I will immediately organize a team to commence development on the 380mm gun. However, successfully creating such a large-caliber weapon will not be a swift endeavor; the timeline may be quite lengthy," Gustav Krupp assured.
A brief hesitation from them was all it took to realize their course of action. Confronted with Qin Tian's insistence and the navy's demands, not to mention the necessity of winning future conflicts, they had no grounds for refusal.
Although initiating the development of the 380mm gun would require significant investment, potentially affecting their profits, they had no alternative if they sought to prevail in war. Moreover, successful development of the 380mm naval gun would likely bring substantial profits through future shipbuilding contracts.
"Mr. Krupp, it would be excellent if Krupp could proceed with this. As for the development timeline, I am well aware that war cannot ignite overnight. Thus, I believe we have ample time," Qin Tian replied with a smile.
In Qin Tian's vision, as long as the German navy could possess battleships armed with 380mm guns before the outbreak of hostilities, it would suffice. This would further enhance the navy's capabilities beyond that of the British. With their new battleships and battlecruisers, the Imperial German Navy could easily challenge the Royal Navy. Coupled with submarines and aircraft carriers, they would undoubtedly overpower the British fleet. If the German navy could defeat the British, the subsequent conflict would become far less daunting.
With the homeland under threat, the number of British expeditionary forces dispatched to France would be limited. As for the Americans, would they dare to intervene? Qin Tian believed that driven by their profit-first ethos, they would shy away from confronting a formidable Germany. As for Russia, should a revolution occur, they would be preoccupied with their internal strife. Thus, Germany's primary adversary would be its longstanding nemesis, France.
Without support from other nations, could France withstand a German onslaught? Qin Tian had grave doubts about France's capacity to do so. Particularly, the German army would soon receive Qin Tian's backing for extensive modernization, thereby significantly bolstering its strength. Defeating France would be a relatively straightforward task.
"Mr. Krupp, there is one final matter. The German Industrial Group has established a German Armaments Manufacturing Company to venture into light weaponry. I hope to gain the support of Krupp in this endeavor," Qin Tian continued.
"Your Highness intends to enter the arms sector?" Gustav Krupp's brow furrowed in concern, with Beta Krupp's expression equally troubled. The arms market, while lucrative, was inherently limited in size. Qin Tian's involvement would significantly compress the profits of other manufacturers.
Particularly given Qin Tian's stature, he would undoubtedly garner favor from the military, creating an inequitable situation for other arms companies.
Nonetheless, as the German Armaments Company would focus on light weaponry, it did not pose an immediate threat to Krupp, which specialized in various artillery types, especially large-caliber naval guns—its flagship products, where competition would be hard to match.
Gustav and Beta Krupp recognized that since Qin Tian had voiced his intentions, any opposition from them would be futile. In Germany, aside from Emperor Wilhelm II, no one could compel Qin Tian to back down.
Since resistance was impractical, supporting him could strengthen their mutual ties. This realization prompted Gustav Krupp to make a decisive choice.
"Yes, Mr. Krupp. I intend to enter the arms sector, albeit in a limited capacity. While the German army is undoubtedly the strongest in the world, there remains significant potential for growth, particularly in light weaponry, where we do not hold an overwhelming advantage against other nations. Therefore, I hope to achieve advancements in this field to further enhance the combat capabilities of the German army, which is essential for winning future wars. After all, while a strong navy gives us a considerable advantage, ultimately, it is the army that must secure victory and occupy enemy territories," Qin Tian articulated.
Gustav Krupp nodded in agreement.
"Your Highness, how can Krupp support your endeavors?" Gustav inquired.
"Mr. Krupp, I would like Krupp to take a stake in the German Armaments Company. In other words, we would jointly hold shares in this venture, forming a powerful alliance. I believe this would be mutually beneficial for both parties," Qin Tian concluded, looking expectantly at Gustav Krupp for his response, confident that he would not refuse.