After discussions among the high-ranking generals of the imperial army, it was ultimately decided to procure twenty thousand trucks from Daimler. However, payment would need to be divided into five installments, as the army's budget was severely constrained; spending over one hundred million marks required significant financial restraint.
Yet, in QinTian's view, twenty thousand trucks were far from sufficient. In the event of war, Germany would need to mobilize over three and a half million troops, with the army alone likely exceeding three million. This clearly indicated that the army would require a greater number of trucks for transporting personnel and supplies.
However, QinTian was aware that the army was currently under the command of von Moltke. Although there had been no direct confrontations between them, their relationship remained strained. It was unrealistic to expect von Moltke to approve a large-scale procurement, unless he were replaced as Chief of Staff.
Even as the imperial heir, QinTian knew he lacked the authority to dismiss Moltke in the short term. Therefore, he had to seek alternative solutions.
QinTian resolved to request that Daimler increase the production of trucks for reserve purposes. In the event of war, these could be immediately supplied to the army, potentially even on a loan basis, allowing the military to use them first and settle payments after the conflict. This would alleviate the army's burdens and ensure they remembered his goodwill.
Additionally, he planned to increase civilian sales of these trucks. This way, in the event of war, they could be requisitioned in the name of the military, ensuring that sufficient vehicles would be available for frontline support.
Besides the army's order of twenty thousand trucks, the navy also purchased five thousand. However, the need for trucks was significantly less for the navy, as their bases were located along the coast, where shipping could address most logistical challenges. Naturally, the navy's support of QinTian and his products was strong; they were essentially aligned in interests.
On the journey back to Berlin, Marshal Tirpitz and QinTian shared a vehicle, which had been replaced by a Daimler B-class car.
"Your Highness, although I represent the navy, my personal experience suggests that the army's demand for trucks is significantly greater; two thousand vehicles simply won't suffice," Marshal Tirpitz sighed.
QinTian nodded, his expression somber. Trucks not only facilitated troop transport but also hauled artillery and logistical supplies. Compared to mules, trucks required no feeding, rested little, and had a far greater load capacity. Their overall efficiency surpassed that of mules. Yet, despite the evident advantages for enhancing the army's combat capabilities, certain obstacles were hindering their adoption within the military.
QinTian felt a surge of anger; if possible, he would wish to execute such obstructionists. Unfortunately, as merely the heir apparent—and a provisional one at that—he lacked the power to remove the Chief of Staff, who was deeply trusted by the Emperor.
"Marshal, there's little we can do; my father has too much faith in Moltke," QinTian shook his head, expressing a hint of frustration.
Marshal Tirpitz was well aware of Emperor Wilhelm II's temperament. While he was undoubtedly talented, he was also stubborn and dismissive of others' opinions. Even if he recognized Moltke's shortcomings, he would be reluctant to replace him, as Moltke was one of his own.
Tirpitz himself held his position due to the Emperor's trust; otherwise, his authority within the navy would be less assured.
"Your Highness, should the opportunity arise, I will mention this to His Majesty. Given your wisdom, I believe he would know what to do," Tirpitz hesitated before speaking.
QinTian shook his head. "It's better not to; that would surely provoke my father's ire."
The navy's close alliance with QinTian had already caused some discontent with Wilhelm II. If Tirpitz were to criticize another of the Emperor's favored officials in his presence, it would likely worsen the situation. QinTian needed Tirpitz to remain at the helm of the navy, leading them to victory over the Royal Navy, and he didn't wish to complicate matters unnecessarily.
Tirpitz nodded, dropping the subject.
"By the way, Your Highness, you're about to come of age, aren't you?" Tirpitz suddenly inquired.
QinTian paused, then nodded.
Indeed! He was on the brink of turning twenty, with just a month remaining until his birthday. He had already spent five years in this world since his rebirth, striving relentlessly to enhance Germany's military strength, which had serendipitously led to his current role as Vice Heir Apparent.
These five years of rebirth had not been squandered. Under his efforts, the German navy had made significant progress compared to another timeline, and the army's capabilities were gradually improving. QinTian believed that once war erupted, the combat effectiveness of the German forces would be formidable, greatly increasing their chances of victory in the impending world war.
Despite his psychological age being over forty, he was still physically under twenty. Compared to his former life, he was in peak condition. Ironically, as Vice Heir Apparent, he was so engrossed in his duties that he remained a virgin, having never even held a girl's hand. This was undoubtedly unique among the imperial families and heirs across the world.
"Your Highness, I've learned from His Majesty that a grand coming-of-age ceremony will be held for you at the palace on your twentieth birthday. The empire's high officials and social elites will be invited, especially the young and beautiful noblewomen who are likely already eagerly awaiting the event," Tirpitz laughed heartily.
QinTian felt somewhat speechless; he indeed had reached an age where seeking a girlfriend and considering marriage was appropriate. With his status and position, he was essentially the most eligible bachelor in Germany—and indeed the world—drawing the attention of countless young women.