The island nation's navy has set its sights on the American loan, harboring ambitious plans to claim a substantial portion of it to rebuild a powerful fleet. Meanwhile, the army is eyeing the same funds, eager to secure a large share to bolster its combat capabilities.
"Lord Yamagata, Lord Oyama, this is an excellent opportunity for our army! For too long, we have been constrained by insufficient military budgets, maintaining only a modest force. Take Germany, with a similar population to ours—they sustain a standing army of 800,000, more than three times our size. If we can secure a larger portion of this loan, we could expand to 30 divisions, significantly enhancing our influence!" Kōka Ichinosuke exclaimed, his enthusiasm evident as he spoke passionately.
Yamagata Aritomo nodded. "Minister, do not forget that Germany's economic strength far surpasses ours. They can support such a massive standing army because of their resources. We, however, lack the financial means to sustain such numbers."
"Lord Yamagata, once we establish a foothold in Southeast Asia, we will have the wealth to maintain a vast army," Kōka Ichinosuke replied, still clinging to his aspirations for Southeast Asia.
"The navy suffered devastating losses this time. They will undoubtedly demand funds to construct more warships and rebuild their strength. We cannot dismiss their requests," Field Marshal Oyama Iwao remarked.
"Indeed, the navy's needs cannot be ignored. While our relationship with them has been strained, the navy remains an essential pillar of the empire. Without a strong navy, we would be confined to defending our homeland. A powerful fleet is indispensable," Yamagata Aritomo agreed.
Although Yamagata and Oyama were key figures in the army, they were also the leaders of the government, responsible for the island nation's overall welfare. They had to prioritize national interests above inter-service rivalries to ensure the country's survival.
"The navy is incompetent! They were easily defeated by the Germans. Giving them loans to build ships is nothing but a waste!" Kōka Ichinosuke protested, his frustration evident.
"Minister, for the empire's sake, we must set aside our differences with the navy temporarily," Oyama Iwao replied firmly.
"Understood, Lord Oyama," Kōka Ichinosuke conceded with a reluctant nod.
A servant then entered to announce visitors. "My Lords, Admirals Yamamoto Gonbee and Tōgō Heihachirō have come to see you."
"Let them in," Yamagata Aritomo said.
Soon, Yamamoto Gonbee and Tōgō Heihachirō were led into the parlor.
"Lord Yamagata, Lord Oyama, we apologize for intruding," Yamamoto Gonbee began courteously.
"Yamamoto, there's no need for formalities," Yamagata replied with a warm smile.
After brief pleasantries, they delved into the matter at hand.
"Lord Yamagata, Lord Oyama, the Imperial Navy suffered severe losses in our battle against the German expeditionary fleet. The Naval Ministry has drafted a reconstruction plan for the Combined Fleet. This involves a significant number of warships—from battleships to cruisers and destroyers—all of which are urgently needed. As an island nation with an extensive and vulnerable coastline, and lacking strategic depth, we must maintain a formidable navy to protect our shores. The current state of our fleet leaves the empire dangerously exposed," Yamamoto Gonbee explained.
"I support rebuilding the Combined Fleet. The empire's security depends on it. Furthermore, if the empire seeks to expand its sphere of influence, we will need a powerful navy," Yamagata responded.
Hearing Yamagata's agreement, Yamamoto and Tōgō breathed a sigh of relief. Their primary fear was that the army might obstruct the navy's reconstruction. Given their current weakened state, the navy lacked the strength to contend with the army. However, it seemed the army leaders understood the broader picture.
"Lord Yamagata, the navy wishes to accelerate the construction of the Fusō-class battleships, ensuring we have two battleships operational as soon as possible. Additionally, the designs for the next two Ise-class battleships are complete, and we hope to begin their construction swiftly. Beyond this, we plan to build warships armed with 410mm guns to rival the Germans. Ideally, we aim to construct at least eight such battleships," Yamamoto continued.
Yamagata frowned but eventually nodded.
Oyama cast a glance at Yamamoto and Tōgō but refrained from commenting.
Kōka Ichinosuke, however, looked visibly distressed. He was acutely aware of the exorbitant costs associated with battleships. Each vessel was a colossal financial undertaking, and now, in addition to the ongoing Fusō-class battleships, the navy was proposing ten more, including eight equipped with 410mm guns. Factoring in accompanying cruisers and destroyers, even two billion dollars might not suffice.
"Yamamoto, one cannot achieve everything overnight. While I understand the navy's urgency, progress must be gradual. Overreaching is not the answer," Yamagata advised.
"Lord Yamagata, I acknowledge the navy's demands may appear excessive. However, I assure you that if our requests are granted, the navy will fully support the empire's expansion in the South Seas, Australia, and India. A strong navy ensures the army's safe passage to these regions, benefitting the empire as a whole," Yamamoto countered.
Yamagata and Oyama exchanged a glance before nodding.
"Very well, Yamamoto. The navy's requests will be granted, but I expect the navy to honor the commitments made today," Yamagata concluded.
"Understood, Lord Yamagata!" Yamamoto replied resolutely.
With the agreement secured, there were no further obstacles to the navy's ambitious shipbuilding program. Once the American loans arrived, the construction of new battleships would begin in earnest. With sufficient funding, it would not be long before the navy regained its strength—perhaps even surpassing its former glory.