The Germans iprior to WWI put a lot of resources into the Fleet and in the war had very little real return. In 1918 they essentially surrendered (but scuttled) this investment. But what if the Kaiser was willing to risk the fleet to stop the BEF in 1914?
If the High Sea Fleet sorties into or near the channel doesn't the transport of the BEF to France have to be halted? Particularly if an 'invasion' fleet of empty transports or cargo ships are sent with the fleet?
As I recall the RN concentrated in Northern Scotland but left light units in the channel in 1914. They would have to fall back leaving the channel ports open to shelling - further disrupting the BEF transit to France.
Of course the channel is narrow and the HSF can't stay there long or will risk a battle of annilation. But how long is enough? How long till the British fleet can move South. I would think the transit or raid into it would disrupt the sending of the BEF for at least a week. Accompanied by an invasion scare or a false landing in Eire perhaps two?
Thoughts?
(Its good to be back - Gemellus)
If the High Sea Fleet sorties into or near the channel doesn't the transport of the BEF to France have to be halted? Particularly if an 'invasion' fleet of empty transports or cargo ships are sent with the fleet?
As I recall the RN concentrated in Northern Scotland but left light units in the channel in 1914. They would have to fall back leaving the channel ports open to shelling - further disrupting the BEF transit to France.
Of course the channel is narrow and the HSF can't stay there long or will risk a battle of annilation. But how long is enough? How long till the British fleet can move South. I would think the transit or raid into it would disrupt the sending of the BEF for at least a week. Accompanied by an invasion scare or a false landing in Eire perhaps two?
Thoughts?
(Its good to be back - Gemellus)
Last edited: