The Land of the Rising Sun Transfers to Another World

Chapter 98: A Collapsing Great Power

I want to finish the Hardique Empire Arc by the end of the year... no matter what.

- ワイアード

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Prime Minister's Office Conference Room, Japan

In the midst of Japan's war with the Hardique Empire, government officials were gathered in the conference room, deliberating on the future course of action. Black curtains were drawn, and all eyes were on the documents displayed on the large smart glass mounted on the wall.

Deputy Prime Minister Nanbara was presiding over the proceedings.

"Now then... that concludes the discussion on the Hardique Empire's colonies and vassal states. Moving on to their military capabilities, please direct your attention here."

As Nanbara operated the tablet in his hand, the smart glass transitioned to the next slide.

"This is a gunship from the Hardique Empire's navy. Judging by its appearance, it closely resembles battleships from the First World War. It's likely capable of navigating not only open seas but also rivers."

Defense Minister Kuze, arms crossed, spoke up.

"Well... when you compare them side by side, they do look similar. But there are some subtle differences here and there. Nanbara, what about their armament? According to the intel from Asahi, there were reports of weapons resembling anti-air autocannons."

"Yes, take a look at this."

Nanbara began fiddling with his tablet once again.

"This here... is an enemy gunship that was captured. One of the invading ships that attacked the Asahi was found drifting half-sunken. There were no crew members aboard—most likely abandoned."

"Huh... lucky for us."

"And as for its armament... The main guns, despite their appearance, weren't very high-performing, and their shells were crudely made. Based on all available data, the estimated maximum range is about 3,8 to 4 kilometers, with an effective range of around 3 kilometers. Compared to First World War-era main guns from our world, their range is at least 7 kilometers shorter. The anti-air autocannons have a high rate of fire, but unlike the ones we're familiar with, their ammunition lacks explosive features. They're essentially designed for rapid-fire. It's possible that these were primarily intended for combating dragons."

After Nanbara's explanation, Minister Shibukawa timidly raised his hand.

"S-so, in other words... they're not much of a threat to fighter jets like the F-35J?"

Kuze shot him a glare and retorted.

"That's a naïve assumption. Even if their anti-aircraft shells lack explosive capabilities, a direct hit would still cause damage."

"Y-yes."

"Alright, gentlemen, if we may refocus. Returning to the main point, our analysis of these weapons suggests they were likely built through a process of 'copying by observation.'"

This remark caused the other ministers to lean in with interest. At that moment, Minister Azumi, stroking his chin, seemed deep in thought.

"Hmm... So you're saying they built it without understanding its structure or purpose?"

"Now that you mention it... it's odd, isn't it? A country that until recently relied on inefficient early steam engines suddenly advancing to near First World War-level technology, even if they were conducting secret research and development."