The Lion Roars - TFH HPP United Kingdom AAR

[LTPugh]

The Price of Greatness is Responsibility - Winston Churchill.

​

Hello all and welcome to my first attempt at an HOI AAR, though not my first at telling a story. This AAR will chronicle my attempts at reviving the British Empire to another era of glory or if that isn't permitted, then at least securing the world's freedom and perhaps gratitude as the Lion takes one last walk into the sunset and acknowledges that its time is over.

This will be a mix of gameplay and historical writing, though narrative may creep in as I do enjoy writing a good story.

I will say this, I am not one of the greatest HOI players ever, so there may be mistakes made and strategies messed up, though that all makes for a great story anyway!

Hopefully I can keep you all entertained and have some fun along the way myself.


Note that I find myself using lots of pictures in these updates, so the thread may load slowly.

Hail Brittania and may God save the King!

Chapter 1.
Part 1. The state of the Empire 1936.
Part 2. Revitalizing the Empire.
Part 3. Re-armament in the face of European trouble.
Part 4. The Calm before the Storm.
Part 5. The Gathering Darkness.
Part 6. Stormfront.

Chapter 2: The Empire at War
Part 1: The Happy Times.
Part 2: The Battle of France.
Part 3: August 1940, The Lion Strikes Back.
Part 4: Italian intervention and the fall of France.
Part 5: 1941 and the invasion of Norway.

 

[LTPugh]

Part 1: The state of the Empire​

The date is January 1, 1936 and like most of the world The United Kingdom is stil recovering from the ravages of the great depression. Though her navy is still the largest and most powerful in the world, her colonies and Commonwealth still bringing in support from around the world and a victor in the Great War, Britain is faltering.

The immediate state of the British Isles, though her navy is still strong Britain needs to revitalize herself and fast.​

It is not something most would notice, as many of the elder statesmen still remember the days of Pax Brittania and the undoubted British domination of the world. They ignore things such as aging ships, the near decrepit state of the British army and the fact that many of her overseas possessions are starting to feel restless under British hands. Troubles are beginning to stir in Europe as well, Germany is rising quickly under the control of Adolf Hitler and Britain’s continental ally in France, is unprepared for another war, her people still reeling from a generation of lost men. Along with all this King George V the current British Monarch is in ill health and unlikely to live until spring, much less the year.

Though still powerful, the French Army is nowhere near where it was at it's height.

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Despite this there are bright points for Britain. India, the crown jewel of the empire is still in her possession and though tensions are rising, they can be worked out. The British also have a substantial lead among their contemporaries in things such as computing, radar and radio, which although currently underused promise to have great impact once the dust is shaken off the old fashioned British military establishment.

Though backwards in areas such as industry and agriculture, England more than has the means to make up these deficiencies, if her people rouse themselves.
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Though there are currently shadows on its face, the British Lion is still strong enough once roused to action and any foe that might think her easy prey will find its claws sharp as ever, the British people still the ones who built the largest empire ever seen by man.

 

[Saithis]

I love me some British Empire. Subscribed!

Don't worry about being the best player, I think the best AARs are ones that face difficulty and setbacks and challenges, rather than the ones that conquer everything like clockwork!

 

[LTPugh]

I love me some British Empire. Subscribed!

Don't worry about being the best player, I think the best AARs are ones that face difficulty and setbacks and challenges, rather than the ones that conquer everything like clockwork!

Ah! The Lady of the North Star herself as my first subscriber. I guess I'll just have to make sure this is an extra well done AAR.

Any comments on writing, punctuation, picture use, etc. are more than welcome!

Now onto the update.

Part 2: Revitalizing the Empire.

The British Lion is quick to find its feet once roused.
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January 6, 1936: Although aging and ailing King George the V summons his government together for the first session of the year. Seeing as how the King had recently lost his beloved sister Victoria and had never fully recovered from a lifetime of illness, the news quickly spread across the nation and the speech was broadcast live as well as recorded for rebroadcast in the Empire. Though many expected nothing more than perhaps a final farewell from a recently depressed man, in a surprise display of strength the self described "Very ordinary sort of fellow," gives what is potentially his greatest speech.

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Though aging, the King could still cut an impressive figure

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Starting with a list of the accomplishments of his long career as monarch, George V moved forwards from the Great War and through the years of peace listing triumph after triumph of the Empire in all sorts of fields; from the Arts and Humanities to Science, Industry and War, trailing off towards the modern day. Finishing his list, he then went on to list the British failures during the same time. Though initially not as many they were heartfelt, such as his clear sadness at the massive loss of life during the Great War. Continuing in the same vein, he brought up more and more failures as time went on, all the way up to the current state of the Empire, one which was at best described as "Holding together in decline". As he ended a silence fell over Parliament, many of its members looking chastised by the King.

After nearly a full minute of silence George then described his vision of what he saw for Britain and the Empire in the future. It seemed to be humble in its goals at first, but as he went on the full scope of his vision was revealed. He called for a revival of British industry and agriculture, of bringing back self sufficiency to the Isles. Laying out a rough sketch of it he continued and called for a revival of the British military after Britain had modernized its industry. He wanted Britain to be completely impervious to attack from both air and sea, his concern about a quickly revitalizing Germany made public and explained to the people of Britain. After her shores were secure he called for improving the British army so that she could properly support her allies and foreign possessions. He also promised increased support for the colonies and an improvement in relations. Finally he finished his speech by saying that the Empire should once again lead by example as a shining beacon of progress and prosperity in every field, not just by resting on laurels from the past

As he finished his speech Parliament rose to its feet in applause though it was clear some members seemed uncertain about the Kings ideas, many thinking that the King had browbeaten his people too much and worried about a possible backlash from the public. As it turned out their worries were misplaced. As the reigning monarch and head of state his direct political power were limited, but George's ability to inspire and direct the will of the British people was second to none. George V had managed to hit all of the right notes in his speech and it brought forth an immediate groundswell of support for his ideas. By the end of the week letters had poured into Parliament from across the nation and calls had come forth from most of the colonies supporting his proposal.

By the next Monday Parliament was finalizing an enhanced budgetary proposal for the year and on the Fifteenth of January 1936, the "Empire Revitalization Bill" was passed by an overwhelming 3/4's majority of Parliament. The immediate effects of the Bill were many. It promised subsidies for any industry in the Empire that wanted to update their equipment or expand operations, promised subsidies to farmers to do the same and called for an immediate expansion of the aging British officer corps.

British Industry would once more be the best in the world and increased co-operative farming promised more profits and sustainable yields for all.
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It's long term implications were massive as well. The Bill had provisions for updating the army, the design and construction of new ships for the Royal Navy, as well as massive increase in fighters and radar for use by the Royal Air Force. The designs would all be British made and British designed, giving purpose for the growth of industry called for by King George. Subsidies and contracts were too good for most industrialists to resist and many immediately began modest expansions with more doing thorough updates of their equipment and facilities, some of which had been around since the Industrial Revolution. Farmers joined in as well, an ailing agricultural sector finding itself suddenly filled with government pounds.

Along with the already ordered Battleship Warspite, Ark Royal would be one of the new cornerstones of the Royal Navy.

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Though expanding of the army would take some time, immediate steps were taken to reorganize the highly top heavy and inefficient order of battle currently in use by the Home Army.

Six full sized army Headquarters units and all the officers for them based just in the Home Isles was wildly excessive by any standard.
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In addition to this the government forced the military immediately reorganize the officer corps based not just on seniority but by competence and skill. This disgruntled some of the officers displaced but many were quietly shuffled off to retirement or out of the way posts as the public called for change in an "Inefficient and outdated force."

George Alexander was a prime example of an excellent officer shuffled out to an unimportant post due to politics. This was quickly rectified after the Revitalization bill was passed.
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Besides just shaking out those unsuited for command, the Army began immediate studies to improve its organization and combat ability, deciding that change was necessary if it wanted to keep the good graces of the British people.

​

The army decided that in order to preserve the lives of its soldiers that fast, hard hitting forces capable of overwhelming their enemies with firepower instead of bodies was the way of the future.

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Finally, all new equipment was ordered readied for development, it would do no good to have the Army ready itself for battle only to have its equipment fail in the hour of need.

The Army focused heavily on support weapons, including Anti-tank guns which it had failed to properly develop in the face of growing armored forces on the continent.

​

As the end of January 1936 arrived the British Isles were abuzz with activity, especially in the halls of power in London. The King seemed to be in surprisingly good health since his speech, having found support in the acclaim given to him by the British people. He kept a strong eye on the ongoing developments in Parliament and though he wasn't direct in his influence, the mandate given to him by the British people more than did the job for him, the Government nearly scrambling to introduce any suggestion he made.


The British Lion had sniffed out something nearly forgotten, Pride earned through the sweat and hard work of its people, and began to pursue it once more. The sinews were beginning to stretch, claws getting sharpened as the Kingdom and the Empire prepared to bring themselves to their feet once again as the undisputed example of greatness for the rest of the world.


Edited for formatting and spelling

 

[Motorkingpus]

Oh, please more!

 

[El Pip]

I also have to admit to a soft spot for British AARs and indeed The Empire.

After a strong start I am curious to see what the much more assertive King George V does about his wayward eldest son. I can't see a man who's just warned the country about the dangers of Germany letting Edward onto the throne, a cunning plan will be required I to deal with that problem.

 

[Saithis]

Self sufficiency; it's a wonderful dream, but can George turn grass into iron?

Nice start, and that's an awful lot of spying! It looks like you're planning to get some strong international presence straight away?

 

[LTPugh]

Oh, please more!

Ask and ye shall receive!

I also have to admit to a soft spot for British AARs and indeed The Empire.

After a strong start I am curious to see what the much more assertive King George V does about his wayward eldest son. I can't see a man who's just warned the country about the dangers of Germany letting Edward onto the throne, a cunning plan will be required I to deal with that problem.

Well, as you'll see there's some interesting things coming for the Empire and while George V is ailing, he's not gone yet.

Self sufficiency; it's a wonderful dream, but can George turn grass into iron?

Nice start, and that's an awful lot of spying! It looks like you're planning to get some strong international presence straight away?

That's a good point, self-sufficiency isn't quite possible for the British in certain ways, but they can damn well give it a try! As for my intelligence presence, that's actually a screenshot of January 1st as I pump out enough spies to get ten raising national unity. I find the bonuses given by NU in HPP too juicy to pass up. While I still have some spy production going on it's not to that level as I'm taking advantage of Britain's INSANE early lead in research speed techs to up everything I can before the other powers catch up!



These first updates are coming fast due to not a whole lot going on yet, but I'll probably slow down as battles start happening and campaigns begin to span the world. Right now though, the Lion is simply getting back on its feet.

Part 3: Re-armament in the face of European trouble.
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Though the British people were still enthused by King George's plan, the initial buzz of pure love had worn off by the start of February, replaced by a solid feeling of work as money flowed and plans were laid down. Many design companies were working overtime on government contracts and the average person had a bit of pep in their step as a slow trickle-down of wealth flowed from government coffers and indirectly into nearly everyone's pocket.​

Though initially nothing had been said by the German government about King George V's speech, in February they revealed why.

German troops Re-occupy the Rhineland under the pretense of "British Imperial expansion."
​

Using the British re--armament as an excuse for a clearly pre-planned maneuver, Hitler had ordered German troops to move into the Rhineland and near the border with France, breaking another facet of the already beaten Treaty of Versailles on the 5th. Though the troops did nothing more than re-take positions, it was clear the Germany was growing bolder every year and that conflict between European nations was building once again.

To the average person in Britain this action was seen not just as a clearly provocative move from an increasingly belligerent Germany, but a clear indication that the King had been correct in his demands that Britain re-assert her military might and prepare to protect her people. Many people who had been doubters or outright opponents of the proposed expansion either switched sides or began to get very quiet about their opposition as it was clear public support was with the other side.

Though the both His Majesty's Government and the French Government filed additional protests against Germany, neither could yet do more as Britain had just begun to seriously ramp up re-armament and France was still lagging behind.

Production on fighters for the RAF had begun almost immediately, but it had taken until February for the Army to admit that it's cavalry brigades needed updating.

​

While Britain already had a large merchant marine, plans were laid for its expansion as continued need for shipping pressed the Isles and the government remembered what had happened the last time war had been declared with Germany. There would be no starving Britain out by submarine if there was another go round with Jerry. The army also began to embrace the idea of mobile warfare with tanks and infantry instead of cavalry as the still prestigious regiments were forced to either motorize or move to tanks.


The remainder of February and March were relatively quiet, Britain making several trade deals to increase the flow of currency into the government coffers to maintain the buildup speed, though they as of yet had no reason to move from a more civilian footing and upset their constituents more than necessary.

Surprising nearly everyone, King George was still alive, though the initial bloom of health had faded. He had continued to keep track of the updating of the British forces and industry, smiling as the first of the improvement projects was completed only two months after inception.

Though small on the relative scale of things, the improvement of the Royal Navy's light units would be an ongoing demand.

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It wasn't until April that serious news hit the United Kingdom once more. Though it had been started in late 1935, the Second London Naval Conference eventually came to an indecisive end. With Japan leaving the treaty and Italy declining to sign as well it was decided by the British Government that the treaty was no longer useful for the long term goals of the Empire and declined to ratify it. Though this angered the French and Americans slightly as they had been unprepared for unrestricted naval build-ups, it was felt that with both the Italy and Japan building increasingly large navies and ship classes the Royal Navy shouldn't unduly restrict itself either.

Increasing foreign belligerence meant the Royal Navy would need to be as strong as possible to protect the Empire.

​

This decision would prove to be the right one as it was merely days later that sources began to report that the Japanese were upgunning and updating some of their large surface combatants in direct violation of already signed treaties.

Though the Royal Navy was still larger than the IJN, she also had much more territory to defend.

​

In response to this move by the Japanese government, Parliament and the Royal Navy immediately decided to counter the move with one of their own, funding upgrades for the HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Valiant.

Though a few decried the expensive programs, it was becoming increasingly clear Britain was headed for conflict whether they wanted it or not.

​

The next major improvements in military strength came from the RAF, which had contracted out plans for more modern fighters. Though still building up, the advancements provided by this quick development would only serve as a springboard for even better designs. Later in April the first major subsidies were starting to show fruit, with massive orders of machine tools being delivered from all sources and building construction being completed on some of the first new factories.

Though his health was still failing him, King George was smiling as he received reports of the new items being produced by recently updated production lines.
​

May proved to be a month filled with unsettling news for the British Empire. Just before midnight on April 30th, news reached the government that the Italians had put in the Andrea Dorea for modernization. Though the RM was still behind the RN in terms of ships and technology it could still be a thorn in the side of the Empire. If worst came to worst it might mean that Britain could face the RM, IJN and slowly rebuilding Kreigsmarine at the same time. Plans for naval rearmament were increased as RN ship designers pushed engines armor and gun sizes for all of her combatants further than ever before.

A week later more bad news came, the Italian war against Ethiopia had ended in Italian victory. Though expected, it had been hoped that the Ethiopians might again surprise the Italians somehow. This was unfortunately not to be and Ethiopia found itself as part of Mussolini's small but growing "Second Rome."

Though the area contained little of value for most nations, it put Italian forces in a position to threaten British African holdings. Something would have to be done. ​

June was a quiet month for the British, with only major development and that of the good nature. King George had called for Britain to be impervious to air attack and that meant warnings ahead of time for the RAF to be scrambled. In Mid-June the King was able to watch as the first of a number of massive radars was placed on the coast by Dover. The installations would provide not only early warning of any attacks coming from Europe, but interspersed in much smaller and less conspicuous sites were British radio intercept stations which would allow her access to enemy plans and locations based on triangulation.

By early July enough installations were online to intercept German traffic in the Rhineland and coverage only promised to increase.

​

By July the first new formations of the slowly expanding army were ready for deployment. Though largely consisting of garrison troops, they were intended to protect British overseas possessions such as Malta, Singapore and Hong-Kong. Malta and Singapore had also been determined to be of vital importance to British control overseas and were receiving upgrades to their facilities and defenses.

Though some saw the building of static defenses in far off locales to be a waste of time and money, it was decided they were necessary to uphold the Kings commitment to better protect the Empire.

​

With the deployment of new divisions in July, it seemed the the Empire was truly on the right track to return to her former greatness. The beginning of August found the world thinking not of war but of unity and brotherhood, at least for a little while. Hitlers Germany hosted the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, where many nations attended the grand events.

Great Britain sent many athletes to the games despite growing tensions.

​

However the celebratory mood was broken just a week later as King George V passed away. Bedridden for the previous two weeks, he had nonetheless held on to the world long enough to see the Olympics start and to hear about one more improvement started by his Empire Revitalization plan. After refusing lunch in order to hear the latest developments in the Royal Navy's cruisers, the King asked everyone to leave the room so he could take a nap. An hour later when one of his physicians came to check up on him he found King George lying peacefully in bed, his eyes closed and having fought for his Kingdom through his last waking moment.

Grief and Sorrow rocked the Empire as the news was announced by the BBC across the world.

​

Though the King had lasted nearly eight months longer than anyone thought he could, even he had known that his health would not last much longer. As such he had quietly made plans for his successor to be Prince Albert instead of his Elder son Prince Edward, who was rather publicly engaged with the twice divorced American woman Wallace Simpson. When George V was officially declared dead at 1:00 PM on August 8, 1936, the government headed by Stanley Baldwin and carrying letters signed by the King swung into motion.


Though they couldn't force him out of office directly, it wasn't hard to see that Edward would not make a good King for the Empire. Besides his dalliances with Simpson, he also had leanings towards Hitler and the Nazi party, both of which were extremely unpopular in Britain. Forced to choose between love and ruling a nation of people who were already looking at him critically, Edward abdicated the throne at 8:00 PM that same day at the urging of the Government and his recently passed father, having never actually been crowned King.

His brother Prince Albert had been ready for this as well, as the late King George had called him in often in the last months of his life to discuss the possibility of him taking power. Though initially wary of the idea, Albert was eventually convinced that he was the best man for the job. Even as Edward abdicated the throne, Albert was in the room, waiting to be called forward as George VI.

Edwards decision though hard, was conducted at a speed not usually seen in such matters.

​

Though Britain and the Empire mourned the death of George V, he had done everything in his power to see to the continuing success of the many nations he ruled. Having set Britain back on the path of growth he passed away with the knowledge that his son Albert, soon to be crowned as George VI, would take up the reigns of power for him.



Edited for length, spelling and grammar.

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[Saithis]

Good stuff so far! I like the early investment in provincial improvements and minimal increase of your forces. Build up Britain's zone of influence by strengthening her key points on the map without dramatically increasing your supply/consumer goods requirements. That plus the investment in the Royal Navy, in the RAF, and only moderate, defensively-focused increases in the army feel very true to Britain's wartime strategy. I look forward to seeing how this plays out.

 

[LTPugh]

Good stuff so far! I like the early investment in provincial improvements and minimal increase of your forces. Build up Britain's zone of influence by strengthening her key points on the map without dramatically increasing your supply/consumer goods requirements. That plus the investment in the Royal Navy, in the RAF, and only moderate, defensively-focused increases in the army feel very true to Britain's wartime strategy. I look forward to seeing how this plays out.

Thanks! I feel that the UK, with its far flung empire, is one of the few powers who can really take advantage of the radar and radio intercept techs and get a nearly global picture against every other power. Supply is a big concern with so many troops in far flung places, not only keeping supplies up but transporting them to the proper locations. (As I'm sure you know) Hopefully once the war starts, the RAF can not only keep the enemy away from Britain, but help to cripple whatever forces I need taken out and the RN will rule the high seas once more.


Now onto the update!

Part 4: The Calm before the Storm.

The new King of England and Emperor of India faced many challenges, but his subjects were utterly behind him.

​

Despite the death of George V, Britain's people did not slow in their preparations. Millions of people filed past as he lay in state and hundreds of thousands crowded the streets as he was taken to St. Georges Chapel at the Windsor Castle. But none of them despaired about the nation or their future leader. George VI not only had the blessings of George V, but between his mild manner and willingness to step forward he found that most of his public supported him as well. After his coronation he made a tour of the Dominions, including India despite the rising nationalism there. He also stopped in France and the United States, building support for the Empire in the ever more likely coming war.


Aside from the Kings coronation tour, much of the next few months were quiet, with only a few major developments coming, though one was an increase in Britain's formerly limited ability to train new officers for their armed forces. It had taken much longer than hoped, but the formerly stratified and largely static officer corps was once again opening itself to new ideas and talents.

Coordination with Canada brought forward new ways to keep soldiers healthy in cold weather situations.

​

November brought more bad news for the Democracies of the world, as tensions in Spain reached a boiling point. The Socialists, Communist and Liberals had won a narrow set of elections, but demands for immediate and sometimes excessive reform created riots as excessive fervor ran in the streets. In response the conservatives in the army and the rest of society joined together and tried to seize control of the government in a coup. This failed and shortly afterwards Spain went from riots to full out Civil War.

As unfortunate as the situation was, His Majesty's government could find no reason to intervene.

​

Even as blood began to run in the streets and fields of Spain, Britain could do nothing but watch. While they were united behind the idea of protecting the British Empire, many in the isles thought that as long as there was no move made on the various British territories in the area then there was no reason to intervene. Of those who did want to intervene, many were split between the conservatives and liberals and therefore couldn't decide which side to join in the conflict. This unfortunately meant that the best solution for the English government was simply to watch developments and prevent any citizens of the Empire from formally joining the conflict.



As the new year came around Britain continued to improve its situation, especially in naval matters. New anti-submarine technology was created as well as new large caliber naval guns. Training improved for Royal Navy pilots, the formerly neglected Fleet Carrier arm getting improvements along with the rest of the naval and Air forces. In February two large pieces of news came. The first was good, the Royal Marines having gotten into the spirit of development and announced that they were ready to deploy highly trained landing forces in regimental sized units instead of the many smaller detachments previously carried by ships. The other, while not directly threatening towards the Empire was concerning. It seemed that Joseph Stalin had started to purge the ranks of the Soviet army and government to solidify his hold on power.

While concerning, the purges in the Soviet Union were beyond Britain's immediate sphere of interests.
​

In March, the government used its growing financial power to approach previously un-contracted parts of the British economy with a deal. Find someway to help in Britain's growth and the government would make sure it happened. After only a few weeks time they came back with a slightly surprising but well received suggestion. By streamlining a few protocols and allowing usage of outside facilities, Britain could give a significant increase to the number of officers it was training. The government immediately jumped on the deal and while some members of High Command complained, they couldn't deny that more quality officers was a good thing.

Far from the depths of the Great Depression, the British Government once more found itself with more wealth than it new what to do with.

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Late April found Britain dealing with internal issues, as increased tensions in Burma between the native peoples and the many Indians who had moved there as British civil servants sparked riots. Deciding that it was in the best interests of the Empire to keep the tensions down, Burma was formally made a separate colony from India.

Though immediate tensions were resolved, the incidents underlined the growing amount of nationalism within the Empire.


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As May came around, the first of the major defense upgrades to Malta and Singapore were nearing completion, though many more were planned. The rest of the year was thankfully quiet, with most of the world maintaining an uneasy peace as all parties continued to quietly build up forces. Britain continued to upgrade her industrial and agricultural capabilities along with her military. In keeping with the late George V's promises to increase support to the dominions and colonies, the formerly ill trained and equipped security forces kept in the various far off places of the Empire were brought to the Isle's to be trained and equipped to proper army standards.

HMS Victorious was the Royal Navies most advanced carrier so far, using the latest developments in carrier technology.

Though many old fashioned army minds swore up and down it wasn't possible, the colonial troops took to the training with enthusiasm previously unseen and developed the necessary skill quickly.

​

As the end of 1937 came around, Britain found herself with a growing professionally trained army, an increasingly modern and growing air-force and the ever present strength of the most highly respected naval force ever to exist on the face of the planet. Hopefully this would be enough to face whatever trials came in the future, but only time would tell.

 

[Nathan Madien]

I really like this AAR. I tried doing a British AAR once, but I lost interest after a while. Hopefully the same won't happen to you.

 

[El Pip]

As others have said I like that you are doing this in proper British fashion with a focus on the Fleet, marines and the Empire. Spiffing.

 

[Saithis]

Lovely job so far, seems like you have all your key bases covered. Better training for the colonials sounds like a two-edged sword: yes, now you're opening a new manpower base with excellent potential, but you're also strengthening a number of underrepresented colonies who may grow to feel they deserve more rights and should be dominions rather than colonies. They're taking a risk, but a risk that may help to combat Hitler and Stalin.

Speaking of Hitler, I would personally suggest that when the fated hour comes, you don't throw absolutely everything you have into the Battle of France, as it's quite easy to overwhelm Germany in the first year of war if you focus your research and IC on it, and that can be a little disappointing if the war ends in 1940. Doesn't mean I wouldn't send a BEF though!

 

[jibby123]

Really well written. Following.

I've never done a UK save, I find it daunting to have to keep my eye on areas in Africa and Asia as well as Europe (I'm not that good at the game) but this AAR makes me want to flash one up.

 

[germandjinn]

subbed

 

[LTPugh]

I really like this AAR. I tried doing a British AAR once, but I lost interest after a while. Hopefully the same won't happen to you.

Thanks! I should be keeping pretty regular updates as my schedule isn't that busy at the moment so no worries of me losing interest.

As others have said I like that you are doing this in proper British fashion with a focus on the Fleet, marines and the Empire. Spiffing.

Of course old boy! When Britannia rules the waves she can pick and choose her battles, gather support from the entire Empire and prevent the enemy from using the waves.

Lovely job so far, seems like you have all your key bases covered. Better training for the colonials sounds like a two-edged sword: yes, now you're opening a new manpower base with excellent potential, but you're also strengthening a number of underrepresented colonies who may grow to feel they deserve more rights and should be dominions rather than colonies. They're taking a risk, but a risk that may help to combat Hitler and Stalin.

Speaking of Hitler, I would personally suggest that when the fated hour comes, you don't throw absolutely everything you have into the Battle of France, as it's quite easy to overwhelm Germany in the first year of war if you focus your research and IC on it, and that can be a little disappointing if the war ends in 1940. Doesn't mean I wouldn't send a BEF though!

Yep, the UK is rather easy if you keep the RN, Industry and Agriculture up to date. RAF is important and if you keep the rest together using the army wherever you want is easy.

As for the colonials, currently the Empire is more in need of willing bodies than it is worried about the many smaller parts around the globe. Of course there likely will be eventual demands for more representation, but until the conflict is over they'll likely hold themselves happy with the growing inclusion in matters. In addition, if the soldiers can distinguish themselves properly in the war, then there might be little issue with them being granted higher status. I already have four divisions of Indian troops as well, so it'll truly be an Empire wide struggle.


I am conflicted on what to do for Hitler and Germany, as given my slightly more belligerent stance on the war it would make sense for me to reject the Munich agreement. Of course that could lead to a rather disappointing war. We'll just have to see!

Really well written. Following.

I've never done a UK save, I find it daunting to have to keep my eye on areas in Africa and Asia as well as Europe (I'm not that good at the game) but this AAR makes me want to flash one up.

Happy to have you! As for doing the UK, it's remarkably easy to keep track of everything once you realize where the important areas are. You have to make sure to use the RN as both a firebrigade and to keep enemy navies down and make use of the many bases scattered around the world.

subbed

Happy to hear it!

 

[LTPugh]

Alright, looks like it's time for another chapter of The Lion Roars, now with hyperlinks!

Part 5: The Gathering Darkness.

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Though there was no direct conflict yet, it was clear to most people in Europe that there would be some kind of war within the next couple of years. In Asia Japan continued to advance on the Chinese heartlands, causing his Majesty's government to decide to send supplies to Chiang Kai-shek's Kuomintang forces through Burma. Though it wasn't as much as some wanted to do, it was all that could be done with worries closer to home.

Chiang Kai-Shek's forces lacked supplies, not the will to fight.​

In EuropeHitlers Germany seemed to be the most likely initiator for hostilities, as their territorial demands and ever growing army and air force were not signs of peace. In early January they struck again, this time through diplomacy. With worsening economic and political tensions in Austria, Hitlers Germany demanded a plebiscite to see if the country wanted to join the greater Reich. In a somewhat conflicted vote, it became clear that the majority of Austrians wanted to join with greater Germany. Though the Austrian government attempted to dispute the outcome, riots in the streets and threat of force from the German army caused it to quickly be overthrown by the masses and Austria joined the Reich, strengthening both to the worries of the British government.

Though it was questionable diplomacy at best, there was nothing that could be done at the time being.

​

Though things looked bleak around much of the world, the people of Britain did not despair. Efforts continued to develop her forces, with new materials and weapons being developed on a regular basis. One of the biggest steps forward was in terms of armor for the Royal Navy, as new smelting techniques and industrial process's meant that the hulls of the fleet would be stronger than ever. The army also introduced more reliable small arms for their infantry, strengthening their ability to operate in the far flung reaches of the Empire.

Naval architects were eager to exploit the new building materials.


​

The early months of the year found the army deploying new units including several new squadrons of long range fighters and the final forces for the newly upgraded 5th Corps, which was the army's newest formation and comprised of the recently re-trained and re-armed colonial troops.

Once fully shaken out, 5th Corps was scheduled for immediate re-deployment to Africa in the face of continued Italian army presence.

​

The army continued development of its own during this time and with great excitement presented its new mechanized support regiments equipped with cutting edge vehicles that combined the mobility of a tank with the abilities of formerly static artillery and anti-aircraft positions. Though they were currently expensive and still slightly experimental, it was hoped that further development would bring even more punch to the Empire's armored formations.


In a highly classified briefing to upper members of the Government the signals command based at Dover revealed that combined with their installations at Malta, the forces of the Empire knew where both Italian and German forces were nearly as well as Mussolini and Hitler did. This edge was kept secret at the moment, not even most upper echelon commanders being informed. Information warfare had allowed Britain several victories in WWI and it seemed that it would be even more important as radio and radar continued developing in the future.

Between signals triangulation's and decryption, Britain not only knew where her likely enemies forces were, but what type they were as well.
​

Shortly afterwards another important yet much more disturbing report came in. Despite fierce Chinese resistance, the ROC's capital of Nanjing had fallen to Imperial Japanese forces. In an orgy of blood and violence those forces ripped the city apart. Though the violence would continue for many weeks it only solidified many in the West's opinion that Japan could not be allowed to continue growing her holdings. Unfortunately public opinion in the Isles prevented direct intervention, so supplies were all that could be given for the time being.

Though reports were understandably sketchy, it was clear that what was happening in Nanjing had turned the city into a proverbial extension of hell.

​

As Japanese forces continued to advance slowly through China it was decided that an increased presence was needed in the area. Since most of the Empires heavy forces were still needed in Europe, various cruiser squadrons that had been on station around the world were brought together into a combined force and sent to Singapore, which had recently been upgraded with increased defenses on both land and sea sides. Though the force wasn't a direct threat to Japan, combined with the already on station China Squadron, it was something that sent a message to the IJN and would keep them on their toes if conflict came. Unfortunately Japan had advance far enough into China that they ignored Britain's warning and installed a puppet government to govern their controlled regions of China.

Though only a small portion of the fleet, the forces in Singapore would be able to overwhelm any light task groups sent their way.


​

Through the next months the RAF continued to deploy freshly trained squadrons of fighters, including one entire wing sent to protect Singapore. In a change from older policy, these fighters were freshly built and had well trained pilots. It was thought that these fighters combined with the fleet stationed there, would be able to keep the city and surrounding area mostly clear of enemy air power and fleets.


The army also deployed several new divisions of troops called up from India. Despite the growing nationalism there, British concessions towards self rule and a slight loosening of previously restricted trade had brought what was at best classified as a cessation of separation between the two nations. Along with promises of proper treatment and pay for all Indian's who signed into the army, Britain once again had many volunteers coming from her most prosperous overseas possession.

October found new developments in equipment for the Empire's forces. Seeing as how many of the Empire's foreign holdings and protectorates ranged from semi-arid to complete deserts, the development of proper equipment for these areas had become a top priority for the army. Further developments in training for the Empires special forces finally convinced the Government to allow the deployment of two Marine Divisions and to call up a full division of the legendary Nepalese Gurkha's for there ability in rough terrain.

Though the British ground forces had long been derided as sub-par, recent developments meant that the general staff considered them on par or better trained than many they might face. Combined with increasing diversity in training and equipment, this meant the Empire would be prepared to fight anywhere she needed.
​

As September rolled around another crisis struck Europe. Hitler demanded the Sudetenland, the ethnically German portions of Czechoslovakia. Despite the protestations of the British government and a complete refusal to agree to Hitlers demands, increasing ethnic tensions and a failure of the Czech government to respond meant that the land was effectively in anarchy. After another week it became clear that German agitators were behind many of the demonstrations, but by then it was too late to act and the Sudetenland found itself annexed by Germany even as Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain decried German aggression and promised increased British trade restrictions against Germany. Upon his return to Britain from Munich, the Prime Minister ordered increased war preparations and planning by the General Staff.


As the end of 1938 rolled around it seemed inevitable that there would be war. The only question's that remained to be answered were where it would start and under what pretext would the world be set aflame once more.

​

 

[El Pip]

Sending the Bahama and Guyana Colonial Forces to Africa? That'll certainly confuse the enemy. Possibly your own troops as well, but that's the price you sometimes have to pay for a cunning plan.

 

[Saithis]

Things are slowly heating up. Deploying the colonials to Africa makes a lot of sense - they're not particularly needed elsewhere and this enables Britain to utilise a force of people who, while not local, are used to the subtropic heat. Those listening posts are doing excellent work already, I should imagine that will become very useful once the war heats up. As I usually play minors, I often forget what an edge good radar and decryption can give you!

Natty squadron in Singapore, but I can see her meeting a bad fate if the IJN decides to focus on Malaysia over the US Islands. Hopefully China can hold out and keep the Japanese attention divided between three potential fronts.

Enjoyable update as usual!

 

[blitzthedragon]

Aaaaand subscribed. Sucks you couldn't stop the annexation of the Sudetenland, but would it be feasible for you to stand up for the rest of Czechoslovakia? Still understandable if Britain just isn't ready yet.