The Rise of German empire

Under the watchful gaze of Emperor Wilhelm II, Oscar and Marshal Count Tirpitz signed their names on the transfer document. The agreement formally marked the inclusion of the four Nassau-class battleships, under construction at Oscar's Deutsche Werft shipyard, as the next-generation capital ships of the German Navy. Upon completion and after successful sea trials, the ships would be officially handed over to the navy.

"Your Royal Highness, the navy deeply appreciates everything you have done. Your contribution will not be forgotten," Count Tirpitz said with solemn sincerity.

For many present, Oscar's gamble seemed monumental. He had poured an enormous fortune into acquiring and expanding the shipyard and committing to the construction of four battleships. If the navy had ultimately declined these ships, Oscar would have faced staggering losses—potentially exceeding 300 million marks, a tremendous sum considering that Germany's annual fiscal revenue barely surpassed one billion marks. It was a risk few could have shouldered, and it earned him both respect and admiration from the gathered officials.

"Marshal, this is no more than my duty," Oscar replied with a measured smile. "As a prince of the German Empire, I bear the responsibility of contributing to our nation's strength. While it may not be my ambition to don a uniform and stand on the frontlines, I can strengthen Germany in my own way."

The formal transfer of the Nassau-class ships brought relief to the navy. The cost of the ships, a total of 350 million marks, would be offset against Oscar's investments in the shipyard, making his personal outlay for the massive facility relatively small. This strategic move secured Oscar not only a vital role in the empire's naval development but also a powerful industrial asset for future projects.

Wilhelm II and Count Tirpitz exchanged approving glances. At only 17 years old, Oscar had proven to be not only a capable financier but also a visionary. His earlier pledge to Dean Ludwig Birkenhagen of the Kiel Naval Academy—to construct a battleship at his own expense—had once seemed a youthful jest. Now, it was clear he had every intention of fulfilling that promise.

"Your Highness," Tirpitz began with a smile, "when do you plan to honor your commitment to Dean Birkenhagen?"

Oscar's smile widened. "Marshal, I am prepared to do so immediately. In fact, I have already made arrangements. The first ship of the next generation of capital ships will be entirely built by my shipyard. Once it is complete, it will be donated directly to the navy to fulfill my promise to the dean."

The confidence in Oscar's tone caught the attention of Wilhelm II. "Oscar," he asked, leaning forward slightly, "you speak of the next generation of capital ships. Do you already have plans for this new design?"

Oscar nodded, his expression turning serious. "Yes, father. The Nassau-class is undoubtedly more advanced than the British Dreadnought, but we cannot ignore the fact that the British have inaugurated a new era of naval warfare. For now, we classify our Nassau-class ships alongside their Dreadnought—both are ships of the same type, emphasizing all-big-gun armament and steam turbine propulsion. But we must already look beyond."

He paused briefly, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "The next generation of battleships must surpass what the British have achieved. I call this new class the 'Super-Dreadnought.'"

Wilhelm II and Tirpitz exchanged intrigued glances. "Super-Dreadnought?" Wilhelm II repeated, his brow furrowed.

"Precisely," Oscar replied. "The term reflects a battleship that is significantly more powerful than the current Dreadnoughts. These ships will feature enhanced firepower, superior armor, and, if possible, greater speed. By adopting these principles, we can ensure that our next generation of capital ships will hold a decisive advantage over the British Navy."

Oscar explained that the Super-Dreadnought would employ larger-caliber guns than the 12-inch weapons on the Nassau-class, potentially increasing the main armament to 14 or even 15 inches. This would give the ships unprecedented striking power. He also proposed more extensive armor plating to protect against both naval artillery and torpedoes, a critical improvement in an era where naval engagements were becoming deadlier and more decisive.

"We should also focus on propulsion systems," Oscar continued. "The introduction of more efficient turbines could allow our ships to achieve higher speeds without compromising on protection or firepower. Speed and maneuverability will become increasingly vital in modern naval warfare."

Tirpitz leaned back in his chair, clearly impressed. "Your Highness, your vision for the Super-Dreadnought aligns perfectly with our naval ambitions. If we can achieve what you propose, it will force the British Navy to reevaluate their designs and strategies. Germany could gain a decisive edge in any future conflict."

Wilhelm II nodded slowly, his expression one of approval. "Oscar, if your Super-Dreadnoughts can truly deliver what you describe, we will not only rival the British—we will surpass them. This design could change the balance of power at sea and secure Germany's position as a maritime superpower."

Oscar smiled humbly but remained resolute. "I believe it can be done, father. I will dedicate the resources of my shipyard to developing this design. With the right materials and expertise, the Super-Dreadnought will become a reality."

The emperor's confidence in his youngest son swelled. Oscar's foresight and determination were precisely what Germany needed during this precarious time. With rising tensions among Europe's great powers, the need for naval supremacy was more pressing than ever.

As the meeting concluded, Oscar's mind was already racing with calculations and sketches. The Super-Dreadnought was no longer just an idea—it was a mission. While others saw only the immediate future, Oscar's gaze was firmly set on what lay beyond the horizon.

For Oscar, this was not merely about ships or strategy. It was about legacy—cementing Germany's dominance at sea and proving that innovation, even in the hands of the young, could steer the course of history.