Batavian Waterline

Soldiers of the Bataafsche Vrijwillige Brigade (Batavian Volunteer Brigade) check the fortifications near the river Linge, in anticipation of a potential outbreak of war with the Benacian Union (2.I.1731 AN)

The Batavian Waterline (Batavian: Bataafse Waterlinie) is a historic system of water-based fortifications located in the Kingdom of Batavia in Shireroth, originally conceived at the end of the 17th century and significantly strengthened and expanded during the Shiro-Benacian Cold War. This defensive line spans several kilometers, stretching from the north to the south of the Kingdom, at its eastern border with the Benacian Union. Its primary objective was not to halt an adversary's progression indefinitely but rather to keep hostile forces at bay, safeguarding densely populated regions in the nation's western provinces, while providing essential time for reinforcements to mobilize.

At its core, the Batavian Waterline relies on manipulating the natural topography and hydrology of the landscape to create a formidable obstacle for any aggressor seeking to penetrate deep into Batavian territory. When activated, large portions of the surrounding countryside are intentionally flooded, rendering them mostly impassible. Additionally, numerous strategically placed fortresses, bunkers, and artillery emplacements provide supporting firepower and secure key chokepoints along the length of the line.

Its counterpart is the Benacian Western Defence Zone, the defensive lines of which follow the Benacian border with Batavia.

Key components

The Batavian Waterline with its most important fortifications and floodable areas.

Key components of the Batavian Waterline include:

• Floodable Areas: Carefully engineered sections of land that can be rapidly inundated with water upon activation of the defense mechanism. These areas serve as both physical barriers and traps for would-be attackers, funneling them towards predesignated killing zones where concentrated fire from fixed positions can inflict maximum damage.
• Defensive Structures: A diverse array of fortified installations dot the landscape along the entirety of the waterline, each serving specific tactical functions. Among these structures are artillery batteries, machine gun nests, anti-tank ditches, and observation posts, all designed to maximize the defensive potential of the terrain.
• Communication Networks: To ensure seamless coordination between disparate elements of the defense network, extensive communication systems have been implemented throughout the waterline. Utilizing everything from hardwired telephone lines to encrypted radio transmissions, command centers maintain constant contact with frontline units, enabling rapid responses to emerging threats or changing battlefield conditions.
• Mobilization Facilities: Supporting infrastructure plays a critical role in maintaining the operational readiness of the Batavian Waterline. Numerous barracks, supply depots, maintenance facilities, and training grounds are dispersed across the region, ensuring that personnel and materiel remain readily available whenever the defense mechanisms must be activated.

Organisation

The Batavian Waterline was organized along a series of defensive lines to protect the nation and consisted of four primary commands or zones, each with its own specific defensive strategies and troop deployments:

• The Sheyn Line represented the northernmost section of the waterline, stretching from Trebon-de-Luchon near the coast to Appel in the central mountain range. Given its location, the Sheyn Line was expected to face some of the heaviest fighting in the event of an attack. As such, special attention was given to anti-aircraft defenses and bunker complexes in order to prevent a swift advance by enemy forces along Highways S1 and S12.
• The Rhijne Line made up the majority of the central mountain ranges of Batavia. Here, the fortifications at Jonkersberghe served as the primary bulwark against invading armies. This line played a crucial role in slowing down any advances towards the heart of the country.
• To the south lay the Linge Line, extending from the city of Stuyven to Vidarstadt. Together with the Sheyn Line, the Linge Line formed the backbone of the Batavian Waterline and was anticipated to bear the brunt of enemy assaults. Its strong defenses were designed to repel any significant threats attempting to penetrate deeper into Batavian territory.
• Finally, the southernmost command of the waterline was the Issel Line. With the strategic locations like the Portus Batavii Pocket and Caesterburgh Pocket situated within its jurisdiction, the Shirerithian Imperial Forces believed that this line would likely be engaged in battle last.
• The Nackholm Pocket held immense symbolic value within the organization of the Batavian Waterline. Situated just a stone's throw away from the Benacian border, the proximity of this pocket posed a significant threat due to the desirability and vulnerability of the nearby City of Nackholm. Although not defensible over the long term, the Nackholm Pocket stood firm as a vital component of the overall Batavian strategy in delaying the enemy forces in spending time and energy on a symbolic attack.

Difficulties

With the traditional Batavian aversion to investment in the military, the construction of the Waterline proved flawed. Fortifications and water basins often did not meet the necessary requirements or provide effective resistance in the event of an attack. The integration of Batavia into Shireroth in 1711 AN led to further neglect of border control due to an increased sense of (false) security.

Improvement did not come until the mid-1720s, when it became increasingly clear that conflict with the Benacian Union was brewing. Large-scale investments were made in the expansion and improvement of the water line, but it nevertheless became clear that the shortage of anti-aircraft fire was hampering the defense capabilities.