The military establishment possessed
about 1,000 machines--active and reserve--of which it is
estimated 700 were available for instant service. During the
period of mobilisation a further 450 machines were added to the
fleet, drawn for the most part from private owners. So far as
the dirigibles were concerned 14 Zeppelins were ready for duty,
while others were under construction or undergoing overhaul and
repair. A few other types were also in commission or acquired
during mobilisation, bringing the dirigible force to 40 machines
all told.
But the greatest surprise was probably offered by Russia. Very
little was known concerning Russian activities in this particular
field, although it was stated that large orders for machines had
been placed with various foreign manufactories. Certain
factories also had been established within the Empire, although
the character of their work and its results and achievements were
concealed from prying eyes. In Russia, however, an appreciable
number of private aeroplanes were in operation, and these, of
course, were placed at the disposal of the authorities the moment
the crisis developed.
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