Under Alexander I, the army commanded political attention and resources because the immediate strategic problem was Napoleon. His priority was mobilizing a massive land force rather than developing an independent maritime instrument. Naval value was understood chiefly in terms of supplying that army, and even there the emperor had limited confidence in the service. The moment illustrates how political priorities, rather than fleet size alone, restricted what Russian sea power could become.
Chapter · 6:25-7:08
Alexander I leaves the navy behind the army
Alexander I concentrated on Napoleon and mass army mobilization, treating the navy mainly as logistical support for land forces.