A plausible alternative replaces the march on Berlin with limited landings near the Danish Straits, including Fehmarn. A reinforced corps could isolate and hold nearby positions under naval protection. One area indicated on the map is acknowledged to be Danish territory and therefore a place Britain should not seize, complicating the assumption that Denmark remains neutral. The lodgements would give destroyers and other small ships forward support for a blockade and secure movement through the straits. Older cork-filled battleships could enter or obstruct the Kiel Canal, with crews prepared to burn them in their blocking positions. Cork is described as difficult to ignite but slow burning and difficult to extinguish once alight. This proposed use accepts heavy losses in older ships. Threatening Germany's coast and canal could compel the High Seas Fleet to abandon its fleet-in-being role and fight.
Chapter · 1:15:55-1:22:14
A limited Baltic lodgement near the Kiel Canal
Limited landings near the Danish Straits and Kiel Canal could support a blockade and force a German naval response, though one suggested position raises a Danish-neutrality problem.