Development Of A New Aircraft

‘Ah, that was exhausting.’

Just because he was a king didn’t mean life was easy—there were simply too many things to manage. Especially after the coronation, he hadn’t had any rest before being thrown into a series of meetings with envoys from the empires, and the things they said and demanded inevitably put him in difficult positions.

‘Still, the Doicheun Empire was quite unexpected. Who would’ve thought they’d propose a political marriage to me?’

To propose a political marriage to someone they had fought in a war with just a few years ago—it might have meant they acknowledged the strength of their kingdom. Given the current situation, where he was practically standing alone against two empires, it made sense that they were seeking an ally.

Of course, he had flatly refused. He became king precisely to avoid a political marriage—accepting such a deal would’ve invalidated the entire reason behind his actions. Although their expressions soured at his rejection, he couldn’t help but think, “Well, what else can they do?”

‘This is what comfort feels like—being in a position where I can say no as much as I want.’

To avoid creating further enemies, the Doicheun Empire wouldn’t dare take any military action against them. Regardless, through his rise to the throne and meetings with the diplomatic envoys, he was able to redefine the kind of relationships they would pursue going forward.

‘We made it clear we would remain neutral in all matters, so even if they stay wary, they’re probably somewhat relieved too.’

Additionally, they had decided to actively promote trade, which meant commerce was likely to thrive even more than before.

Meanwhile, as king, he also began external activities—specifically, inspections. He was currently en route to examine industrial facilities located in the capital region. Since it was a royal visit, the industrial complex had been thoroughly cleaned.

Not a single piece of trash could be found by the roadside. Even the vagabonds who usually wandered the area were gone, having been chased off in advance by the civil police.

It was clear that his subordinates had moved swiftly to present only the best to the king. As he rode in the car along the road, he couldn’t help but click his tongue at the sight of the meticulously cleaned streets.

He wondered just how many people had to work to get everything so spotless.

‘They probably stashed all the garbage somewhere out of sight.’

He had already been aware that the streets were previously filled with trash. He remembered seeing heaps of garbage dumped haphazardly in alleyways, which not only ruined the city’s appearance but also caused it to reek—he had long thought that it needed to be cleaned up properly someday.

‘We really do need to tackle the trash problem in earnest.’

Now that he was king, giving such an order would be easy. But to do so, they would need to locate and establish landfills. While burning it might be an option, that would only pollute the air—so burying it was the way to go. Thankfully, the country was quite large.

‘If there’s any useless land, we can just dig there and bury the garbage.’

While thinking that, he saw the industrial complex come into view more clearly. There were smokestacks everywhere, and numerous large factories had been established.

This was one of the Polia Kingdom’s three major industrial complexes—called “Zeke.” It was no exaggeration to say that Zeke, the kingdom’s very first industrial district, had been the starting point of its industrial development, filled with long-standing, large factories.

For reference, the nation also had the “Fripen” industrial complex in the central island area, and the “Dos” complex located in the south.

Although smaller factories were scattered throughout the country, the core industrial facilities were located in these three complexes. In a way, this made Zeke one of the most crucial sites in the entire Polia Kingdom.

‘Even if past kings were indulgent and ran the country terribly, I have to admit—they at least succeeded in industrializing the kingdom.’

They had thrown money at it, building factories left and right, and as a result, industrialization had taken root. In fact, outside of the Four Great Empires, Polia had one of the most advanced industrial capabilities. Thinking about that, he couldn’t help but feel things weren’t so bad.

‘Most would have to start from scratch. But me? I’m starting with almost everything already in place.’

While not the absolute best, the conditions were certainly favorable. As he toured the industrial district, he eventually arrived at a company called “Formas.”

The reason for visiting this site first was to inspect a newly developed aircraft.

‘Formas, huh? It’s not the aviation company I personally invested in, but it’s essentially the root of all aircraft production in the Polia Kingdom.’

Formas Aircraft Manufacturing was a royal aviation company, originally founded when the early planes were being developed. The royal family had invested nearly 90% of the capital, with the rest coming from various noble families. It was a company in which the royal family held overwhelming shares.

For reference, the company Ian had previously invested millions of Grangs in was called “Breve.” It was founded by a group of nobles and had only recently begun operations after licensing aircraft technology from Formas.

The reason he invested in such a convoluted shareholding structure was simply because it was the only one still accepting outside investments. More foundational companies like Formas or ones controlled by high-ranking nobles like “Lollirabe” didn’t have any investment slots left.

‘If I had known this would happen, maybe I shouldn’t have invested at all.’

Now that he was king, Formas—being essentially owned by the royal family—was effectively his. Still, since he had already made a personal investment, he figured it wouldn’t hurt to lend some support to Breve as well.

‘In the end, the development of all these aviation companies benefits the kingdom. I’ll have to send them generous subsidies.’

“A lowly subject greets the Ruler of the Great Ocean.”

The person who appeared to be the company director knelt before him on one knee. Ian gestured for him to rise and spoke.

“Rise.”

“Thank you, Your Majesty.”

“You’ve heard the reason for my visit, I assume?”

“Yes, Your Majesty. We have prepared the newly developed aircraft.”

“Excellent. Let’s see how well it’s been made.”

“I am certain it will please you, sire.”

“Depending on the results, the amount of funding this company receives will be decided.”

At the king’s words, the director’s eyes sparkled. The size of the budget allocated by the royal family directly determined the scale of the company’s operations. Before long, he was being led into the aircraft manufacturing factory.

Inside the wide factory with its high ceiling, many engineers were working on the aircraft. What was currently under construction were “Ed” model fighters—aircraft that had already been developed and were still in use.

These had originally been developed in 1899 and were still being produced to this day, meaning they had been in service for nearly 11 years. As early-generation fighters, they were light, poorly armored, and not especially agile.

‘Still, they played a decent role in the war against the Doicheun Empire.’

Of course, the model was destined to be phased out eventually, pushed aside by the tides of progress. The aircraft they were about to see would become the new fighter responsible for guarding the skies of the Polia Kingdom. Soon, one such aircraft came into view, positioned as if on display.

It was much larger than the older models, with longer, higher wings. Although its angular shape was somewhat displeasing, it was likely the best design they could achieve under the current conditions.

‘Still stuck with biplanes, I see.’

The aircraft had two stacked wings, one above the other. There was no helping it—developing a monoplane was still beyond their current technological capabilities. Even so, Ian felt satisfied seeing a properly constructed aircraft.

“What do you think? Not only did we significantly increase its size, but we also greatly improved engine output. It can fly higher and faster than our previous models.”

Seeing the pride in the director’s words, Ian nodded. From the explanation alone, it certainly sounded better than its predecessor. Still, he’d have to see it fly to be truly convinced.

“What’s the name of this aircraft?”

“We’ve decided to call it Dragan. What do you think?”

“Dragan, huh? It’s a decent name. More importantly, I’d like to see it in flight.”

“We’re already prepared for that. Shall we head outside?”

“Are we? Then let’s go.”

As expected, this wasn’t just a showpiece—they had prepared a demonstration flight. Urging them to get on with it, Ian followed the director until they arrived at a runway installed within the factory.

‘The runway isn’t very long.’

Then again, with a lightweight aircraft and sufficient thrust, a short runway would do, as long as the wings could generate enough lift. On the runway sat a model identical to the one he had just seen, ready for takeoff. Nearby stood someone who appeared to be the pilot.

“This is the pilot participating in today’s test flight.”

“Is that so? Let’s at least greet each other.”

Experimental aircraft always carried some degree of risk. Ian wanted to meet the pilot willing to take such a risk. At his request, the director hurried over to speak to the pilot, who then approached Ian.

Mardin, his aide, and the nearby Royal Guards quickly stepped in, frisking the pilot’s pockets in case of concealed weapons. The director and senior staff had already been searched earlier.

Once cleared, the pilot stood at attention and saluted Ian.

“Second Lieutenant Dylan Aso, reporting to His Majesty!”

“Hm? Haven’t we met before? Your face looks familiar.”

“We met at the Blair Naval Academy, sir!”

“Ah! You’re that student I saw back then.”

He was the young man who had transferred from the naval academy to the newly established aviation academy. Ian also remembered how the cadet had supported his views on the growing importance of aircraft during their shared classes.

“So you’re now a commissioned air force officer, Second Lieutenant Aso?”

“Yes, Your Majesty!”

“But you’ve only just been commissioned, haven’t you? Are you even allowed to participate in such risky test flights?”

“Ah, Second Lieutenant Dylan Aso here is exceptionally skilled. His flying ability is so extraordinary, he’s already rumored to be a prodigy. Even the air force generals speak highly of him. That’s why we specially asked him to handle this test aircraft.”

“And he agreed to this?”

“Of course. He was eager—practically begged to be allowed to fly it.”

“That’s right. When I heard I’d get to fly the newly developed aircraft, I insisted on doing it, Your Majesty.”

Ian wondered if it was right to put such a young officer in a dangerous situation—but seeing their determination, he said nothing more. Instead, he nodded and patted Dylan on the shoulder.

“Always fly safely. And take good care of yourself.”

“O-of course, Your Majesty!”

It was the prince he had once admired—now king—personally expressing concern for him. Dylan couldn’t help but feel elated. Fueled by the king’s words, he was even more determined to succeed in this flight.

Vrrrm—

Soon, Dylan climbed aboard and the engine roared to life. Everyone watched intently, eager to see how well it would perform. The aircraft accelerated along the short runway and began to lift into the sky.

Its speed clearly surpassed that of previous models. The aircraft began to soar around the nearby skies, turning smoothly in all directions, showcasing its maneuverability.

It then shot upward before descending again, impressing onlookers. The director chuckled and said,

“He’s definitely putting more effort into this than usual. Must be because Your Majesty is watching.”

“He’s still young. Of course he wants to show off his skills.”

Was he forgetting that he was still young himself? The director couldn’t bring himself to say that aloud and simply offered a stiff smile and nod. Regardless, it was a very successful test flight. After numerous test runs, the aircraft was already at the mass-production stage.

Vroooom—!

The powerful engine continued to roar as the plane flew overhead. Ian, watching for a moment, leaned toward the director and asked quietly,

“What about the bomb system? How is it handled?”

“We’ve equipped the underbelly of the aircraft to carry bombs. There’s no need for the pilot to drop them by hand anymore.”

“That’s an excellent improvement.”

During the last war, pilots had struggled to drop heavy bombs manually. Now, they could attach even heavier bombs and release them more easily. With that, Ian made his decision.

“We’ll halt all production of the first-generation Ed aircraft by the end of this year. Begin full-scale production of the Dragan.”

“Truly, Your Majesty?”

“I’ll make sure the budget is fully allocated. Just focus on the manufacturing.”

“Understood!”

The director’s face lit up. After nearly a decade of development, the Dragan would finally enter full production. With the king’s word, it was as good as finalized. Meanwhile, Dylan continued to show off his skills in the sky.

‘He really is talented.’

Even the generals praised him. He was clearly capable of becoming an ace pilot. Occasionally, you came across such prodigies. And it was pilots like him who would strengthen Polia’s air force.

At the very least, this inspection made one thing clear—Polia’s aircraft development was improving. And Ian fully intended to invest even more in it.

‘To keep this island safe, we must defend not just the seas—but the skies as well.’