ctory for the manufacture of these craft.

During the two years preceding the outbreak of war the various Powers
grew remarkably reticent concerning the composition and enlargement of
their respective aerial fleets. No official figures were published.
But at the same time it is a well-known fact that during the year 1913
France augmented her flying force by no fewer than 544 aeroplanes.
Germany was no less energetic, the military acquisition in this branch,
and during the self-same year, approaching 700 machines according to the
semi-official reports published in that country.

The arrangements concluded for the manufacture of additional craft
during the war are equally remarkable. The principal factory in Germany,
(now devoting its energies to the production of these craft, although in
happier days its normal complement of 4,000 men were responsible for
the production of another commercial article) possesses facilities for
turning out 30 complete aeroplanes per week, according to the statement
of its managing director. But it is averred that this statement is
purposely misleading, inasmuch as during the first fortnight of the
campaign it was producing over 50 aeroplanes per week. It must be
remembered that Germany is responsible for the supply of the majority of
such craft for the Austrian armies, that country purchasing these vessels
in large numbers, because in the early days of the conflict it was
notoriously weak in this arm. Since the declaration of war strenuous
efforts have been made to remedy this state of affairs, particularly
upon the unexpected revelation of Russia's aerial strength.

It is computed that upon the outbreak of war the various Powers were in
the position to show an aggregate of 4,980 aircraft of all descriptions,
both for active service and reserve. This is a colossal fleet, but it
serves to convey in a graphic manner the importance attached to the
adrial vessel by the respective belligerents. So far as Germany is
concerned she is sorely in need of additional machines. Her fleet of the
air has lost its formidable character, owing to the fact that it has to
be divided between two frontiers, while she has been further weakened by
the enormous lengths of the two battle-fronts.

Russia has been able to concentrate her aerial force, which has proved
of incalculable value to the Grand Duke Nicholas, who has expressed his
appreciation of the services rendered by his fliers. The French likewise
have