GERMAN STRENGTH

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume LII, Issue 144, 17 June 1918, Page 5

GERMAN STRENGTH

STILL CAUSE' FOB ANXIETY.

{Australian and N.Z. Cable Association.)

LONDON, June 14.

The Australian Press Association learns that the Germans used approximately 40 divisions on the Aisne, and 20 in the latest attack, totalling 60 since May 27th. The situation therefore gives no cause for dissatisfaction. Th e enemy's objective is unknown, but it was undoubtedly their intention to capture Compiegn-e and establish, themselves on the Noyon-Com-piegne-Chateau Thierry line, giving them an opportunity to advance on Paris.

> Although the situation has improved, to the extent indicated, there is* .still caufee for anxiety, fcecause the Germans have not shown their hand. Few of Prince Rupprecht's divisions bave bee n used. The bulk belonged to th e Crown Prince, and Prince Rupprecht's reserves are still practically intact. The Germans' ability to advance after initial successes is due to the exceptional training give n to their infantry, machine gunners, and artillery. The assault troops possessed great initiative' in pushing forward and capturing tactical points. Their action was supported byi mobile ar-6$H-Ty. _ These were jthe princßpai factors in the enemy's success. The Germans la«t year utilised the lull in Russia to instruct vast numbers of troops in open warfare. The Allies | iiever- 'had enough men after the line ! was manned to spare large 'bodies for i such intensive' Training. The Germans

•. " "ow getting the benefit of this training, but when the specially trained men are exhausted, the rest will not be superior, but possibly inferior to the British and French.

It is unjustifiable to suggest that the Germans are involved in a system which is beyond the abilities of the Allies to counter. The weather also has consistently favoured the Germans.

Tho Australian Press Association learns that the position on the Western front has been established.