Preparedness Plan (French Trafalgar, British Waterloo)

The Preparedness Plan (Russian: Gotovnost' Plana) was a plan instituted by the Russian Empire in 1939 as the threat of war with the Natso Aliance became apparent. The plan called for the production of 10,000 tanks, 7,000 fighters and 5,000 bombers in four years, as well as the trained crews to operate them. As well, production of modern rifles and artillery to re-equip the 1.9 million strong Standing Army, as well as new weapons for the 2.7 million Primary Reserve formations was given high priority. In 1940, with the fall of France, many factories and sometimes entire towns were moved to the east to protect them, though only about half the production slated to be moved was done so.

While the production of the required number tanks and airplanes was successful, and was even raised to 12,000 when the goal was met, the training to main these new weapons was inadequate due to outdated military tactics and the short time given. Equipment failure was surprisingly rare despite the hasty construction program, with the T-35 "Peter" tank, one on one, better than the leading German tank, the Panzer IV, and was simple to maintain, and reliable in all winter conditions.

In the end, the Preparedness Plan is considered a success, but also incomplete. Production was achieved, but training was rushed and ineffectual. The Natso invasion came in the middle of the plan, before the full effects could be felt. Many of the tanks and planes that were built were destroyed in the first six months of the war, but the material was useful in trying to slow down the assault.