Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 324 Wu Wanli Shocks the All-Star Commander of the General Headquarters! The Fifth Campaign Plan is Initially Finalized! (Must Read!)

The meeting room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop; all eyes were on Wu Wanli.

The incredibly difficult task of deducing the true deployment of the UN forces based solely on incomplete battle reports that were only a few days old was like a heavy burden, making the air itself seem to freeze.

Li Yunlong stood up abruptly, his face flushed red, and broke the dead silence with a loud voice: "Boss! This is not fair!"

I've seen those outdated telegrams. They're all over the place. One was sent back from the observation post behind enemy lines on the eastern front three days ago, another was intercepted in the central region two days ago, and the news from the west is just gibberish!

Use this thing to have Wu deduce exactly where the enemy's hundreds of thousands of troops are currently stationed.
Isn't this fucking ridiculous?

This is blatant bullying!

Kong Jie stood up immediately, pressed Li Yunlong's shoulder to signal him to calm down, and said in a steady but anxious voice, "Boss, Chief Chen, Old Li's words may be rough, but they make sense."

Intelligence has a very short lifespan; if it's been more than three days, the enemy will have long since moved on to who-knows-where on the ever-changing battlefield.

Even though Comrade Wu Wanli is a genius, this task is indeed asking too much of him.

Wanli, you too, mustn't agree impulsively.

Ding Wei thought for a moment and then stood up and said, "Chief Fu, this request is almost unreasonable."

Even if we were to compile the latest intelligence, we would never dare to claim that we could accurately pinpoint the exact coordinates of each division.

Moreover, it's based solely on fragmented and outdated information.
Comrade Wu Wanli is a vital asset to the nation, but he is not a god or a superhuman figure.

Zhao Gang nodded, his voice booming and clear, saying, "This is not an unconventional test, but a huge drain on Comrade Wu Wanli's mental energy, and a potential transfer of responsibility!"
He cannot bear this responsibility, nor should he!

An Changsen, Quan Douguang, and others also stood up to echo him, and the meeting room was filled with the voices of the generals arguing for Wu Wanli.

Chief Fu's dark face twitched slightly, realizing the weight of his words in the current situation, and his tone softened a little as he said:
"What you all say... makes sense!"
The timeliness of intelligence is indeed a major problem.

Comrade Wu Wanli, when I made this request just now, I was also somewhat inclined to test you.

Thinking about it now, it really was too difficult.

As long as you can deduce a rough outline from those fragments.

Even if it's only a 60-70% match, I, Fu, publicly acknowledge you as a true man! I'm completely convinced!

All eyes turned to Wu Wanli once again.

Li Yunlong also stared at him anxiously, silently signaling with his eyes for him to go along with it.

However, amidst the worry and scrutiny, Wu Wanli gently shook his head and smiled:

"Thank you for your kindness, Chief Fu, and thank you to all the other chiefs for your protection."

But having accepted the assignment, I knew what I was doing.

My calculations should match the actual enemy situation with at least 80-90% accuracy.

These words were like boiling oil being poured with cold water; the suppressed discussions suddenly erupted!

"Eighty to ninety percent?!"

"This...this Xiao Wu, he's a master at fighting, but that's...a bit much!"

"Young man, you're too arrogant! If this goes wrong, it'll be a real mess..."

"A few fragmented pieces of information from three days ago are enough to reveal 80-90% of the enemy's current deployment? Even a god wouldn't dare to guarantee that!"

Even the usually composed CEO and Chief Chen exchanged a quick glance.

Chief Chen raised his thick eyebrows slightly, a hint of surprise showing on his usually dignified face.

The boss's hand, which was resting on his knees, lightly gripped the armrest of the chair, then released it and said:

"Excellent! This is exactly the kind of ambition and aspiration that young people should have!"

Since Comrade Wu Wanli has such confidence, then prove it to me and to all the comrades present!

The General Staff should immediately compile the 'outdated battle reports and information' mentioned by Chief Fu and send them to Comrade Wu Wanli!

We, all of us here, are watching with bated breath!

The staff officers of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army quickly stood up and placed several mimeographed sheets of paper with mottled ink stains, messy handwriting, and little connection between them on the table in front of Wu Wanli.

For a moment, only the rustling of paper and heavy breathing filled the air.

Wu Wanli lowered his eyes slightly, his gaze falling on the few pieces of paper, as if trying to etch every incomplete place name, number, date, and vague movement into his eyes.

He stretched out his finger, his fingertip tracing a line of reports about small car trails near Wenshan, and then pointed to another piece of paper that mentioned "suspected engineering activity on bridges along the Hantan River."

He read very slowly, scrutinizing every punctuation mark, his fingers moving across the paper line by line.

Time seemed to stretch out indefinitely, and the entire conference room became a giant steamer.

An invisible pressure weighed heavily on everyone's hearts, with only the subtle sound of Wu Wanli calmly turning the pages clearly audible.

No one knew that when his eyes fell on information such as "traces of a communication signal tower vehicle observed on an unnamed hill 15 kilometers northwest of Jiaping", the Sky Eye Map had already simultaneously deployed its location in his mind!

On that invisible giant map, countless mountains, rivers, towns, and roads are depicted in exquisite detail.

His gaze pierced through the roof and the distance of the conference room, instantly locking onto the real Wenshan area.

The communications support unit of the U.S. Army First Command is setting up a temporary antenna for a forward command post, confirming the "signal tower vehicle trail" information.

South of Jipo-ri, the dust raised by the engineering corps as they constructed reserve artillery positions was clearly visible, confirming the "Report on Engineering Activities".

Even in the dense forest behind Wontong-ri, the edges of the camouflage nets of two South Korean howitzer battalions, which were camouflaged extremely well, came into view!
…………

Countless pieces of information precisely captured by "Sky Eye" unfolded:

Unit designations are like the barracks sign of the 45th Engineer Battalion of the U.S. Army.

The equipment model is similar to the hull number of the M24 Chaffee tank during a rest and refit on the flank of the US Ninth Army.

Personnel movements, such as a first-level commander of a South Korean army regiment going to the front to scout the terrain.

This massive amount of real-time information, far exceeding the capabilities of on-site detection, surged into his rapidly working mind like a raging torrent of data.

His careful reading at this moment was merely a forced "linking" of the terrifying God's-eye view of the Sky Eye Map with the scattered clues mentioned in these outdated telegrams.

Simply put, Wu Wanli deduced the answer through the Heavenly Eye's cheat, but he had to look at the existing information to come up with a reason!

Every image in my mind perfectly matches the clues recorded on this pile of "scrap paper" in my hand, and it also accurately fills in and restores the large blank spaces and fog on the battlefield situation map!

The long "reading" lasted several minutes. Wu Wanli slowly raised his head, and the calmness in his eyes seemed to have deepened even further.

He stopped looking at the few pieces of paper in front of him that carried the complex gazes of the crowd, and instead strode towards the huge detailed map of the Korean Peninsula standing in the center of the conference room, which occupied almost an entire wall.

At the commander's signal, the staff officer of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army immediately handed over a long baton.

Wu Wanli's fingers gripped the cool, solid wooden handle of the baton, the touch realistic.

His gaze swept calmly across the room—the faces that were a mixture of doubt, worry, and curiosity.

All eyes remained fixed on him, waiting for either a stunning performance or a spectacular fall.

"Enemy situation simulation, begin."

Wu Wanli spoke up.

The tip of his baton was precisely positioned at the mouth of the Han River on the eastern battlefield.

"The enemy's main force is concentrated in the western region!"

As Wu Wanli spoke, the tip of his stick landed without hesitation in the Wenshan area, drawing a precise circle with unwavering certainty.

"Based on observations made by our scouts three days ago, a fleet of ships transporting components for the US-made pontoon bridge was gathering in the direction of the Han River estuary, which means they were deploying defenses in the direction of Wenshan."

In addition, enemy liaison call signs appeared twice in the southeastern communication signals of the area within three days. Once the location was unknown, and once the intensity was extremely high, with the direction clearly pointing to the current main position in Wenshan...

Based on comprehensive assessment, the headquarters and main forces of the U.S. First Corps have completed fortification and deployment in this area!
Its specific order of battle is: the 1st Division of South Korea, stationed in the mountainous area on the left flank of Munsan!
The U.S. 3rd Mechanized Infantry Division is deploying to defend the right flank and penetrate deeper into flat terrain!

The main force of the U.S. 45th Infantry Division was positioned behind both of them, serving as a second-line reserve and guarding key transportation hubs!
Currently, at least one regimental-level advance unit of the South Korean 1st Division has advanced to the outskirts of Kaesong and is engaged in contact and firefights with our guard troops!

The moment he finished speaking, the chief of staff of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army immediately stood up, clutching a brand-new telegram in his hand, his voice slightly trembling with shock as he said:

"Report! Confirmed by the latest intercepted intelligence!"
The unit designations and general deployment locations of the U.S. First Army Corps are completely consistent with Comrade Wu Wanli's deductions!
"The South Korean 1st Division has indeed deployed a main force regiment to establish forward outposts on the outskirts of Kaesong!"

"hiss……"

A collective gasp of shock rippled through the entire venue!
Kong Jie's eyes widened suddenly, and he subconsciously raised his hand to touch his chin.

Ding Wei leaned forward, almost squeezing the armrests of the chair so hard they made a cracking sound.

For the first time, a look of astonishment appeared on Li Yunlong's usually fearless face.

Even Chief Chen's posture subtly straightened, and a sharp glint flashed in his eyes!
No one could have imagined that, based on only fragmented information from three days prior, Wu Wanli could actually pinpoint the location and composition of a major UN force!

Chief Fu's face looked as if he had just swallowed a whole egg, his astonishment barely concealing his previous disapproval.

Wu Wanli's baton moved westward with lightning speed, like an experienced horse that knew the way well, and landed at the center of the area where the south bank of the Han River and the west bank of the Imjin River meet.

The situation in the western part of the central battlefield is simulated as follows:
The high ground surrounding Shipo-ri and the flank of Dali-ri was where the main force of the US Ninth Army was stationed!
Three days ago, our infiltrator team at a nearby ferry crossing reported discovering traces of enemy medium-sized tracked engineering machinery and an armed escort convoy crossing the river.

Meanwhile, two and a half days earlier, the 39th Army on the western front intercepted a brief enemy communication in plain language, mentioning that the 7th Howitzer Battalion of the 9th Army needed to be transferred to the 3rd Backup Position in Talili West.

Both clues point to the same area: Shibapuri-Dali!
In addition, multiple signal sources in the southeast direction of Seoul were abnormally active, and cross-comparison confirmed that they were communications from the US Ninth Army's directly subordinate units...

Currently identified enemy forces deployed in this location:

The U.S. 24th Infantry Division is stationed at the core position of the front line in Chipuri!
The newly formed 1st Marine Division was deployed on the high ground near Jipo-ri!
The South Korean 6th Infantry Division was deployed in the Daeli area, constructing a deep, tiered defensive fortification based on the high ground.

Almost at the same time that Wu Wanli announced the number of the US 24th Division, another officer in the staff almost jumped up from his seat and exclaimed in shock, "Report!"
According to the latest report from the riverside observation post, it has been visually confirmed that the paint schemes of vehicles and equipment belonging to the U.S. 24th Division are concentrated in the direction of Shipo-ri!
The signal activity intensity and frequency of the main communications hub of the U.S. Ninth Army highly overlap with the areas of abnormal activity that our side monitored around Shipuri in the past few days!

Comrade Wu Wanli's deduction is correct!

His voice trembled uncontrollably, as if witnessing a myth unfold before his eyes.

This time, no one in the hall suppressed their gasps of surprise!

"Good heavens! He was right!"

"This...this deduction of the current situation based on information from the past few days is completely accurate...it's incredible!"

"Shibaura! Dairi! The numbers match up!"

"It's not just about matching their positions; it's even pinpointing the deployment location of the newly formed 1st Marine Division?!"

Many of the commanders and soldiers present began to whisper among themselves, and the way they looked at Wu Wanli changed.

The scrutiny and doubt on Chief Fu's face had long been washed away by the raging storm, leaving only a kind of shock that was almost insane.

He looked at the map, then at the report in the staff officer's hand, and then stared intently at Wu Wanli's calm and composed profile, feeling a chill run from his tailbone to the top of his head.

Li Yunlong couldn't help but slap his thigh, letting out a suppressed "Hey!" in his throat, unable to tell whether it was a look of amazement or the lingering fear of finally being relieved.

Inside the meeting room, several leaders exchanged surprised and doubtful yet undeniable glances—Wu Wanli's baton tip had killed the position of the US Ninth Army!
However, the immense shock was only the beginning.

Wu Wanli still didn't look up at the raging waves behind him that he had caused. With a heart-pounding sense of stability, he moved his baton again.

This time, it pointed steadily and slowly towards the area in the east-central part of the map.

"The central-eastern part, from the line of 90,000 li to Yuantongli!"
This area is the core garrison area of ​​the U.S. Tenth Army!
Enemy forces here: The US 7th Division is guarding the core pass of the 90,000-mile stretch!
The US 2nd Division has deployed its defenses on the high ground near Wontong-ri!

The Dutch and French battalions were assigned as reinforcement units to the junction of the two divisions and as reserve counterattack forces!

The South Korean 5th Infantry Division filled the gap and flanks between the US 2nd and 7th Infantry Divisions!

The meeting room briefly erupted again as someone on the staff jumped up to report that the latest intelligence had been verified.

But this time, the exclamations and reports seemed much quieter.

Everyone's hearts were numb with shock, their gazes almost glued to that moving baton.

Chief Fu's forehead was already covered in a fine layer of cold sweat.

Wu Wanli's gaze was stern, and his baton pointed eastward without hesitation, carrying a resolute and sharp air!
Wu Wanli's staff was firmly planted at the intersection of the canyon and the continuous snow-capped mountains further east of Yuantongli, and he continued:

"The eastern region, from Wontong-ri to Hangye Ridge, is the defensive support axis of the South Korean Third Army Corps!"

The South Korean Army's 3rd Division is deployed near the line from Wontong-ri to Hangye-ryong, with its main force concentrated along this section of the main highway!
The South Korean Capital Division, located at the pass and iron triangle area east of Wontong-ri, constructed a tiered fortified defense line, with its defensive depth reaching the highlands of the east coast!

The enemy's deployment of these two divisions forms a tiered, in-depth defensive system!

"By utilizing the natural terrain, we constructed permanent firing positions on reverse slopes, intending to block any potential attacks from our eastern front and buy time for a US counterattack on the western front!"

Dead!

A deathly silence descended like a torrent of ice from the heavens, instantly freezing the vast conference room!
Wu Wanli's clear, accurate, and chillingly ruthless deductions still echoed in the air.

Every number, every coordinate, and every layer of deployment logic is flawless!
However, a few seconds later, the space that had been frozen in deathly silence was suddenly torn apart by an even more violent eruption!
"That's impossible..."

I only received the analysis of the blurry photo this morning!
There are suspected signs of enemy reinforcement activities behind Yuantongli, but even the division-level unit has not been confirmed!
Not to mention the detailed plans Wu Wanli just mentioned!

Chief Fu was suddenly shocked and said in disbelief.

Originally, he was asked to deduce the latest situation from battle reports and telegrams that were a few days out of date, and later he only thought that Wu Wanli would be 60 or 70 percent right.

But now, not only do the latest intelligence match Wu Wanli's predictions, but Wu Wanli has even deduced information that hasn't been confirmed yet!?

Is this 60-70%?

That's over 100%!

Li Yunlong, Kong Jie, and others were so shocked that they stood up abruptly. Even the usually calm and collected Commander Chen leaned forward slightly, his eyes extremely serious.

The boss looked at Wu Wanli with a hint of shock in his eyes, and a slight ripple stirred in his heart.

The details of this deduction are absolutely amazing!

Right at the eye of the storm, Wu Wanli remained calm, as if he were simply stating a theorem that had already been proven.

The chief of staff practically stumbled and scrambled to Chief Fu's side, slamming a top-secret telegram—still damp with ink—on the table in front of Chief Fu.

His voice trembled violently with extreme excitement and disbelief, almost cracking: "Report! Report!! I just missed mentioning an important piece of information!"

Twenty minutes...twenty minutes ago!

Based on the observations made by the Air Force Special Reconnaissance Group after forcibly breaking through the enemy's air defense perimeter!

The main force of the South Korean 3rd Division and the remnants of the South Korean Capital Division did indeed discover a large-scale group of earthworks along the line from Wontong-ri to Hangye Ridge in the east, some of which are suspected to be solid permanent fortifications!

Its core defensive deployment points and strategic intentions are completely consistent with Comrade Wu Wanli's deductions!
I have just finished a comprehensive assessment with the staff and concluded that Comrade Wu Wanli's deduction of the enemy's capital division's core support points and defense system characteristics even surpassed this extremely valuable aerial visual reconnaissance!
In other words, he was not only right, but he saw things more clearly, in greater detail, and with greater depth than our most advanced intelligence and staff departments!

Upon hearing this, the command room was so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

All the senior commanders in the room had their eyes fixed on that young figure.

All the doubts, disdain, and even the spectator mentality from before evaporated instantly, like thin ice melted by a raging fire, replaced by a silence mixed with extreme shock and disbelief.

Commander Fu of the 63rd Army had a very complicated expression at this moment. After the initial shock, he was filled with intense astonishment and a hint of barely perceptible approval.

"Amazing... Absolutely amazing..."

Commander Yang of the 19th Army Corps muttered to himself, his voice soft but exceptionally clear in the quiet environment.

The other commander of the Ninth Army Corps, Song, subconsciously slapped his thigh and said, "Good heavens! This intelligence is three to five days off. With changes in terrain and enemy maneuverability, how could he... how could he possibly be completely right?"

Commander Fu of the 63rd Army strode forward, stood in front of Wu Wanli, and forcefully patted Wu Wanli's shoulder, his voice hoarse from the shock:
"Good! Wu Wanli! Good lad! I've really seen something new!"

Outdated scraps of paper, once in your hands, become more accurate and comprehensive than intelligence gathered by top reconnaissance teams at the cost of their lives!
With this skill, you deserve the headquarters' reliance! I, from the 63rd Army, am proud!
Weapons and supplies should be prioritized for your Steel Seventh Brigade. I, Old Fu, will be the first to raise my hand! Absolutely no questions asked!

You are one of the most outstanding young people, capable of shouldering significant responsibilities!

"That's right!"
Comrade Wanli's ability to deduce and analyze is beyond imagination; this is true skill at the strategic level!
Every single unit he mentioned could be matched up perfectly in the latest enemy troop movement briefings—location, size, and troop composition—all correct! Incredible!

Does anyone else have objections to the headquarters' previous resource allocation to the Seventh Steel Brigade, or to allowing Comrade Wan Li to participate in or even partially lead the allocation of Soviet-made equipment?

The boss pressed his advantage and asked.

Silence. No one spoke.

All eyes were focused on Wu Wanli, no longer scrutinizing or disapproving as before, but filled with burning admiration and even implied respect.

Commander Chen smiled and tugged at the right moment to advance the topic: "Since everyone is convinced, then that's perfect. Let Comrade Wanli continue to demonstrate his 'spirit' and share his personal thoughts on the entire Fifth Campaign!"
Our General Staff does indeed have several preliminary plans, but it's always wise to listen to all sides!
Comrade Wanli, please speak freely, say whatever comes to mind, no matter how profound or simple, long or short, all suggestions are good for broadening your thinking, so don't hold back."

All eyes instantly focused again, filled with anticipation.

The battlefield situation is now clearly laid out before us. What kind of brilliant blueprint will this young man, who can see through the enemy's internal organs, have in mind for this impending decisive battle between a million-strong Chinese and American army?

However, Wu Wanli did not speak immediately.

Instead, he displayed a humble, even slightly embarrassed, expression, and bowed slightly to Chief Chen and the general manager, saying:
"Commander-in-Chief, Chief Chen, and other leaders, analyzing the enemy situation... is perhaps one of my special strengths."

But the specific offensive and defensive deployments, troop movements, and multi-front coordination at the level of large-scale battles... that's a whole lot of knowledge.

The plan, meticulously crafted and refined day and night by the leaders and staff of the General Staff, must be extremely ingenious and perfect. My humble opinion, if offered as a presumptuous attempt, would likely only make me a laughingstock.

To be on the safe side, I should learn more from my seniors and ask for their advice. I shouldn't be too sharp or shrewd; I need to embody the principle of moderation..."

These words are perfectly succinct and perfectly align with the traditional Eastern principles of moderation and humility.

Li Yunlong had just taken a sip of tea when he heard this and immediately spat it out. He coughed and pointed at Wu Wanli, laughing and cursing, "You good-for-nothing Wu Wanli!"
Are you trying to dodge the question and feign modesty here?!
You've gone too far with moderation?

What are you still saying about not showing off your talents?!
Are the soldiers I, Li Yunlong, lead mediocre?

Who was the first to charge up the sturdy walls of Seoul back then?
Who forced open the gates of the pseudo-South Korean capital?
Who determined that the Battle of Pyeongtaek was a ruse by the US military, and that they turned around and beat the Pacific Fleet to a pulp?
Who was it that single-handedly terrified the British in Hong Kong, causing them to surrender their gold bars and people in a panic?
Are you still pretending to be someone who doesn't show off your skills?
You're all sharp and piercing, it's hurting my eyes!

Kong Jie slammed his hand on the armrest of the chair and said in a booming voice, "Hahaha! That's right!"
Old Li is absolutely right!
At just nineteen years old, he was able to lead a suicide squad to smash open the gates of an enemy country's capital!

I've never seen such a 'mediocre' soldier in my entire life!
If Wu Wanli didn't show his sharp edge, then Li Yunlong would be considered a model student who never disobeys orders and strictly follows discipline!

"Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha……"

Upon hearing this, the generals in the room could no longer contain themselves and burst into laughter, instantly easing the tense and somber atmosphere of the command room.

These words pinpointed Li Yunlong's temperament back then—five times he was demoted and sent to a clothing factory, carrying a heavy pot on his back, attacking Ping'an County... one "glorious" deed after another.

"Kong Erlengzi, why the hell are you dragging me like that!"

What kind of hero would bring up old grievances when the war meeting is going well?
"At least I disobeyed orders and managed to defeat a powerful enemy head-on, which is more glorious than your dough being knocked down by Yamamoto's special forces!"

Li Yunlong's face flushed red, and he rolled up his sleeves, feigning anger.

"Hahahahahahahaha..."

Upon hearing this, everyone burst into laughter again.

"Alright, alright! Quiet!"

The boss tapped the table, the sound not loud but carrying an undeniable authority, and the laughter and noise in the room quickly subsided.

He suppressed a laugh and looked at Wu Wanli, saying, "Look! Comrade Wu Wanli, the eyes of the masses are discerning."

Your 'humility' is utterly insignificant compared to your solid achievements and astonishing performance just now!
Comrade Li Yunlong is right, you are the sharpest blade of our Volunteer Army!

Now that the knife is out in the open, there's no need to hide it anymore.

I'm just going to listen to your 'wild' antics today!
Say whatever comes to mind, good or bad, no need for complicated reasoning!
Even if it's just a draft for my General Chen as a reference, even if it's just a brick, the General Staff can take it back and polish it into a fine jade.

Speak freely!

Upon hearing this, all eyes were once again fixed on Wu Wanli, filled with urging and encouragement.

Li Yunlong urged, "Kid, stop dawdling!"
How do we defeat these spoiled American soldiers? How do we wipe out their large troop formation?
Speak frankly!

Wu Wanli took a deep breath, his mind filled with memories and long-brewing thoughts.

The humility in his eyes quickly faded, replaced by a deep, calm gaze and an invisible, all-encompassing sharpness.

He raised his head, his gaze sweeping across the massive strategic map, settling on the long, winding battle line that symbolized the forefront of the current standoff, and said:

"Gentlemen, since the General has given the order, I, Wanli, will speak frankly."

The battlefield is like a game of chess, ever-changing yet subtly structured.

Based on the assessment of the enemy situation, I propose the following operational concept for the Fifth Campaign:
The core strategy is to 'concentrate the main force, attack from the east and west, break through the center, divide the enemy in depth, and achieve a swift victory!'
The first step is to launch a major offensive on the western front!
A pincer attack must be ruthless, accurate, and swift!

Western Front Assault Group – 19th Army Corps!

Mission objective: A direct and decisive breakthrough by crossing the Imjin River!
Troop deployment: 4 main armies, equipped with 190 artillery pieces, 28 tanks and engineering units.

Choosing the right breakthrough point is extremely crucial.

It is necessary to select a concealed area where the enemy's defenses are relatively weak, the river is relatively narrow, and there is a beach on the south bank where our troops can temporarily rely on.

The troops should lay in ambush at multiple locations along the riverbank the night before, concentrate artillery fire, and launch a fierce first attack on the enemy's river defense positions, pre-set minefields, and firing points half an hour before the general offensive begins!
The timeframe must be short, but the firepower density must be sufficient to cripple the enemy's forward sensing and counterattack capabilities!

Li Yunlong's eyes flashed, and he tapped his finger heavily on the armrest of the chair, saying, "Good! Let's give him a good whack on the head first, to catch him off guard!"

Kong Jie nodded slightly upon hearing this.

Wu Wanli continued, "After the artillery fire extends, the engineering corps must follow up immediately, quickly erecting pontoon bridges and clearing the passageways!"

The main attacking force, in regimental and battalion-level combat groups, will cross the Imjin River in echelons!

The key is speed!

The first assault team must complete the crossing of the river, landing, mopping up the remaining enemy forces, and establishing a preliminary bridgehead during the lulls in the fire!

This is directly related to whether the main force can be quickly deployed!
The order of crossing the river must be strictly followed by all units to prevent troops from crowding on the beach or bridge and repeating the mistake of being subjected to concentrated enemy air and ground fire!
After seizing the beachhead, the troops did not engage in prolonged fighting!

At top speed, along the predetermined route, we will penetrate deep into the enemy's western front!
Destination: Goyang and Uijeongbu, north of Seoul!

The action must be swift!
The ultimate objective is to reach and threaten the transportation hubs surrounding Seoul in the shortest possible time.

Control the favorable area north of the Han River, cut off the possible retreat route of the US 24th Division and the newly formed 1st Marine Division to the central region, and at the same time form a situation to encircle the US Ninth Army from the west!

The success or failure of this route will determine whether a large number of enemy troops can be tied down in the direction of Seoul and unable to attend to other matters.
We must create conditions for a breakthrough in our central cluster!

After listening, Chief Fu subconsciously lit a cigarette. Through the swirling smoke, a sharp glint appeared in his eyes as he said:

"The depth and speed of the interweaving are key."

If you slow down, the US military will catch you off guard and pin you down.

It's like trying to gnaw on a tough nut; the pincers just won't close!

Ding Wei added: "Not bad!"
We must strike before the US military adjusts its deployment and contracts its defenses!

Wu Wanli's command baton did not stop, and he instantly turned to the western front battlefield, saying: "Therefore, the assault group—the 9th Army Corps!"

Your actions directly determine whether the pliers can strike with force!

The focus of the first day of operations was to break through or defeat the South Korean 6th Division with a swift offensive!
The division is deployed in the Chippoli and Dali area, which is slightly to the left of the center, and is part of the forward protection of the U.S. Ninth Army's defense system.

Although its combat capabilities are weaker than those of the US military, it has built a deep, tiered defense system relying on the mountainous terrain.

To achieve surprise in the campaign, I suggest that at the same time as the general offensive is launched, at least two-thirds of the superior artillery firepower be concentrated to carry out high-intensity saturation bombardment on one or two narrow fronts!

Duration: 15 to 30 minutes!
The goal is not only to destroy the enemy's forward fortifications, but also to deter and weaken the enemy's will to resist to the greatest extent possible!

Meanwhile, small elite reconnaissance units, taking advantage of artillery cover and poor visibility conditions such as night or morning fog, infiltrated and penetrated deep into enemy territory from multiple directions, creating chaos!
After the artillery fire was extended, the armored forces and accompanying infantry formed several spearheads, and carried out a decisive breakthrough at the junctions or weak points of the enemy's defenses!
Once an opening is breached, the main force should immediately press forward with all its might and aggressively expand the gains along the breach!
The objective is to quickly cut off and divide the enemy's South Korean 6th Division and annihilate as many of its personnel as possible!

Then, without pausing, the main force immediately changed direction!
They plunged deep into the enemy's flanks along the advantageous terrain!
The main attack direction is to outflank and rear the US Ninth Army, combining forces with the 19th Army Corps to complete a pincer movement against the US Ninth Army on the western front!

The room was completely silent, with only the scratching of pencils on paper.

Wu Wanli paused for a moment, allowing the commanders of each corps to digest his intentions, then, like an arrow released from a bow, he thrust his baton sharply towards the Tieyuan-Lianchuan line in the center of the battle line, saying:

"Step Two: Smash the hard walnut with a heavy hammer in the middle! Break through the center and cleave the enemy formation!"
Central Assault Group – 3rd Corps!

You are the key player in this game! The core of the mission is—a frontal assault!
Smash the enemy's core defenses!
Achieve battlefield fragmentation!

Forces: 3 main armies, namely the 15th Army, the 12th Army, and the 60th Army, with attached army group-level artillery groups!
The objective for the first day of operations was clear: to break through the core defensive line constructed by the US 3rd Division, the Turkish Brigade, and possibly reinforcements from the US 45th Division along the Lianchuan-Tieyuan line!

Tactical point one: A thunderous strike under absolute firepower advantage!
The launch time is synchronized with the flank corps!
One hour before the attack begins, all artillery must be concealed and moved into position and precision firing must be completed!
After the start of the war, artillery firepower should be deployed in a tiered and focused manner!

The first wave will use heavy artillery to cover enemy artillery positions, command posts, communication hubs, and barracks assembly areas that are known or anticipated by the enemy!

In the second wave, medium and large caliber artillery concentrated its strikes on the enemy's front-line strongpoints and trench systems!
In the third wave, mortars approached and blocked the enemy's reserve assembly area and roads!

The entire artillery preparation should be sustained and intense, lasting for more than forty minutes!

The goal is to destroy the enemy's defensive system to the greatest extent possible, inflict casualties on enemy personnel, and suppress enemy artillery countermeasures! This is the prerequisite for an infantry breakthrough!

Commander Chen's lips curled into an almost imperceptible smile of approval as he whispered to the general beside him, "This kid understands the importance of artillery as the 'pathfinder' in large-scale mobile warfare."

Wu Wanli slammed his baton heavily on the position representing the enemy's core position and continued:
"Tactical point two: Infantry assaults must be resolute and swift!"
Once the signal for extended artillery fire is given, the assault infantry battalion, which has been waiting in full battle array, should immediately launch an attack!

The vanguard attack arrows must be equipped with sufficient rocket launchers, demolition charges, and flamethrowers!

There is only one objective: to eliminate the remaining firing points, destroy the fortified positions, and seize key positions!
Subsequent teams must follow closely to consolidate the breakthrough and disperse the remaining enemy forces!

We must spare no expense to ensure an initial breakthrough before the enemy suffers heavy artillery damage and begins to reorganize!
Tactical Point Three: In-depth development must be unstoppable!
Once a breakthrough is achieved, the elite assault force responsible for the development of the campaign—I believe the 15th Army can be the main spearhead—should be deployed immediately!

Their objective was not to eliminate the enemy in front of them, but to take advantage of the initial shock and confusion to recklessly penetrate deep into enemy territory!

Core objective: Seize key transportation hubs near Jinhua as quickly as possible!
This is the lifeline connecting the UN forces on both the eastern and western fronts; it must be cut off.

Completely sever the connection between the US Ninth and First Armies on the western front and the US Tenth Army in the central front, as well as the main force of the South Korean army on the eastern front!

The 15th Army, this heroic force, should, after the breakthrough, organize a lean and mobile force, and even reinforce some tank units, to take Kimhwa directly!
We must cut off the enemy's main east and west arteries at least within 24 hours of the start of the battle!

If we take Jinhua, our army will be invincible!

"The enemy lies to the east and west, I can divide them up at will!"

Wu Wanli's last eight words were powerful and resounding.

The atmosphere in the entire venue was ignited by this thunderous concept.

Li Yunlong rubbed his hands excitedly and said, "That's right! We just need to smash through the middle! Once we break through, everything will be clear!"

Without pausing, Wu Wanli pointed his baton toward the rear of the Central Group and continued, "At the same time, the 12th Army and the 60th Army, as the powerful follow-up echelon, are responsible for timely follow-up, expanding the breakthrough, clearing out the remaining enemy on both sides and in the depth of the breakthrough, resisting possible enemy counterattacks, and firmly consolidating the gains!"

Ensure that the 15th Army, this sharp dagger, can pierce the enemy's heart without any worries!
In this battle, the Central Group faces the greatest pressure and the toughest enemy, but if they succeed in breaking through, their contribution to the overall campaign will be the greatest!

Ding Wei frowned and pondered, "The core of the US Ninth Army is right there. The US Third Division and the Turkish Brigade are not pushovers."

A direct frontal assault would result in heavy casualties and immense time pressure.

However, if an opening can be made as scheduled, it could indeed revitalize the entire situation.

Wu Wanli smiled and nodded, but to maintain consistency, he didn't explain and continued, "The third step: the eastern front will provide a supporting attack and infiltration, to contain the enemy and prevent them from joining forces!"

Wu Wanli quickly shifted his command baton eastward, pointing to the towering mountains on the eastern front: "The secondary left flank—a joint attack group composed of the Third and Fifth Corps of the People's Army and parts of our 40th and 39th Corps!"
Your strategic positioning is—to provide strong support!
Ensure success in the main attack direction!

Core mission one: Launch a fierce offensive along the eastern front from Linti to the eastern part of Gancheng and from Yuantongli to Hanxi Ridge!

The enemy forces defending key areas such as Dali-ri, Wontong-ri, and Hangye-ryong are the 3rd Division and Capital Division of the South Korean 3rd Army Corps!

They built layers of fortifications, relying on the rugged mountain terrain, and even deployed solid permanent firing positions.

Operational strategy: Aggressive offensive, limited objectives!

Concentrate our resources to establish local advantages in several areas!
The primary target was the South Korean 3rd Division!

The goal is to exert strong pressure on its defensive system in the early stages of the campaign, tie down its main force on the front lines, and prevent it from diverting troops to support the western and central battlefields!
At the same time, we must pay special attention to the enemy's capital division!

Its location is further east and its defense system is more complete. If it is judged that it has signs of moving forward or toward the main battlefield, it is imperative to decisively organize firepower to block it or small units to flank and delay it!

Core Task Two: Focus on Interweaving and Disrupting!

It is imperative to organize a strong and capable force at the same time as, or even slightly before, our offensive. It is recommended that a part of the 39th Army, which is skilled in mountain warfare, undertake the task of lateral infiltration!
Objective: To stealthily and swiftly penetrate deep into enemy territory from the east-central part of the front line, along the junction of the US and South Korean defense lines!

For a specific route, we could consider finding a weak point in the southwest of Hanxi Ridge!
This infiltration force had a challenging yet clear mission: to take advantage of the terrain and the initial chaos of the campaign, bypass the enemy's main defensive zone, and boldly advance into the enemy's rear!

Core strategic objective: Reach Gapin, the rear hub of the UN forces' central deployment!
Upon reaching the vicinity of Jiaping, immediately seize commanding heights, control key passages, and construct blocking positions!
Its significance lies in further severing the direct connection between the central and eastern UN forces, especially the South Korean Third Army Corps, from within!
This creates a deep wedge, disrupting the integrity of the enemy's entire battle line!
At the same time, it also cuts off the enemy's possible westward retreat route on the eastern front!

"Secure the safety of the left flank of our main attack group on the western and central fronts!"

Kong Jie couldn't help but gasp, his eyes wide with shock as he said, "Great!"

This move not only attacks the enemy on the eastern front, but also supports the division of the central route!
Brilliant! The 39th Army is experts at this!

Commander Song of the Ninth Army Corps raised a key question: "However, the eastern front is mountainous and densely forested, making it extremely difficult for infiltrating troops to conceal themselves and resupply."

The window of opportunity is fleeting; if we delay and are discovered or surrounded by the enemy, not only will the mission fail, but we will also become a burden.

The size of the infiltration force, the choice of route, the rendezvous point, and the disengagement plan must be extremely precise!

Furthermore, it's crucial to anticipate the enemy's potential lateral communication routes in advance to accurately block them!

Wu Wanli affirmed Commander Song's keen insight, saying, "Commander Song is absolutely right!"

This is precisely the core difficulty of the infiltration operation.

The plan must be formulated with utmost care, selecting the most experienced and mobile regimental-level forces in mountain warfare to ensure smooth command and communication.

The selection of routes requires repeated deductions based on the latest aerial photographs and frontline reconnaissance reports, and it is essential to make use of natural cover.

Logistical support requires the presence of light transport teams and designated airdrop sites.

As for the location of checkpoints, these high grounds or necessary passes must be identified in advance as backup positions!
Meanwhile, the command post should closely monitor their movements, and once the infiltrating troops reach the designated area, quickly deploy some firepower to support them!

Inside the meeting hall, the senior generals were either deep in thought or exchanging hushed conversations, their gazes fixed on the three enormous strategic arrows on the map:
The two pincers on the western front, the armor-piercing hammer in the middle, and the deadly wedge on the eastern front have created a clear, three-dimensional, and powerful attack blueprint.

Wu Wanli withdrew his baton, surveyed the entire scene, and summarized: "Fourth step: Campaign objectives and key points!"

Ultimate strategic objective: Through coordinated attacks on three fronts, the goal is to annihilate the main forces of the UN forces on the western and central fronts during the first phase of the campaign, which is expected to last 5-7 days.

Including but not limited to the main force of the US 3rd Division, the Turkish Brigade, and most of the South Korean 6th Division, it severely damaged the US 24th Division and the newly formed 1st Marine Division, and dealt a heavy blow to the main force of the South Korean army on the eastern front!

The goal is to annihilate an enemy force of approximately five divisions or brigades!

The key to the battle lies in three points: First, the surprise attack and the firepower!

We must employ covert mobilization, multiple feints, and deception tactics to the fullest extent!
All troops must strictly adhere to the time of the campaign's commencement!
Concentrate all available artillery power to create an absolute and devastating first strike effect at the main attack point!

The intensity and accuracy of the artillery preparation on the first day directly determine the success rate of the infantry breakthrough!
Second, speed! Time is life, time is the key to victory!

The speed at which the troops developed their gains after the breakthrough, especially the speed at which the 19th Army Corps on the western front crossed the river and penetrated deep into enemy territory.

The speed at which the 15th Army in the central route penetrated towards Kimhwa, and the speed at which the troops infiltrating on the eastern front penetrated towards Gapyeong!

Hurry! Hurry! Even faster!

Before the enemy command system can clearly determine our main campaign intentions, adjust its deployment, and especially mobilize its powerful air force and reserves to provide support, we must achieve the initial encirclement of the enemy's main force, centered on the US Ninth Army on the western front, and the substantial severance of the enemy's eastern, western and central fronts!
All commanders must clearly communicate their missions, empower their subordinates with full discretionary decision-making authority, abandon procrastination, and get straight to the goal!

III. Safeguards and Collaboration!

Logistics! Ammunition supplies, fuel, and rations must be guaranteed! Engineering units must ensure the smooth repair of key passages and bridges!
Especially the area around Imjin River Ferry and Geumhwa! Air defense!

During the crossing and assembly phase of the 19th Army Corps on the western front, and during the maneuver phase of the infiltration troops on the eastern front in enemy-controlled areas, the most severe air and ground threats were faced!
All anti-aircraft weapons must be prioritized for reinforcement of troops in these two directions!

At the same time, strive for nighttime marching and camping! Coordination is key!

The east and west flank assault groups must pay close attention to the progress of the central core breakthrough point and adjust their attack routes accordingly; the central breakthrough group must do everything in its power to capture and hold the Jinhua Pass.

While holding back the main enemy, the troops on the eastern front must provide fire support to the infiltrating forces to the best of their ability and cover their flanks and rear!
The highest command must coordinate the overall situation to ensure that the three armies are closely linked in time and space, and that they do not become separated!

When Wu Wanli finally finished explaining his battle plan, a strange silence fell over the meeting room.

It wasn't questioning, nor was it simple astonishment, but rather a solemn feeling that lingered even after being overwhelmed by a grand, meticulous, and highly aggressive campaign concept.

The air seemed to freeze, with only the pervasive smoke and the heavy, iron-like breathing of the generals.

The three enormous swords on the map, symbolizing the pincer movement on the western front, the breach in the central route, and the nailing down on the eastern front, seemed to pierce through the paper and reflect in everyone's heart.

(End of this chapter)