Hearts of Iron 4: How to Create a New Fleet

Creating a new fleet in Hearts of Iron 4 is a vital task for any aspiring naval commander. With a well-balanced fleet, you can control the seas, protect your shores, and project power around the world.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Select a Shipyard: Click on a shipyard that is owned by your country.
2. Click the "Build Ships" Button: This will open the ship design interface.
3. Choose a Ship Type: Select the type of ship you want to build, such as a battleship, cruiser, or destroyer.
4. Design Your Ship: Customize the ship's stats by selecting modules for speed, armor, weapons, and more.
5. Set the Production Queue: Determine how many ships you want to build and when you want to start production.
6. Confirm Your Order: Once you are satisfied with your design and production queue, click the "Build" button.

Tips for Success

• Consider Your Needs: Determine the roles you need your fleet to fulfill (e.g., anti-air, anti-submarine, convoy protection).
• Research New Technologies: Unlocking new ship modules will improve the performance of your fleet.
• Use Naval Doctrines: Naval doctrines can provide bonuses to specific types of ships or strategies.
• Train Your Admirals: Experienced admirals will enhance the effectiveness of your fleet in battle.
• Utilize Shipyards Efficiently: Maximize your shipyard capacity by staggering construction to avoid delays.

Common Mistakes

• Overspecializing: Creating a fleet that is too narrow in focus can make it vulnerable to countermeasures.
• Neglecting Anti-Air Defenses: Air power can devastate unprotected ships.
• Ignoring Submarines: Submarines can inflict significant damage to enemy convoys and warships.
• Failing to Coordinate with Other Branches: Naval operations should be coordinated with land and air forces to achieve optimal results.
• Not Paying Attention to Fuel: Running out of fuel can leave your fleet stranded and vulnerable.

Case Studies

Example 1: Building a Balanced Fleet for the United States

The United States has a vast coastline and global interests, requiring a diverse fleet. A balanced fleet for the US could include:

• 5 Battleships: Provide heavy firepower and serve as the backbone of the fleet.
• 10 Cruisers: Offer versatility, serving as scouts, anti-aircraft platforms, and commerce raiders.
• 20 Destroyers: Protect the fleet from submarines, destroyers, and other small vessels.
• 10 Submarines: Conduct reconnaissance, attack enemy shipping, and disrupt supply lines.

Example 2: Creating a Specialized Fleet for Germany

Germany's primary naval focus is submarine warfare. A specialized fleet for Germany could consist of:

• 20 Submarines: Form the core of the fleet, targeting enemy shipping and warships.
• 10 Destroyers: Protect submarines from anti-submarine vessels and provide surface protection.
• 5 Cruisers: Serve as commerce raiders and escort submarines.
• 3 Battleships: Provide heavy firepower for breaking through enemy defenses and protecting submarines.

Tables

Table 1: Shipyard Capacity

Table 2: Naval Doctrines

Table 3: Admiral Abilities

Table 4: Ship Types and Roles