164: Already have a plan in mind

"This... Makarov, can you confirm the data in this telegram is correct?"

Skorlov gripped the telegram paper tightly, his hands starting to tremble uncontrollably, his eyes wide open, and his mouth agape enough to swallow a light bulb.

"Surprised, aren't you? Believe me, when you see that cannon with your own eyes, you'll be even more shocked," Makarov said excitedly, "Because it's more powerful than any cannon you've ever seen."

"So now you understand why I brought Mr. Xu to see you." Skorlov put down the document, took off his glasses, and after trying to calm himself down, asked seriously, "Makarov, this is no joke, can you guarantee this telegram is authentic?"

"Absolutely authentic," Makarov replied just as solemnly.

Skorlov was stunned by the data, but then his expression became complicated, clearly struggling intensely within.

Finally, he made a decision, looked up at Xu Ning, and said, "Young man, since you want to cooperate with us, now is the opportunity. Tell me, do you know how to design an anti-ship missile launch system?"

Xu Ning was momentarily stunned. He had originally thought that reaching cooperation with Nikolaev Shipyard would be a protracted struggle.

On the way to the meeting, he had mentally prepared himself for numerous challenges, as if he had to traverse a thorny forest to pluck that distant pearl.

However, reality was unexpectedly smooth, and the opportunity came so easily that it made him wonder if he was in a dream.

"..." Xu Ning was so surprised that he was speechless for a moment.

Seeing that Xu Ning did not immediately nod in agreement but fell into contemplation, Skorlov's heart tightened.

He knew this task was not simple, but forced by the situation, he could only place his hope on this young man.

After all, if Xu Ning could design a ship cannon that exceeded conventional levels, perhaps he could also solve the long-standing problem they faced: the research and development of anti-ship missile launchers.

"Perhaps only he can complete this arduous task in such a tight timeframe," Skorlov thought silently.

The current situation was unstable, coupled with a lack of resources and manpower, which had put the entire project in a difficult position.

To accelerate the construction process of the aircraft carrier, a solution had to be found as soon as possible.

For Skorlov, this giant ship about to be born represented the future of the country and the confidence of the people.

Skorlov sighed and said, "I understand this request is indeed very difficult for you, but right now, besides you, I really can't find a more suitable candidate."

"If you are willing to take on this project, I am willing to consider offering some preferential terms, as long as they are not excessive."

"Of course, regarding funding, we will try to keep it to a minimum. Makarov might have already told you that securing funds from superiors is very difficult now..."

"Young man, sometimes pursuing dreams is more important than money. Don't you aspire for the fruits of your wisdom to be equipped on the world's most powerful warships one day?"

Hearing this, Xu Ning couldn't help but roll his eyes, thinking that this old gentleman was not only impatient but also very stingy.

However, what he truly pursued was not something that could be measured by money.

He rolled his eyes and thought for a moment before asking, "Can you tell me exactly where this weapon will be installed? Also, what is its current progress?"

A hint of joy flashed across Skorlov's face upon hearing this, and he quickly explained, "This anti-ship missile launch system is planned to be installed at the bow position of the ulyanovsk aircraft carrier."

"Although we have already manufactured a prototype, its performance is not satisfactory, and can even be said to be useless. That's why I want to redevelop a new system."

Xu Ning frowned slightly and asked doubtfully, "The bow of an aircraft carrier? Mr. Skolov, I think we should be honest with each other.

I know you might have concerns about my Asian background, but please don't hide the facts. Who would place such a weapon in the most conspicuous position on an aircraft carrier?"

As soon as these words were spoken, Skorlov and Makarov immediately showed embarrassed expressions.

Makarov stroked his chin and smiled helplessly, "Let me answer this question, Mr. Xu."

"First of all, please believe that Skorlov did not deceive you. This is all due to a historical issue left behind by our former leader, Mr. Khrushchev."

Xu Ning's brows were tightly furrowed, full of confusion.

"Huh? What does this have to do with him?" Xu Ning asked doubtfully, his tone carrying a hint of curiosity and confusion.

Makarov cleared his throat, trying to hide his inner unease, "The matter is actually like this. Mr. Khrushchev always firmly believed that missiles were the future masters, and in his eyes, aircraft carriers were nothing more than mobile targets at sea."

"Therefore, he had always been opposed to building nuclear-powered aircraft carriers. To bypass his opposition, we had to make some compromises in the design."

Makarov continued to explain, "For example, introducing an anti-ship missile system was part of the adjustments we made.

Moreover, to get approval, we even renamed it an aircraft-carrying cruiser.

It wasn't until after Khrushchev stepped down that the name ulyanovsk was restored."

Upon hearing this, Xu Ning's face was filled with surprise, and he murmured, "So there was such a story behind it..."

Although Xu Ning had some understanding of the ulyanovsk before crossing over, that information mostly focused on its glorious technical parameters and ultimate fate, rather than these little-known secrets.

After a moment of contemplation, Xu Ning finally spoke, "Mr. Skolov, may I first go and see the original anti-ship missile launcher? And then decide how to improve it?"

Skorlov's face immediately brightened upon hearing this, "Of course, this is only right and proper." He was secretly delighted, most afraid that the other party would not be interested in examining it at all.

However, the words that followed froze Skorlov's smile.

"In addition, I also hope to be able to personally visit the ulyanovsk." Xu Ning did not wait for the other party's agreement but directly made the request, putting it on the table as a negotiation condition.

After a long silence, Skorlov slowly asked, "May I know the reason?"

Xu Ning was already confident about this, "You also know that the layout of the anti-ship missile system is quite special. From my expression just now, you should also be able to see that this exceeded my expectations.

Considering my background, you may not easily provide detailed design drawings. Therefore, only through personal experience can I ensure that my understanding of the entire system is accurate and propose innovative improvement plans based on this."

"If it cannot meet my expectations, then I would rather give up this cooperation," Xu Ning said firmly.