'...the fiction that Holland is a Fortress.'

The subject of this study is the design and construction of reinforced concrete fortifications in the Dutch fortification system, by the weapon of genius between 1914 and 1940. It concerns an investigation, based on case studies, of the nature and significance of the fortification strategy, as part of the overarching defense policy. The study focuses on five questions, which are:
1. The army command will build the fortification system according to a coherent and supported fortification design concept that fits in with the political and military strategic vision of defense in a (inter)national context and that played a significant role during the battle in May '40 ?
2. If so, how does the army command want to implement that concept and what is the organizational quality of the processes involved?
3. What is the state of fortification knowledge in this country? Is there innovative designs or technical originality? Are international construction and weapons-technical developments monitored?
4. Do the quality of those designs match the fortification concept? Is optimal use being made of the quality of the strategic landscape? Did the various parties involved in fortifications have a clear picture of that quality?
5. How is the position of the weapon of genius developing in the military organization? Is it, as in the previous century, a significant factor within the army?