Treatise on Armament Technology, Volume 118

Compiled by Mao Yuanyi original: 防風茅元儀. Mao Yuanyi (1594–1644) was a prominent Ming dynasty military scholar. "Fangfeng" likely refers to his ancestral connections to the Huzhou region.

Records of Military Logistics

Water, Part 3

Crossing Water

The Wujing Zongyao original: 武經總要 (Essentials of the Military Classics). A foundational military encyclopedia from the Song Dynasty, compiled in 1044 AD, which served as a primary source for later Ming scholars. states: When crossing floods and overflows, or when entering mountain valleys and encountering sudden water surges, if one stops, there is no shelter; if one wishes to cross, there are no boats. The Grand Duke original: 太公 (Tai Gong). Referring to Jiang Ziya, the legendary strategist of the 11th century BC, credited with writing the "Six Secret Teachings." replied to King Wu of Zhou that by using "flying bridges" and winches original: 轆轤 (lulu). Mechanical devices used for pulling cables or lifting heavy loads. to traverse ditches and moats, and "flying rivers" and "heavenly moats" Technical terms for portable or improvised bridging structures mentioned in ancient military texts. to cross great waters without being detected, [one may succeed]. Though the specific designs and dimensions of these ancient systems can no longer be fully investigated, if the necessary equipment is prepared in advance, one can overcome these obstacles without misfortune. In times of sudden emergency, one must make use of whatever is carried; thus, Han Xin A brilliant general who helped found the Han Dynasty (reigned 202–195 BC), famous for his innovative tactics. used wooden jars original: 木罌 (muying). Large wooden or ceramic jars lashed together to create makeshift floats or rafts for a surprise river crossing.