Originally Posted by
Ludens
I don't know much of seafaring in the Indian and Pacific oceans during the Classical age, however if they were using Classical Mediterranean naval technology I think the expedition would be doomed beforehand. First of all there is logistics again: Greek and Roman ships carried many rowers because their sailing techniques weren't as sophisticated as they would become during the age of exploration. As a result, they needed to dedicate much storage space to supplies if they wanted to sail (row) for long periods with resupplying. Unfortunately, in our hypothetical invasion they would have had to use this storage space for soldiers, horses, siege equipment, etc. Of course, there would be specific supply ships, but the crews of these ships would have to be fed as well. Also, the more ships you use, the bigger the harbour and storage facilities needed to assemble the invasion. Logistical problems grow exponentially as distance increases. Basically, the army would have to rely on foraging and trade while under way, which is not very efficient nor conductive to a quick voyage or likely to improve relations with the locals.
Secondly, the ships themselves weren't that seaworthy. Triremes and similar designs are good enough for the Mediterranean, but if they can survive the euphemistically named Pacific Ocean, I have my doubts.
However, presuming they somehow manage to overcome both logistical problems and the weather, upon arrival they would have been completely cut off from their homeland. They would have only a vague idea of the area where they are going, and it's political situation, and would be unable to communicate with the homeland. Chances of reinforcements are slim to none, and given the supply problems I doubt they could have returned home even if they wanted to.
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