Further, he was dangerously exposed on the north, as a glance at the map will show.
Ulm and the line of the Iller formed a strong defence against the south-west: but on the north that position is singularly open: it can be turned from the valleys of the Main, the Neckar, and the Altmuehl, all of which conduct an invader to the regions east of Ulm.

Indeed, it passes belief how even the Aulic Council could have ignored the dangers of that position.

Possibly the fact that Ulm had been stoutly held by Kray in 1796 now induced them to overrate its present importance; but at that time the fortified camp of Ulm was the central knot of vast operations, whereas now it was but an advanced outpost.[24] If Francis and his advisers were swayed by historical reminiscences it is strange that they forgot the fate of Melas in Piedmont.

The real parallel had been provided, not by Kray, but by the general who was cut off at Marengo.

Indeed, in its broad outlines, the campaign of Ulm resembles that of Marengo.