French and German engineers in fortress fortifications of northwestern Russia in the first years of the XVIII century

The article deals with the issue of attracting foreign engineers to participate in fortification works conducted in the north-west of Russia in the early years of the Northern War. At that time, new types of fortifications were built in Western Europe. Foreign engineers invited by Peter the Great served for the benefit of Russia. They promoted an engineering transition from the tower to the bastion system. French and German engineers played a significant role in this modernization. The study is focused on the essence of engineering schools that Peter the Great used as examples for national fortification development.