The Army of Italy advances into Austria

In early February 1797, the French army, led by Napoleon Bonaparte, successfully captured the city of Montua after an eight-month struggle. With their main field army shattered, the Austrians were left unable to effectively oppose Bonaparte's advance towards Vienna. The Habsburgs scrambled to build a new army under Archduke Charles, but his forces were of dubious quality and had to be concentrated from different corners of the empire. Meanwhile, the French received significant support from the government, expanding their army and reinforcing it with experienced commanders. With northern Italy secured, the French considered an attack across the Alps as their best shot at victory.