True, but the offensive wasn't necessarily the reason Russia's effectiveness started to decline, that was more due to their detereriorating economic and their political situation at home. Their high body counts didn't help either. It was very demoralizing for the troops.
Brusilov really did modernize warfare of that era. It carried over into tha next world war. The specialized units used to blow open holes in enemy lines for the advancement of the rest of the army. The shock tactic instead of the human wave tactic. Soften up the enemy instead of committing all your forces at a particular time. The Germans were very good learners from this tactic.
You've got me on some of the other things you mentioned. I'll bow to your knowledge. because frankly I just don't know.
