Attacker/Defender?

[SS_KONIG]

How does the AI determine who is the attacker and who is the defender in a given battle? Recently, whilst playing as Austria, the French AI moved in to Styria and attacked me, but for some reason, I was designated as the attacker, even though my troops had been in position for over 1 turn.

Also, is there a time limit for an attacking force? It seemed to me that I was winning all ends up, however, on day 4 of this battle, nearly all my units spontaneously routed, and I ended up losing for no apparent reason.

If anyone can give advice, I would be most grateful. [:)]

[Ironclad]

A battle can last a maximum of up to 3 days but its the defender's victory if he holds out to the end.

Re your other point, its a while since I played and I can remember that this was sometimes confusing. My recollection is that the defender was either the owner of the province, or if neither owned it, it was the first one to enter (whenever that first happened). Of course if Styria was still Austrian that could not be the case.