The implementation of the crossbow was supposed to be both an advantage and a limitation. It is an advantage because crossbows generally pack a greater punch, and are a lot easier to use and master compared to regular bows. The limitation would be the reload speed, obviously, but also the mechanics involved are much more complicated than the regular bow. 

In summary, it's an attempt to appear somewhat different to everyone else, while also trying to keep the last of the Medieval Europe elements that still influence the nation.