NationStates Jolt Archive

The United African Republic of Lusaka, finding herself in less than safe surroundings with a border dispute building against an old ally west, and Rhodesian power growing south (you can probably understand why that might worry such a nation as ours).

The military is.. a mixed bag. A few good training programmes exist to provide a core of reliable personnel, but recent UN reports state that Lusaka maintains the largest per capita army in Southern Africa. You can imagine the condition of most recruits -boys with holed boots and a native-built copy of a Yugoslav copy of the SKS rifle, and a general idea of which end they don't want pointed at their own person.

Generous donations from the likes of Hrstrovokia and Soviet Haaregrad gave Lusaka a boost shortly after her revolutionary leader President Derek Igomo threw-off the nation's imperial masters.

Since then little has been done to organise the unweildy armies of the United Republic, and Igomo fears terrible casualties should the nation be forced to war.

With an economy fluctating between UN stated ratings Imploded to Good, long term investment is difficult. Igomo's economic reforms frequently promise so much, and build up to such highs, but are invariably quick-fixes that do not stick.

In following posts, Lusaka will give a few details on the nature of her military, and hopes to employ foreign advisors on what exactly to build/acquire more of, and where to make cuts.

One must bear in mind that military recruitment is likely to remain high, and spending relatively low. This is Africa, moreover, it is Igomo's Africa, and the people's employment is of greater importance than the streamlining of assets.


(ooc:So I don't know if anyone finds it remotely interesting, but I thought it was about time to reorganise the revolutionary rabble into something resembling a professional force. We're interested in help on all manner of things- how many artillery pieces should the state arsenals be aiming to turn out... do our SA-3s have a chance of shooting down anything, ever.. given how few MBTs we can afford, how many medium tanks would *you* deploy in our position.. just how the heck can we afford to build a navy (beyond our four corvettes) with a typical sub-saharan African economy.. and so on.
If you want to make any ooc comments, feel free. You may also be interested in some sort of co-operation, or in sending private advisors to seek employment in Igomo's government..)

Geography and maritme concerns-

Lusaka lies in south eastern Africa, mainly in the southern half of Tanzania, and north eastern Zambia. She is bordered to the west by the African Commonwealth, and south by Rhodesia and Nyasaland (in the absence of enough active RPing regional neighbours, the rest of the border is skirted by primitive non-affiliated tribes, warlords, and em, Kenya or something). She posseses a significant coastal strip, and the island of Zanzibar.

Lusaka's maritime defence is left up to four corvettes, primarily used in escorting oil tankers (running cheap fuels from sympathetic 1st world states) and other merchant vessels. A number of old merchant ships and cruise liners have been converted to military transport roles, but boast minimal defensive armaments, and are generally used in the (hopelessly expensive) multi-national peace-keeping deployments of which Igomo is so fond. Finally, four land-based Ka-27 Helix ASW helicopters exist to supposedly disrupt attacking flotillas.

The nation is interested in D/E submarines to defend its coast at low cost, as well as further ASW aircraft, and possibly large gunboats or further corvettes, or possibly frigates. Finally, there is some interest in establishing a minimal lake-going flotilla to deploy on Rukawa and the disputed Tanganyika.

Air Force/army air corps and related assets

Most of Lusaka's air force was provided by the socialist states that shaped many of the republic's modern policies.

Igomo believes that he has done fairly well for himself in acquiring the sort of aircraft that make people "ooh" and "ahh" at state airshows.

There are:
Two hundred YaK-130 jets used primarily for training and home defence, and occasionally employed as light ground attack aircraft against warlord incursions into Lusakan soil.

Thirty six A-37/A-37C Dragonfly attack planes- the sort of relatively cheap, effective aircraft the military admires. These saw significant action in the Lumbosan war, and are used as Lusaka's primary ground-attack aircraft.

Six MiG-21 2000 fighter/ground attack aircraft. Withdrawn to serve with a reserve squadron, these aircraft are flying frequent patrols once more due to increased tensions.

Thirty-six F-5G Tiger light tactical fighter, and ten F-20 Freedom Fighter- Lusaka's primary interceptors. These are well liked in the republic, but are evidently precious few, and lack long-range AAM.

Twenty-four AV-8A Harrier, and forty-eight AV-8B Harrier. Recently offered to Lusaka by an ally, and gladly accepted. These are probably the best the air force has to offer.

Eight B-47 Stratojet bombers. President Igomo's early days in power saw a relatively young man, fresh from revolution and full of ideas of African strength. He believed that the B-47 was an affordable means of providing African militaries with a long-arm, and hoped to project his progressive influence. The economy never allowed Lusaka to maintain a large bomber wing, and these few aircraft have seen little use.

Five hundred Mi-28A Havoc helicopter gunship. Given at the height of the Lumbosan war by allies keen to see Lusaka do a bit more leg work, for a time these boosted Lusaka's fighting potential beyond all proportion. However, maintaining so many helicopters began to prove a strain, and the last recession (before the current one- we're having another) saw most mothballed. Many have been stripped for parts in order to keep others in working order.

Twenty four Mi-24 Hind helicopter gunship. Another of Igomo's personal interventions saw Lusaka acquire these as a means of deploying small forces fast and far, and providing them with heavy support in the process. Igomo would like to see more Hind in service, while most of his staff desire even cheaper dedicated transports to work in concert with existing Havoc gunships.

One C-5 Galaxy transport plane. Lusaka is proud of her Galaxy, and spends a good deal keeping her in good order. For several years this aircraft was based abroad, as Lusaka had not the facility to land her! Now used at any oportunity in deploying Lusakan envoys, special forces, or aid anywhere on earth, she has flown to the Middle East, Ghana, Boroglia, and beyond.

Two C-130 Hercules transport plane. Required early on to operate where the Galaxy could not. Still heavily used around Lusaka's less impressive airfields.

Four C-124 Globemaster II transport planes. Supplimental to the above transports.


One hundred and twenty SA-3 Goa batteries situated around key locations.

Sixty SA-2 batteries situated around major cities.

Eighty SA-3 mobile launchers.

Sixty SA-4 Ganef mobile launchers.

One thousand 3"/76mm AAA guns positioned around the country, mainly in major cities

One hundred and ninety two ZSU-23-4

There are also 28,000 Hrstrovokian AM-1 ALRAIMs (Advanced, Long Range, Air intercept Missiles) in Lusaka, installed by the donor nation (but to be honest, I'm hardly sure of their capabilities or precise nature, so am unlikely to deploy them. Ideally we'd sell them off and buy something probably more modest)

Hundreds of SA-7 shoulder-launched SAM are also deployed in the field, along with hundreds of assorted 23mm and 30mm AA guns and thousands of 14.5mm MGs in the anti-aircraft role.


As you can see, the air force is a patchwork of.. anything that came to hand.

At present it appears quite likely that Lusaka will pursue significant expansion in the size of her air force in contrast to the modernising and streamlining that is seen in many forces to-day.

Programmes are being investigated towards production of the Mi-8 Hip military transport helicopter, as well as perhaps the Mi-14 Haze, acquisition of which is likely to make up a significant portion of naval defence spending.

Potentially several hundred Hip and some few dozen Haze may be built under present thinking.

Fixed wing aircraft development may look to the likes of the Su-15 interceptor which might be built with relatively modern avionics. Lusaka is considering the possibility of producing a domestic version of this venerable old aircraft, along with a native take on the F-5/F-20. A fusion of intermediate Soviet and western technologies is a concept that interests the powerful President Igomo.

Debate is heated on the proposition of an Su-17 project, as many believe that it would invalidate the well liked Dragonfly, which has been proposed for domestic production.

As ever, Igomo is keen to attract African (or other 3rd world) interest in Lusaka's flights of fancy.

If Lusaka agrees to become a constitutional protectorate of Belem, Belem will modernize the Lusakan military to the level of the high point of the Soviet Military.

OOC: well first off I'd like to congragulate you on a highly realistic african military force. Are you purposefully making decisions that will keep your economy down in order to stay in character? oh well... Don't take that constitutional protectorate junk... its just an exscuse to be invaded when Belem feels any reason whatsoever.

The first thing we suggest our friends in Lusaka is to form a second army. A crack troop of well trained and well equipped troopers. Not like special forces but rather like a quick response troops or something (similar to the Russian Marines). We also suggest that you sell a large part of your air force. They only cost you a lot of money but don t increase your security. These troops should be made up from volunteers and should be able to be deployed in APCs rather than in trucks.

We will also send advisors and specialists to Lusaka in order to make your army more effective. We would also like to welcome some of your officers in the PRC to train them how to properly instruct your new recruits. If your are interested we can also provide equipment and training for your special forces.

Additionally the PRC would like to offer your 50 Mi-35 type Helicopters along with the Crew (until your men are able to handle them) and a ground crew large enough to maintain all of them and your Mi-24s as well. Our Mi-35 Helicopters shall only be used by your first army.

The only thing we can do for your navy is to give you two d/e submarines with crew and instructors (even tough we would prefer your men coming to the PRC to get trained).

We would also like to collect all of your non automatic rifles and provide your whole force with AK type rifles (which ever you prefer / according to the mission).

That will take some time and we should concentrate on the Lusaka Guard or what ever you will name them. It should be a small force, all airborne if possible and extremely loyal. They will be the first to receive the new weapons along with other state of the art equipment and later we will transform the whole army.

We hope that you are interested in the solidarity of the PRC.
We will help!

OOC: well first off I'd like to congragulate you on a highly realistic african military force. Are you purposefully making decisions that will keep your economy down in order to stay in character? oh well... Don't take that constitutional protectorate junk... its just an exscuse to be invaded when Belem feels any reason whatsoever.

OOC: no it actually makes them exempt from Belem invasion for a small fee in the end.

(That's all right. We'll just exempt ourselves from Belem..i invasion by promising to boil any Belemi attackers alive in their own juices, or something like that.)

(The economy.. Yes, I am keeping it down, as I don't believe that many of the options open to us would in reality do much good. I could abolish minimum wage laws, but as a 3rd world nation our labour force is already one of the cheapest to employ, and all we'd end up with is a load of sweatshops. Well, I won't go on, but I think it's a lot harder to build a powerhouse economy IRL than NS leads people to believe.)

To Crosshill- Lusaka's core units, loosely refered to as the First Army, total usually less than two hundred thousand personel. These recruits come up through the best military schools in the nation, modeled after those observed in 1st world associates such as Hrstrovokia and Soviet Haaregrad. They are first to be issued with ..well, with kit that actually works. Radios less than forty years old, and so on. They get a higher proportion of scarce equipment such as shoulder-launched SAMs, RPGs, and heavy machineguns. Troops of the 1st Army will usually be seen in action alongside our scarce Olifant L2 MBT, a Lusakan design (well, modification) built primarily in the African Commonwealth, in return for that nation receiving production data and rights. The L2 mounts a 120mm gun and advanced armour, and is supposed to be a match for most western MBTs.

The bulk of the army, however, depends for armour support upon a few hundred older Olifant mounting 105mm guns (still a good tank, but not up to scratch with 1st world MBTs), and a thousand T-56(L) -Lusakan modified T-54/55s. Most of these spend much of their time sat in fields, as fuel alone is a considerable expense.

We would be interested in sending to you some of our more promising officers who were unable to be accomodated by the few reasonably funded facilities here.

On the air force- Lusaka is interested in selling off some of its aircraft. Finding a buyer for six MiG-21 2000, a handful of Mi-28 Havoc and YaK-130, and if we begin to produce the Su-s mentioned, a few dozen Dragonfly, may not be perfectly easy.

..Maybe Kenya will want some.

Lusaka thanks Crosshill for its readiness to assist. We don't except charity, of course, but are interested in acquiring a D/E submarine or two.

Oh, as for rifles- Lusaka is fairly happy with her M59/66A1 copy, as much as we may grumble. Semi-automatic fire only, we feel, encourages even newer recruits to aim their shots, rather than to spray AK fire from the hip, making a kill more likely, while also saving on ammunition, which does not after all grow on trees. The rifle may not be high tech, but it is reliable, accurate, and boasts both a folding bayonet and capacity to fire muzzle grenades. A versatile weapon. The only change from the Yugoslav version is that the furniture is fashioned from African wood, so as to prevent cracking of European stocks under the African sun.

It is up to comrade Igomo to decide what to do and what not with the army of the United African Republic of Lusaka. If you want to keep the antiques for the second army we are fine with that. The LFA (Lusakan First Army) will receive assault rifles(AK-100s), machineguns and heavy weapons which are up to modern standards. The equipment for the LFA will be as modern as possible. We also suggest that you for a special forces regiment within the LFA. These troops will get only the best equipment available.

OOC: There is more to follow, but I have to quit now.

Lusaka's armed forces are less than entirely modern for good reasons. The Republic can not afford to acquire modern armaments while still maintaining a military large enough to defend the nation from all possible threats.

(There will now follow a basic post on the state of the army in terms of armaments and equipment)

If Lusaka's current military budget allows for maintenance of a larger contingent of MBTs, the Commonwealth will turn out it's next order of Oliphant L-2s free. We are that grateful for and, truth be told, dependant on; Lusakan political and military support in the current counter-revolution.

Army ground forces

Lusaka's army is the largest per capita in Southern Africa, numbering several million personnel. The army is often employed in disaster relief, engineering tasks, and as an armed police force, in order to get the best value from the considerable investment.

The republic's armoured fist is provided by the following:
Tanks-
One hundred and sixty Olifant L-2 MBT- a native modification of the Olifant tank, which itself is a South African modification of the Centurion. The L-2 mounts a 120mm gun, and is Lusaka's main battle tank. 150 of these were produced in the African Commonwealth, and Lusaka is trying to re-start native production at least on a small scale.
Forty five Olifant Mk1B MBT- the origin of Lusaka's native tank, this more modest vehicle mounts a 105mm gun, but is still deemed viable against many tanks likely to be seen in African combat.
One thousand T-56(L) medium tank- a native modification of the T-54/55, now mounting a 105mm gun.
Several old T-54 have been adapted to recovery and command roles, and are being used in assorted trials with mine-clearing equipment and anti-aircraft or artillery gun mountings.

Much of Lusaka's anti-armour warfare is meant to be carried out by the nation's Mi-28 Havoc gunships, with T-56(L)'s providing close support.

APC/ICV et cetera-
One hundred and forty-five BMP-2 ICV
Forty eight BMP-3 ICV
One hundred and sixty OT-62B APC -still in production in Lusakan state arsenals
Two hundred and eighty BTR-152 APC -still in high-rate production in Lusakan state arsenals

Light armoured/softskin vehicles-
Eighty basic UAZ- still in low-rate production at state arsenals
Three hundred and forty five UAZ with KPV 14.5mm MG- still in production at state arsenals
Four hundred and sixty Zil 131 trucks-- these are in increasing production at state arsenals. The military is aware that it requires a great deal more support trucks, tankers, and other support vehicles.

Towed artillery-
Four hundred and twenty 76mm light artillery guns
Three hundred M46 130mm guns- still in production at state arsenals
One thousand L-1 100mm guns

The military's first attempt to acquire Multiple Launch Rocket artillery systems fell through, and Lusaka is still interested in deploying towed and truck-mounted examples.

Infantry arms-
1,785,000 M59/66A1 7.62x39mm automatic rifle/grenade launcher/bayonet- the Lusakan standard service rifle is in the highest rate of production following increased tensions in the region.
32,000 Uzi 9x19mm SMG- the standard sub-machinegun of the Lusakan military, also under increased production.
7,800 PKM 7.62x39mm LMG- only in recent months have Lusakan infantry squads begun to receive significant number of support weapons, and they are glad to have them.
24,000 M1891/1930 7.62x54mm Sniper's rifle- probably the oldest design in Lusakan service, the military is considering looking into a rifle chambering the shorter round used by Lusakan rifles and machineguns.
18,000 Vektor CP1 9x19mm automatic pistol- used by police and military forces, Lusaka has been somewhat alarmed by a recall on the gun, which is reportedly prone to accidental discharges. The military is yet to act, though the police are begining to carry old 7.62short TT-33 Tokarevs, for which ammunition is in short supply.
1,700+ RPG-7 still in high rate production, with assorted warheads made.

*Leaves for dinner*

First off, the People's Republic of Cho-to-ki would like to congratulate the nation of Lusaka on defeating their former colonial masters. Although our philosophy regards independence from foreign aid as the best means to defend any anti-colonialist revolution, the situation in Lusaka seems to warrant foreign aid from Cho-to-ki (should you choose to accept, of course.) We will offer --

24 MiG-29 Fulcrum air superiority fighters (modified)

Keep in mind that this is not, say, a full-quality model. Rather, in accordance with the Cho-to-ki model of national defense, they have been modified to a) be more maneuverable (although many would use the word "unwieldy) at the expense of combat range and b) to keep cost down, although they are simpler and thus easier to maintain.

26 ZSU-23-4 Shilka anti-aircraft artillery (modified)

Once again, this has been modified, with lighter armor than the original.

8 SA-10 Grumble mobile SAM system

Combine with AAA to create a defense grid around large cities. Of course, all equipment comes with Cho-to-ki technicians to train others to use said equipment.

As for military strategy, we advise that you plan a moderately de-centralized model for the military. This means that units can quickly respond to imperialist aggression. Furthermore, units that are witnessing the attack up front are in a better judgment to decide than any central command. However, we advise you maintain communications between all units (radio communications are probably the best option), as coordination is key in any people's defense.

We also suggest you quickly develop an industrial base to lessen dependence on foreign aid. As in our suggested model for the military, a de-centralized factory system can prove it difficult for imperialists to destroy your nation's capacity to build in a few airstrikes.

- Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Park Jin-Yong

Missive from African Defense Industries

The only military hardware we currently have excess surplus of is the ADI-AV-33 helicopter gunship. We can spare about 15, but only assume that the first Lusakan army would need a few for infantry heavy support. It is essentially a modified soviet bloc SAH-1 helicopter, with some armor stripped in favour of maneuverability and firepower. Statistics and price follows below, and we certainly hope President Igomo does not pass up the opportunity to own examples of this powerful rotary gunship.


ADI-AV-33 Dedicated Attack Helicopter

Height: 5.8 meters (gear extended)
Length (fuselage): 16.5 meters
Weight: 6400kg (empty), 8000 kg (fully armed and fueled)

Crew: 2 (pilot, Weapon's Officer/Navigator) seated in tandem

Engine: Twin GSX12-A44 turbines
Speed: 210 mph maintained (cruise), 215 maximum short burst speed
Rotor: 4 Blade SB-ARSHR

Rotor diameter: 14 meters

Vertical climb rate: 19 meters per second
Service ceiling: 4600 meters

Systems:
ALMRS/TTAC-03 system: Tracks up to 16 enemies and ranks them according to range, heading, threat level, and unit-type to provide best possible firing solution. Also computes MOA and other variables and automatically sets turret and missile coordinates to correct heading (when this feature is engaged) and can fire on up to four targets simultaneously.

ARENA: Scrambles enemy ATGM's radars and tracking systems.

AEISCN-01: Shares target information with other friendly units in the field along with other information, also allows friendly units in large numbers to make coordinated attacks through out the battlefield. Also allows friendly units to instantly reorganize into new squadrons and divisions for new assaults and also relays all information back to command. This system also checks in every 10 minutes (or shorter; can be adjusted) with GPS and military satellites to update terrain and enemy movements.

SB-ACDAMS-02: Anti-missile and countermeasure deployment system. Automatically launches countermeasures and scrambles enemy radar as well as providing the pilot with paths that provide a chance to out-maneuver the missile (not likely).

AHUD-3D: Advanced Heads-Up Display, displays all information about enemy unit including possible routes. Provides direct fire scenarios and target areas. Can be configured to cover entire window-area of cockpit.

FLIR, Laser Designator

Armament:
Hardpoints: 9 (1 under nose, two under body, six on wing pylons [three on each pylon]) (All countermeasures are housed in tail assembly and do not require a hardpoint)

Can be outfitted with:
S55-QB 12.7mm 4-barrel Chaingun or S55-QC 23mm twin-barrel cannon
Small-rocket rocket pods (57mm or 80mm)
AT-6C Spiral ATGMs (or any ATGM)
30 mm heavy cannons (mounted in wing pylon)
Anti-air missiles

Survivability:
Armored Cockpit
Ejection seats with automatically jettisoned blades.
Infrared signature suppressors on engine manifold, exhuast ports
Radar warning receivers, advanced anti-missile equipment, rotor brake, chaff&flares, IFF, infrared jammers

Notes: Has retractable landing gear and limited stealth capabilities.

Cost: $14.1 million USD

Long live the shining example of international solidarity and socialist friendship shown by Asia's beacon for socialism and democracy the great and undefeated People's Republic of Cho-to-ki!

Nations like Lusaka need friends like you. We agree with you that in order do modernize the army the strategies and tactics of Lusaka must be changed form the root. The human wave tactic should be abolished. Human live is far to expensive to keep on fighting like in WWI.

We would like to ask the People's Republic of Cho-to-ki, to provide the help for our socialist brothers and sisters in Lusaka for free.

As for Lusaka we would like you to provide more data on the LFA. We will provide you with 100 Dragunov Sniper Rifles, 10 KSVK Sniper Rifles and 5,000 OC-14 Assault Rifles (1,000 with grenade launchers). Additionally we will provide AK-104 for every member of the LFA who needs one.

For the Lusakan Army we will provide 30,000 AKS-74U SMGs.

If you are interested we will also give you some Gepard PDWs for evaluation. If you think you can use them we will deliver more. The Gepard PDW is an advanced PDW which is capable of firing almost all 9mm rounds without modification. The components are about 70% interchangeable with the parts of the AKS-74U.

OOC: Lusaka, is this still open. In an effort to strengthen relations I think Emperor Rowald will send you some Sardaukar advisors and trainers. Plus officers from His Majesty's Great Blue Fleet on Earth.

(ooc:Crap! Sorry! When I've checked the search function for posts by Lusaka this hasn't been showing up as recently updated- I have no idea why! It is only because I've been sat here all night waiting to hear from someone [dramatic wistful sigh] that I've read back through nearly every post on the forums [/exaggeration] and chanced to find this!)

President Igomo has been secretly laid up in bed for a week following what was briefly suspected to have been a minor stroke, but appears instead to have been a freak collapse brought on by the stresses of Lusaka's present situation.

On attempting to catch up with his duties, the president finds all the more reason to continue his support of the African Commonwealth. Olifant L-2 main battle tanks are one of the republic's few assets really capable of going toe to toe with its western contemporaries. The abundance of Mi-28s in Lusakan reserves however makes Igomo believe that pursuing a new helicopter gunship would be uneconomical.

The Cho-to-ki MiG-29s too caught Igomo's eye, as did the SA-10s, which presented a significant potential boost to the republic's air defence capability. Presently it was feared that hostile command, surveillance, and electronics warfare aircraft might be able to operate against Lusakan interest at a distance beyond the republic's ability to engage them. The nation is also keen to acquire the mentioned ZSUs, as her own have fallen into severe disrepair.

Efforts are being made to compile a basic plan of action based on recent developments in the military and industrial theatres, and the UAR of Lusaka thanks all those who have shown readiness to assist her.

Honorable President Igomo,

His Majesty Emperor Rowald Alderman I (OOC: Yes, Gustav finally died) has recently heard of the plight of Lusaka. Although our nations have not always been on the best of terms, we hope that the time has come to put the past aside. The Empire is interested in supporting you in your current time of crisis. We offer the services of Major General Jermyn of His Majesty's Sardauar and his staff that have expertise on areas of ground combat ranging from artillery to aerospace fighters, as advisors and teachers to your own armed forces. We are also willing to dispatch Captain Lyle of His Majesty's Great Blue Fleet as well. Please alert us as to your position concerning our offer as soon as possible.

Sincerely,
Count Viktor Leopold
First Minister for His Majesty's Foreign Affairs

http://ccwf.cc.utexas.edu/~kmwilcox/B5/Images/rege.jpg

The Lusakan military fields some 1,720 assorted artillery pieces excluding light mortars. It has been found in limited attempts to employ these assets against warlord strongholds in border areas, and against occasional Hutu rebel incursion from the north west, that the artillery corps are less than elite. Co-operation with professional soldiers from Valinon at least on gunnery ranges and at artillery schools would surely be advantageous. Our few helicopter and ground-attack pilots too would be grateful for the support of effective artillery, limiting the need for their risky and expensive deployment on short-range sorties.

As yet the Lusakan navy remains almost nought, and it may well be some time before the republic can afford to acquire the frigates and D/E subs it desires. Naval advisors would likely find little to do.

Igomo is quite keen to show effective co-operation with the former Valinonian enemy, a step he feels will only add to his reputation as an effective statesman, while placating the vocal white minority that has so often felt isolated in Igomo's African paradise.

OOC: Sorry if you were shooting for a thread without pictures. I just like that one.

Major General Jermyn stands before his core officer cadre in the tactical meeting room aboard the Valinon ship Wayfarer a cruiser making its way toward the African coast to dispatch his "command" to the Valinon embassy in Lusaka. He looks at the reports before him.
"Needless to say we will have our work cut out for us in all regards. The Lusakans do have many skills that are self-learned. And at least we won't have to train them basic survival techniques. However, there forces are somewhat less than crack troops."
Lieutenant Colonel Danridge, Jermyn's artillery specialist reviews the information on the Lusakan artillery forces.
"An effective artillery would enhance the overall Lusakan army, and would make them a target other nations would be more hesitant to engage if they had to worry about being pounded into the dust before crossing the border. In fact, that would even help your arena, Major Delrose," Danridge says looking at the Aerospace Core specialist.
"What information do we have concerning armor units?" says Colonel Kiego, an ancient commander who started service in the insurrection forces against the Dominion of Outer Centauri, a former imperial opponent to the Empire, but now in his twilight years an established authority in the ways of armored tank divisions.
"Sparse to say the least," says Jermyn. "However, gentlemen, we must look at this problem at its basic. The key problem is that the Lusakan military program is not uniform. If we can take the training programs already in place that are producing effective men, we can establish them in continuity, creating a uniform and cohoesive force. In other words, have the whole Lusakan army be as capable as its best units are now, then train the current cream of the crop so they are the best of a new improved army."
Jermyn lays his comp-pad down, "Ideally I hope that we can be placed to train a whole new group of Lusakan coresmen. That way we can show the Lusakans what a force trained under a new program could become. I have chosen you not for political reasons, as becomes all to frequent here on Earth, but for your expertise. You are among the best in your respective fields, and you bring the Lusakans your knowledge, your capabilities. Prepare yourselves to depart, I will contact the embassy and see when we will be received."
"Yes, sir!" comes the rechorus.

We've got 48 F-33A Snipers and 144 F-5L(an update of the F-5G designed for export) that we need to clear out. Want them? Also we'll upgrade your F-5Gs and F-20As to F-5L and F-20C standard.

Oh, we can also provide training and just about anything else you need to ensure your military superiority in the region.

Not to mention our forces stationed in Lusaka are more then willing to assist your nation in anyway needed.

OOC: I need to make up a complete list of them.

A sketchy review of preliminary prospects and aims for the future of the Lusakan United African Republican armed forces-

So read the non-committal half-absurd title of the dossier on top of Igomo's mountanous inbox when the lately absent chief of state returned to his New Lusaka City office.

The bloated armed forces of the billion-plus person republic were to be trimmed, but not by far. The army especially was instrumental in the infrastructure-building of Igomo's ambitious rule, and there were too many borders, and too many hostile neighbours for the nation's modest economy to cover effectively with the tiny mobile force it could afford.

There would still be over seven million servicemen and women, though the number of combatants was to fall slightly further than was that of support personnel. There would still be around three million effectives in the short term -due to the heavy fighting on the AC border- though this would almost certainly be reduced following resolution of the costly crisis.

The army was to maintain its core, and this was to be reorganised slightly. The Lusakan Revolutionary Alliance Corps -descendants of the regiments with which a young Derek Igomo fought for Lusakan independence during the foundation of the former Allied States- would be 125,000 strong. This would be a fully professional army, enjoying the fullest mechanisation affordable to the republic, and fielding disproportionatly high numbers of Olifant L-2 MBTs, Mi-28 Havocs, and so forth. If ever again Lusaka was to deploy peace-keeping forces or to intervene in foreign conflicts it would be the LRAC which was most likely to step forth.

Within the LRAC, and despite the reservations of many of his staff, Igomo resolved to consolidate the nation's small special forces, which had seen action in the Ghanaian socialist intervention.
The re-named 17th Division, Vulture*, would be little more than eight thousand strong, and would accept the small arms offered by Crosshill. Many close to the president are worried by what influences he may draw-on in his over-seeing of the force. After being said to have clashed as a young revolutionary with Rhodesia's infamous Selous Scouts, Igomo more recently has taken a keen interest in his police force's struggles against Commonwealth Manus Nigra influence in the west.

The army's acquisition and development was to focus on the Olifant L-2, on transport and support vehicles, and on cheap mobile MLRS.

Meanwhile the air force reports were being drafted.

(It is clear that such large numbers of military personnel are not good for the economy, and anyone watching the nation's profile will see that the economy has dropped back from good to reasonable. Of course to have a profile telling of economic troubles and to still RP military advancement is not entirely consistant, but I am aware of this. Igomo has made a considerable wager in deciding to maintain this militarisation to the end of recovering disputed territories, in which exist potential billions of foreign investment in Lusaka. In short, this military spending is supposed to pay for itself, and then to secure the nation's economic future- if it fails however, Igomo may be finished.
*The vulture being Lusaka's national bird, and appearing on the republican flag- apparently admired in Lusaka for its keen senses, endurance, and wit, despite its international demonisation. Igomo thinks it somehow fitting for his elite troops.)

Jermyn watches as the jet coptor from the Wayfarer lifts off the embassy's 'pad and takes to the sky. He turns and enters the embassy, escaping the heat of the day for a brief point in time. He is met by Sir Wainright, His Majesty's Ambassador to Lusaka. Jermyn wonders how on earth the thin, frail looking man manages to keep going, he looks like the slightest touch would send him to the ground.
"Major General," Wainright says, repressing the urge to salute. Jermyn wonders how many years it has been since the ambassadors mandator military service to His Majesty.
"Sir Wainright," Jermyn says with a salute.
The two move down the hall, Danridge, Delrose, and Keigo close behind as the cadre of younger officers and non-coms ready the equipment brought with Jermny.
"I trust the trip was the best of kind?"
"If you mean uneventful, then yes, Ambassador."
"Good, good. Well," Wainright opens a door for Jermyn, "I will leave you so that you may contact the Lusakan powers that be. I am sure that you do not want to waste any more time here in my recluse than necessary."
"Thank you, Sir Wainright," Jermyn watches as Wainright withdraws, closing the door behind him. Jermyn goes to the desk and activates the comm panel, wired into the Lusakan telecommunications network. He activates it and waits for the reply.

OOC: Figured the answer could be from whomever you chose, Lusaka. Surprise me. :)

If your country would like the support of the elite training personnel of Technye, feel free to request them. I only ask that you forsake, and furthermore, deny membership of the U.N

The infant and hectic Lusakan Air Force.

The problem here was that no one in the republic seemed sure how many aircraft they ought to maintain. On the one hand, they had a nation of one billion people to serve and to support them. On the other this was Lusaka, not North America or western Europe.

Of the two hundred YaK-130 presently in service as trainers it was intended that several dozen be sold. However, if Lusaka was to maintain an airforce based more on population size than per capita wealth these jets would likely all be required to train new pilots.

Thirty six A-37/A-37C Dragonfly attack planes certainly did not represent sufficent ground-attack capacity, everyone was in agreement on that matter. The pilots liked the plane, however, and the government liked their operating costs. Lusaka would acquire more, and employ them in direct support of infantry operations, as well as in small scale surgical strikes, and in the event of large scale organised invasion -such as may be mounted by Rhodesia and Nyasaland- they would act as nuisance bombers. It was decided that Lusaka's aviation industry could, even should rise to the challenge of manufacturing these little planes itself.

Lusaka's twenty-four AV-8A Harrier, and forty-eight AV-8B Harrier would probably be attached in some manner to the LRAC, and were all but disregarded in the larger air force picture.

Eight B-47 Stratojet bombers were a point of pride to the President, but his staff saw little use for the fifty year old aircraft, and persuaded Igomo to at least attempt their sale.

Six MiG-21 2000 fighter/ground attack aircraft were to be sold. They were quite out of place, and it made little sense for one single squadron to operate an entirely different aircraft from every other.

With thirty-six F-5G Tiger light tactical fighter and ten F-20 Freedom Fighter in service, and with Haaregrad's offer to upgrade such aircraft, the decision to keep them on was made. Acquiring those F-5Ls offered by the old ally would bring the total for all such aircraft up to 190. This seemed to most sufficent, and put Igomo's Su-15 project on the shelf. Eventually Lusaka would manufacture her own light tactical fighter based on the F-5 and F-20, so it was hoped.

Twenty-four modified MiG-29 Fulcrum air superiority fighters offered by Cho-to-ki would hopefully be acquired and used primarily in LRAC operations.

A major concern was harmonisation of missile systems. The AiM-9 Sidewinder was a must. It was used by Dragonfly, Harrier, Tiger, and Freedom Fighter alike. New Lusaka City wanted its MiGs to be Sidewinder-capable too. The major headache was over beyond visual range AAMs. There were too many, too many different aircraft, and the damn things were, in government's eyes, too expensive.

The infant and hectic Lusakan Air Force.

The problem here was that no one in the republic seemed sure how many aircraft they ought to maintain. On the one hand, they had a nation of one billion people to serve and to support them. On the other this was Lusaka, not North America or western Europe.

Of the two hundred YaK-130 presently in service as trainers it was intended that several dozen be sold. However, if Lusaka was to maintain an airforce based more on population size than per capita wealth these jets would likely all be required to train new pilots.

Thirty six A-37/A-37C Dragonfly attack planes certainly did not represent sufficent ground-attack capacity, everyone was in agreement on that matter. The pilots liked the plane, however, and the government liked their operating costs. Lusaka would acquire more, and employ them in direct support of infantry operations, as well as in small scale surgical strikes, and in the event of large scale organised invasion -such as may be mounted by Rhodesia and Nyasaland- they would act as nuisance bombers. It was decided that Lusaka's aviation industry could, even should rise to the challenge of manufacturing these little planes itself.

Lusaka's twenty-four AV-8A Harrier, and forty-eight AV-8B Harrier would probably be attached in some manner to the LRAC, and were all but disregarded in the larger air force picture.

Eight B-47 Stratojet bombers were a point of pride to the President, but his staff saw little use for the fifty year old aircraft, and persuaded Igomo to at least attempt their sale.

Six MiG-21 2000 fighter/ground attack aircraft were to be sold. They were quite out of place, and it made little sense for one single squadron to operate an entirely different aircraft from every other.

With thirty-six F-5G Tiger light tactical fighter and ten F-20 Freedom Fighter in service, and with Haaregrad's offer to upgrade such aircraft, the decision to keep them on was made. Acquiring those F-5Ls offered by the old ally would bring the total for all such aircraft up to 190. This seemed to most sufficent, and put Igomo's Su-15 project on the shelf. Eventually Lusaka would manufacture her own light tactical fighter based on the F-5 and F-20, so it was hoped.

Twenty-four modified MiG-29 Fulcrum air superiority fighters offered by Cho-to-ki would hopefully be acquired and used primarily in LRAC operations.

A major concern was harmonisation of missile systems. The AiM-9 Sidewinder was a must. It was used by Dragonfly, Harrier, Tiger, and Freedom Fighter alike. New Lusaka City wanted its MiGs to be Sidewinder-capable too. The major headache was over beyond visual range AAMs. There were too many, too many different aircraft, and the damn things were, in government's eyes, too expensive.

We'll modernize any airframes you wish and convert them all to use the AA-11 Archer, which is currently the best short range AAM. Additionally we'll add the targeting systems to allow it to be helmet aimed.

Also we can donate 1 200 AA-10 Alamo missiles as we have switched over completely to the AA-12 Adder, again we will upgrade all of your aircraft that you wish to fire it.

Lastly, you've forgotten our offer of Super Fulcrums on your list, we're disappointed.

OOC :(

Perhaps you have seen our F/A-55 Mystic fighter and it's sibling the T-54 Mystic. Would you be interested in building them under license?

Lastly we'll take your MiG 21s off of your hands, and exchange them for some A-4s, you seem to be needing a good strike plane, the A-4 is a great small, cheep strike plane. We'll upgrade them and make them suitable to a return to service, seeing as some have been sitting about 8 years. Also, would some MiG 23/27s be of interest?