NationStates Jolt Archive

The Heavy Cruisers floated silently over the waves, flashing lights in the dark to give fleet positions. Overhead, the stars twinkled in the night, shining over the isle of Far Tortuga.

The Cruisers advanced to the deep-reef dropoff, close enough to provide artillery support, yet far enough to keep their hulls from impacting on the millenia-old reefs.

In the largest cruisers, geers began to clang, shifting, settling. Ports at seav level began to open up. The cavernous interiors of the troop transports were of an odd design. They were covered, yet, once opened, a vast hollow area filled the bottom portions of the ship. In this area were dozens of the smaller infantry landing craft, each Infantry carrier holding a dozen troops. As the sea door opened, the smaller infantry transports jetted out. The cruised over the tops of the reefs, skimming the surface. A high whoosh noise accompanied their passage, makring the beginnings of Operation Red Dragon.

The newly created Zapatista 2nd Army was about to get its first trial by fire. Armed with fresh purchased weapons and a crash course in training, the Zapatistas turned their faces into the wind, almost collectivly, and peered towards their target zone. The target was a stretch of beach about 3 miles long. It would serve as a foothold station and base of operations for the conquest of the Island.

The troops watched the beach approach. Some prayed, others silently watched, not a few lost their dinners over the side of the boats. They had their guns, their basic gear, and their courage. Everything else, they would have to find.

The beach grew closer.



OOC: looking for an EII nation to RP defense of Tortuga if they're up to it, otherwise, I'll conquer on my own.

OOC: I can RP the resistance if you want. And also my government will be willing to lend you our carrier task force off shore as a sign of friendship. Basically you can RP all the actions of our carrier group until the war is over if you want.

OOC: You're going for Mexico (Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora) right?

Tanuio The carrier group would be much appreciated, I'll take good care of it. Also, RPing resistance would be nice, thanks.

Layarteb Let me look at the maps again and I'll get back to you. I was going for Far Tortuga 'cause you said its decree 12 land in the EII thread.

EDIT: I'm going for Arizona(south) and California (Channel Islands), thats what Far Tortuga has.

Also, how did I pick up the extra three or four provinces listed under my control?

Tanuio The carrier group would be much appreciated, I'll take good care of it. Also, RPing resistance would be nice, thanks.

Layarteb Let me look at the maps again and I'll get back to you. I was going for Far Tortuga 'cause you said its decree 12 land in the EII thread.

EDIT: I'm going for Arizona(south) and California (Channel Islands), thats what Far Tortuga has.

Also, how did I pick up the extra three or four provinces listed under my control?

I figured 'Mexican Conquest' going for his Mexican lands. I'll edit.

OOC: Are you going to be posting first or should I? Also just so I don't clutter this with an OOC post I'll just make a short IC one. It's not that good but, I'm half asleep. This is about the Tanian fleet off shore mexico.

IC:
Admiral Hernandez watched the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean crash onto the shore of Mexico. His fleet had been sent to this side of Mexico quite some time ago and up until now he had done absolutely nothing. Admiral Hernandez was the only 100% Mexican admiral in the entire Tanian navy, for this reason he was sent to the more undesirable assignments. This would be one of them. Recently this fleet was ordered, by the President to assist our Zapatista allies in conquest of a land free from orderly rule. Only savages and unclean people inhabitated this wasteland, but soon those people will be driven away and a new age will dawn for this land. An age of prosperity and of glory.

okay, I'll start with an IC post.

Back with a Tanuian fleet, the Zapatista 2nd army hit the shallows. The waves boomed against the drop boats hulls, sending splashes of water high into the air. The boast continued on, unmolested. The dark would provide some cover for the force, and when morning arose, the beach of the largest California Channel Island would be covered with Zapatistas.

The first landing craft hit the beach with a muffled thump. The hatch swung down and the Zapatistas began to pour out. First one, then a dozen, then a hundred, and more. Over the next three hours, 200,000 Zapatista soldiers arrived on the beach.

Among them, companies, squads, and various other commands were divided and given area to set up in as well as patrol. A quick, if somewhat messy defense barrier was set up. Light rails, driftwood, and barbed wire was laid down to form a perimiter fence. Foxholes were dug and soldier began to settle in. A series of patrols was set up from different companies to patrol the perimeter and man the light machine guns that were set up.

Until the morning, the Zapatistas would be vulnerable because they would not be able to bring ashore the heavy armor, the tanks or the Humvees. Light was a neccessity for building the floating docks.

The Zapatistas settled in for a campaign, left the patrols out to do their thing, and went to sleep.

OOC: BLARG could you tell me what forces I have?

IC:
Coporal Jonathan Hughes passed his binoculars to a nearby soldier.

"They've deployed at the beach it seems. Get artillery over here and notify the commander. If we are to stop them we have to stop them soon."

The soldier ran off to carry out his ordered tasks. The Corporal looked through his binoculars again. His scout troop was one of the dozens sent along the coastline to detect the beach head for the incoming enemy naval fleet. For now there would be no fighting. Moving the soldiers to the front and establishing a firm military presence in the area was the first task.

Okay, forces lists:

Far Tortuga (Channe Islands Forces)
Navel Forces
1 Nimitz-Class Aircraft Carrier Info (http://united-states-navy.com/cvn/cvn68.html)
2 Boston CAG 1 - class Guided Missile Cruiser Info (http://united-states-navy.com/cg/cag1.htm)
4 Bronstein FF 1037 - class Frigates Info (http://united-states-navy.com/ff/ff1037.htm)
2 Nautilus SSN 571 - class Attack Subs Info (http://united-states-navy.com/ssn/ssn571.htm)

Far Tortuge Land Forces
Land Based Infantry
35,000 GIs
- 1st, 5th, 32nd, 121st, 245th Armies
Armament - M-16, Desert Eagle, M80 Gernade, Flashbang, standard Kevlar, Night Vision, Squad Radio, anti-personel mines

Optional Arms:
Browning .50 Light machine Gun
Heckler&Kosch Light Sniper Rifle

20,000 Armored Calvary
- 5,000 Armored Humvees
- 2,000 Bradly M1-A2 Infantry Fighting Mobiles
- 1,500 Abrams Linebacker Main Battle Tanks
- 500 Hercules Mobile Artillery Pieces

(I will let you determine fighter jets and infantry configurations within reasons of the basic forces. I may have missed things)

OOC: can you post the fleet specs from the forces you let me borrow?

OOC:
Just to let you know that these are FDI ships, the very top quality avaliable in NS. Stats can be found at http://s7.invisionfree.com/FDI/index.php?act=idx
1 Ocean Class CVN
2 Formidable Class VSTOL Carrier
1 Levianthan Class Battleship
12 Broadsword Class Frigates
12 Ardent Class Frigates
4 Saber Class Guided Missile Destroyers
4 Centaur-X Guided Missile Destroyers
15 Clan Grant Class Fleet Replenishers

IC:
Major Ronald Jacobs looked through Corporal Hughes' binoculars. After watching carefully the landscape around the enemy’s position he handed it back to the Corporal.

"Good work Corporal, this is clearly the main beach head of the enemies forces. Our fleet is currently on stand-by in international waters and can provide some minimal missile fire when we attack. We'd have to hold the enemy’s soldiers and armored vehicles for about an hour or so for the missiles to be in range... Now if you would excuse me I must go to see to the camp site of the 1st Army."

The Major slowly crawled backwards and walked silently through the woods, his aide walking right next to him. He looked up to see the clearing up ahead. The area was bustling with activity as soldiers prepared themselves for combat. Bullets were placed into magazines and soldiers checked their equipment. A captain saw the major and ran up towards him.

"Major, we have our artillery in place. I managed to scrape together six MRLS, thirteen 105mm, and eight 155mm howitzers. They're currently being placed at Hill 221."

Hill 221 was a forest-covered hill; a clearing was made near the top before the landings had begun. At the Hill a company (120) of soldiers guarded the post. The Major nodded.

"Very well Captain. What of the air support I requested.?"

The Captian looked down, speaking somewhat low.

"Uhh, I could manage to get around three Jaguars and two F-14Cs."

This angered the major. The Californian air force could contribute as much as five times that amount. Air dominance was key in this battle. Evidently command didn't think so. This meant that the Major would have to change his plans a bit. He walked over to his tent and studied the battle map. If they were to defeat the enemy they had to stop them at or near the beach. By tonight they will attack.

After three hours of waiting the sun was down. Complete darkness shadowed the land as creatures of day began sleeping and creatures of the night awoke. The attack would be in three waves. The first attack would commence at the right flank by the 1st Brigade of the 1st Army. Then an attack at the left flank by the 2nd Brigade would begin as soon as the enemy began engaging the 1st Brigade. Then a frontal assault by the 4th Armoured Calvary Brigade should finish off the enemy soldiers. In all seven thousand soldiers, 150 Abrams tanks, 50 Mobile Artillery Pieces, 500 Armored Humvees, and 200 Bradley Fighting Vehicles would take part in the attack. (Note this doesn’t include the artillery I stated before)

It took only a short time for the deployments to be made. The forest provided cover for the soldiers moving to the flanks, but the armoured column would be visible from the sky. Despite the risks from air attack the attack was given a go ahead. Captain Jenkins received the radio transmission from the Major to commence the attack. Immediately he ordered his men forward. Though only infantry each soldiers was still heavily equipped with night vision goggles, rifles, anti-tank devices, anti-aircraft devices, and grenades.

Captain Gordon watched through his high magnification spotting scope the action unfolding on the right flank. He ordered his men to be ready, and informed Major Jacobs that the attack had begun.

”Yessir, I can clearly see Captain Jenkins moving forward… Can’t tell you much about the resistance though… Yessir I will keep you informed.”

The Captain hanged up and looked through his scope again. The armoured column was now waiting for his move.

California Baja Sur

As daybreak opened up its pale light over the beach, the Zapatista Army began to move. Fires and cookstoves were lit and a light breakfast was prepared. Over the oatmeal, biscuts, bacon, and coffee, the Zapatista troops began to get their squad assignments.

Seargents came by to each of the platoons, handing out cards to the Officers in the group.

"Platoons 1, 4, 7, 22, listen up! You assignment will be to trek north by west. We want to claim port cities Pacific. Armored support will be given by means of the 33rd Linebackers and the 45th Light Armored. Quadrants 18-24 is your target zone! Any questions, report to command before pack-out. No? Okay, best of luck and get out of here."

"Platoons 2,3,5,6 - your turn. You will be moving to the North and Center. Light resistance is expected under you reach the Baja California border. Your movements will be supported by the 58 Heavy Line and the 22nd Mobile Artillery. Basic missions parameters are as follows: rules of combat apply, fire back. We are looking to protect and bring order here. No random killings, no rapes. If you get those urges, look for a camp follower. Air Support should be following from the Tanian fleet. We can also expect some support from BLARGistania to come in, though we don't know how much yet. Get moving ."

"Platoons 8 through 15. East coast. Thats what you want, thats what you get. Enagage hostiles. We want to hold the cities. Move all the way up to the Baja California border and hold there, we will be regrouping at the border to plan the next push. Your movements will be supported by the 85th Main Battle line and the 13th Mechanized divisions. Same rules apply to your groups as well. Loreto is you target zone. Its one of the only major cities out there, so its an obvious target for our forces. Spread as you see fit and regroup at the city. Now get out there.

"Okay, 15 through 20. I want you to move into the immediate area. The city of La Paz will be your immediate goal. Move out, secure the area. We want a web around this place and we don't want anything to get through. When your various squads arrive at La Paz, have them report into to command and from there we will plan the next move.

As General hernandez put down the microphone from which he had addressed the troops, the mass of bodies began to move. Troops stood and broke down their tents and gear. Stuffing it into the back of the Humvees, they packed up and began to move out.

On the beach, a long floating dock had been extended into the deep water. The armored carriers were unloading the heavy equipment of the army. Recently purchased M1-A2 bradlys were being dolled out to to the Mechanized infantry groups. The big Abrahms M1 battle tanks were steadily rolling down the docks.

As the day went on, more and more of the Zapatista arms crawled onto the beach. It was a scene much resembling another famous beach landing. Troops, piled up on the shores, masses of transport carriers in the water, each awaiting their turn to unload their precious war effort cargo. All around in the sky, Apache Gunships buzzed about, scanning the surrounding area. Higher up, small flights of MiG32s roamed. The scene was set for the invasion of the Baja Sur.

Pacific Ocean
The BLARGistania war group was sitting in the calm water of the Pacific Ocean. Sailors and troops on deck were enjoying the sun, sunbathing, swimming, playing football on the deck of the aircraft carrier. Generally enjoying themselves. They had been three days at sea and this was the day of rest. Command had given orders for the Battle group to assist the Zapatistas in their claim of the Baja California and the California Sur.

The Battle group was two days out and headed for the section of Sea that marked the Baja/Baja Sur border. Once there, they would await contact from the Zapatistas and deploy accordingly.
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Zapatista/Blargistania Forces:
Land Forces
200,000 Total Infantry

Zapatista 2nd Army
I, II, III, IV Divisions
One Divison = Five Platoons
One Platoon = 10 Commands
One Command = 20 Double Sqaud
One Double Sqaud = 2 Sqauds
One Squad = 25 Soldiers

GIs Equipment: M-161A Assault Rifle, Desert Eagke Handgun, M80 Gernade Launcher, Standard Kevlar, Flashbangs, extra ammo.

Mechanized/Armor Divisions
22,000 Armored Humvees (standard Equp: .50 Machine Gun, Optional: LAW-88 Rocket Launcher, M81 Anti-Personel Gernades
10,000 ABrahms M1 Main Battle Tanks: [url=http://www.army-technology.com/projects/abrams/]Info[/url
5,000 SP200 Mobile Howitzer Canons
5,000 Bradly Infantry Fighting Mobiles

Captain Jenkins looked through his binoculars. They were nearing the enemy's main camp site now, each soldier was anxious for combat. As he looking for fixed defensive positions he heard a loud noise. Looking up he sees an Apache helicopter in the distance. It was heading straight for his position. The Captain and a Sergeant quickly ran towards the forested area near the rear. As the helicopter neared the Captain hoped the pilot didn't spot them or their brigade about a click away who was still hiding. The Captain motioned the sergeant to start crawling back to the brigade, doing this he hoped would diminish their chance of being spotted through the forest. The two slowly crawled on the ground, receiving scratches and bruises from rocks and fallen tree branches. The Captain only hoped that their was no snakes around.

At San Julio military airport preparations were being made to launch the requested air support for the upcoming battle. The pilots were briefed on what little intelligence was gathered, and the aircrafts were fueled and checked over to ensure everything was in order.

The artillery setion on Hill 221 was being fortified even further. Some SAMs and AAA equipment was brought in to protect the vital artillery needed for the up coming operation.

OOC: Sorry for short post, next post will be the attack.

OOC: its okay, we were both actually posting at the same time.

IC:
The Apache soared over the surrounding area, scanning the ground below for enemy movement. So far they had only caught a scout or two, not worth the effort of expending the rockets. Besides, the entire army would be on the move later that day so any intel would be worthless by the time forces could be amassed on the Californian side.

As the Apache swung about for another pass, the pilot caught a small glint off a nearby hill. Directing the LongBow II's passive radar into the area, he picked up singatures of a large force of men, as well as mobile artillery and SAM batteries.

The copilot read the data screen in front of him and placed a harried call into command.

"We have hostiles in area, repeat, hostiles in area! Vector 221-0578 Omega. Bearing 35 degrees nothwest of camp. Artillery and SAMs, repeat, hostile artillery and SAMs."

Almost immediatly the Generals on the beahc responded "All available units, engage, engage, engage!"

The Apache swung about as three more came up on its flanks. Taking the target trajectory, the Apaches fired off 4 Helios StG missiles (16 missiles) and then switched to guns, raining molten fire down on the hill.

Over the Ocean, a half squad of 6 MiGs swung about for the beach, just in case enemy air support came in.

On the ground, troops that had been preparing to move out scrambled to finish last minute prep. With most of the morning gone, they were just about ready. The platoons that had not bee assigned to area defence moved out to their objectives, clearing the area for defensive operations. Long lines of tanks, bradlys, and mechanized infantry moved out of the area, splitting and heading in different direction. The Platoons that had been assigned to area defence organized swifty into Double Squads. Moviing quickly, they arranged a hasty defence line made up of machine gun nests and sandbagged positions. Three Platoons (3000 soldiers) began to move up and over the hill, trying to find the enemy forces and eliminate them.

The war for the Baja Sur had begun.

The missile launch suprised the brigade, they didn't expect to be found in the dense forest. The missiles came streaking down towards the infantry brigade's position. Some of the missiles hit trees which sent hundreds of small pieces of wood hurtling through the air. Others made direct hits on infantry formations. Over 56 soldiers died and 102 more were wounded in the missile attack alone. By the time the Apaches began firing their cannons the brigade had managed to load and begin targetting the helicopters with their Stingers and SA-17s. Ten missiles were launched before the soldiers were forced to duck. The helicopter's cannon attack killed 23 more soldiers and wounded 107. Soldiers began to coordinate their attacks more effectively after the suprise of the attack began to wear away. Soldiers in small groups began firing their rifles and machine guns at the helicopters, and several more missiles were launched.

Captain Gordon saw the entire event unfolding before his eyes. He focused his telescopic sight on the enemy's camp now. They were moving out now. Immediately the Captain called the Major.

"Major Jacobs, this is Captain Gordon. Jenkins is under heavy attack and the enemies units are moving out, what should I do?"

"Calm down a bit captain. We're going to have to strike now. Our aircraft support should be arriving in a bit and you have your artillery support to assist you in the mean time. The armoured column is moving out as well. Good luck."

The Captain handed his radio to a nearby soldier.

"Inform everyone that we're moving out now. Get me Corporal Fulfree sergeant."

The soldier nodded and soon the corporal was standing right next to the captain. Corporal Fulfree was the best communications soldier in the brigade. The captain would need him to direct the artillery fire.

"Focus the artillery around the enemies camp. That way we can trap them in the center of the camp."

The corporal nodded and went to work. As the transmission was being sent to the artillery station the 2nd brigade began moving out towards the camp. From the forest all 3,000 soldiers began jogging out, their rifles raised and screaming their battle cry.

At Hill 221 the order to commence bombardment was given. Immediately the artillery on the hill began unleashing a devastating amount of High Explosive rounds towards the enemies camp. The six MRLS, thirteen 105mm, and eight 155mm howitzers began to fire at a slow and steady pace, not wanting to over heat the barrel. A total of 56 MRLS missiles, 72 105mm rounds, and 64 155mm rounds were lobbed towards the enemies camp.

The rumbling of engines sounded out the orders of the captain. The armoured column was preparing it's daring attack against the enemies base camp. The 4th Armoured Calvary Battalion included 2,000 calvary soldiers 150 Abrams tanks, 50 Mobile Artillery Pieces, 500 Armored Humvees, and 200 Bradley Fighting Vehicles. The task force slowly began to make it's way to the camp sight. Soldiers armed with Stingers and SA-17 kept watch, knowing that enemy helicopters and aircraft could be waiting for them at any moment.

At the air force base the 3 Jaguar and 2 F-14C aircraft were launched in a hurry. Another flight of 4 F-16 aircraft was expected to be launched shortly after the first flights arrival to the battle area.

In the rear of the fighting area the 5th, 32nd, armies, as well as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Armoured Calvary Battalions began preparing themselves for a possible attack. The remaining armoured battalions and armies were also called up but they weren't expected to fight unless the 5th, and 32nd armies and the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Armoured Calvary Battalions were destroyed or defeated.

The Apaches flew towards the hill, loosing of cannon rounds as fast as the great metal beasts could feed them into the maw. The the initial explosions died down, enemy missile fire began to streak back in. Out of a cloud of smoke, a missile flew straight into an Apache, detonating it in a massive fireball right over the top of the hill. More missiles began to streak out. Because of the heat-seeking capabilities and the nearby explosions though, not many found their mark. Two more Apaches were unfortunate enough to be found by missiles. One exploded as had the first. The second helicopter went into a tailspin, loosing its rear rotar cluster and slamming into the hillside, igniting the dune grass.

The remaining three Apaches whirled away to regroup and launch another run on the hill. As the swept out, small arms fire pinged against their hulls. One of the three was mildly damaged and flew out to the cruisers for repair.

Over the ocean, the MiGs finished their circles and dove in towards the beach. Chatter filled the comms as the MiGs acquired their targets.

"This is gold one, south side of hill, blazing over there, no good for missiles."

"Roger one, two is hitting top."

"Three, slip port, drop down, grab a view on the hill and laser-sight targets."

Gold Three sideslipped to port and shot out a laser targetting beam. The beam info read back on heat signatures and transmitted coordinates to the other MiGs.

"Okay, threes got us an infantry movement pasted. Fire at will."

"Fox one, away, fox two, away."

12 of the stinger StA missiles flew out of the MiG's wings. The large missiles, intended for destroying buildings, would do well against concentrations of enemy forces.


The forces on the beach looked up towards the hill and saw an massive amount of enemy soldiers screaming down the hill towards them, weapons raised. The Tanuians held their ground. As the nemies got closer, the defensive line on the beach opened up. 50 different machine gun nests found lines on the enemy and began their work. Tracers shot out into the morning, lighting the paths of the bullets. Another 1,000 Entrenched soliders popped out of foxholes or shallow ditches and began firing with their light machine guns, M-16s, whatever came to hand.

Just unloading on the beach, the big Howitzer cannons (16-in) idled in the hard-packed sand. Almost in Unison, they raised their guns and responded to the enemy charge, sending the screaming shells high into the air. The twenty-three howitzers put out 92 shells.

Then the enemy artillery shells began to fall.

OOC: I'll post artillery casualites tomorrow as well as more of my troop movements.

OOC: Sorry for not posting lately I've been pretty busy lately.

IC:
The intense cannon fire coming from the Apaches was taking it's toll against Captain Jenkins' brigade. 23 more men were killed and 54 more wounded due to the new attacks. Despite the heavy losses the men continued to fight hard. SA-17's and stingers were reloaded and another volley was launched off. Soldiers attempted to aim their rifles to the cockpit area in hopes of killing the pilot or destroying electronic systems.

OOC2:Is that attack involving the MiGs against my artillery at the hill, or at the infantry coming in through the southern hills?

IC:
As the enemies resistance thickened the men settled down and assumed a prone position, firing back in semi-automatic mode trying to take out officers and machine gunners. Heavy machine gun fire took out several dozen soldiers as their bodies were torn to shreds by the heavy .50 round. A series of RPG-7's were launched towards the machine gun nests and fixed defensive positions. Already 84 men were dead and 133 more lay on the field yelling for a medic. Some of the wounded managed to continue on fighting, though less effective the soldiers would need all the men they could possibly muster.

The armoured column's Self-Propelled Artillery was now well within range of the enemies position. They released 200 155mm rounds at the base camp in hopes of destroying defensive structures that might give a problem to the tanks and IFVs. The armoured calvary brigade would soon be in combat.

In the skies the three Jaguars had taken a low altitude position, while it's escorts, the F-14's flew high above the clouds. The aircraft were now enterring the combat zone and immediately received dozens of cries for assistance. The pilot didn't know where to start.

OOC: sorry, my computer decided to go thpb! The MiG missiles were directed at the artillery.


IC:

The Initial barrage of artillery shells landed short or far, depending on how good the enemy gunners were. However, within seconds the gunners had recalibrated and shells were landing directly into the Zapatista lines. The high-impact rounds exploded in havy defense areas, opening up avenues. On the second barrage, 9 of the Machine gun nests were taken out. Another 79 men found themselves in the middle of explosions, dieing instantly. Aside from the immediate losses, another 123 soldiers were injured from shrapnel delivered by the explosions. Three of the mobile Howitzers were also hit, puncturing deep into the armor and killing the crew inside.

As another half-squad of Apaches buzzed towards the hill, a small swarm of missiles leaped out. Four of the Apaches went down to direct missiles hits. A fifth suffered a minor hit and was forced to crash land. The crew stumbled out of the helicopter and began to dash back to friendly lines. The final chopper lossed off its entire pockets of hell-fire rocket pods (24 low-impact missiles) and swerved away.

On the ground the enemy soldiers fired RPGs towards machine gun nests. 6 of them were completely destroyed, the ammo exploding into the air. Another 3 were disabled, the crews insider dead but the guns still operational. 32 machine guns were left firing.

The general enemy rush was met head on by the Zapatista defenders rushing out to meet them. The exchange of gunfire left 93 Zapatistas dead and another 153 wounded. Still, there were another 25,000 soldiers in the area, not counting the ones who had already moved out.

When the 155mm round hit, chaos momentarily broke out. 154 Zapatistas died and 112 were wounded. Medics rushed out of camp positions to tend to the wounded as best they could. They called in medevac helicopters when neccessary and tried to streatcher the rest out.

Out patrolling the seas, bogy contact was detected by the U2 spy birds. Three flights of 12 MiG 32s were called in to deal with the intruders.

The MiGs took off in rapid succession, in the air minutes after contact. They powered up active radar and began to ping the area, seraching for their targets.

The missile attack on Hill 221 was mostly defeated. The trees around the artillery site and the numerous anti-aircraft and missile systems allowed for only three missiles to make it through to the actually artillery site. One MRLS was destroyed, four 105mm howitzers were destroyed, and two 155mm howiters were destroyed as a result. Immediately after the attack the infantry units on Hill 221 responded with shoulder fired SAMs, a total of ten were launched. Five twin 30mm anti-aircraft guns began firing off at the MiGs, and three Avenger SAMs released 12 SAMs towards the air targets. Despite taking losses the artillery continued to fire non-stop against the enemy postions.

Captain Jenkin's brigade was no fully pinned down from air fire. Despite their best efforts to defeat the enemy Apaches their efforts seemed futile. A desperate call for assistance was sent to the air group sent to assist in the attack.

"Air Section Falcon, this is Captain Jenkins. My brigade is pinned down, we have taken substanial losses. We require immediate air assistance."

"Air Section Falcon to Captain Jenkins. Your request has been confirmed we are inbound."

The three jaguars broke off formation and went head on towards the enemy base camp. Nine heavy long range 2,000lb missiles screamed out of the three aircraft towards the fixed defensives of the enemy. The Jaguars lowered their altitude and prepared themselves to perform several strafing runs. The two F-14Cs went towards Captain Jenkin's position who was cleary being pinned down by many Apache helicopters. The fighters launched three AIM-120 missiles towards the Apache from a distance. Once that task was done they switched to their meduim range Sidewinder misssiles.

Seeing the growing battle unfold before the commanders eyes another flight of 4 F-16C aircraft was given the go ahead by command. The aircraft would arrive to the scene soon.

The battle involving Captain Gordon was growing more fierce by the second. Already 91 more soldiers were killed and over 122 wounded. Slowly however they crawled their way to get closer and closer to the enemies position. Several more RPG's were launched toward enemy machine gun nests which continued to punish the tired soldiers.

On board the CNN President a long range radar operator officer yelled out to Captain Maurice Phelps.

"Captain, inbound fighters position 5-3-5-6-7-3. They're coming straight towards us."

"Very well, get our fighters in the air and notify the other vessels. Have our air defense network established and all SAMs at the ready."

"Aye aye sir."

Twenty-four F-18E/F and 12 F-14C Tomcats flew off the carrier and headed towards the enemy aircraft. Another 12 F-18 fighters were preparing to take off.

Across the fleet weapons systems came on anticipating the enemy air attack.

"Report: We have active bogeys in area. Tommys and Jags."

"Prepare to engage"

"Green Light. Go"

"Target locks acquired. Foxes away"

With those lines, 16 missiles launched away from the leading 12 MiGs, heading towards the Jaguar and F-14c fighter planes (the ones over the beach, where my MiGs are headed). Picking up the tracking signatures on their radar, the MiGs broke into three seperate four-fighter flights and split up, moving to converge on the bogeys from seperate positions.

Onboard the ZNV Maya (temporarily on loan from the Tanuian navy) Long range active radar picked up the beeping of a large force. Lt. Jurez checked his screen and ordered a printout of what he had seen.

"Admiral large scale enemy navel fleet detected. Estimations: one carrier, Nimitz or greater. Two cruisers, two destroyers, missile frigates. Signatures may read greater forces, but sensors unsure due to distance."

Admiral Justos Ramirez snatched the printout and scanned it. He sat for a moment, calculating fugures in his head. Finally he responded.

"Dispatch the 24 MiGs currently in the sky, add another 24. Then bring up the Scarlet bombers. Send out 12 of them. Also, dispatch the Natalus." He grinned.

On the deck of the great Ocean-class carrier, the catapults sprang into action. Six fighters at a time roared out until they were everywhere in the sky. Finally, when the bombers and fighters were all airborne, the 60-aricraft fleet headed towards the California Sur fleet.


Deep below the ocean surface, the ZSV Natalus moved silently through the water. The nuclear fast attack submarine was running on silent mode, preparing for an undersea suprise attack on the carriers and cruisers of the enemy fleet.
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Buzzing around the hill with cannons and rockets, the Apaches were continually making runs back to the supply ships to be restocked. Over the course of the battle, 21 Apache II Gunships had shown up and were peppering the hill with rockets, missiles, and cannon fire.

The defenders were holding their own though. Four more Apaches were either destroyed or forced to crash land due to damage taken from shoulder fired rocketts and anti-aircraft systems.

The six MiGs were blazing over the hill, repeatedly firing missiles at it when the enemy missiles signature were picked up.

"Charlie charlie charlie! I've got six repeat six foxes incoming, Vector 2-2-1-5-8-3!"

"Roger that, begin evasive."

The fighter split from their wedge into two seperate groups and then broke again individually. Each fighter swerved off to form the points of a triangle, trying the give the missiles too many target signatures to track. Only one fell for it and exploded due to proximity to what it thought was its target.

The other five missiles closed with the quarries. All of the fighters commenced barrel rolls and dropped chaff and flares. Another 3 missiles fell. The last two broke through the interference and found their targets. Two MiGs were caught mid-swerve and detonated.

(OOC: post infantry side of things tommorrow, other wise this post would have too much to respond to. Plus, my hands are tired.)

The 2,000 lb missiles streaked in from the sky, hitting all around the machine guns nests. Another 7 were destroyed, with only two missiles causing periferial damage to two secondary gun nests. RPGs took another four out of action and scattered sniper fire disabled another gun nest. 20 nests continued to fire into the charging enemy ranks.

Scattered about the field of battle, 35 soldiers dropped from gunshot wounds, instatly dieing. Another 62 lay wounded. Medics scurried around trying to patch up the wounded and move them off the beach out of harms way. A steady stream of PT boats ran back and forth between the ships and the shore, carrying wounded and dead.

On the beach, the artillery continued to unload. 50 .20mm mobile infantry cannons were moved up shore. Three man crews moved towards them and began feeding ammo into the repeating guns. The added firepower made it seem as though an additional 50 machine guns were added to the fight, the large shells blasting through anything that got in their way.

Out on the packed sand and floating dock, the 16-inch Howitzers continued their pouding rain.


Four miles out in the ocean, the heavy cruisers in the Tanuian loaned fleet of Formidable and Levianthons armed their 16 inch cannons and began to fire. Huge amounts of force hurled the high explosive shells miles. Within minutes, over 100 shells had been lobbed into the air, targeting the artillery hill, the advancing armor, and the enemy soldiers.

OOC:I've been extremely busy lately, my apologise. Expect a post tomorrow. Btw, the Levianthon's have 20 or 22 cannons. I don't remember which.

The incoming missiles completely devastated the limited air support. Out large smoke cloud a single Tomcat flew away, pulling high G turns to lose on missile still on his trail. Eventually the missile took a counter-measure and exploded. With enemy aircraft closing in on the Tomcat the aircraft began to dive down towards a large concentration of enemy soldiers and equipment. With over 6,500 lbs of ordinance onboard the explosion would be devastating.

Four F-16 Falcons now enterred the combat zone, their missiles armed and ready. Their first objective would be to neutralize the enemies air dominance, realising this the falcons close in on the MiGs.

Back at air force command the realisation that the Californians could lose the battle hit hard. Another flight of 6 F-14 Tomcats, 4 F-16 Falcons, and 3 F-15E aircraft was being readied. Preparation for this unit would take some time, but once they got into the air destruction of the enemy Migs would become possible.

At the artillery hill the air battle was intensifying. The soldiers from Captain Jenkin's brigade were still pinned down, another 67 soldiers were killed and 111 more wounded. These units were on the breaking point of being routed. Seeing how desperate these men were getting the Lieutenant in charge of the artillery site directed a large amount of flak and AAA fire towards the enemy apaches and migs. Soldiers on the ground used Stingers and SA-17's to try to defeat the Migs already attacking the artillery site. Several more artillery systems had been destroyed thus far.

Captain Gordon was having limited success. Twenty-five soldiers were KIA and 57 more WIA from the fighting, but the brigade was gaining ground. Machine guns, RPGs, and trained rifle shots aimed towards the enemies machine gun nests and at their soldiers. The artillery coming in from Hill 221 was performing excellent so far, but the Captain did notice a decrease in the rate of fire. He knew there was a large ariel battle in that area and only hoped that their artillery support would continue.

The armoured column had finally enterred the battle zone. Abrams tanks, Bradleys, and Linebacker AA systems advanced into main gate of the enemies camp. Self-propelled artillery units in the rear unleashed dozens upon dozens of rounds towards the enemy camp, hoping to destroy anti-tank defenses and enemy officers. Tanks towards the front line fired their main cannon at machine gun nests and at any fixed defenses. The 2,000 Calvary soldiers jumped out their Bradley vehicles and slowly began advancing towards the enemies camp. They maintained a steady stream of rifle fire as they made their way to the camp.


"Captain large enemy aircraft formation inbound."

"Move to intercept, launch all fighters immediately."

The 36 F-18E/F and 12 F-14C tomcats made their way to the larger enemy aircraft formation. The Tomcats had the AIM-120, a long range 100km+ missile, though less manueverable than a sidewinder the missile was still a dangerous weapon. On the carrier thirty seven more aircraft were being rushed for take off operations. The 48 aircraft in the air would have to hold on until the reinforcments would arrive.

At the bottom of the ocean the 2 Natilius Class submarines sat silently, sonar men were listening intently for any noise in the water that would alert them to an enemy submarine.

OOC:Sorry not my best, I sort of did this in a rush.

Captain Gordon's men were now receiving enormous amount of enemy firepower. Enemy heavy 20mm machine guns were taking out entire squads out of combat. The heavy rounds took whole body limbs off of the soldiers who were unlucky enough to get in one's path. The enemy artillery was steady, but still accurate. Dozens of men fell from the fragmentation of the howitzers. Despite the losses the men continued to fight hard, throwing RPGs, aimed rifle shots and light mortar fire towards the enemy. The enemies naval cannons however were far to much to take. Within minutes over 105 men lay dead and 230 more wounded. Another 32 were killed due to previous enemy fire and 71 more wounded. The losses were beginning to take their toll.

waaaayyyy too busy right now. . .post tomorrow.

A manned missile battery spotted the incoming Tomcat as it vectored in for a crash landing in the middle of the Zapatistas. Swiviling around, the gun pointed up and loosed off a salvo of six rockets at the incomin plane.

As soon as the radar pinged on a single MiG, the entire squadron was aware there were bogies in the area. On signal, a group of twelve MiGs heeled over and swung into the opposite direction, their directional fins leaving contrails in the sky as they pulled the high-G maneuver.

The MiG computers triangulated the position of the incoming bogies and labeled their exhaust emissions as Falcons. Easy Prey. They entire line of MiGs had been designed to out-maneuver, out-run, and out-preform the entire F- series of fighters.

On hill 221, the battle was becomin more intense by the moment. As six more MiGs flashed pastm each launching off two AtS rockets, several Stingers shot out, seeking the MiGs. While dangerous to slower moving planes, the Stingers had little affect on the dog-fighting MiGs. One MiG reported minor shrapnel damage and flipped about, dumping off fuel pods as an extra deterrant, before heading back to the carrier to be repaired.

The Apache Gunships circling around were more prone to the groundbased fire. They swooped back and forth, firing off rockets, missiles, and using chain gun ammo when the chance presented itself. Four more Apache's were shot down and two more had to make emergency landings. The rest continued their fire patterns, circling, shooting, and repeating.

The entrance of the Californian armor caused an initial wave of panic amongst the Zapatistas. 102 were cut down by rifle fire, mortars, and tank shells. However, once command took control of the situation and began to relay orders, the Zapatistas calmed down and repositioned themselves.

25 of the .20 mm cannons were redirected towards the Bradlys and Humvees in the group. They were also used as suppression fire for towards enemy soliders. Zapatistas closer to the armored column popped out of foxholes and began to try and take sniper shots at tank commanders and running infantry. On the hard-packed sand, four of the Howitzer 16-in guns turned towards the column and began to rain shells down upon them. Back on the carrier, another flight of 12 Apache II Gunships was dispatched, armed with anti-tank missiles. Within five minutes, they would be in range to engage with those missiles.

RPGs and scattered machine gun fire was still coming into the base camp. With the addition of the .20mms though, the tide had definatly turned. Six more machine gun posts went silent from the incomin fire and 5 of the 20mms went dead. An additional 32 Zapatistas went KIA with 73 WIA.
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Out over the sea, the fighter formed up into their squadrons, twelve fighters to a squadron. The then broke down into flights. Four fighters to a flight, twelve fighters to a squad, 60 fighters to a wing.

The newly named Champion Wing roared towards the Californian fleet, active radar pinging off the surrounding area. Within minutes of flight, a signal returned to the fighters. In fact, a lot of signals returned.

Champion One began to call out assignments.

"Champion sqaud, you're with me, sir superiority. Red Squad, I want you on long-range interference. Use high-track missiles when you get a lock. Green Squad, you're on short range superiority. Sidewinders and cannons, get your lock and take them out fast. Grey Squad, fly-by-wires and sidewinders. Break into flights, get your individual assignments, and move out."

"Command acknowedged."

"Acknowledged, moving to engage."

"Roger, intercept course set."

Red Squadron jumped out ahead on afterburners. In front of them suddenly appeared 24 plumes of smoke. The smoke marked the launch of long-range missiles heading towards the enemy fighter screen.

OOC: I apologise for not posting lately. I've been extremely busy as of late. I'll reply quickly to the naval air battle and the ground tomorrow.
IC-
"Flight Red Storm, inbound enemy missiles bearing 1-2-4-5-5-5. Evade, evade, evade."

The fourty-eight aircraft hit maximum speed and began performing evasive manuevers against the enemies missiles. A series of counter-measures launched drove some missiles away, but others hit dead on. A total of four aircraft were shot down, and two more needed to return to the carrier.

"Flight Red Storm, this is lead. Arm and engage Pheonix missiles."

In a flash of light and smoke forty-two Pheonix missiles were launched towards the enemy's flight formation. The fighters still had one more pheonix each, if this attack didn't deter the enemy aircraft the second wave would. Or atleast that's what they hoped.

On the carrier the aircraft continued to launch, a small formation was beginning to take shape. Though still not ready the aircraft in reserve could be used if the aircraft from the main wave began to lose the battle.

Faced with a barrage of six missiles the Tomcat pilot knew there was no hope. The first missile impacted near his left wing, snapping it, another missile hit is engines, suddenly two more missiles hit the aircraft sending bits of pieces of the aircraft everywhere.

The pilots of the F-16 falcons didn't know where to start. All around them equipment and people were being destroyed. Already an estimated thousand soldiers had been killed from this battle alone. Suddenly the aircrafts radar began picking up enemy bogies.

"Falcon flight, this is lead falcon, inbound enemy aircraft. Estimate twelve bogies. Get ready."

The aircraft armed their sidewinder missiles and waited until the enemies MiGs were within range.

The MiG missile volley struck an ammunition storage shed which exploded in a brilliant flash, twelve nearby soldiers were killed from the explosions and two artillery pieces were destroyed or inservicable. Despite taking heavy losses the artillery site continued to launch off artillery shells at the increasingly weakened lines of the Californians. Some old flak cannons were put into the action now. Dozens of black clouds began to dot the sky around the enemies aircraft, though the cannons were made in the early 60's the heavy 30mm shrapnel bullets would still be dangerous to nearby aircraft. The garrison on the hill began to formulate a more solid anti-aircraft defense. A line of .50 caliber machine guns, some old flak cannons, Stinger armed soldiers, and some MIM-27 Hawk missile systems began firing off missiles or bullets towards the flying MiGs and Apaches.

The 20mm cannon fire from the Zapatistas caused havoc amongst the armoured column. Eleven armoured humvees, and six Bradley fighting vehicles were damaged or destroyed. Thirty-nine soldiers were killed or wounded due to 20mm fire alone. Zapatista infantry who popped out of the fox holes were quickly engaged by nearby infantry, but twelve soldiers were killed or wounded as a result of their carelessness. Artillery fire was slowing the pace of the advancing armour. The artillery shells killed nearly 14 soldiers and wounded 21 more. One lucky shot impacted right on top of a M1 tank, destroying the tank and killing the crew. Despite the heavy losses the amoured column continued to advance. The heavy 120mm cannon of the Abrams and the 20mm Bushmater from the Bradley began raining hell upon the Zapatistas stationed at the base.

The pinned down battalion of Captain Jenkin's had taken enough punishment from the enemies helicopter and aircraft to sufficiently destroy an entire brigade. Captain Jenkin's himself was killed as he shot his M-16A4 rifle at an Apache helicopter, the helicopter responded with it's own heavy cannon tearing the captain into two. The once proud battalion was now a large company of soldiers, shooting aimlessly at the enemy helicopters and firing off old Stinger missiles. Only five machine guns remained and all were running low on ammunition, it was not looking good for them.

Captain Gordon's battalion was still more than able to fight however. Indeed the enemy artillery and 20mm fire was taking it's toll against his men, the soldiers still had hope. Firing from a prone position machine gunners targetted other machine gun positions and mortar positions. The battalions own 12 81mm mortars began raining down shells towards the enemies defenses. RPGs still continued to be launched toward large concentrations of Zapatistas. Thirteen more soldiers were killed and 19 more wounded. Their only hope left was the inbound aircraft.

At the airforce base the 6 F-14 Tomcats, 4 F-16's and three F-15E took off from the runway. Soon enough they would reach the battlefield to assist in what was left of the Californian forces.

Flak clouds began to dot the sky as the MiGs came around for another pass. Because the flak cannons were so old and because the MiGs were the newer 34 models, most of them were able to either fly above or swerve around the flak clouds. The sqaudron launched off another 6 missiles towards the artillery hill. One MiG got caught with a flak blast and went down, exploding into a fireball. The other MiG suffered heavy damage, enough to bring it down, the pilot aimed the craft towards the artillery hill and then hit the eject button.

The apaches continued to swerve around the hill, firing off their remaining rockets and sending thousands of chain-gun rounds into the hill. The 15 Apaches sent off 30 more rockets and then began to pick up targets of oppertunity. Three more fell to rockets or machine gun fire, falling out of the sky in flaming ruins.

As soon as the armored column came into range, the real battle began. Shells flew everywhere, sending up huge columns of sand and sea spray where they impacted. When shots hit the areas soldiers were hiding, bodies flew up into the air. Several soldiers were seen wandering aimlessly around the beach, looking for lost limbs or the rest of fallen comrades. Some of the soliders picked up rocket launchers than had fallen from fellows and began to fire at the approaching tanks. The defending tanks on the beach turned their turrets towards the oncoming armor and began a pounding rain. 73 Soldiers were killed and 123 were wounded. Three tanks were hit and rendered inoperable, their cannons twisted by near misses. The heavy 16 inch Howitzers on the beahc turned dtheir attention towards the armor and sent 75 shells down at the approaching column.

On the beach, the Zapatistas saw the faltering brigade and focused in on it. Thirteen .20 mm cannons opened up on the milling soliders and another 500 Zapatistas ran up to the front lines to open up with abandoned machine guns or their own rifles. Another twenty of the .20 mm cannons focused on the other advancing brigade. Enemy machine guns started picking off soldiers and mortars fell from the sky. 23 soliders were killed and 45 wounded in that exchange. Fresh reserves were brought up from the back though, adding another 600 guns to the fight.
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The MiG radar caught the oncoming missiles and computers began to chart evasive maneuvers. Within seconds, all 48 MiGs were twisting about. They dropped chaff and flares, distracting a lot of the missiles. 13 made it through the screen though. Six of the MiGs were hit by multiple missiles and one MiG just barely escaped when a missile exploded prematurly. The MiGs, when targets were locked, launched off sidewinders or cluster rockets. The continued to close the gap with the Californian fighters. The MiGs had spread out and were attempting to close the 'pincer movement', cathing the Californian fighters from three sides at once.

Underneath the dogfight, the bombers reached maximum missile range and shot off a salvo of 24 Piercer missiles (anti-armor missiles designed to punch big holes in things),
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Beneath the rolling waters of the ocean and the booms of fighter wreackage hitting the surface of the water, the Natalus continued to run on silent mode. As it neared the source of the battle, it sent out one active ping and then closed down radar and moved away from the site, hoping to draw any sub-destroyers out of the area.

From another location, it paused and launched three of its 24 tomahawk missiles at the aircraft carrier above it. Then, once again, it moved on.

Hill 221 was a burning mess. Only fifty-six soldiers remained fit enough to fight, the flak cannons were completely destroyed by the missiles and the crashing aircraft. Despite the increasing deaths soldiers continued to fight on hard with anything they could get their hands on. Salvo after salvo of Stinger missiles were launched hoping to get a lucky hit. Any remaining anti-aircraft artillery pieces began targetting the apaches. Only five artillery pieces remained firing.

The resistance was increasing heavily on the armoured column. Enemy tanks, and heavily armed infantry began joining the fray as tank after tank released rounds after round. The infantry and RPGs were dealt with the Bradley's and the humvees as the tanks handled the enemies own tanks. Thus far four Abrams were destroyed, eleven Bradleys were destroyed, and twenty two Armoured humvees destroyed. Mechanized infantry on the ground began targetting the Zapatistas armed with anti-tank weaponry, hoping to ease the losses of the armoured vehicles. The self-propelled guns in the far rear now began focusing heavily on the enemies base. The fity strong artillery battery launched round after round of High Explosives towards the infantry and tank positions. By now the enemies own artillery was taking its toll against Californian soldiers. Forty-nine lay dead and seventy-five lay wounded. Despite the resistance the armoured column continued to advance, refusing to retreat.

The charging Zapatistas broke the ranks of the Californinan brigade. Soldiers dropped their knapsacks and heavy gear and ran off towards the forest with their rifles. Occasionaly a soldier would turn to fire off a few rounds and then turn and run. Seventy-six soldiers were killed running and one hundred and eight more wounded.

Captain Jenkins saw the California brigade break rank and run off. He sighed as he saw dozens of men being shot running through his binoculars. The right flank of the Zapatista was still under intense Californian fire. Gordon's brigade had inflicted significant damage to the enemy, though at a loss. Twenty-nine soldiers were killed and thirty one more wounded. The advance continued though at a much slower pace. The Hill must be gone, though the old veteran.

Finally, when all seemed lost the thirteen aircraft squadron of fighters had entered the combat zone. Missiles were ready and dozens of targets were out in the open. The aircraft formed up in attack formation and increased speed.

OOC: I'll post navy tomorrow.

The F/-14's and F/A-18's managed to dodge most of the enemy's missiles, however three F-14's and two F/A-18's were still destroyed. As the distance from the Zapatista fighters decreased a new volley of meduim range missiles were released. As a second volley was being prepared a beeping sound signaled the launch of more missiles. The bombers had managed to sneak past the fighter formation, but the Californian's couldn't allow the bombers to launch another wave of missiles.

Twelve fighters broke off formation and released twenty-four missiles towards the bombers.

The bomber launch missiles sped towards the carrier battle group. The CWIS onboard of the ships manage to destroy some missiles and the decoys and counter-measures diverted more. Still, eight missiles hit three vessels. The carrier was hit near the hull several times, compartments were closed off which greatly reduced the carriers speed and mobility. The other missiles heavily damaged two of the escort ships. The next wave fo three cruise missiles inflicted only some damage. One of the escort ships was hit once in the engine, completely destroying it's ability to move. The remaining two missiles were destroyed.

Underneath the sea the two submarines received a reading from the enemies ping. The missile launch only confirmed the enemies submarines position. The two closed on the submarine, hoping not to alert it of their presence.

OOC: Crappy post, eh.

OOC: too much HW lately to make a decent post, so it'll be hopefully just another day before the work clears up.

Also, check the EII main thread, I added in the Tanuian/Zapatista Pact for you to check over.

As the fresh reserves of Zapatista soldiers came to the front and charged forward, the Californian ranks broke. Turning, soldiers ran back up the hills, pursued by Zapatista infantry. Ducking the occasional shots, the Zapatistas continued to charge through the forest. As the combat closed in range, the soldiers fixed bayonets to their rifles. They charged further into the trees, chasing down their enemy. Off the 600 fresh soldiers, 500 went into the trees, the other hundred remained behind to reinforce the lines already in place. Through the charge, ten Zapatistas were hit, dropping to the ground as their comrades continued to run ahead.

On the opposite flank on the Zapatista landing zone, one of the few remaining Californian brigades continued to close steadily with the Zapatistas. As the soldiers advanced through cover of foxholes and troughs in the earth, the Zapatistas began to take targets of oppertunity. For the guns that had vantage points through, the constant fire continued. Machine guns and .20 caliber anti-personel cannons shattered the air with continuous bangs. Mortars begin to fall as well, coming from the rear of the Zapatista lines. Sand and smoke were everywhere, obscuring any sort of clear view of the battle. The soliders only knew what they saw, and what they saw was a slowly advancing enemy.

The apaches continued to buzz the hill. They were out of rockets now and relied on chain guns to try and finish off what was left of the artillery hill. Once the main artillery had been destroyed, the fire rate coming off the hill had been severly reduced. Still, some scattered anti-aircraft fire was coming in and stinger missiles were shooting out in massed numbers. Three apaches took body or tail hits from multiple rockets and disentigrated in mid-air, sending burning wrecks of metal showering below them. Two more apaches were hit by anti-aircraft fire and hit the ground hard, riddled with holes. The crewmen inside braced for impact, but the last thing they saw was the control consol rushing up to meet their heads.

The MiGs circled out one more time and dove back towards the hill. Each of the MiGs loosed off their last two missiles and swerved past the hill. 24 missiles hot in to finsih what was left.

As the MiGs returned the carriers to rearm themselves, tactical command called out.

"All squadrons in area, we have 13, repeat, 13 bogies entering charlie sector."

The MiG pilots loaded their computer tactical screen and picked up the radar signatures of approaching bogies, no class identification yet. The ship crew hurridly re-armed the MiGs, with sidewinders this time and the planes lined up again. Three at a time, they shot off the catapults and flew out to meet the bogies.

The Califnornian armored column was still advancing, despite the best efforts of the Zapatistas. Bradlys and Abrams tanks rolled forward, sending out hundreds of rounds into the Tanuian defenses. 123 soliders were hit by rounds, machine gun fire, gernades, or shrapnel and another 132 were wounded by near-hits. Still, the Zapatistas continued to fight back savegly. Dozens of RPGs and Law-88s shot out from foxholes, targeting light armor. Advancing to meet the califnornians came the 50 Challenger Tanks. Firing off their 120mm depleated Uranium rounds. Behind those, another 25 Cheiftan Tanks had been deployed. They sat back, 2,000 meters downrange, firing off 120 mm cannon shells.

Five of the Abrams tanks initially deployed were destroyed as well as one of the Howtizer artillery pieces.

OOC: post navy tomorrow

The missiles closed within seconds, forcing the MiG pilots to go on manuel control. The fighter yawed and rolled, flipping over and dropping seveal hundred feet as the missiles sped around in a wide arc to catch their targets. Another round of chaff was released behind the fighters. Clouds of metal fragments dropped from ejection hatches. All but a few missiles went after the super-heated cloud of metal. The stragglers came towards the fighters after the metal cloud had fallen. Two more MiGs fell, one to multiple missile hits and the other to a missile that took its wing off, forcing the pilot to eject into hostile waters.

The remaining 40 MiGs took quick scans and dropped another 23 missiles into the fray. The homing beacons locked on the fire-and-forget weapons and they began to pick up individual targets, shooting off towards the Tanian fighters.

The bombers picked up radar signals coming around to attack them. Six of the bombers targeted the Californian Aircraft Carrier and the other six picked up three battleships between then. They fires off two missiles each (24) and then pulled a high-g turn to come up and face the Tanians diving towards them. The bombers switched weapons over to wingtip-mounted sidewinders. They bracketed their targets and launched off 12 missiles, then prepared for close combat.


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Under the water, the ZNV Natalus drfited. It had sent off two cruise missiles and then moved to another location. It now sat under a cruiser, waiting for the right moment. When it got word of the launch of missiles by the bombers, the submarine prepped four more tomahawk missiles. It set its course and targeting data and then fired them off. Four missiles in quick succession spat out of the top of the sub and flashed to the surface.

The Natalus re-stoked the engines and begin to make, with flank speed, back towards the Tanian fleet. Running on loud was destined to attract the Tanian subs, but the Natalus had completed its mission, now the only parameter was to get back to safety. The sub shot off into the dark sea.