MILEX VL '05 (Closed) [Archive]

Listeneisse

07-10-2005, 15:17

Situation

OPFOR has advanced into valley moving E from Granada.

MP has gathered in mountains before Mercia/Cartegena to stop advance, moving SW to intercept OPFOR.

OPFOR would like to secure route of advance via Sorbas.

Geography
Operational area concentrated on Sorbas Basin area, also known further west as the Campo de Tabernas, a "relatively" flat, semi-arid desert valley region.
Central basin is moderate-altitude ranging <400 - >600 m (1320 - 2000+ ft).
Surrounding rugged terrain includes significant erosion-altered hills, "sierras," and gullies, called "ramblas." Many ramblas are also river beds, such as Rambla los Mollinas running S of A-370 E of Tabernas to near ALP-112 junction. (http://www.f-lohmueller.de/photo/spain/imf_p65.htm).
Many cliffs and escarpments along ramblas significantly higher and steeper than vehicular traffic, even tracked, may allow. Difficult to climb with heavy equipment as well (such as mortars, MANPADS, ATGMs, etc.).
Altitude of mountains in surrounding area can exceed 1300 m (4260 ft). Units operating close to mountains can expect surprises coming over ridges at rapid rates of speed. Elements flying into area can expect a sudden drop off of terrain to hug.
Significant farming in Sorbas Basin, such as for barley and olivares (olive groves; ex: junction of A-370 and ALP-112). More arable land found east of Sorbas along Rio Aguas (ex: Los Molinos del Rio de Aguas).
Terrain naturally semi-arid, generally no trees. Scrub and grass. Poor ground cover from air. (http://www.f-lohmueller.de/photo/spain/imf_p64.htm)
Hard ground: (http://www.blackwellpublishing.com/UK/SOCIETY/IAS/news2186.htm) sedimentary sandstone, sand, conglomerates, silt and limestone. Also fossilized coral reef, gypsum outcroppings.
Small gullies/rivers may require bridgelaying; bridges may require reinforcement/bypass depending on rating (if <70T) or simulation of interdiction.

Towns & Roads

One road of significance across landscape: A-370 runs on W-E axis between Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/) (alt. 489m) to Tabernas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/tabernas/) (alt. 404m), 25.6 km.
Road network makes a rough triangle around central Sorbas Basin.
Land south of A-370 from Sorbas to Tabernas gets very hilly; range known as Sierra Alhamilla.
A-8200 running NE-SW from Uleila del Campo (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/uleila+del+campo/) (alt. 630m) to intersect A-370 after 15 km (at Venta de los Yentos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/venta+de+los+yesos/)), then take A-370 10 km east to Tabernas (total 25 km).
Area N-NW of A-8200 gets decidedly more hilly, such as around La Fuente de la Higuera (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/la+fuente+de+la+higuera/) (alt. 620m; trans: "The Source of the Fig Tree")
A-812 (5.3 km) + A-813 (7.7km) running N-SE from Uleila del Campo to A-370 (1.3 km) to Sorbas (total 14.5 km).
Alternate route of MP Coalition advance for outflanking from Sorbas: take AL-370 W 7.1 km to A-130, A-130 S for 4.5 km, just north of Lucainena De Las Torres (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/lucainena+de+las+torres/) (alt. 553m), then ALP-721 W 8 km to Turrillas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/turrillas/), then hook north on ALP-112 N 9.8 km again to junction A-370 near Venta de los Yesos/Oro Verde, then W 8.2 km to Tabernas.
Initial deployment of MP Coalition seems near road fork at very small village of El Pilar (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+pilar/) (alt. 610m). Uleila del Campo is 8 km W on A-8201; Sorbas is 8.7 km south on A-8202.
A-349 N-SW from Tahal (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/tahal/) to Tabernas is outside operations area.
Grenada is considered OPFOR rear area, approx. 153 km (95 miles) drive W from Tabernas along A-370, A-92, N-342.
Murcia/Cartegena is considered MP rear area. Murcia is 164 km NE of Sorbas and 157 km NE of El Pilar via AUTOVÍA DEL MEDITERRÁNEO / A-7, C-323, A-334, to A-8202.

MP Air Basing

Presuming MP sortees from following airbases around Madrid, calculating distance to central point over battlespace (cited as 37º06'25.67"N / 2º12'30.29"W (http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?searchtype=address&formtype=latlong&latlongtype=degrees&latdeg=37&latmin=06&latsec=25&longdeg=-2&longmin=12&longsec=30)) gives following estimated ranges:

Madrid-Getafe (LEGT) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEGT.html) - 377.5 km
Torrejón (LETO) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LETO.html) - 390.5 KM
Cuatro Vientos (LECU/LEVS) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEVS.html) - 387.4 km
Madrid - Colmenar Viejo (LECV) (http://worldaerodata.com/wad.cgi?nav=COLMENAR&nav_id=ECV&nav_type=5) - HELIPORT ONLY - 415 km
Almagro (LEAO) (http://worldaerodata.com/wad.cgi?nav=ALMAGRO&nav_id=EAL&nav_type=5) - HELIPORT ONLY - 166.9 km

OPFOR Coalition Air Basing

OPFOR sortees would be as follows:

Gibraltar (LXGT, GIB) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LXGB.html) - 301.7 km
Armilla (LEGA) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEGA.html) - 126.9 km
Granada (LEGR) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEGR.html) - 137.9 km
Malaga (LEMG) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEMG.html) - 209.7 km
Sevilla - Morón de la Fontera (LEMO) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEMO.html) - 302.8 km
Sevilla/El Copero (LEEC) (http://worldaerodata.com/wad.cgi?nav=EL+COPERO&nav_id=EEC&nav_type=5) - HELIPORT ONLY - 337.4 km

Consider emergency diverts to following airports:

Almeria (LEAM) (http://www.fallingrain.com/icao/LEAM.html) - 20.35 km
Jayena (FR4926) (http://www.fallingrain.com/apts/4926.html) - 145 km.[/url]

re: Jayena: A rather obscure strip south of Armilla and Grenada. Be warned, it's 3477 ft AMSL and there's no fuel available. It would be for an emergency landing only. Strip length 4000 ft also means not much room for error. C-17 could land there, but do not expect larger jets to be able to make the short landing, nor aircraft requiring long roll to stop (i.e., failed brakes). Alternately, with permission, it could be used for forward helicopter base for OPFOR helo ops. However, fuel would need to be ported to site or prepositioned for exercise.

Commentary

You've picked one heck of a spot for an op, VL.

Our concern is that with a frontage approx. 25-30 km across, you're packing in a significant 1-2 corps-sized force (or more?) on each side. That's about a battalion per half-kilometer if they were all on FEBA. It can certainly be a defense-in-depth, but you are talking about having a significant kill zone here, equivalent to urban setting density. I can hear our tankers now, "Adjust fire, over." Indeed, the Royal Field Artillery will have a royal field day. The Royal Air Force would call this a 'target rich' environment.

Advantage goes to defenders in defilade usually. However, with many positions difficult or impossible to get to by artillery or tanks, and impossibility to lower elevation on guns to hit anying that the bottom of a ramblas, such advantages are likely to be difficult to achieve. Yet also difficult offensive terrain. In many places howitzers will be problematic to postion and aim because of steep gullies. Mortars will come in handy. Fortunately, we have scads of 120mm, both towed and SP.

Tactical air superiority will be difficult to achieve for either side with quantity of SAM on both sides.

"Dumb" bomb drops will be difficult along compacted frontage, but then again with given operational densities, if it lands, it is likely bound to hit something of value. Direct LOS weapons and guided munitions will be the game. Of course, recognition of friend or foe will play a great role here too. We presume you have simulators for guided & unguided munitions?

Shoving two corps down a single mountain highway to deploy in rugged terrain sounds like a generally bad idea.

AL-102 from Nijar looks like a nice scenic winding mountain route to Lucainena de Las Torres. Though we have not scouted it, not much will get through that way, we expect. A few air strikes, and the whole road is gone.

Van Luxemburg

07-10-2005, 15:43

(OOC: correction: MP is attacking from Madrid, and the OPFOR from Gibraltar. generally, any AFB in the Gibraltar and Madrid Area is used. for the rest, it's OK with you siding with MP, and, I don't think there will be shooting ducks for artillery and airforce, because the terrain is very hard to locate artillery and the aircraft will have to come from Gibraltar and Madrid.)

Listeneisse

07-10-2005, 18:51

Understood. Confirm KLEF part of OPFOR then; we presumed we'd be part of Iberian invasion, and not defensive force.

Also, will clarify Situation Report above to reflect OPFOR is likely moving west from Granada and north from Almeria, swinging north through Tabernas, meeting defensive MP Coalition force coming from direction of Murcia-Lorca.

Triancia

07-10-2005, 20:06

OOC: Tag, for later posting when my event comes up.

EDIT: Those events being Battle 4, Ardennes, Spec-ops Warfare, and Battle 6, Western Bank of the River, Hamburg. Would you still need my posted troop strength on the orginating thread, or shall I post a generality here and wait until those events come into play?

EDIT: Err, sorry! I'll be participating in all events. I'll need, of course, to flesh out my units a bit more.

Listeneisse

07-10-2005, 20:15

ooc: Are you aware of how counterbattery radar (http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/an-tpq-36.htm) works? COBRA (for COunterBattery RAdar), is the Ger/FR/UK equivalent. You don't need to see the unit. You just need to pick up an arc of fire on radar. There's no such thing as a 'stealth' artillery round. Unless the gun has already bugged out, the return shot's quite possibly a hit, or what artillerists call "first-round-on-target." If you want to make sure nothing in the area survives,
"fire for effect." This is called suppressive fire.

I will grant you that positioning of counterbattery radar is still somewhat of a black art. Put it on the wrong hilltop, and the rounds can be flying thick and fast and it won't 'see' a thing. How effective you will have your referees 'judge' counterbattery fire will depend on things like typical arcs for fire -- which will determine how long the counterbattery radar has to get to see the round in the air, and what background clutter it might have to deal with. (Distance is not an issue with a range of 40+ km.)

Meanwhile, if you want to try another tactic, there's UAV-based counterbattery (pdf file) (http://www.rand.org/publications/MR/MR912/MR912.app.B.pdf) concepts for the coming battlefield.

Lastly, note on the new longer A9 Bravehearts (http://www.army-technology.com/projects/as90/) there's a longer 40km range to their 155mm guns.

Batteries in an artillery battalion (http://www.army-technology.com/projects/as90/as905.html) are typically spaced 8 km apart, giving coverage over the frontage of FEBA in a general oval about 40 km deep and 96 km wide.

Listeneisse alone brought 18 batteries (8 guns each), just of AS90s. 144 guns for 30 km of front = 1 gun for every 208 yards of front. Considering the blast radius for a 155mm howitzer shell is about 100m, basically everyone on the front line is taking shrapnel. Concentrate your firepower on the center of the enemy line, and you can blow a hole open every 100 yards (overlapping the lethal bursts from shells left and right with the one landing closest to you) for a full 14 km front. Even buried mines may have sympathetic explosions with the shock force. That's 45 kg per shell, times 144 shells, or about 6.4 kilotons of ordnance delivered in a salvo.

Add in the 100 guns of VL's OPFOR, and you have 244 155mm guns.

We also have 54 MLRS launchers (31-45 km range, depending on munition) plus 108 105mm towed howitzers (14 km range, or 19.5 km with rocket-assisted shots, which we can save for later once we've 'walked' the barrage in a few klicks).

These latter guns were to be used mostly in a defensive setback position, but let's use all we have. Over 400 artillery pieces, plus 120 120mm SP mortar systems (7km range). We also have another 64 120mm towed mortars packed in with the infantry.

Now we're at 590 weapon systems. One gun tube or missile launcher for every 50 m of frontage -- along the entire front.

Walk that bombardment forward at 50m per salvo, sustained rate of fire of two shots a minute (4 for the 120mm mortars), and you will blast the front line back 6 kilometers in one hour, leaving somewhere over 92,000 craters in your wake (far more if you use antipersonnel bomblets).

Looking at MP forces, they have 40 155mm SP guns and 20 MLRS. So, OPFOR has about a 5:1 ratio in case of counter-battery fire (just counting our 155mm and MRLS, presuming they are smart enough to keep their heavy artillery back at least 15 km, or better yet, 20+ km to avoid our rocket-assisted 105's also engaging them), and nearly 10:1 in overall indirect artillery.

With the short ranges here, we have to presume for this exercise that all the field artillery is in range of each other. But this is not the case for the rest of their direct fire assets.

ATGMs roughly have a range of 4 km (our LOSAT has about a 5 km range). MBT APFSDS-T have a range of 5 km, and require LOS in any regard.

Meaning they'd have to leave defensive positions if they wanted to come hunt the mortars and smaller guns raining death on them.

This could definitely turn into an artillery duel.

We'll have to see what else others bring to the table. Obviously if people want to tip the balance, we'll see others lining up on one side of the table or another.

Spizania

07-10-2005, 21:16

OOC:Il side with MP, luckily i love artilllery ;) and have tonnes of 81mm Mortars

Triancia

08-10-2005, 00:15

Triancia will be siding with the OPFOR, and, in this exercise, deploy two regiments of the Cavalry Division they brought over, the 8th and 10th Cavalry Regiments. They will be supported by aircraft from indigenous helicopter units, the 14th Tactical Support Wing, and the 27th Air Superiority Wing, based out of the OPFOR base at Gibraltar.

We will keep naval support in this exercise to a nonexistent level, explained in scenario terms as the failure of naval assets to break through enemy defense line. Strategy for this offensive will be worked out with other nations acting as the OPFOR.

The Cavalry Regiments, in total, equal about 246 TS-21 heavy tanks, 86 M113A3s, used for scouting and transport, and various command and control and logistical vehicles. 12 M1059A3 Lynx smoke generators provide additional support. Ground-to-air cover, however, is provided by 24 obsolete M730A2 Chaparral SAM Packages, and artillery support by 32 M1064A3 120mm mortars, what might be considered wholly inadequate against the SPHs fielded by the Multinational Force.

The 14th Tactical Support Wing consists of a 24 F-15E Strike Eagles, and the 28th with 24 F-22 Raptors. AWACS support is integrated into each unit, and is provided by a total of 4 E-3 Sentry aircraft. Indigenous aircraft of the Regiments total 48 OH-58Ds, 32 AH-64Ds, 26 UH-60s, and 8 EH-60s.

Personnel in the unit consist of roughly 7000 personnel from the Regiments, and roughly 500 for the aircraft wings. Besides vehicle crews, maintenance personnel, and pilots, roughly 1000 of those 7000 are classified as light infantry, being primarily dismounted cavalry scouts and Air Assault personnel.

Furthur personnell may be deployed as each exercise commences.

Wingarde

08-10-2005, 00:38

TO: Van Luxemburgian Government
FROM: Minister Alexia Daecher, Ministry of Defense, Wingarde

SUBJECT: Wingardian forces in the excercises

After careful deliberation within the Ministry of Defense and with President Jakob, we have agreed on the amount, type and equipment of Wingardian forces that will participate on the military excercises. I have attached the necessary information to this telegram. Please be advised that we reserve the right to modify our forces involved at any moment, at least prior to the start of the wargames and always below the 100,000 men limit.

Yours faithfully,

Alexia Daecher,
Minister of Defense,
Democratic States of Wingarde
Federal Navy Elements (19,316)

Task Force Fenrir (8,096)
Ostbaden-class Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier WFN Nordheim
- 16 x WF-33 Avengers
-- 24 x WF-27C Firebolts
--- 4 x WE-10 Overseers
---- 6 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
4 x Wernover-class Heavy Missile Cruisers
- 12 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
8 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 8 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
3 x Framzig-class Attack Submarines
3rd Submarine Squadron (464)
4 x Framzig-class Attack Submarines
9th Supply Flotilla (1,457)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3S-class Supply Ships
11th Supply Flotilla (1,457)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3S-class Supply Ships
5th Transport Flotilla (1,307)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3-class Transport Ships
12th Transport Flotilla (1,307)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3-class Transport Ships
16th Transport Flotilla (1,307)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3-class Transport Ships
20th Transport Flotilla (1,307)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3-class Transport Ships
25th Transport Flotilla (1,307)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3-class Transport Ships
31st Transport Flotilla (1,307)
3 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
- 3 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
5 x S3-class Transport Ships

Federal Army Elements (50,220)

4th Infantry Division (17,280)
1,740 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly transport configuration)
2nd Mechanized Division (8,640)
890 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly transport configuration)
80 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
10 x RAP-2 Kammonets
6th Mechanized Division (8,640)
890 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly transport configuration)
80 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
10 x RAP-2 Kammonets
19th Armoured Division (1,680)
120 x KP-3 Guardians
45 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x PH-7 Vindicators
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
15 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (multiple configurations)
23rd Armoured Division (1,680)
120 x KP-3 Guardians
45 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x PH-7 Vindicators
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
15 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (multiple configurations)
28th Armoured Division (1,680)
120 x KP-3 Guardians
45 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x PH-7 Vindicators
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
15 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (multiple configurations)
19th Logistics Division (1,680)
180 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly supply configuration)
30 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
22nd Logistics Division (1,680)
180 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly supply configuration)
30 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
30th Logistics Division (1,680)
180 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly supply configuration)
30 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
34th Logistics Division (1,680)
180 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly supply configuration)
30 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
40th Logistics Division (1,680)
180 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly supply configuration)
30 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders
51st Logistics Division (1,680)
180 x MRP-8 Stalwarts (mainly supply configuration)
30 x RPW-5 Outriders
30 x ADV-2 Defenders

Federal Air Force Elements (2,736)

7th Air Group (864)
64 x WF-27 Firebolts
32 x WF-33 Avengers
10th Air Group (864)
64 x WF-27 Firebolts
32 x WF-33 Avengers
17th Assault Wing (216)
20 x WR-6 Champions
4 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
25th Assault Wing (216)
20 x WR-6 Champions
4 x WR-4 Sea Rangers
18th Logistics Wing (288)
18 x WT-19R Skymasters (tanker configuration)
8 x WT-25 Stratolifters
21st Logistics Wing (288)
18 x WT-19R Skymasters (tanker configuration)
8 x WT-25 Stratolifters

TOTAL: 72,272

OOC: Since I haven't created a storefront for Wingardian military land vehicles yet, here's some information about them:

- KP-3 Guardian (Heavy Main Battle Tank)
- RPW-5 Outrider (Wheeled Armoured Reconnaisance Vehicle)
- PH-7 Vindicator (Self-propelled 155mm Howitzer)
- MRP-8 Stalwart (Wheeled Multi-role Armoured Vehicle)
- ADV-2 Defender (Tracked Anti-Air Missile Defense)
- RAP-2 Kammonet (Command and Liaison 4x4 Vehicle, comparable to the Humvee)

Van Luxemburg

08-10-2005, 07:04

(OOC: OK, I see nothing wrong with the units. by the way, on which side are you Wingarde? also, Listeneisse, I was actually counting that I have Rafales on my MP side, which can counter artillery immediately. also, they are faster and better armed than the Mirages on the OPFOR side. but I'll rework a bit on the sides.)

Listeneisse

08-10-2005, 08:36

The Wingarde Federal Army is the most curiously composed army we have encountered so far.

Inf Div lacking integrated Arty or AD. Unsure about mortars or towed guns assigned to infantry, but no SP mortars or arty.

Battlespeace visibility may be poor. Seem to be lacking observation helos, recon aircraft and/or UAVs.

MRP-8 Stalwarts - They are relying heavily on a wheeled multirole vehicle (similar to LAV-III or Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicle/Mobile Gun System) for infantry mobility, yet also offensive and defensive firepower. Faster road/cross country speed, but lack of roads in this exercise minimizes their impact. At <20t, likely saves them on petrol/improved range. Important considering limited road network for POL depots; but not urgent in limited-duration exercise. Greatest danger is, of course, similar to LAV-III: wheel burst and burn, disabling vehicle; whereas tracks harder to knock out. Note: we commonly use tracked IFVs to clear antipersonnel mines/submunitions (grenade-sized explosives) by rolling over them; wheeled AFVs would be disabled by ordnance discharge. Heavy machinegun fire also likely to disable vehicle via tire penetration. Let's be glad it's not a shooting war.

KP-3 Guardians / Armored "Division" Organization - KP-3 is a solid MBT, but 40 equate to an understrength Battalion in most conventional TO&Es. 3 "Divisions" therefore equate to a Brigade by other standards, esp. since units include organic SP howitzers and AD. Total: 120.

RPW-5 Outriders - Waiting report. Total: 125

PH-7 Vindicators - A fair field gun. One battery of 10 assigned per armored division. TO&E suggests most unorthodox doctrinal use, as tankers try to close and shake hands for kill while artillerists sit back and let their tubes do the talking. Lack of infantry defense means SP artillery at risk if armor moves forward. Either it's left behind as armor speeds away, or try to follow after and risk possible mortar or ATGM range. With most VHF tactical radio distances limited to 35km, they'll probably have to shadow AFVs. If there's a breakthrough, they'll have to pull up tent stakes as tanks near their max range and trundle after. Also means SP howitzers are supporting tanks rather than infantry, unless they put armor divisions in infantry support role or divert assets. Total: 30

ADV-2 Defenders - Tracked tactical SAM system. Range est. 3-5 km, though possibly as far as 8km (q.v. FM-92A Stinger-RMP Block II (http://www.designation-systems.net/dusrm/m-92.html)). On par with our tactical SAM systems. (ooc note: I am presuming these are tactical SAMs, similar to Stinger/Starstreak. Medium-range SAMs have a range of 18km), and TD SAM has range of 160km/15km altitude. Of course latter have issue of facing radar/ARM surpression. These latter have problems engages targets less than 2km.) Most assets are relegated to support divisions. Total: 100

Listeneisse

08-10-2005, 13:55

MP Air and Air Defense Assets

Starstreak MANPADS - Very dense tactical AD environment. Similar equipment to what we are using. These have effective range of 7km w/ improved versions, and an altitude of 4000m. Use laser designator. Counter measures include antilaser aerosols, but rapidly disbursed by helo prop wash. It is best to lose LOS. Suggest high altitude operations for jet aircraft. Recon helos & UAVs need to stand-off at 10km. Attack helos need to use NOE, obscured LOS and popups. Total: 987.

Patriot PAC-3 (5), MIM-162 Grendel (1), MIM-159 Vespa (2) - Relatively sparse theatre AD, but not insignificant. Recommend hand-off to artillery for suppression combined with jamming and air-based HARM. HARM has 50km range; PAC-3 (http://www.deagel.com/pandora/index.aspx?p=mn00017003) only range 30km, ceiling 15km (one third range of PAC-2). Density, though, is high: missiles packed 16 per launcher, plus 4x on resupply vehicles, for 400 total. Volley of ripple fire can launch/track 80 at one time. Grendel has range 140 km; Vespa 85 km. All are mounted 4x, and presume each has 4 reloads, so that's a volley of 12, and 60 total missiles. Surrounding mountains play key role in blocking radar range. NOE flight then popup requires good nav assessment to target through mountains. (NOE usually limits detection to 20km; hovering helicopters flying <30m can be detected ~10km.) They can also play cat & mouse with pop-up attack helos who can passively detect radar. Total missles: 460

Tiger Attack Helicopters - As above, but applied back to MP as targets. Total: 10

NH-90 Tactical Transports (20) and JK-H2 Utility helicopters (5) - Sufficient to carry a few companies in airlift. Expect no more than battalion-strength airmobile force. Total: 25

Rafale Fighter aircraft - A good aircraft, equivalent-or-better to an F-16, but not as good as Typhoon in a straight-up dogfight as per studies (http://www.eurofighter-typhoon.co.uk/Eurofighter/tech.html). However, we'll need to see how this shows up in practice. Factors such as overall numbers, loitering time over battlefield (here decreased distance of OPFOR sortees will be of value), pilot training and availability are as crucial, or more crucial, as plane quality. Total: 20

Mirage 2100 Advanced Multirole Stealth Fighter - A very good aircraft, but too few in numbers to be decisive. Equate it with the F/A-22 in terms of quality. Should be engaged 3:1 or better to ensure it can't slink away. Total: 2

KLEF Air and Air Defense Assets

Tactical SAM Comparison - KLEF has 36 SP SAM launchers equipped with 8x Starstreaks each, for 288 ready fire-on-the-move mobile launchers; each has 12 more missiles stored inside, for 432 reloads; plus we have one Starstreak MANPADS stored per armored vehicle, for another 1,404 Starstreaks; thus total 1,924, not including resupply vehicles. So we have 2x missiles and far fewer targets to hunt (32 aircraft and attack helos, and 25 transport/utility helos); about 33:1 ratio. Fortunately our systems sport IFF features.

Operational SAM - KLEF has 36 SLAMRAAM systems mounted 5x per launch vehicle, for 180 missiles with range of 18km. We need to stop to deploy targeting radar and set up a battery. But since radar is vehicle mounted, quick-stop-and-go is possible. If we count all enemy aircraft (57), we have a 3:1 ratio of missiles to targets. If we ignore transport and utility helicopters as low-priority targets (to be engaged by tactical SAM) we get nearly 6:1 ratio. We have enough to resupply each launcher 4 times; total missiles: 900.

Theatre SAM - KLEF has 24 theatre Patriot (http://www.vcorps.army.mil/69ada/Equipment.htm) SAM systems mounted either 4x with PAC-2 (http://www.deagel.com/pandora/index.aspx?p=mn00017002) (range 100km, ceiling 24km), or 16x with the more costly, more effective, but shorter-range PAC-3 (http://www.deagel.com/pandora/index.aspx?p=mn00017003) (range 30km, ceiling 15km). (Resupply vehicles carry 4 missile cannister reloads, with 4 PAC-2 or 16 PAC-3 each.) AD Commander has requested we go for PAC-2 on 16 launchers for first volleys to give maximum range of intercept -- giving us up to 64 PAC-2 in the air at ranges up to 100km 2:1 ratio against jets/attack helos. Second volley can be handled by SLAMRAAMs and last 8 Patriots in battery loaded with PAC-3 (8 x 16, or 128 more shots) for closer range AD. Reload of Patriots takes 25 min, so enemy in air would be on top by the time Patriots are reloaded; suggest to get moving quickly instead. Or, if all-clear sounded, reload could be accomplished between sortees.

General Assessment of Air and Air Defense

Ratio of enemy air defense is high. We have 336 combat aircraft/helos, plus 168 UAVs. Nearly 2:1 ratio of tactical SAM supplies to aircraft, and almost 1:1 in theatre SAM. However, enemy is extremely limited in theatre SAM launchers, and woefully shy on long-range missiles (only 12 long-range SAMs can be launched at once).

Strategy calls for HARM (50km range) to be used via NOE approach then final popup to suppress the 3 long-range AD assets first, then systematically suppress the remaining 5 PAC-3 systems (30km) using longer range of HARM vs. PAC-3. Once this is achieved, only low-altitude tactical SAMs remain in MP AD defense.

Meanwhile, air superiority should focus on intercept of enemy N of battle beyond SAM range, but shy of Madrid (if allowed by joint exercise referees), using the 'gap' between local battlespace AD radius and theoretical Madrid AD radius.

KLEF has 168 fighter aircraft, Triancia has 48, and 30 in VL OPFOR, for 244 total.

Compared to MP's 22, this is a significant disparity.

If Wingarde is sided with MP, adding est. 192 aircraft to fighter/air superority role role brings this up to 214.

Also changed significantly the factors above for AD saturation against enemy aircraft. However, strategy is still sound. First volley of PAC-2, PAC-3, and SLAMRAAM still outnumbers entire quanitity of enemy aircraft.

Wingarde does not change theatre SAM at all, but does add to tactical SAM quantities significantly, making low-level operations more dangerous.

We are not sure of value of Wingarde designs vis a vis F-15, F/A-22 or Typhoon.

Van Luxemburg

08-10-2005, 14:26

OOC: I wouldn't side my Mirage 2100 to an F/A 22, it pawns it badly. and, the JK-H2 could be seen as a craft capable of airlifting one to two squads, aswell as fighting back with AT/AA rockets and .50/.60 MG's. and, one of the squads can be deployed on the sides, so they're able to engage ground targets from the helicopter.

Listeneisse

08-10-2005, 14:48

ooc: Can you give stats for a Mirage 2100? It's a fictitious a/c as far as I can see. Unless you are flying a laserprinter toner cartridge? You're also pushing FT to declare anything in the air pwns an F/A-22.

While any one a/c might be a superior dogfighter, consider that any one a/c can still be shot to pieces by a Mach 3 AAM or Mach 5 SAM.

Listeneisse

08-10-2005, 15:10

ooc: Okay, if you're up to tossing your helos to the mix, be ready to see a lot of splashes on the ground below. With squads on board, they'll maneuver like pigs. Remember Somalia. Tail shot to take out the rotor, even with small arms or RPGs (never mind Starstreaks) and the thing will come down with a nice thud.

In return, we're prepared to toss in our 48 OH-58D's and 150 UH-60L's on the edge of battle w/ Starstreak and also prepared for ground attack. We'll keep our men on the ground for now, so we can carry sufficient munitions, remain mobile, and keep casualties low.

After a few sortees to clear the air and ground, we can come back for air mobile operations.

Still, this is a slug fest with tons of ordnance and weapons systems piled into a small area, so we might as well come loaded to bear.

Van Luxemburg

08-10-2005, 15:16

OOC: Okay: here's the Mirage 2100:

Mirage 2100 / VDZ & VL JK-F1

Type Multirole Stealth Fighter
Crew Two pilots
Length 20.92 m
Wingspan 10.54 m
Propulsion Two Pratt & Whitney F135, 3d thrust vectoring
Engine Thrust: 2x 18,818 Kg
Empty Weight 15403 kg
Max. Take-off Weight 30798 kg
Max. Speed: Mach 2.5, Cruise Mach 1.0 (no afterburner used )
Range 4000Km
Weapons Carried (when loaded as only weapon):
up to 20 ASRAAM AA
up to 15 METEOR AA
up to 4 JDAM ER
up to 10 AS30 Laser
up to 2 Apache Cruise Missiles
up to 2 Storm Shadow cruise missiles
up to 6 PGM
30mm internal mounted cannon.
small Anti-rocket laser.
Stealth: yes, achied by rectangular angles, RAM, and Athena ECM equipment
Digital skin: Yes, ability to copy it's surroundings and keep itself that way. (Chameleon)
Price: $ 200 Million USD

Cockpit

In the cockpit, minimal use of Analog equipment catches the eye. this is because of Athena, the supercomputer used in the Mirage 2100. Van luxemburgian Scientists have also put great interest in the comfort of their pilots, because a Relaxed Pilot will act better than one stressed and Claustrofobic. the Aircraft has been widened from the last version, to accomodate two pilots, which makes a chance of survival way larger than one. two HUD's and two Multifunctional Touch-screen, Voice-controlled Monitors (TFT) project all information needed by the pilots, and information not showed can be given by a simple push on the screen or asking the Aircraft (Politely). the Aircraft can also be manually controlled by Two Joysticks, which also include all weapon options.

Engines

The Engines are Pratt & Whitneys, also used in the F35 JSF. these produce 18,818 KG of thrust each, and two are supplied. 3D Thrust vectoring (Which cannot be seen on the picture of the Mirage 2100, showing an early prototype on a Perpignan Class CVN.) is also included, which makes the Craft very Agile. at current the Mirage 2100 may be refueled with different fuels, as Bio-Kerosine and Normal Kerosine. Van Luxemburg normally fuels Bio-Kerosine, which is made out of Lineseedoil, which is much better for the environment and for the oil-supplies of the world, but normal kerosine is also possible.

Athena ECM

The ECM system is newly developed by Van Luxemburgian scientists. the Supercomputer, mounted behind the Pilot, scans the region around the aircraft to pick up Radio waves ( electromagnetic pulses, used by Radar) and ahs the possibility to Neutralize them, Jam them or craete many duplicates of any aircraft available in it's built-in database. the Supercomputer sometimes has problems with overheating, the chance is minimal, but Van Luxemburgian Scientists have took no risks and installed heavy cooling devices, done by the air intakes of the Aircraft.

Digital skin

the Mirage 2100 can use it's digital skin to change the color of itself. this "Chameleon" effect is achieved by a pixel skin, which can project it's surroundings on the aircraft. this is done by the Athena ECM system, which monitors the surroundings of the aircraft. the Pixel skin is protected by a Layer of EUROLOOK Polycarbonate, which is transparent, but about as strong as steel. behind the pixel skin is a thin layer of Titanium alloy, to pretect possible penetrations.

Several Modes

The Mirage 2100 employs several modes, such as Assault, Intercept, Take-off, Landing and Emergency.

ASSAULT

The simple form of the aircraft. if this mode has been activated, the Aircraft cannot go any faster than Mach 1.0, but is able to Fire it's weapons. the assault mode will be probably the most used mode.

INTERCEPT

In this form, The weapons will be hidden inside the hull, and special space under the wings. this way, the Craft can get to Mach 3.0, and intercept possible intruders of the airspace. this mode cannot be used to engage other aircraft or to do strikes, it cannot deploy it's gear and movement is limited.

TAKE-OFF

In this position, the aircraft prepares for take-off. the Athena gathers information about the Airfield of Landscape where it would be taking off. the flaps are took in the right position and de-Icing and pre-flight checks commence Electronically. of the aircraft has Taxiied to the Runway, Athena can take-over the Controls and Take-off by itself.

LANDING

In this position, the Aircraft will be taken into the right approach for the given airfield and pre-landing checks and -operations will commence, the gear will deploy. the aircraft will land by itself, using the Athena system once again. when landed, the aircraft will hand the controls back to the pilot, who can taxi towards the general aviation parking.

EMERGENCY

In this position, the Athena system will try to recognise the Emergency and handle the situation. if needed, the aircraft will do an emergency landing by itslef, following GPS or Sattelite information. might the System fail, the back-up of the Athena will commence the operations. might both systems fail, basic Mechanical controls will be handed to the Pilot.

and about the JK-H2, it's a better version of the Littlebird. it's based off the EC145, or EC635 in military version and is a lot more mdoern than those old Littlebirds.

Listeneisse

08-10-2005, 15:32

MP Coalition
VL MP......... 32,000
Vuhifellian St 15,450
Wingarde...... 50,220
_____________________
Total MP...... 97,670

OPFOR
VL OPFOR...... 50,000
KLEF.......... 40,300
Spizania...... 80,800
Triancia....... 7,000
_____________________
Total OPFOR.. 178,100

Uncommitted
Theao (SpecOps)
The Maccabees (Waffen SS)

Van Luxemburg

08-10-2005, 15:35

(OOC: the Vuhifellian States is online, I'll refer him, and I think he'll choose MP side, but that's personal, good allies.)

The Vuhifellian States

08-10-2005, 16:29

Current Vuhifellian Force Deployment Report

Side: MP Coalition
3rd Military Division, 2nd Army
Led by: Major General George Lazuli
Total Forces: 15,450
Total Vehicles: 340

8th Fleet, European, Black Sea Fleet
Led by: Vice Admiral Harold Fenris
Total Forces: 13,700
Total Ships: 8
Total Aircraft: 60 F/A-47's (ooc: Just imagine a combination of an Su-47 and an F-22, I had a pic but I lost it when my old hard drive got fried.)
10 Korsa Dropships (ooc: post stats later)

=====

3rd Division Forces

-Armed Infantry
*3,000 Riflemen (M8's, M320)
*4,000 Riflemen (M4A1's, M203's)
*500 Snipers
*500 Drivers/Weapons operators
*500 medics
*500 Demolitions Experts
*500 Support Personnel

-Logistics
*450 Cooks/loading/unloading personnel
*2,000 Operations Directors/Movement Coordinators
*500 Mechanics
*1,000 Distributors
*500 Intelligence Officers
*500 Financial Handlers
*1,000 Storage personnel

-Vehicles
*140 Warmaster Tanks (Post Stats Later)
*200 Hellcat APC's (Post Stats Later)

8th Fleet, European, Black Sea Fleet Forces

*Carriers
-V.S.S. Louis Mastroeni, Nimitz Class
--60 F/A-47's
--10 Korsa Dropships

*Cruisers
-V.S.S. Michael Daniels, Ticonderoga Class
-V.S.S. Stevan Daniels, Ticonderoga Class

*Destroyers
-V.S.S. Farbanti, Arleigh Burke Class

*Amphibious Assualt Ships
-V.S.S. Tylian, Wasp Class

*Intelligence Vessels
-V.S.S. Milky Way, Andromeda Class*

*Submarines
-V.S.S. David Macker, Ohio Class

*Supply Vessels
-V.S.S. East Point, North Point Class*

*(Couldn't find any class on the net, just made my own, stats coming)

Van Luxemburg

08-10-2005, 16:43

(OOC: Okay. thanks. I think OPFOR can eat his heart out. or better not... I shouldn't know, I'm on both sides.)

Wingarde

08-10-2005, 16:44

OOC: I'll be joining the MP for this excercise. And Listeneisse, you're quite underestimating the MRP-8 Stalwarts: they're equipped with independent suspension and Central Tyre Inflation Systems (CTIS) that'll maintain mobility in the case of the loss of one or all the 8 tyres. Also, I believe what you've stated about my armoured divisions is wrong, but I need to do more research to confirm my claim.

Listeneisse

08-10-2005, 17:03

ooc: The F/A-22 has a range of 3,700 km. Given that your jet is the same class of thrust, but 400 kg heavier T/O weight, your speed and range might be likewise reduced.

If the Mirage 2100 is using the same engines as the F/A-22, how does it achieve Mach 3?

F/A-22 can do Mach 2.2 at altitude with afterburners, though it is the only jet that can hit Mach 1+ without using afterburners (what they call 'supercruise' speed).

The Mirages all top out at 2.2, though the Mirage G can hit 2.3.

The F-14 hits 2.34.

The Su-27, -30, -34 and -35 can do 2.35.

The F-15 can do Mach 2.5, or a little more.

The MiG-25 can hit Mach 3.2, at the cost of the destruction of its engines (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MiG-25)! It, and its cousin the MiG-31, are usually limited to Mach 2.8 (3,000 kph at altitude). It was also a pig of a dogfighter. High speeds do not yield good turning radii.

The SR-71 achieved Mach 3+, but required an entirely different sort of fuel. (It also had a shocking accident loss rating of 20 out of a total 50 aircraft built.) Likewise, it was never meant to dogfight. Whatever ideas people had for it as an interceptor were forgotten and it was relegated to strategic recon.

I can see the Mirage 2100 being a little better than an F/A-22, and a fair bit better than Eurofighter Typhoon. But it should not be considered a "magical" plane.

After all, even a "stealth" aircraft still carries a radar warning reciever. Because the materials and shape are not proof against a lock-on.

Meanwhile... if it's proof against radar? Change to heatseekers. Focus on your bounce.

Van Luxemburg

08-10-2005, 17:40

OOC: only, I was inbound to change the engines when I was corrected that I shouldn't use RL engines, becuase they're far too weak for NS-designed planes. also, it uses RAM and other Radar absorbing materials aswell as an Athena Supercomputer, which neutralizes Radar/Radio waves. also, the craft is way heavier armed, and can use it's Chameleon skin to hide itself. this is all in favour of my craft.

Wingarde

08-10-2005, 19:12

OOC: I've made several changes in the amount of forces involved (drastically increased the amount of vehicles in most of the army units, and added two more transport flotillas to adjust to the change). I've also some counters for Listeneisse's criticism:

Infantry: They obviously possess all kinds of arms for special situations, such as missile launchers for encounters with enemy armoured vehicles and mortars for suppression of enemy positions. They don't use towed guns, since the armoured divisions and air units provide artillery and heavy support.

MRP-8 Stalwarts: As I said earlier, you're underestimating them (read my previous post), they're more reliable than you think. In the infantry and mechanized divisions, they're used mostly as transports, as stated in the list of forces.

KP-3 Guardians: I agree with you on the quantity of them, so it has been raised. Now, I see you fail to realize Armoured Divisions are NOT made solely out of tanks, but other support vehicles and AFVs.

RPW-5 Outriders: I've yet to release specs on most of the vehicles, including this one, but the Outriders are AFVs designed for reconnaisance and support for infantry and artillery elements.

PH-7 Vindicators: Do you really think I'd let these alone and vulnerable when the tanks charge at the enemy? Oh, no. First of all, most of the Outriders in the division stay to guard the close proximity of the Vindicators. And secondly, other Wingardian units can provide further assistance if needed.

ADV-2 Defenders: The range of the Defenders depend on the missiles used, which are not all of the same type. What's more, the Federal Air Force is going to collaborate in a considerable part of the air defense.

The Wingardian units favour versatility, but they were never designed to stand in the battlefield alone. They're always in cooperation with the next unit available. I hope you don't take this as an offense, but you jump to conclusions too much without actually knowing what are you talking about.

Triancia

08-10-2005, 22:15

Looking at the number of forces deployed on either side, I see that Triancia is currently providing a small amount of forces on the numerically heavy side of the equation.

We do have a number of Regiments from the Divsion sent on standby for other exercise, but we would be happy to add them to the force, and possibly switch them over to the MP side. Would this be perferable?

Listeneisse

09-10-2005, 03:02

ooc: Many of my comments were IC. It is fair for me to respond IC? Hope so, please advise.

To: Commander, Wingarde Federal Army
From: General Lord Mordrains Oberica, Kingdom of Listeneisse, COMKLEF

My appologies for the tone of my G2. The Colonel's a good man. A bit zealous, biting, even brutal in his analysis in his analysis. That's what he and his staff do: ruthlessly analyze strengths and weakenesses prior to engagement. Yet, of course, initial assessments can be quite wrong.

Still, we noted your TO&E changed in response to a review of our G2's assessment. Perhaps, if anything, some good came of it all, and we'll see a far more powerful Wingarde Federal Army as a result!

Let me assure you we certainly respect your military, and all our peer participants in the exercise. For us, it is more that we are even in the respected company of so many far larger states. To even be able to field a corps in this exercise is a tremendous step forward for our nation.

The same sort of analysis my G2 provided prior to this may be directed towards any of our peers, and certainly towards our own military. The point of a military exercise is to, of course, learn where our strengths and weaknesses lay long before any of our troops risk their lives in actual engagement.

With that said, let me review some of your positions, and respond personally.

Infantry
They don't use towed guns, since the armoured divisions and air units provide artillery and heavy support.Armoured divisions used in support of infantry have been practiced by many nations in the past. The greatest deficiency in the scheme tends to be that the armour wants to, generally, move fast and strike hard, while the infantry wants to, generally, minimize their own casualties, thus moves cautiously.

Air assets also cannot provide sustained support. They sortee and return to base. With a combat turn time typically of 25-30 minutes (20 minutes in the case of an F/A-22, but that has no ground strike capacity), and round-trip of 760 km from Madrid taking about another half-hour of flight time even at supersonic speeds, air power cannot be consistently available. They'll drop their ordnance, and you'll see them again in an hour.

Aircraft are of course magnificent for precision, and have the capability to strike swiftly and deep into enemy territory from range.

Yet in this exercise, with its limited geographic scope and presence of significant SAM defenses, they are likely to spend a fair amount of time dodging themselves.

Possibly calling on the armoured division's artillery for infantry support was noted by our G2:
Also means SP howitzers are supporting tanks rather than infantry, unless they put armor divisions in infantry support role or divert assets.Doctrinally we feel this is a sub-optimal condition, as the armoured forces are then tethered to stick close to the infantry in order to maintain tactical radio range with the artillery. Say, for instance, the SP guns are positioned 10km behind the infantry line. This means the armour cannot range more than 25 km away from the infantry's front.

In this particular exercise, given the small geographic area, this is not so much of a hampering. But in a large mobile field battle, that's a half-hour's drive forward by the armour when suddenly the artillery drop off tactical radio communications.

Our tankers like a bit more independence. We give them SP guns, but we also give the infantry their fair share as well, so both can be independent units of maneuver and indirect firepower. (More on how we deal with this below.)

The G2 did note:
Inf Div lacking integrated Arty or AD. Unsure about mortars or towed guns assigned to infantry, but no SP mortars or arty.G2 was commenting mostly on the lack of organic heavy indirect fire, either towed or SP howitzers and mortars, which was percieved as a deficiency.
They obviously possess all kinds of arms for special situations, such as missile launchers for encounters with enemy armoured vehicles and mortars for suppression of enemy positions.I do hope to hear more on how you are organized. Since we are to meet each other in battle, feel free to keep a few tricks up your sleeve. Perhaps we'll speak more at a debriefing after.

We presume man-portable ATGMs are issued liberally, as in most armies.

If you have no towed assets, then we are wondering if you are using, at best, an 81mm-class mortar? Again, forgive my assumption, and if you are using something else for organic indirect support, please let me know.

We provide crew-served 81mm platoons at company level. They have an excellent rate of sustained fire (up to 16 rounds per minute sustained, or 33 rounds in a one minute burst), and a fair 5.7km range (usually beyond ATGM or even MBT main gun range).

Yet we found a dedicated 120mm mortar carrier, capable of keeping near 70 rounds on board, was the best decision for brigade and divisional support. The extended range means they can provide counterbattery fire on medium and light mortars and guns, and provides quite a punch upon landing. It's the 120mm mortar we use for supporting our forces at brigade and divisional level. It can take out anything it needs to, from MBTs to bunkers. Quite affordable too, compared to howitzers. Firing on the move is also vital in the era of swift counterbattery action. And especially necessary escorting rapid armored forces.

The biggest detriment we found with the 81mm mortar was carriage of the tube and ammunition (at 4.5kg each) for dismounted infantry. At 16 rounds per minute, and 4 tubes in the platoon, everyone in the company ends up needing to carry 2-3 mortar rounds to assist the mortar platoon if it was to keep up an extended barrage.

While that's certainly can-do, and can happen in prepared operations, we found the 60mm mortar (range 3.5km, sustained 20 rpm, burst 30 rpm; shells weigh approx. 1.8kg) was a better choice for dismounting soliders who might need to egress quickly from their vehicles and not see them again soon (possibly for a few days). We issue one per platoon, so that each platoon commander can 'root out' problems on the local level, or at least lay suppressive fire.

This complements the 40mm grenade launchers in each squad, since those only have a range of 400m.

We also have Mortar Fire Control Systems (MFCS) for all our 81mm and 120mm tubes, which helps vastly reduce set up time (down to 1 minute from 8 by manual preparation) and accuracy. (Ghastly expensive yet. We're working on affording them for the 60mm mortar crews too; meanwhile the 60mm crews cluster around the mortar platoon's 81mm crews if that's tactically possible.)

This gives our infantry personnel and commanders an effective and complementary suite of indirect fire weapons.

Infantry Carrier Vehicles: MRP-8 Stalwarts
Here you will have to excuse my G2 staff's prejudices. They like tracks. Yet like yourselves, our Royal Marines and the Grail Templars quite prefer their wheeled vehicles.

Individual blown tires are generally not so much of a problem, but we have found fire has presented a problem. Tires burn. Incendiaries are quite useful against them. We're generally looking at issues of external fire suppression on all our vehicles anyway, but we're specifically looking at fire suppressors for the wheel wells on our carriers too. It won't be a factor for this exercise, but we felt this was a prudent defensive consideration if operating in areas with irregular forces, rebellions or insurgencies which might use "Molotov cocktails," especially jellied petroleum. Similarly, we've been investing in anti-RPG cages as a stand-off defense. They need to be installed after air transport, and considerably add to the weight of the vehicle, but if it saves it from an RPG-7, by God, it's worth it.

By all this, I mean to say, I am quite keen to inspect the MRP-8 Stalwart personally. We have a lot to learn about wheeled vehicles and their combat operations. Please feel free to surprise my G2 with their value.

Armored Forces
KP-3 Guardians: I agree with you on the quantity of them, so it has been raised.I was surprised when I heard about the extensive change to your divisional structure based on our assessment. (I took to remind our G2 not to get a swelled head about it.)

Please accept my apologies again if you took offense at the G2's wording. Yet perhaps this has worked out for the betterment of your armed forces.

Lastly, for nomenclature. Each nation shall use terms as they see fit, of course.

What is in one nation a corps can be a division in another, or a whole army in a third.

We therefore shall apologise beforehand. If you look at our tactical maps, we will use the notational symbol for "brigade" on your armoured divisions. We note you have quite upscaled them, and also split your organization between a combat division and a logistical division. Most TO&Es include support, maintenance and logistical personnel within the combat unit itself. Again, this took our G2 by complete surprise.

You have produced an operational force of manuever with the striking power of a brigade or small division, with only the manpower of a regiment. For that, my hat's off to you, sir!

Still, 120 MBTs for an armored force equates to a brigade-strength combat team for us. Even combining the Armoured and Logistics Divisions would equate to manpower we typically associate with a brigade.

RPW-5 Outriders
I've yet to release specs on most of the vehicles, including this one, but the Outriders are AFVs designed for reconnaisance and support for infantry and artillery elements.Here we are curious why you are using ground-based AFVs for recon versus UAVs or manned helos. Perhaps we might have a chat on reconnaissance afterwards also.

PH-7 Vindicators
Now, I see you fail to realize Armoured Divisions are NOT made solely out of tanks, but other support vehicles and AFVs... Do you really think I'd let these alone and vulnerable when the tanks charge at the enemy? Oh, no. First of all, most of the Outriders in the division stay to guard the close proximity of the Vindicators. And secondly, other Wingardian units can provide further assistance if needed.Well here you confused me. A reconnaissance vehicle can either be forward, reconnoitering, or it can be back guarding a self-propelled gun, but it cannot be in both places at the same time. Then I read your words again and reviewed the new WFA order of battle, and I see in this case you are keeping the Outriders as IFVs, similar to the way we keep our battalion of infantry in our Amoured Brigade:

1st Armored Brigade:
5,500 men
128 MBTs
36 IFVs
60 LOSAT HVATGM Launchers
40 SP 120mm Mortar Carriers
18 SP 155mm Howitzers
12 CLAWS SLAMRAAM Launchers
12 NBC Recon vehicles
A few hundred miscellaneous command and control carriers and trucks.

So we fully understand combining of arms and weapons systems. Here, as you can see, we likewise keep a battalion of infantry in IFVs to screen the indirect support assets, and to follow closely with the armor in front-line-capable vehicles.

Also in our case, all the indirect fire assets of the brigade are capable of firing on the move. They are there to obliterate anything standing in the way of our armor, staying a kilometer (or ten) out of range of direct fire response.

The support personnel of the Brigade are also used as infantry in brigade defense, of course. Our staff are still quite curious how you trimmed TO&E down so low to field your forces. Are you using autoloaders on all vehicles? What is the size of the squad carried on an IFV? Again, feel free to keep that a "trade secret" until de-briefing if you wish.

ADV-2 Defenders
The range of the Defenders depend on the missiles used, which are not all of the same type. What's more, the Federal Air Force is going to collaborate in a considerable part of the air defense.So you have equipped them with what precisely? Pardon me, but I must press. For there's a tremendous difference in weight between a man-portable laser-guided SAM, a medium-range radar-homing missile that takes a crew to reload, and a Patriot launcher that takes a crane to lift. While there can certainly be a difference in guidance packages, such as IR, radar-homing, and laser-guided munitions, the class of weapons varies greatly in weight and range. I can't see a Patriot PAC-2 launcher being successfully mounted on light tactical SAM-oriented vehicle.

If anything, I am somewhat concerned our own Armoured Brigade does not have organic tactical SAM systems. It has its medium-range AD, and hundreds of shoulder-fired tactical SAMs, but both require stopping or dismounting to fire. We'll be getting a unit of 8 Stormer Starstreaks from the AD Battery to escort the Brigade. (A full battery is 36 vehicles, similar to your 30 ADV-2's.) They're far more useful for escort of armored forces against low-flying incoming aircraft, since they can fire on the move and can operate in passive mode without giving off a radar signature. I've made a note of this already for our post-op briefing.
The Wingardian units favour versatility, but they were never designed to stand in the battlefield alone. They're always in cooperation with the next unit available. I hope you don't take this as an offense, but you jump to conclusions too much without actually knowing what are you talking about.Not at all! This is the volley of words before the volley of battle.

While we have been severe at times in our critique, we have also been operating with fair play in mind, and a bit of sporting competetiveness. It's not about bragging, it's about brass tacks. To show our militaries for what they really are, and what they can and cannot do. At least, as best as simulated battle conditions can prove.

If we can face the worst in ourselves, we can make a better armed force for our people and our nations. Certainly feel free to make suggestions or observations about our own conduct and equipment.

We are quite eagerly looking forward to the exercises. Please let me know if you have any further questions or clarifications.

Cheers,

Gen Lord Mordrains Oberica
Kingdom of Listeneisse
COMKLEF

Listeneisse

09-10-2005, 03:32

To: Commander, Triancia
From: General Lord Mordrains Oberica, Kingdom of Listeneisse, COMKLEF

Quite sporting of you to defect to MP Coalition from OPFOR! Yet strategically it would only be shifting a small percentage of overall forces, altering from approx. 98,000 vs. 178,000 to 104,000 vs. 171,000.

If this battle was to simulate disparity, presuming initiative to an offensive operation (i.e, advantage OPFOR), it is presently appropriately disparate.

A 2:1 ratio for offensive operations is considered adequate, though we'd be hesitant to say it would be a quick or easy victory given limited mobility in mountainous and desert region.

To truly make the sides more even, KLEF would need to also change sides, making MP Coalition 138,300 vs. OPFOR 130,000. In such scenario, Triancia could still join either side and there would not be much of a swing in either direction.

However, it would produce nominal ground force parity, if we are to have a straight-up donneybrook.

In reality, not every battle is sportingly even. Forces may be required to see how they can fare in defensive situations at wrong odds. While knights of old were chivalrously capable to switching sides in a melee and joining with smaller teams, at the end of the day celebrating with their enemies over a mead, and while we can as well switch sides and celebrate the conduct of our exercises, in modern war, real war, we may find ourselves facing the cold gaze of fate in many fights.

While in this situation OPFOR has numerical superiority, this unevenly-sided battle might prove just the lessons that VL might wish to drill home into their defense forces. And if OPFOR cannot pull off a successful offensive given 2:1 odds, it certainly will be a lesson we should bring home to analyse our failures.

We, for one, laud Triancia's willingness to defect in the sake of fair play. Yet we urge them to stay with OPFOR to see through what shall happen given the national forces arrayed as they are at present.

Yet if need be, VL may also ask KLEF to switch to MP Coalition if desired to make even-sided battle.

As it stands now, this is an engaging action to slow or halt a far numerically superior OPFOR offensive.

Changing Triancia and Listeneisse to MP Coalition would make it more of a strong counterattack by MP, with intent to drive OPFOR back.

There are lessons to be learned either way, disparate or evenly-matched. We of course leave this up to Triancia's own conscience and Van Luxemburg as the host nation and shaper of events.

Respectfully yours,

Gen Lord Mordrains Oberica
Kingdom of Listeneisse
COMKLEF

Listeneisse

09-10-2005, 06:47

Dozens of amphibious assault ships, fast RO-RO and LO-LO cargo vessels, and humble-seeming container ships filled the Golfo de Almeria. A vacation cruise ship was gliding along placidly in contrast to the assembled armada.

It was a sunny autumn day, with a light breeze on the waters. Gulls curiously hovered or flocked nearby as the sound of diesel engines belched, and vehicles poured off the ramps. Massive helicopters occassionally wuffled by overhead, carrying trucks, artillery pieces, or armoured troop carriers slung underneath. Smaller helicopters darted back and forth to the assault ships to fetch troops. Heavy hovercraft were carrying a tank apiece to a low landing beach they had found outside the city. Any method to get vehicles ashore was being employed. And it always looked impressive on television.

Many vessels had already disgorged their contents at the three main piers, or muelles. Tracked and wheeled vehicles by the thousands were threading their way up the Carretera de Malaga to reach the A7. Others had been diverted west along the Parque de Nicolás Salmerón to reach the AL-12.

For many of the town's 170,000 inhabitants, it was a holiday. Traffic was going nowhere anyway. Hawkers were lined up to try to sell things to the foreigners, or to the people watching the Kingdom of Listeneisse's Expeditionary Force disembark. Many were taking pictures. A local radio station van had speakers blaring Latin dance music.

From the deck of a transport ship, Major Cadoc "Amazing" Grace, commanding officer of A Squadron, 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, looked up at the ancient castle of Alcazaba overlooking the city to the northwest.

It had been fashioned centuries ago by the Cordoban Caliph long before there was a unified Spain. Long before Van Luxemburg had united the continent.

Over the centuries it was modernized and made large enough to hold up to 20,000 men to drive off the Barbary pirates. For a moment he wondered what their old smoothbores cannon would have done to the hull of a modern container vessel anchored offshore.

He thought about how it must have been considered vast during its day. Twenty thousand troops were a tremendous army to maintain.

"Where are you going to put the other 20,000?" he wryly asked the Mediterranean wind.

For the Kingdom of Listeneisse Expeditionary Force, KLEF, was landing with forty thousand.

Tens of thousands more from other participating nations were en route from Cadiz, Malaga and other ports along the southern coast, stretching all the way up to Cartegena. A quarter million soliders were about to take part in a vast military exercise further inland hosted by the continental-sized nation of Van Luxemburg.

Shifting his gaze further west his eyes drifted to the Coast Guard station at Castillo de San Telmo on the Punta del Rio. He raised his field glasses to look at it better.

"Nice day for fishing," observed the Staff Sergeant.

"Or a rugby match," he quipped back.

"Oh, don't get me started!"

They both laughed.

"You'll have your scrum soon enough," the Major assured his long-time companion.

Ironically gazing at the backed up line of military traffic, the mustachioed Sergeant replied, "It certainly looks like the traffic trying to head to see a good scrum!"

Soon their own vehicles would be being prepared for offload. Their Squadron had been first loaded in, meaning last loaded out.

"We'll be off in a jiff, sir."

The Major only nodded in reply.

Offloading had been somewhat slowed by the rate the massive ships could be piloted in to the muelles. That had actually helped ease traffic out of the city.

Even once the troops were debarked, petrol, food, and countless tons of other goods would follow.

There must be some other holdup on the route north, he thought to himself. Perhaps a traffic accident.

Checking his watch one last time, he turned to Staff Sergeant Cadrieth ap Gandwy, "All right. Let's shove off."

Following after the Major, the Sergeant reminded him, "We'll let the ship shove off, after we get our tanks ashore, sir."

"Quite."

Van Luxemburg

09-10-2005, 07:41

Madrid

Several Eagle IV armed reconaissance vehicles drove by the Grand-Ducal palace there, closely followed by an enormous number of trucks, also carrying tanks and other heavy equipment. first the JK-V6 trucks passed, closely followed by DAF TROPCO's, carrying several AMX-30B2 MBT's, aswell as Leclerc's. they luckily didn't had to carry the JK-V1 Bashers, which were an awful lot heavier. at a distance, all wheeled APC's passed, which had flashlights installed to pass through the holiday-traffic. Holidays just ended in Van Luxemburg, and everyone was on it's way back. that's quite logical; it's October. altough it was October, it was still quite hot in Madrid. 32 Degrees Celsius. it would be getting hotter and hotter, until they entered the dusty desert. crowds gathered around the covoys passing through, the last one had been some time ago, during the liberation of the Van Luxemburgian Cruising Lines Liner VLS "Koen", somewhere in August. but now, it was a bigger convoy, even including armoured vehicles.

Almeria

Several C-17 Globemasters deployed their landing gears, to land at Almeria AFB, Van Luxemburg's location for sorties over the Alborán sea. they arrived at their gates, assigned to them by the tower, high up above them. As soon as the loading ramps were opened, several military personel stormed towards the JK-V6 trucks readied at Almeria AFB. they were part of the engineering division, and their Material already was shipped forward.

(OOC: It would be appreciated to make the sides even, greatly appreciated even. and, what i said earlier, Van Luxemburg is a man-made Europe, an almost exact copy of Europe, except for some details, such as military bases and Autoroutes, which are quite large here in van Luxemburg, mostly consisting of up to 6 lanes on each side. EDIT: my copy of Codename: Panzers, Phase one has just arrived, so I'll be online, but I could also be playing.)

Listeneisse

09-10-2005, 08:14

A collective groan marked with laughter went up throughout the hold of the RO-RO cargo vessel as Major Grace made his way to his command vehicle. He could see that the vehicles ahead of his tank squadron were just pulling out. Soon it would be his turn.

"What is it?" the Major asked.

"We've defected."

"Pardon me?"

His officers confirmed the news: General Orberica, Commander of KLEF, had agreed for their nation to switch sides in the joint military exercise. Instead of being OPFOR, they were now part of the "MP Coalition."

Part of the traffic backup had been to divert units already en route up the coastal road instead of heading straight over the mountain passes.

The Major asked his officers to maintain discipline and get their tank crews ready. Loud barks and hand gestures from the Sergeants and Royal Navy personnel kept the line of vehicles moving off the ship.

The Major stowed his field glasses, climbed aboard his own command vehicle, strapped on his helmet, and checked his tactical radio mic. His driver was already idling the engine.

Meanwhile, over the tactical radio, some of the boys had decided to start up another round of "Row, Row, Row Your Boat." They liked to sing it. It drove the Royal Navy lads batty.

It drove the Major batty too, but he did not tell them to secure the channel.

Watching the progress of his squadron from the open hatch, Major Grace reflected on what was to come as the vehicle lurched out into the sunlight.

Van Luxemburg

09-10-2005, 08:59

Northeast of Tabernas

Soldier 1st class Namen, Belgian, walked towards a tent marked HQ Div 21.
he had a note with him, showing that Listeneisse troops had joined the MP side. meanwhile, he saw large loads of buses driving by, all in the same monotone green colour. they were carrying soldiers towards their locations. he entered the tent, not seeing the person walking in behind him. he put away his FN F2000 and put the note down on the table.
"Message from the KLEF, sir."
"Well, Well, what does it say, Namen?" the person behind him knew his name, and was interested in the note. when Namen turned around, he saw a person he knew. very well actually.
"Mr..... Sir... Your Highness...."
"just Grand Duke, or even better, make it Koen, it's better for me. "
behind namen was the Grand Duke of van Luxemburg, wearing a battledress meant for High Commanders of the Armed Forces. together with a baret, it didn't look that bad on a person who was used to signing peace and war, Namen thought.
"S..Sure Mr. Grand Duke Koen."
"Ha! you seem to be cautious, isn't it? Commander! promote this man to Corporal and sign him up for the commanding course"
"Ofcourse sir, I'll do it immediately." Commander Yakov turned around and looked something up in a box.
"Namen, here are your insignia's, and course starts this spring, understood?"
"yes sir!" Namen almost ran out of the tent, but was able to keep it's calmth.
"It's great. okay, where's my heli, I need to recon the area."

Wingarde

09-10-2005, 16:03

OOC: Before I elaborate my insertion plan, can I deploy from Almería? I'll be entering the battle site from the southeast, as opposed to the VL forces, which'll arrive from the northeast.

Spizania

09-10-2005, 16:14

The Wingarde-Built Stratolifters had landed an hour ago and were now unloading the equipment neccesary for the operationn,

"We are assisting OPFOR in this operation, we will dpeloy here on the eastern flank of teh OPFOR forces along the southern edge of this valley, we will use our Paras and Air Cav to secure a beach-head on the northern slope once the battle is engaged, the Arabanistani Highlanders will then cross the valley on our motorised cable harnesses and reinforce them, oru armour will advance around the western end of the valley and destroy the enemy armour before completing the destruction of any remaing enemies, artillery will eb key on this battlefield so make sure mortar teams are up on their game, understood, GOOD LUCK"

Triancia

09-10-2005, 21:49

The Triancian M1068A3 was like it was at every other major engagement: cramped, loud, and sweltering. The heat was by far the most horrendous part of the operation, the body temperatures of four bodies in a cramped space compacted by running electronics, engines, and the new, damned desert sun.

Most usually wished to be in the Arctic at this point, but all rationally knew there was no reason for their unit to be there. The engines probably wouldn't have turned over anyway.

"Brigadier O'Rielly! Commodore Halley for you, sir!"

Shawl looked back a bit, and reached behind him, grabbing the handset from the Warrant Officer with a bit of a nod. Commodore Halley was running the naval operations, and, surprisingly, preferred to be with his transports and tin-cans than one of the three carriers the Federal Kingdom was fielding.

He spoke into the mic, "John! How long until those RORO's of yours can get here?"

"The heat must be killin' brain cells, Shawl!" The scratchy voice in the earpiece replied. "I just finished offloading your other four Regiments in the damn port here, and you want me to pack them up, sail around Europe,into Gibraltar, and offload them again in 12 fuckin' hours!?"

The Brigadier shook his head. Worth a shot. "Fine, Fine! John, just be ready to move to another locale in a day or two. I've got two Regiments, here, and believe me, I want all six of them at the next exercise! EXCOM out!"

He clicked off the handset, and sighed. This meant he would be an insignificant element in a large OPFOR, two mobile fire brigades that probably would matter as much as a single man in a division.

He leaned forward, and pressed a few button's on the MFD in front of him, bringing up the latest SAT maps of the area.

Guess he was just going to have shine through strategy, then.

"Warrant! Colonel's Franklin and Rochst on conference, now!"

OOC: Don't have time to post strategy just yet. Will do later in the day.

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 00:16

The column of over 3,000 vehicles tried to space itself ideally about every 30m. Ostensibly it spread over 90 km of highway, trying to stay to the right to allow civilian traffic to pass. Unfortunately, it was only 82 km from the port of Almería to the assembly point at El Pilar.

As vehicles plowed into the assembly point, being directed off the road to sites to park and bivouac, kicking up dust from the desert, the column behind it compressed.

It was often stop-and-go, with vehicles bumper-to-bumper at places (though the armoured vehicles didn't actually have bumpers). In other locations there were bigger gaps, and speeds increased. But the rate of advance was never faster than about 50kph at best.

Occassionally command or scout vehicles took to the faster lane to roar ahead. In other places, traffic backed up just as it would during any rush hour. Last-minute stragglers were still coming up on the rear of the column. Petrol trucks were parked to the side at various shoulders and turn-offs so no vehicle would run low at an inconvenient moment. Temporary road signs were placed at exits marking "KLEF POL" with large arrows.

Vehicles varied from massive Main Battle Tanks and long-barreled self-propelled artillery, to huge lorries bearing large surface-to-air missle cannisters, to smaller 2.5 or 5 tonne lorries towing 105mm howitzers or 120mm mortars. Fleets of myriad 4x4 vehicles sported all sorts of mounted machine guns, antiaircraft missiles, towed radar arrays, or Red Cross symbols, marking them as mobile ambulances.

Somewhere in the middle of it all, Major Grace watched the column's tail lights from his M1068A3, a tall tracked system that served as mobile headquarters. It was a foreign-designed vehicle. Ungainly. Most had been dubbed "Turrets" or "Rooks," or, unflatteringly, "Mobile Coffins." They had been talking about replacing it with something a bit less conspicuous for some years now.

The rest of his Squadron lurched behind his command vehicle. The Troop commanders all were in MBTs, but the Squadron Commander was supposed to stay back and out of the way of the scrum. He sort of envied his subordinates.

The sun was lowering behind the mountains to the west. They had been on the road for a few hours now, and were nearing the turn-off to the northwest.

The slow rate of progress was also for safety reasons, especially the civil populace. It would not be good to see the headline tomorrow reading, "Foreign Tanks Crush Car!"

Making sure he was solely on the vehicle net, and not the Squadron broadcast, he called over his headset and asked the driver, Corporal Stewart, "Stew, how would you say 'Foreign Tanks Crush Car?'"

In reply, he heard, "Hopefully you wouldn't! Did that happen?"

"No. Just checking."

"Eh. Let me think."

After the round of song had (thank the Lord) died off, the Major had took to occasionally pepper his driver about how to say a number of things in Spanish. He had not been the first. Once news spread to the crew that Stewart could speak en Español, even on the voyage over, he was of keen focus from all the lads looking to meet señoritas bonitas. Yet Major Grace was married to a wonderful woman and had a marvelous fair-haired daughter. He kept his interests purely professional, or at least, topical to what might happen on the exercise.

Stewart finally answered, "Something like, 'Los tanques extranjeros machacaron el coche.' Tanque is tank and coche is car."

"You're not looking this up in a dictionary, are you?"

"No, sir! Eyes on the road. I just couldn't remember the verb 'to crush' for a bit."

"Roger."

Approaching the highway turn-off towards the Sorbas Gap, Major Grace spotted the local Policía working with Royal Military Police directing KLEF traffic north and westward. Civilian traffic intermittantly was allowed to dart ahead and through the huge tanks and infantry fighting vehicles.

They disembarked at 1422. It was now 1658. They'd be in bivouac well before nightfall. There was time to settle, eat dinner and gather with the men before a late Brigade briefing scheduled for 2200 after the Lieutenant-Colonel spoke with the Brigadier and Generals. In the morning they'd deploy before dawn. "No rest for the wicked."

The column slowed more as the roadway narrowed and rose over the mountains. It doubled back often and rate of speed decreased so that no tank would accidentally ramble down into the ramblas.

This was a terrible place for armour. The artillerists were all talking about it like shooting fish in a barrel. A large basin with poor roads and many heights from which FOs and UAVs could easily make out columns of advancing vehicles kicking up dust.

Their only hope was if they could kick up enough dust so no one would be seeing more than a sandstorm below.

He could only wonder what the general staff were deciding on the plan for battle. They obviously needed to work double-time, with the last minute change in sides. He didn't envy the boys in G2 tonight.

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 00:42

Because of VL request to make the sides as even as possible, the following seemed to make the most sense. Please confirm.

KLEF is now part of MP Coalition.
Triancia remains in OPFOR
Total ground forces are only 200 men difference.
Still need list of combat vehicles/aircraft/misc. materiel equipment from all participating states.

MP Coalition
VL MP......... 32,000
Vuhifellian St 15,450
Wingarde...... 50,220
KLEF.......... 40,300
_____________________
Total MP..... 137,970

OPFOR
VL OPFOR...... 50,000
Spizania...... 80,800
Triancia....... 7,000
_____________________
Total OPFOR.. 137,800

Uncommitted
Theao (SpecOps)
The Maccabees (Waffen SS)

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 02:48

I removed transport aircraft from the totals here, but left the transport helicopters since they might be used for tactical lift or for ground attack role.

MP Coalition

382 Fighter Aircraft
170 Attack Helicopters (presuming the Champion is an attack helo)
48 Observation Helos
247 Light/Heavy Transport Helos
60 Air-to-Air Refueling Tankers
12 AWACS
180+ UAVs (various roles)

VL MP
20 Rafale Fighter aircraft
2 Mirage 2100 Advanced Multirole Stealth Fighter
10 Tiger Attack Helicopters
20 NH-90 Tactical Transports
5 JK-H2 Utility helicopters

The Vuhifellian States
(Carrier-Based)*
60 F/A-47

Wingarde
(Land-based Air)
128 WF-27 Firebolts
64 WF-33 Avengers
40 WR-6 Champions
36 WT-19R Skymasters (Tankers)
8 WR-4 Sea Rangers*
?? TD-3 Sentinels
(Carrier-based Air)*
16 WF-33 Avengers
25 WF-27C Firebolts
4 WE-10 Overseers
6 WR-4 Sea Rangers
(Other naval-based Air)*
35 WR-4 Sea Rangers

KLEF
(Land-based Air)
84 Eurofighter Typhoon
84 F-16D
120 AH-64D Longbow
48 OH-58D
150 UH-60L
48 Heavy Helos [UH-53]
24 SpecOps Helos [MH-53]
12 "Kites" ("Growler"-equivalent)
12 AWACS
24 Tankers
120 ATGM UAVs ["Predator"-equivalent]
48 Tactical Recon UAVs
12 Strategic Recon UAVs
12 Rescue/Medivac Helos - (available in case of accidents)
(Carrier-based Air)*
24 F/A-18F
4 AEW Aircraft
8 ECM/Ground Strike Aircraft ("Growler"-equivalent)
6 Airborne Refuelers
24 AH-64D Longbow
6 MH-53
6 UH-60L
(Other Naval Air)*
48 ASW/AMCM Helos [UH-60L]
_________________________________________

OPFOR

256 Fighter Aircraft
48 Ground Strike Aircraft
32 Attack Helicopters
63 Observation Helicopters
46 Transport Helicopters
4 AWACS
14 Air-to-Air Refueling Tankers

VL OPFOR
30 Mirage 2000-5 (Gibraltar)
15 Gazelle Helicopters (observation)
20 Super Puma (transport)
14 Airbus A310 MRTT (Tankers) -- "Neutral" - May also refuel MP

Spizania
36 WF-33
48 Sandstorms (http://modernwarstudies.net/worldatwar/viewtopic.php?t=1379)
144 Lu-45 Hawks (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=446421)

Triancia
24 F-15E Strike Eagles
24 F-22 Raptors
4 E-3 Sentry
32 AH-64Ds
48 OH-58Ds
26 UH-60s
8 EH-60s

* For now, presume carrier-based air, though definitely in range, may be held back by VL as arbiter of exercise. Also unsure if Wingarde Sea Rangers would undertake air-to-ground mission. Otherwise, these assets may be added in.

Triancia

10-10-2005, 03:47

O'Rielly had the overpowering urge to hit something, but he'd been a senior officer long enough to know you didn't do that in front of subordinates. You had to be the demigod of the unit, the guy who knew everything about the enemy, and who had the power to smite them off of the earth.

Reality was a bitch, however.

These exercises would include all branches of the Triancian military, at sometime or another, and, therefore, were being looked at by the high-up brass in the Defense Department and the Presidency. It was here that proof would have to be shown that an 'experimental' Army unit could out-perform a Royal Trancian Marine Expdetionary

But it didn't look like that would be happening in this first exercise. Shawl had a force of 7000 men, separated into two regiments, which barely made up 3 percent of the OPFOR. Worse, he was now expected to be on the offensive, in an area with little room for maneuver, and the perfect terrain for the enemy's arty, which, he reminded himself, he had little of a force to engage in counter-battery fire.

The Air Force he had expected to help him push forward had turned out to be just as insignificant in the numbers category as his Regiment's had, and would be hard-pressed to defend their airspace, much less conduct raids into enemy territory.

But there was nothing to do but press on. He would be damned if his men had to go back to the massive, decaying Patton fleet, to two-bladed Huey's that would have look shoddy in 1971, and to the scraps of the other three services.

So, he must dispense with the science of war, and observe the art.

In this situation, holding steady would simply result in a better-organized MP force striking him in defensive positions, and, by virtue of better numbers, wiping him out after a furious but short battle. He had to maintain the initiative, along with the rest of the OPFOR.

Beyond that simple tidbit of universally accepted strategy, and semi-arrogant platitudes in his mind towards ‘reinventing’ modern warfare right here in Andalucia, the Triancian EXCOM would need to confer with his ‘allies’, Spizania and the Van Luexumburg Civil Defense Force.

And he would have to make sure he wrote the plan up so Triancia would engaging the Wingardian force. Can’t have the new allies get on the ‘useless Army’ bandwagon, now, could he?

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 04:01

Highly disparate forces in air forces vs. comparable ground strength between MP Coalition, OPFOR. We'll need to see what Spizania brings.

KLEF, VL, Wingarde have air-to-air refueling. This will help "top off" outbound aircraft as well as refuel; maximize time in air for CAP and relieve sortees from airfields. Of course, aircraft returning from engagement will still need to land to rearm, and crews will need to be brought down after long patrols. (Perhaps airborne refueling assets present but not noted by other powers?)

KLEF and Wingarde only forces fielding UAVs. Note to exercise referees proven airborne recon and ATGM/Ground Strike capability. Also note autonomous ops programming and RTH capabilities in case of jamming (simulated or actual). In fact, point out the EW/ECM jamming pods on the big boys.

KLEF has dedicated EW aircraft. In fact, we've invested heavily in ECM. This might prove interesting if "stealth" aircraft thought to use radar homing against non-stealth forces. We've even gotten AN/ALQ-211's installed on the helos. Should degredate or deprive everyone of most RH missile use, including SAM. Laser-guided systems are, of course, an entirely other matter.

OPFOR has AWACS, but may be pressed to defend in the air given present disaparity.

Some nations are sporting sealth aircraft with adaptive visual camoflage ("chameleon") surfaces. However, they leave an IR signature just like any other AC. Thrust is thrust, and it comes out hot. They also leave visual contrails like any other aircraft during rapid maneuver at altitude. We are working to use IR sensors to pinpoint and paint with a tracking ground-based laser. While they have light-absorbing surfaces, it's near impossible to completely absorb a strong laser. Of course, it's possible to detect lasers. (We have laser designator warnings on our AFVs, helos and most jets.) We're trying to see if we can work up a few laser designator units for "bird watching." If we can get speed/bearing/altitude/vector data, even sporadic, we can plot for intercept. OTH radar detection will prove difficult on these, but not impossible. They are also possible to detect via triangulation from AWACs and ground-based radar. We are working on a computer programme, which will not be done until after the exercise, of "probable target detection," which combines multiple radar system signals and analyze for a likely hidden fellow. It will likely give false alarms, but it is better to give too many warnings than too few. It will not be possible to have this system in time for exercise. Instead, there will be manual guesses. Will advise on these developments.

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 06:30

To: ALL ALLIED MPC FORCE HQ (VLMP, TVS, WAF)
From: COMKLEF

WFA is the largest force present in MPC. Suggest they take lead if possible.

Where should deployments be made relative to front? Presume initial line of deployment NW-to-SE in front of El Pilar.

How far can we deploy from initial staging area? What is radius of deployment for initial operations? We'll need a good few square km for all the troops we have brought.

Looking at Sorbas (http://www.mispueblos.com/thumb.aspx?f=4507608337.jpg&w=350&h=350), it looks like a town that would be difficult to take if it was not taken early. Deep gully running beside highway. Bluffs beyond would be hard to scale, impossible for vehicles to climb.

G2 indicates that there is more rough terrain before our starting position than in front of Tabernas. However, they have significantly better heights E and N of Tabernas which have coverage of approaches.

Suggest initial drive S to Sorbas, E to Uleila del Campo, then work way around and along mountains in pincers, clearing central advance up middle.

Question is who takes which road of advance?

Gen Lord Mordrains Oberica
Kingdom of Listeneisse
COMKLEF

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 08:04

Each commander of the foreign armies is sent a loaf of locally baked bread, along with a bottle of locally-grown Castillo de Tabernas olive oil (http://www.castillodetabernas.net/eng/menu.html), a bottle of Pers La Dionisia 2002 wine from Bodega Agrosol (http://servicios.elcomerciodigital.com/gastronomia/articulos/040401a.htm) of Lucainena de las Torres, and bread which had been baked fresh this day in Los Josefos, a hamlet of Sorbas, in a traditional rural oven near a small bed and breakfast (http://www.allbedandbreakfast.com/bed/bed-breakfast.php/bbID/1197).

A note accompanies the offering:

It was at the Castillo de Tabernas where Christian monarchs accepted the capitulation of Almería from the Moors. While that war was in earnest, today we partake in an exercise to prepare our nations for the preservation of their peace. As the olive branch is the symbol of peace, perhaps it is fitting that now olives grow in the fields before Tabernas.

Let's see if we can keep our vehicles clear of the olive groves and vineyards. We're allowed to send in patrols on foot, but we've been asked to not destroy the local economy if we can help it.

The entire region is going to be in for a surprise. "Almost the only sounds that can be heard are the those of the bird song and goats bells."

Today, they'll be hearing more than that. Let's not scare the goats too badly.

Cheers,

Gen. Lord Orberica
COMKLEF

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 15:35

Paydirt! As promised, sir! An update on stealth countermeasures.
IR and IR laser probably best way to establish visual signal. Aircraft surface temperatures cannot be hidden even by visually adaptive camouflage. Typically stealth aircraft exhaust outlets are hidden by fuselage designs, but actual fuselage temperatures caused by friction of air over surfaces, even differences from surrounding air temperature as small as 1 degree C, show up vividly on IR. You can't dynamically refrigerate the whole skin.
"Look-down" or "look-up" radar systems far more effective to find/acquire lock on target, since profile of aircraft cannot be hidden from top/bottom. We use our strategic recon UAVs and AWACS to best effect and get higher than typical CAP and ground strike altitudes. If they "go low" we spot them from altitude. If they try to "go high" to target the UAVs or AWACS, then ground-based radar will see them using look-up scans. Side-scanning is also far better than front-scanning, so surrounding the battlespace with a constellation of AWACS or strategic UAV recon drones is better than spotting them from narrow-angle.
High 'false positive' systems can also be employed, which might find actual birds as opposed to aircraft with signatures of birds. However, a bird with a doppler shift of 400-1000 kph is no gull. Computational power is needed for this, but it is possible if we don't mind seeing cluttered radar output. We then need to clear our clutter of real birds and focus on fast-vectoring targets.
As we thought, best solution is called 'bi-static' or 'multi-static' radar systems, which use multiple recievers all searching for the same bounce from another radar transmitter. It's not as hard as we thought, and it's been done before (q.v. Roke Manor).
JTRS as basis of multistatic radar detection grid: Instead of using the cell towers (as per Roke Manor), we have -- I mean this sir -- somewhere about ten thousand Joint Tactical Radio Systems (JTRS) across KLEF. Each vehicle, each infantry squad, and each commander. We need to have only a fraction of those modified, but still a significant number, reprogrammed for passive monitoring of reflected signals along certain RF frequencies used by radar. Using GPS fix on the vehicle, Doppler shifts, plus other data we can get sent back from the JTRS, we can gather all the data back at Theatre AD HQ comp cluster, correlate, triangulate, and plot ourselves where our birds are flying. Once it gets inbound within visual distance, we lock on with IR lasers.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

After reading the briefing, Gen. Lord Orberica chuckled and smiled, "Someone in G2 just earned himself a grade promotion."

He wasn't sure whether they'd have the programmes and modifications by the time of the exercise, but it was something they'd have to seriously check out once they were back home. The Air Force would surely be all ears.
_________
Sources
aviation: Scouting For Surveillance - Detection of the B-2 Stealth Bomber And a Brief History on “Stealth” (http://www-tech.mit.edu/V121/N63/Stealth.63f.html)
Stealth Technology (http://www.engineering.com/content/ContentDisplay?contentId=41010021)
Tamara Radar Systems (& Rumors) (http://www.aeronautics.ru/tamara02.htm)

Van Luxemburg

10-10-2005, 15:44

From: High Commander Yakov, VLA
To: MP Force HQ/ COMKLEF

we could live with the Wingardian lead, as we're used to serving under Foreign Armies. it is however the question if Wingarde can accept this. this is not our case, and we'll not do any decision for them. we will however try to surprise any OPFOR by coming from unusual roads with a small force, and climbing high mountains. remember, the Divisions sent by Van Luxemburg are mostly trusted with the area, or come from the vicinity of this area. our armoured units and other vehicles will follow Foreign units.

(OOC: okay, let's see.
1. don't worry about my refueling capability. I only mentioned fighting units (Which should include AWACS however.) and my Airbus MRTT's are always ready for takeoff.
2. for any info on my nation, again, read this (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=8829923#post8829923) I have seen some RP'ers ( not to insult anyone) using Europe as a referral. remeber, nothing is exactly the same. some cities are bigger and house better or other facilities, but it'll become clear if you read my factbook included in the link. thanks in advance. )

Listeneisse

10-10-2005, 15:54

(ooc: I understand you are 'Europe-like' and not precisely Europe. I've just been enjoying looking up info on Andalucia and finding out about olive orchards in the middle of our battlefield. Certainly feel free to correct me or anyone else if we stray too close to the 'real world,' and you want to alter details. For instance, in my nation, which is roughly based on UK, we have yet to include 'London' anywhere. That's in 'some other nation.') :)

Van Luxemburg

10-10-2005, 16:04

(OOC: I'll sure do, thanks. but you may understand that most people don't know my nation and sometimes assume it's Europe, which can be very frustrating.

Wingarde

10-10-2005, 16:34

OOC: VL, you haven't answered my question.

OOC: Before I elaborate my insertion plan, can I deploy from Almería? I'll be entering the battle site from the southeast, as opposed to the VL forces, which'll arrive from the northeast.
I can't continue until I get an answer. Oh, VL, start writing in your NSWiki entry so we can a little bit more about your nation. :)

Van Luxemburg

10-10-2005, 16:42

OOC: that's OK with me. and about the wiki articel, I was planning on starting one, but I dumped the plan, I may work on it in the future. btw, do I have to assume the "The GLM Isn't to be followed" thread has died?

Wingarde

10-10-2005, 17:02

OOC: No, no. Just put it on hold. By the way, I assume I can use Almería's airport too, right?

Van Luxemburg

10-10-2005, 17:10

OOC: Ofcourse.

Spizania

10-10-2005, 18:03

OOC: I will be deploying 144 Lu-45 Hawks, 48 Sandstorms and 36 WF-33s

Wingarde

10-10-2005, 19:10

Task Force Fenrir, off the coast of Almería...

"All stop!" Admiral Friedmann ordered, his elderly voice inspiring admiration in his subordinates, while gazing at the pleasant coast of Almería, the would-be base of operations of two thirds of the Wingardian forces involved in the MILEX wargames.

"Yes, sir!" His first mate promptly replied while other officers forwarded the orders to the other ships in the task force, which in turn mimmicked the flagship, gradually slowing down to a full stop.

The large, awe-inspiring WFN Nordheim, third Wingardian aircraft carrier to be ever built by Ravenholm Shipyards, and her many escorts in diamond formation around her positioned themselves about three kilometers into the Gulf of Almería from the city. Meanwhile, the six transport flotillas, carrying the Army and Air Force units, passed by south of Task Force Fenrir, at about 20 knots and towards the city's port.

15 minutes later...

Almería's seaport's harbour was filled with S3-class transport ships sailing towards the docks and unloading their cargo down their massive ramps. Seemingly endless columns of military vehicles rolled down them, flanked by equally substantial lines of soldiers from the 4th Infantry Division and 2nd and 6th Mechanized Divisions. The Air Force elements were immediately deployed at the local airport, where they'd operate to constantly assist allied forces and maintain air superiority in the set battlefield.

After a couple of hours, the Army forces had already organized themselves into the pre-defined groups. The very long column of vehicles started rolling along the E-15 not long after that, regular drivers staring in awe as KP-3 Guardians passed next to them, dwarfing their tiny civilian cars. They would've panicked for sure if they hadn't been informed about the wargames by their government. The battlefield was just over 80 km away, the Wingardian forces would be there on time.

Van Luxemburg

10-10-2005, 20:35

High up above the Battlefield...

The 6 ASC-6 Faucon, or Wingardian WF-33's, had slowed down to just above stall speed and flew over Tabernas. in the lead ASC-6 was the Grand Duke of van Luxemburg, scanning the battlefield, while piloting the craft.
"Royal 1 to Royal all, possible hostile on 11 o'clock"
"Roger, arming missiles"

what was flying there, was an Airbus A310 MRTT, which was there to eventually refuel the ASC-6's. it wouldn't be attacked by the craft, but was merely used to keep the pilots on their seats and in their role.

"This is Royal One to Oiler One, in need of some essential goods, out."
"Roger."

The ASC-6 slowly approached the Airbus from behind, while the hose came closer and closer.
"Contact, ETA 2 min."
"Roger, awaiting fuel"

after some time over the Battlefield, the Grand Duke returned to it's palace, near Malaga.

Wingarde

10-10-2005, 21:24

OOC: A little note: my forces do employ tanker aircraft (check the Federal Air Force section of my list of units, they've been there from the start) and UAVs (TD-3 Sentinels, check the Wingarde Aerospace catalog for stats). I haven't included the latter in my forces list because I consider them equipment or ordnance (depending on their configuration).

Oh, and another thing, do any of you use MSN Messenger? It'd be useful to have each other's addresses to communicate better in some situations. :)

Listeneisse

11-10-2005, 01:18

Updated Aircraft Listing (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?p=9775201#post9775201):
Added Spizania aircraft (not sure what "Sandstorm" is, please confirm type; couldn't find stats).
Added VL Airbus A310 MRTT Tankers; unsure of quantity; presume service of both sides of conflict and may be considered "neutral" (i.e., not valid to target) -- please confirm both points.
Added 36 WFAF WT-19R Skymasters (pardons for missing it from your OB).
Added placeholder for WFAF TD-3 Sentinels; unsure of quantity.

Triancia

11-10-2005, 01:27

OOC: Here's a question: Can one force 'attack' another before they arrive at the battle point, through naval arty, aircraft, and such?

Listeneisse

11-10-2005, 03:02

Flying over Almería at an altitude of 2500m were a flight of F/A-18Fs assigned to No. 1 Naval Fighter Squadron, based off the RNL Parzival.

Commander Ionn Jones and his wingman, Lieutenant François Belgeste, along with their respective WSOs (Weapon Systems Operators), Midshipman Dorothy Croft and Sub-Lieutenant Jacques Buveur chatted and watched all that was happening about and below them.

As part of the fleet CAP assigned today, they had been watching the squadrons of Firebolts and Avengers landing by the score at Almería's modest airport, and the slow whales of troop ships lumbering in towards port.

The Midshipman, affectionately called "Kansas" for her name and oft-windblown hair, was the youngest and least experienced, still not twenty, which was why the Commander had her with him. They were not likely to need a Weapons Systems Officer for ordnance delivery today, so he wanted to give her experience on radar ops and other sensor suites.

The other F/A-18F's crew chatted away in French, but broke into English whenever they had a salient observation. François was known as "Beau" or "the Legionnaire", as a pun on his last name, and Buveur was called "Drinker," an ironic literal translation of his last name.

The Commander's own first name was morphed into "Ion." They painted a small atomic symbol on his helmet.

The Royal Navy of Listeneisse amphibious assault and troop ships had already disembarked their loads, and were anchored a few kilometers away to make room for the new fleet. A steady line of Royal Marines helicopters could be spotted on radar at low altitude thudding their way over the mountains of the north like ants on the march back and forth to a picnic, staying clear of Almería's busy air traffic.

Occasionally fighters from the RNL squadrons would make a lower pass near the port, and do swift rolls overhead in salute, but the Commander was tasked to keep his aircraft higher up, ostensibly on Combat Air Patrol.

The fleet at first was a cautious 50km out to sea -- a typical distance to avoid shore bombardment when in foreign waters. But when the other navy showed up, apparently the Admiral felt it was better to bring it closer to also "display the colors" within clear view of the shore. After all, this was a peaceful exercise.

Even so, they were still a few nautical miles further out into the Golfo de Almería than the Wingarde navy. You'd have needed a good pair of field binoculars to get much of a look at them from the shore.

Switching his radio to a communications frequency identified to be used for squadron communications of the WF-33s, he called over to the allies for the joint exercises.

"This is RNL 1011 altitude twenty five hundred meters bearing 110. It's a good day for some exercise. It's a shame we'll be missing out on the fun. Enjoy and tally ho!"

Listeneisse

11-10-2005, 03:12

ooc: Following up on Triancia's good question, can we have a sort of schedule of events?

1. Start Time

2. "Reinforcement Schedule" if you want to artificially hold back any forces (such as numerically superior WP Coalition aircraft)

3. Duration of Event / End Time (one day pre-dawn-to-dusk? midnight? 2 days or 3?)

Edit: Other observances...

(This is an FOF -- Force on Force -- exercise, not live-fire. Presume we all have MILES and Link-MILES-type simulators for ATGMs, SAMs, etc. ACMI or URITS pods on aircraft for real-time flight recording, and so on.)

Van Luxemburg

11-10-2005, 16:58

1.: as of RL time, I will have to TG Theao and the Macabees, as they haven't responded, but they're quite busy as I've heard, so I'll start it from tomorrow 4 o'clock GMT +1, seasonal summertime. for example, at my home, which is GMT +1, the clock shows 17:55 now.
2.: ofcourse, this is possible. I won't employ all my Rafales and Mirages at the same time, get it?
3.: let's say 3 RL days, time given to start, till 3 days later, same time.
4.: the MRTT tankers are available to both sides, and count 14 tankers. which can refuel 2 at a time.
5.: Wingarde: I don't have MSN or any other, but expect me to register on MSN for this event. I'll give you my adress somewhat later.
6.: Yes, this is all linked to a central MILES center, located in Almeria.

Van Luxemburg

11-10-2005, 18:38

OOC: okay, Win, I've finished my registration, and I'm now downloading MSN 7.5
My adress:
kvluxemburg@hetnet.nl

this can also be useful for others. and, late on the evening I'm mostly using another computer, so I can't be reached on that one.

Spizania

11-10-2005, 19:28

http://modernwarstudies.net/worldatwar/viewtopic.php?t=1379
A "Sandstorm" is a monster tank buster.

Van Luxemburg

11-10-2005, 20:31

Study of the Van Luxemburgian Landscape around Tabernas/Almeria

The landscape around Almeria and Tabernas is largely the same with the RL Europe, but isn't completely the same.

for example, the houses are different. the dusty village of Tabernas, with it's wild-west style houses has been replaced by a modern average Van Luxemburgian village, single-familiy homes, pools on the edges of the large gardens.
http://www.spainrentalsdirect.co.uk/images/andalucia/almeriaprovince/properties3-4bed/mojacar/moj006/mojacar-accommodation-1M.jpg
also, the farms in the region have been renovated and show the same line as in the villages. large, white houses with pools and possible even tennis fields.

in Almeria, almost nothing has changed. most old buildings have been renovated or even completely rebuilt, and most houses have been fitted to the wishes of the inhabitants. this could include luxury as Saunas and Jeu de Boules fields. around Almeria are a civilian airfield, Almeria Los Alborán, with place for 20 major aircraft (Airbus A380) together with an Van Luxemburgian military airfield, Almeria AFB, which can house around 30 major aircraft.

Gibraltar hasn't seen much of a change either. the harbour has been enlargened and more land has been gained from the sea around Gibraltar airport, so it can house more aircraft.

Madrid is absolutely not changed, except for the governmental buildings, who have become the seat of local provincial authorities. the palace of the Spanish king has become a Grand-Ducal palace, and is sometimes inhabited by the Grand duke, who's now at his palace in Malaga, for the MILEX.

Wingarde

11-10-2005, 23:18

Panther Flight was one of the air elements currently carrying out patrols around Almería and Task Force Fenrir, their home base. The four Avengers were cruising between the sparse white clouds above the bay. From their cockpits, the pilots could see the seemingly tiny ships dotting the blue sea below: the task force in diamond formation a few kilometers from the city, the transport flotillas reorganizing after unloading their cargo and the Navy's supply ships positioning themselves between the coast and the allied vessels.

The Panthers' not-particularly-exciting patrol was interrupted by the Listeneissian message, standing out of the usual chatter in the channel between the pilots and the ships below. "This is Panther 1: altitude is two-seven hundred meters and heading two-six-four. We've been ordered to provide air cover to the MP forces tomorrow. Ready to kick some OPFOR arse? Over."

Listeneisse

12-10-2005, 00:32

"Good hunting, Panther 1! We'll be relegated to cheering from the stands. Too many aircraft already. They've already dubbed tomorrow as 'phone booth dogfighting.' Not much elbow room. We'll be waving an MP Coalition pennant from the sidelines."

"Olé toro!" chipped in an eager female voice. "¿Dónde está la Corrida?"

"Don't mind my WSO, she's gone batty for bullfighting. She thinks she'd look quite fetching in one of those vested sequined suits."

"Traje de luces!" the female voice confirmed.

"Yes, well, she's just a novillo -- novilla? -- for now. We'll be staying out of the bullring."

This was followed by a brief squelch, which might have contained a sigh.

"Good luck!" the female voice finally wished the Wingarde flyers.

"Over," she added belatedly.

Van Luxemburg

12-10-2005, 14:04

"This is OPFOR Patrol, it seems we have the wrong frequence, do you mind that we're listening?"
The 5 Mirage 2000-5 aircraft fired up their engines and took off from Gibraltar, leaving a steady trail behind them.

Van Luxemburgian MILES Command to all, we're starting exercise 1, I repeat start of Battle 1 is now 10 minutes away, over.

(OOC: so, 10 RL minutes to start.)

Van Luxemburg

12-10-2005, 14:22

Van Luxemburgian MILES Command to all, START, It's a START!

MP
The code to attack. everyone knew it. Van Luxemburgian Army 21st division started to move through the mountains.
"get the damned Rappling hook here!"
"yes sir!"
"Okay"
Corporal Namen fire the rappling hooks from the attachment under his FN F2000, and allowed the squad to climb up. after that, he climbed himself and pulled up the hook. they walked further.

meanwhile, a few hundred metres away, the MLRS got it's coordinates to fire and attacked the village of Tabernas, using missiles that would set off in the air and hurt nobody. altough, the computer calculated were it would fall as a real rocket, and countd everyone in a radius of 10 metres dead. when a building was hit, damage to the building would be calculated.

OPFOR

some time later, the five Mirage 2000-5 on patrol in the area started to look out for an MLRS, but couldn't find it, because of the location of the vehicle, camouflaged in a garage of a local farm, while not firing.

at the same time, Van Luxemburgian Civilian Defence Forces moved through the village of Tabernas, which had been shelled just before, by their artillery. what they didn't know, was that they also had received fire from the MP MLRS. 1,000 men moved through the village, fielding their VAB APC's.

Listeneisse

12-10-2005, 15:49

KLEFHQ

"Sir, STRATREC reports forces deploying through Tabernas. They are mostly civil defense infantry. Artillery is prepared to fire and requests approval."

Gen. Orberica deferred, "Hold the fire mission. Let the units pass through the town, and hit them when they get into the clear terrain beyond. There's a wide swath of open area between the town and the next clear cover beyond that. Pin them in the open, them make them wish they stayed in Tabernas. Also, cut off the town from behind with interdicting fire so that the rest of their vehicles will have to take a long way around. Split them up, and drive them like cattle! They can follow STRATREC reports for positional updates."

"Yes, sir."

"Also, I want you to hammer any single radar array that dares peep. Our aircraft are high enough to avoid MANPADS. But if there's any RH signals, we take it out immediately."

"Of course!"

"Meanwhile, get our armor rolling down the road back towards Sorbas. Link up with WAF. Shadow behind the crests. It's morning, the sun is rising from the east behind us. Let's use our cover to advance down towards Sorbas and then hook west once we have the whole line covered to WAF frontage. There's no good angle for a shot; they'll be hitting ridge tops above us, or far slopes beyond us. Once we get that line established, we make the crest, set up overwatch positions, then advance towards Objective Line A beyond: Ramblas de Sorbas, parallel to the A-813. If MP establishes that line from Uleila del Campo to Sorbas, we have a solid front. There's only three places over the river, and I didn't hear anyone else brought bridging equipment besides us."

"Yes, sir!"

"Where is their armor now?"

"Still leaving the staging line, General."

"Then, if the long guns want some practice, they can execute fire for effect on them. It's still a bit too far for mortars and light guns. If they want to come out and play, we'll be waiting. It's 12.5 km range from Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/) to Venta de los Yesos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/venta+de+los+yesos/Mapa-Zoom/). I want to stop them cold there. Right at that intersection."

He gazed at the map and thrust a finger "What's this?"

"It's a bridge over the..." here he could not make out the abbreviation, "B-c-o del Perar.. er... Peral?, sir."

"Yes, well, it won't be a bridge any more. Get Lat-Long on it and take it out. If you do, they have no direct highway to Sorbas. Also take out the bridge behind Tabernas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/tabernas/Mapa-Zoom/). Trap them on the west side of the Rio de Tabernas. If anything, they can spend the morning cursing that they didn't bring bridging equipment to the desert."

With a wild whoop of laughter, a fire order went out with the coordinates, "MLRS Fire For Effect!"

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Up on a rocky position, known as Hill 610 to the south-southeast of El Puntal (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+puntal+%282%29/), a Royal Artillery Forward Observer watched through field glasses. Not the ground, but a tiny speck in the air about 300m above the small farms and field below, drifting along at a lazy rate.

The small reconnaissance UAV he was watching was still 10km from enemy lines. Too far for a short range surface-to-air missile, and just a bit too small and slow for most radar to care. Even if they did fire a million-dollar-plus medium-range SAM at it, they had four more of these piled up ready to be lofted in trucks sheltered in the ramblas down below.

"How's she doing?" he asked the UAV operator.

"Quite nicely. All clear up the middle. We probably won't see anything for a bit."

Looking eastwards at the sun cresting the peaks, he could already tell it was going to be a scorcher.

Listeneisse

12-10-2005, 15:59

"This is OPFOR Patrol, it seems we have the wrong frequence, do you mind that we're listening?"

"Not at all!" replied Commander Jones, "but you best put on some afterburner. I believe the exercise is ready to commence."

His wingman commented over his squadron frequency, "Ceci amuse très!"

"J'ai parié que nous serons victorieux!" assuredly added his WSO.

"Naturellement!" concurred the Lieutenant.

Van Luxemburg

12-10-2005, 16:22

Wingarde

12-10-2005, 21:45

"General Strauss, it's time." A young private informed the commanding officer of the Wingardian Army forces, who was taking a look ahead from the hatch of his command MRP-8 Stalwart, using his binoculars.

"I understand. Thank you for the information, soldier." Strauss nodded at the private, who prompty left towards one of the land radar coverage Stalwarts. The general went inside his vehicle for a moment and ordered his communication officers to transmit the news and orders. After a little while, he popped out again, half his body outside and the other half inside the armoured vehicle. He raised his hand in the air and motioned it forward. "Armour divisions, to Tabernas! ADVANCE!"

With thunderous sound, the KP-3 Guardian main battle tanks began rolling forward across the arid, mountainous landscape, kicking up large clouds of dirt behind them and fanning out to minimize indirect damage. Meanwhile, RPW-5 Outriders were charging ahead of the group to spot enemy positions in the proximity. Approximately half of the Outriders, however, stayed behind, guarding the PH-7 Vindicators and patrolling the vicinity. A third of the available ADV-2 Defenders moved forward with the tanks to provide part of the air cover. Two flights of WR-6 Champions also joined the Guardians to provide additional support, flanking the main tank group.

The 2nd and 6th Mechanized Divisions waited several minutes and rolled behind the armour, taking position in their rear flanks. They advanced with most of their Defenders to enhance air support without weakening the rearguard, where the main infantry group and pieces of artillery were.

In the mean time, the 4th Infantry Division patiently waited for the attack group to deliver a solid, decisive punch at the enemy garrison in the village of Tabernas. Only when its defenses had falled would they move forward to claim the town and guard it from the enemy.

One Air Force squadron, two WF-27 Firebolt flights and two consisting of WF-33 Avengers, were assigned to maintain air superiority in the battlefield, protecting the ground assets and eliminating the enemy's, along with their aircraft. Two WT-19R Skymasters were also assigned to the battle area to provide inflight refuelling to increase the permanence of allied fighters in the scenario. Additionally, five WR-6 Champion flights were sent to provide ground and limited air support (two of them are advancing with the armoured divisions).

Meanwhile, in the air...

JLt. Diefendorf's air radar display began blipping, showing five dots flying in formation several kilometers away from the squadron, a lot closer to one of Listeneisse's fighter flights. A few smaller dots were moving considerably faster towards the allied aircraft. "Five bogeys, bearing two-three-two, altitude three-five hundred meters." The third pilot of Tiger Flight immediately reported over the secure squadron channel.

"Roger that, bandits confirmed, bearing two-two-nine. Tiger Flight, cleared to engage. Break and attack!" The squadron leader replied, and four WF-27s detached from the formation and screamed towards the Mirage 2000-5s.

"Bandits in range, ready AIM-120C missiles." Tiger 1 ordered over the comms channel and received acknowledgements shortly. The four Firebolts flew in delta formation until all the missiles locked onto each of the Mirages, except one. When all the lock sounds began blaring, the Wingardian fighters almost simultaneously fired off their AIM-120Cs from their mounts below the right wings. Tiger Flight split in two and dove into two different clouds, disappearing from normal sight.

Triancia

12-10-2005, 23:07

OOC: Listeneisse, I'm having a bit of trouble finding these locations. If you're using Google Earth, mind sharing the coordinates?"

Triancian 8th Cavalry, 4 kilometers from Tabernas City Center

The thunder of the Listeneissian rockets could be heard even at this distance, but the more experienced of the unit (of which there weren't many) didn't consider it much of a threat. If those enemy gunners were smart, they'd be moving between volleys. Besides, they didn't seemed aimed at the town...

"Oh, son of a BITCH!" Colonel Franklin cursed. Under his breath, of course, so no one else in the command vehicle could here what he was saying. It seemed the enemy arty was headed behind them, hitting the bridges he'd just ordered his men across. He contemplated ordering his men back across before simulated rounds turned a perfectly good bridge into a perfectly good bridge with 'DSTR' stamped over it on OPFOR maps.

"Sir! C Troop, 2nd Squadron reports it's scouts made contact with an enemy armored force approaching... No, no, wait, scouting elements of one, sorry. D Troop's spotted a few tanks, and is pulling back." The Staff Sergeant gives a grim smile. "Both report Wingardian designs."

"Well, the Brigadier will be happy the first encounter of the exercise will be against them. Not sure I like dying this early, however." He rubbed his eyes a bit, and consulted the TIDS in front of him. "Alright, I want all troops to pull back from scouting positions, and to start moving west along the Rio de Tabernas. I want a fighting withdrawal: take a tank out, move back." He indicates a few locations with taps of a stylus. "And, because I don't like waiting, mortar fire about eight-tenths of a kilometer behind the observed enemy scouts. Hopefully, we can get some of their artillery." He points to his radio operator. "You! Get me whoever's in charge of the VL CDF. I want to know what kinda rockets they've got."

Throughout the area, the Triancian’s did just that. They had shunned digging in, thanks to the enemy’s superior artillery, and had decided on fighting backwards, thinning out the numbers of the enemy in their retreat.

A Triancian ST-21, falling back across the hills, spots a Triancian KP-3, and fires a practice shell from its 145mm cannon at it. It is the first Triancian shot of the exercise.

Triancian 10th Cavalry, Sorbas

Shawl looked at the TIDS screen with a bit of tribulation. "Alright. It's begun." His drawn face might have convinced the uninformed that this was a real battle, rather than an evaluation of skill and tactics between friends.

In a way, though, it was a real battle. If he lost, the 8th and 10th might be annihilated, only with the stroke of pens, rather than the boom of guns.

“The minute we’ve got our Forward Air Base set up, send the 8th it’s gunships. That should help even the odds. I want an EH-60 in the sky with the CAP at all times, as well.”

Triancian Strike Force, skies over the Exercise Area

The Air Force, however, had no such worries about them. It was a friendly little game, to them: Some air strikes here, a bit of dog fighting there, then back to Gilbralter for a nice drink at the nearest bar.

This particular flight was on a Search and Destroy mission, 8 Strike Eagles hunting down enemy artillery, covered by 8 more Raptors, and all tied neatly together with an Sentry for command and control.

“Hey, Wing!” The voice of a Senior Aircraftman came over the intercom. “I got a lotta what look like Wingardian Aircraft, count tree-six or so, bearing tree-wun-tree, range… 45 kilometers. Looks like there over Tabernas.”

The Wing Commander responded from her seat in the cockpit. “Thanks for the heads up.” She sighed. She, like everyone else, knew their orders. They were hunting artillery, and anything protecting it. She sympathized with the Army, however. If anyone asked her, they’d hear that this exercise was rigged from the begging to show RTMC and RTN superiority. Fuckin’ Royal Navy already had enough aircraft-

“Hey, I think I got something, here. Wun-zero-fower, twenty klicks, at thirty-five hundred meters.”

“That’s a bird, Eggles. It’s moving too slowly for an aircraft.”

“What bird hovers in place for the better part of a minute? Thing’s a UAV!”

“We might as well check it out.” The Wing Commander wiped out any further argument, before clicking on to the net. “All flights, vector to wun-zero-four, switch radars to ATG.”

OOC: I don't suppose I could bring in more forces if things start to go badly?

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 00:38

"Haha, vous? Vous etes ne victorieux pas! Ha!"
the Mirage 2000-5's engaged their afterburners and checked their MICA missiles, ready.
"Okay, lock, lock.... FIRE!"
a MICA missile initialized and locked, whereafter he launched from his location under the wingtip and began to lock at the F/A 18's.

The AN/ALQ-165 Self-Protection Jammer Pod's alarm sensed the radar "painting" and immediately went into action warning the crew with a persistent warble.

The Commander barked severely, "VL OPFOR, we are not in this exercise! Repeat! Off-shore aircraft are--"

"Damn!" he ordered "Kansas" to activate countermeasures and deploy the AN/ALE-50 towed decoy so the hounds had another fox to chase. She did so and punched the button to activate the AN/ALQ-165's jamming as he banked to perform evasive maneuvers.

His wingmen did likewise and uttered some colorful words in French, a language designed to decimate egos and express wounded prides.

"What are they doing?" the Lieutenant indignantly wondered.

"I have no idea."

Calmly, even as the radar detection and incoming threat alarms warbled, he checked the Advanced Targeting FLIR for the incoming aircraft type, turned back on his radio, and asked in a steady stern voice, "VL OPFOR Mirages, this is Royal Navy of Listeneisse Aircraft One-Zero-One-One, and wingman One-Zero-One-Three. We are not, repeat, NOT part of this exercise. Please stand down. Repeat: STAND DOWN. Turn off your targeting radar and vector your attacks against someone in the exercise, unless you want to have one very angry admiral wanting to speak with your commanding officer when this is done. We suggest going after the Wingarde Air Force, as they are ground-based aircraft actually engaging in today's exercise, and seem to have already drawn a bead on you."

"Hold on, it's time for a bit of tornado-riding," the Commander warned her. "Kansas" was suddenly holding on for a far wilder experience than she had prepared for.

Meanwhile, the Commander reminded himself that this was only an exercise, not life-and-death, and rapidly started calling back to the Parzival and the rest of the CAP aircraft over the fleet, and alerted them there were trigger-happy Mirages inbound from Gibraltar. The WAF looked like they already had matters in hand.

Wingarde

13-10-2005, 00:58

"FUCK!" The commander of one of the Guardians swore loudly, his insult echoing inside his compartment, as the MILES screen notified his tank had been eliminated. Why? There were over 350 KP-3s with him, the enemy fired a single shot, and they precisely had to hit HIM?! The officer swore again, but was a tad calmer. "This is Guardian 131. I've been destroyed from an enemy impact from the southwest. Pulling out..." He informed the command vehicle, instructed his driver to turn around and left the group.

Everyone in the attack group had seen the blast of a single tank up on the hills to the southwest. "Foolish..." The general thought to himself before sending orders to three of his tanks. "Units 276, 94 and 202, fire at the enemy armoured vehicle on the hills." Strauss then send the approximate coordinates to the tankers in question and the whole artillery line behind. The three indicated Guardians pivoted their turrets toward the enemy attacker and fired a total of three successive shots of their 125 mm smoothbore cannons.

Several kilometers east of the tank group...

"Understood. Five barrages and wait till further orders. Ja, Herr General." Major General Kunstler, commanding officer of the 4th Infantry Division, acknowledged Strauss' orders and immediately had the Vindicators fire at the proximity of the indicated coordinates, hoping to hit hidden enemy assets. The PH-7's rolled into optimal positions for firing, rose their 155 mm cannons to an appropriate angle and waited for Kunstler's final confirmation. The infantrymen moved back several meters from howitzers.

"FIRE!" The Major General commanded, and all 90 PH-7s opened fire at different points within 250 meters of the designated target area. The ground itself shook five times, dust raising from it and covering a good part of the units there. Several soldiers were rather stunned after the five ordered barrages had been fired, but the buzzing in their ears faded out after a few seconds.

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 02:19

The Major got an urgent message from forward recon. Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/) somehow had an armoured force, likely a Cavalry Regiment in it, not of Wingarde Federals, but Triancia's.

"How in the devil--?"

"I have no idea, but that proves they're cavalry, sir."

An armored cavalry regiment against a reinforced armored brigade was going to be a good fight, but the outcome was likely pre-determined. The OPFOR was caught behind Wingarde's line, which apparently swept west by 8-10 km, bypassing Sorbas entirely, possibly via Lucianena de las Torres (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/lucainena+de+las+torres/).

He had one of his men radio Brigade HQ, who related to WAF to warn them they had a significant armoured presence in their rear area of operations, and also alerted KLEFHQ.

The Brigadier also ordered the long-barrelled 155mm guns and 120mm mortar carriers to disburse and deploy behind low ridgelines. As soon as they were ready, the guns began lobbing their practice rounds over arcs from well over 10km away. They'd then scramble, and not return to the same fire position. They had approximately 9 square kilometers to play "hide the battery," but the Cavalry regiment was not likely to have much in the way of counter-battery fire regardless. They just wanted to avoid getting hit by any other forces plotting their trajectories.

Meanwhile, A Squadron was in the lead, and the Brigadier wanted to confer with Major Grace over the radio how to tackle Sorbas. The problem was that the main line of fire directly to the town had a wonderful hill in the way. It was nestled in a valley behind the hill, and along ridgelines around the ramblas. The main highway ran through the middle, bisecting the town. The Ramblas de Sorbas cut through the valley the road went through, cut under a bridge of the main highway then turned north to the west of the town. It had cliffs far higher than you'd want to jump off, never mind run a tank over.

Two approach roads ran east and west, leading not to the town itself, but to highway intersections on the main road running west towards Tabernas.

The eastern approach, which they had been following, ran through a small set of homes 2200 meters before the town, with a collective population of 41 persons, named El Majordomo (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+mayordomo/). Without asking Stew, he knew what the term meant, "The Butler."

"Please make arrangements for the head of the household," the Major wisecracked, "Company's come for dinner."

The western approach was their original objective line along the Ramblas de Sorbas. There were two bridges they were to take. The first bridge, in the middle of the MP front, stood as the highway straightened and ran through the middle of a vast olive orchard. The second was just before the main highway intersection with the A-370.

There was also a bridge right in the middle of Sorbas where the A-370 ran over the Ramblas.

The western approach was exposed. The northern bridge was given over to 1st Mech Division as an objective. They'd swing out against it from the ridge line.

The Armored infantry battalion were to assault over a kilometer of rough terrain north of Sorbas, which was upwards of 30m above the center of the town and filled with cliffs and gullies. Being higher than most of the town, it was mostly protected from direct fire. Still, they were to keep their asses down to avoid HE, machinegun fire or any indirect fire the cavalry regiment might be able to call in.

Meanwhile, unengaged airborne forces were ordered to deploy a regiment of troops along a ridge line southeast of town, using the steep valleys to avoid their approaching helos from being spotted. Once on the ridge, they were to advance to Hill 469, an overlooking position 40m above the town and a bit over a kilometer away protected by a sheer cliff carved by the ramblas.

They were to bring as many ATGMs and mortars as they could carry.

With a constant barrage of artillery, 1st Armoured Brigade approaching from the north, and pinned in the south by crossfire, unless the enemy forces pulled back or scattered, it would be like shooting at a large, very expensive parking lot.

There was one option left open, which was a retreat to El Barranco de los Lobos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+barranco+de+los+lobos/). Stew said it meant "the Precipice of the Wolves."

It sounded practically spooky. The Major pitied his counterpart in today's battle.

"Stew, what did you say 'Sorbas' means again?"

"Suck."

"Yes, well, Triancia is about to find out that Sorbas, does indeed, suck."

With that, the entire brigade opened fire.

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 02:59

OOC: Listeneisse, I'm having a bit of trouble finding these locations. If you're using Google Earth, mind sharing the coordinates?"
ooc: I've been using the very wonderful site of Pueblos de España (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/). It has details of just about every tiny villa you can imagine, including distances from town-to-town (though that's driving distance, not as-the-howitzer-shell-flies). I'll made links before in an earlier post, but I've included links to the map locations for each town cited in my posts now. I also was using Mapquest to get the names of highways.

In the air over Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/)

While the ground-pounders were plotting fire, the Royal Air Force of Listeneisse was not going to sit back and simply wait this one out. Apparently there was a squadron or so of attack helicopters on their way inbound. They were moving far too fast for transports.

"Let's put the Typhoons through their paces," the Group Commander suggested. 36 Eurofighters armed as air-to-air interceptors made wingovers to protect the airspace over Sorbas.

Other than an armoured cavalry regiment below, which would have some limited SAM capabilities, presumably mostly MANPADS, there were no other enemy ground units within 10 km.

On Hill 610 overlooking El Puntal (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+puntal+%282%29/)

Looking through his binoculars, the FO's eyebrows rose so high you could not see them under the brim of his helmet. They had been radioed that a squadron of enemy fighters -- 8 F-15 Strike Eagles -- were coming to intercept their tactical recon UAV.

"Now, that's a bit of overkill, don't you think?"

But visually he could count more than 8 aircraft.

Radioing back urgently, he told KLEFHQ that there were also other aircraft -- probably stealth-sorts, of a similar number.

"Daddy, this is Junior One! There are 8 bad men here, with 8 friends in dark cloaks, come to steal my toy!"

"Tisk, tisk, Junior One! We'll have to buy you a new one!"

With that, the operator turned the aircraft east-by-southeast and increased the throttle to the maximum speed, a pitiful 250 kph. It was like watching a rabbit being run down by Ferarris. The operator and the FO laughed. Each kilometer it made was a kilometer closer to the interceptors of the RAFL, and the waiting MANPADS and SP artillery of 1st Mech Division.

Suddenly, the UAV did a surprising thing. Before it could be shot down, at the operator's command, it rose to 300m, cut engines in midflight, glided for a bit, then deployed a parachute.

It gently settled into a rambla and out of sight. The FO made sure to mark it on his map, though he also got a GPS signal on it from its radio chirp. It would be a bother to retrive. Hopefully they could get a lift from a helo after the exercise was done.

Meanwhile, the UAV ground crew was ready to loft another toy into the air as soon as it was all clear.

Back in the air...

As that happened, the entire sky was lit with radar searching for the high-flying Raptors, and laser designators started painting the low-flying F-15s as they got within the nominal 4km range. The radar seemed to include both long-distance AWACS, fighter aircraft in a screen before them, ground-based systems, and even a cluster of sneaky attack helos hovering like Indians waiting to swoop down on the cowboys in the valley below.

To the south, 6.7 km away over Sorbas, an entire air group of 36 Typhoons were sharpening their talons to rake an approaching hive of Triancian attack helicopters. But some six Eurofighter Typhoons broke away and turned north. If they tossed in afterburners to accelerate past 1,000 kph, they were 30 second away from intercepting the Strike Eagles. Staying agile at subsonic speeds, they were at best a minute off. They were already well within AMRAAM range, as was anyone over the battlefield. While most of their effort was being directed at the helicopters, a dozen AMRAAMs hurled out towards the Strike Eagles. Depending on what they had, they were supposed to have a range of 50-70 km.

The Triancian Strike Force could continue flying into the teeth of air defenses, or they could wave off.

Off in the distance to the northwest, bearing 352, a squadron of Eurofighters hovered like vultures. A second squadron of 12 more F-16C aircraft equipped for air-to-air dogfighting were coming up from their refueling point. They'd wait to see if the the first flights of Typhoons or the Army picked off any of their opponents before engaging.

Apparently the RAFL had decided that they'd leave the ground war to the Army, and was prepared exclusively for aerial combat.

Triancia

13-10-2005, 04:44

Triancian Strike Force, Over Hill 610

“Yeah, that’s a UAV, alright. Nice one, too, by the look of it.”

“The look of it? It’s a blip on a radar screen!”

Eggles looked hurt. “Hey, I know my UAV’s, okay? You happened to think is was a bird!”

The Wing Commander clicked on to the intercom circuit. “Both of you better shut up before I open a hatch an’ give you a better view!” She clicked off, obviously annoyed. The ground forces were having a bit of trouble, and that didn’t mean jovial antics in the air.

Eggles click online after a short while. “Hmm, looks like we got a smart enemy. UAV’s just stopped moving at 300 meters. Not registering an explosion, so they might be trying to drop and recov-“

“Woah! Force is being painted by multiply sources of radar! I’ve got.. uh.. aircraft, what looks like AWACS, and a whole lot of ground sources!”

“Shit!” Well, the Commander thought, at least this seemed to be the right place. “Alright, we’ll come back in force and do this proper.” She clicked on to the Strike circuit. “All aircraft, all aircraft, RTB via too-tree-fower, ate thousand meters. Goldies, leave a parting gift for our friends on the ground, ehh?”

By the time the Raptors and Sentry turn around, the low-flying Eagles have begun to pull out of the low pattern, climbing and performing maneuvers to return to base. But not before each one of them two ground sources, and fire off smoke rockets meant to simulate AGM-88 anti-radiation missiles. A total of sixteen high speed signals head down the closet path to the targets.

It seems not all was done for the day, however, as a weak radio message was received. “This is CO, 8th at Tabernas. I know there’s a strike force looking for artillery up there!”

Triancian 8th Cavalry, Tabernas
“Well, I have a lot of targets for you!” Colonel Franklin wish that damned boom of fired arty would stop! His tanks didn’t have much to worry about, but simulated fragmentation had already taken out 16 M113 variants, two of which being 120mm self-propelled mortars, which all 16 of had gotten off one weak volley of smoke before gunning the engines.

“I count at least 12 batteries of artillery somewhere to my southeast, around… around…” He snapped his fingers, and was given a piece of paper by the driver, who happened to know enough math to make driving the less important task. “around this distance!” He indicated a rough circle on his TIDS, “Rain whatever you can on them, and stop those fuckin’ guns from firing!”
The request was acknowledged by a female voice. “Wilco, 8th. Heading to your position, ETA, two minutes. Keep them busy for us.”

And they would keep them busy. Besides losing one tank after it killed one and possible hit another Wingarde one, the 8th’s Armor was pretty much intact, and would be taken shots all through the withdrawal. They would all be generating smoke, too, hopefully confusing the enemy gunners enough to allow an orderly retreat.

No sooner than did Colonel Franklin end his transmission, than another incoming one was received. “Alright, Frankie. I got some orders for you.”

Triancian 10th Cavalry, Sorbas

The Triancian EXCOM was a lot calmer now, for some reason. Perhaps it was the fact that the battle mostly rested in the hands of the men in the tanks, rather than his planning skills. That certainly didn’t mean he wasn’t cautious as Hell.”

He continued. “I want you to pull your forces back, and move them to Venta de los Yesos. I’ll also be conducting a pull back toward that area. If the enemy continues to pursue, continue moving toward El Barranco de los Lobos, and I’ll meet you somewhere in the middle.”

Franklin’s voice sounded harried. The reasons would be obvious. “Wilco, sir! Withdraw to Venta de los Yesos, continue toward El Barranco de los Lobos if pursued. Any word on air assets?”

“Longbows and Kiowa’s are on the way to both our positions. Air Assault is going to make a landing at Yesos, and establish a FARP there. It’ll be enough to keep them at bay until the rest of the OPFOR deploys, I believe.” Where the hell was everyone else, Shawl thought. He hadn’t heard a signal radio transmission from friendly ground forces since he arrived at this god-forsaken place.

“Wilco! 8th out!” The radio went silent, and for a moment, O’Reilly reflected on the horrible situation he was in. Forget victory! Hell, it’d be worth a medal if he could withdraw the bulk of his forces! Which he would be doing, at a somewhat high cost.

The Listeneisse arty was only covering, thank God, or else there would have been more losses than 3 scout craft and a squad of dismounted troops that got careless. Nevertheless, the withering fire from the Armored Brigade in front of them was very disheartening. The Triancian Force was exchanging fire, but losses at this rate would be intolerable in short order.

“Okay, we are going to withdraw. Tell 2nd and 3rd Squadrons to start pulling back, and get moving toward Lobos.” He took a deep breath. “Inform 1st Squadron’s CO that I am taking his artillery section, and that I expect him to buy us some time to get out of here. He may surrender when he loses all ability to conduct defensive operations.” That message was clear. The first was to become the 10th’s first sacrifice to the God of War.

All armor in the 2nd and 3rd Squadron’s started up their some generator’s, and began moving backwards, toward the road that would lead them west, to Yesos. 1st Squadron, a depleted force of 25 scout vehicles, 32 ST-21’s, and perhaps 90 dismounted scouts, were left to hold off a largely intact enemy brigade.

The tanks opened fire, and the scouts moved out at a run, seeking cover, and time to use their Javelin launchers. It was doubtful any of them would see Yesos.

OOC: Yes, I know that I didn't address those Eurofighters. An oversight on my part, and one I hope to fix by edit tomorrow.

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 08:24

Triancian Strike Force, Over Hill 610
By the time the Raptors and Sentry turn around, the low-flying Eagles have begun to pull out of the low pattern, climbing and performing maneuvers to return to base. But not before each one of them two ground sources, and fire off smoke rockets meant to simulate AGM-88 anti-radiation missiles. A total of sixteen high speed signals head down the closet path to the targets.
The radars suddenly shut down in the targeted area. Trucks peeled out, or attempted to. A few radar decoys lofted skyward as a deception against the incoming HARM. Of course, it was for show. These weren't really HARMs at all. But an antiradiation missile, traveling at about 2,300 kph can cover two thirds of a kilometer in a second. At this short range of 4 km, it only took 6 seconds. Only one of the units had gotten away, and that was because it was driven by a nervous nelly who had peeled out almost as soon as his radar went active, even before the HARMs were fired.

The drivers were flagged down. For them, it was the end of the day.

Meanwhile, more radars lit up, west and north. And more.

The momentary radar detection of the "destroyed" systems had been enough. Sixteen Patriots were launched into the fray, fired in staggered pairs at each of the F-15 Strike Eagles. These were new PAC-3 models that flew at Mach 5 -- 1.7 km per second. Even as the ground radars shut down, the Patriots fixed on each of the F-15 Strike Eagles, their own onboard radars making them autonomous systems acting in dispassionate vengeance for the death of their electromechanical brethren.

At a range of 4 km, it was the equivalent of holding fire until point blank range.

One.

Two.

Boom.

Indeed, the boom came before "two." The Patriots, designed to obliterate the enemy by impact, had to automatically self-destruct quickly to keep from actually slamming into anything. They made a large disintegrating spraying just shy of the aircraft. A debris cloud indicated what might have happened had they come closer.

"Jesus!" spoke one of the controllers to the other, "They're practically too close to fire."

"I know! This is insane!"

"I thought this was going to be Force-on-Force! Not live-fire!"

"Me too! There's too many people in the air. I want to abort this op. We can't fire missiles. Not even test or training missiles! This all needs to be simulated."

"Well, that's not our decision."

Their commander interrupted the talk. "Eyes on screens. I'll ask HQ. How are we doing on a fix on the Raptors?"

"Fuzzy. They are quite nimble little things. And the new multipoint radar array isn't in place yet."

The density on the air radar was getting thicker and thicker. Unlike in a real war, people were still up there, even if they were "destroyed."

Outside in the desert, no less than four dozen laser-designator MILES systems trained chaotically on the eight Strike Eagles. Some were painted by "only" three MANPADS. One was painted by ten.

Fortunately, MILES for surface-to-air missiles was fully simulated, and since Starstreaks all had laser designators (being laser-guided), it was easy to make them MILES-compliant. Otherwise it would have looked like a rocketry club. Some indicators read a hit, others a miss.

Between the 12 AMRAAMs, 16 Patriots, and 40 Starstreaks, the Strike Eagles did not fare well. The Eurofighters roared through on afterburner, heading north, hoping not to be targeted by their own side's ground systems. They seemed to be just zipping by, possibly with the intent to make a long turn-around.

Once the soldiers on the ground guided their missiles home, the next thing to do was to run like blue blazes. Even if they were not really going to be ground struck in return, it was important to get as far from the firing position as possible. Troops cleared away from the locations where the Starstreaks were ostensibly launched.

"Expended" units were stowed away, but there were still hundreds more Starstreaks aimed heavenwards.

The 1st Mechanized, dismounted, continued forward with a cautious creep, while their vehicles made their way closer to olive orchards and the bridge ahead.

(ooc: I'll let you determine how many of the 8 Strike Eagles bought the farm. I'm also giving the Raptors the benefit of the doubt being higher up than Starstreak range.)

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 09:38

El Mayordomo (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+mayordomo/), 2200m northeast of Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/)

Major Grace had heard what was coming in over the Joint Tactical Radio System. He confirmed it on a new digital map that was belatedly transmitted to his vehicle.

"Damn!"

What was not readily apparent on the larger-scale map they had been using prior was that the Río Aguas wrapped around the north edge of the town. And the town was most certainly on a rather high bluff.

There were only two ways to get into the town (other than suicidally lofting across the deep ramblas like Evil Knievel): the bridge to the west, and the bridge to the east. The western bridge was presently being used to make a withdrawal by the Trinacian forces towards El Barranco de los Lobos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+barranco+de+los+lobos/).

Northwest of Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/), 1000m and Closing

Already C Squadron with 40 tanks was covering the road of withdrawal with tank fire. They had with them 36 Bradleys fighting side-by-side and a little back, trying to take whatever cover they could. And behind them both were the Brigade LOSATs -- 60 more vehicles with hypervelocity missiles organized as a Tank Destroyer Regiment. It really didn't matter whether you were driving an MBT, IFV, or a 4x4. At these ranges, with these weapons, any hit was a kill. The only thing really mattering was volume of fire. The rate of exchange was staggering.

The Brigade was in the whole protected from direct fire from the town by rises just to the north of the river. A further blessing was that, because the ridgeline was on the far north bank, OPFOR could not get up there themselves.

Over the Joint Tactical system, dozens of voices were relaying their progress (or lack thereof) to their own Squadron Commander.

"...target bearing 214. Distance 950m. Adjust fire!"

"More smoke over the bridge."

"Laser designator warning just went off! Deploying antilaser aerosols..."

"...distance 800m. Adjust fire!"

Even with their firepower, C Squadron and the rest of the vehicles could not get all the vehicles racing out of town. Too much smoke. But anyone that stopped to be clever and fire back, or wasn't extremely lucky with the smoke cover -- was rather easily targeted.

They were all bunched up. Both sides. Getting across the bridge to escape was not easy. Neither was getting a good shot. Everything they had been taught to do in training was out the window. All the advantages of distance and tactics, coordinating fire, and maneuver was exchanged for simply firing at anything spotted as quickly as possible.

Thank God this wasn't a real war. It was an ugly mess of a gang fight. Fortunately, KLEF had brought more hooligans today.

Northeast of Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/), Distance 600m, and Closing

Meanwhile, A Squadron had been assigned to come upon the town from the east to take any rear guard or holding force, with B Squadron providing overwatch fire from positions swung further east. They had to skirt along the western edge of the heights that lined the road.

The Brigade's infantry battalion, the King's Battalion of Foot, was already scrambling up the middle, along the ragged ridge running between C and A Squadrons, trying to make their way into positions overlooking Sorbas.

If you were on top of the ridge, you could practically piss into the Río Aguas. But it was, instead of an overlook, more of a straight shot across at the town beyond.

All the while, the Brigade's howitzers and heavy mortars continued to thump, joined by all manner of 81mm and 60mm mortars. The infantry had almost gotten to 400m -- within a grenade launcher shot.

A line of smoke was laid down first before A Squadron, B Squadron, and the King's Battalion of Foot got any closer. The tanks were just about to round the last ridge before coming in sight of the east highway bridge to town. This was going to be one hell of an assault, at point blank range, with friendly artillery practically landing on their own heads. The smoke would hopefully keep the enemy's eyes on them. There was a reason they wanted to draw some attention away from other actions.

They moved forward when they got confirmation of the attack starting from Hill 469.

Hill 469, 700m southeast of Sorbas

The Air Mobile Division had sprinkled the ridges with a battalion of infantry that seemed to grow like Myrmidons out of the scrabbly soil. More MILES ATGM systems started targeting the town, this time from a whole new angle of attack. Anyone hunkered down facing north, for instance watching for whatever was to launch out of the smoke, could well have their rump in the air. The Air Mobile troopers were more than willing to kick that rump.

Hill 469 was not as high as the center of Sorbas, which was at elevation 489m. There was, however, a good line of ridges to leapfrog and take cover in, and most of the town was on an exposed slope facing their position. The main road was slightly lower than their position, and that was key. They might have a tough time cleaning out scattered remnant forces that took refuge in the heights of the town, but the major route of retreat was west.

The precipice faced north, lifting the town the further north it ran. From this southern angle, it was like tilting a plate named Sorbas to get a better view of targets to choose from.

It wasn't going to be as easy as they were led to believe, but it was still going to be an antitanker's day.

La Mela (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/la+mela/), 6200m north of Sorbas.

A major detatchment from the Combat Engineering Regiment was meanwhile shuttling towards the front, in case of any declaration of a bridge being blown. They sat back out of gun and ATGM range, and stayed far off the roads.

El Chive (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+chive/), 8 km northeast of Sorbas, alt. 580m

Nestled in a high hill valley, the Artillery Regiment commander was trying to urge the marshals to rule in favor of higher armoured casualties, indicating antitank munitions for the long guns, but he'd accept whatever they ruled. They, in return, suggested the guns were being considered effective enough already.

Overhead above Sorbas

(ooc: We'll have the air-to-air battle between the bounce of the Typhoons and ground strike of the Triancian attack helicopters. I'll let Triancia open that up. Should be good!)

Van Luxemburg

13-10-2005, 15:40

OOC: hot damn! I had so much to read...
I'll just try to handle everything, attend me if I forgot anything
IC:
Tabernas

The group had took up positions. everything had hidden inside buildings of the village of Tabernas. HQ was in the local governmental building, which offered excellent communications. Ruben Diaz was leader of this group, and the complete VLCDF force. only a small number of troops were took into Tabernas, while the rest was trying to meet up with Triancian Forces in the Sorbas area.
"This is VLCDF 1, FRF, how're you?"
"Nothing in sight, clear."
on the outskirts of the village was a relatively small apartment block, where several marksmen had took up position, bearing their FRF2 snipers, together with an Eryx launcher. for now, nothing was seen, leaving the virtually destroyed bridge out of sight.

On the road towards Sorbas

The ridiculously big force of 45,000 men, including all equipment other than the artillery movd towards Sorbas. altough not seen as one of the most important villages in the area, they were moving towards Triancian troops.
a large line of the wheeled VAB and VBL APC's crawled along the road, while closely followed by Super Puma's up in the sky. in front, the Gazelle helicopters escorted and scouted ahead, looking for targets and friendlies.

VLCDF HQ, 10 km southeast of Tabernas

"Ajust fire to locations E2-F5, northwest of Sorbas and call up some of our Mirages, to counter the damned Wingardian airforce"
"yes si-"
the sound of the soldier was cut by the sound of firing artillery, HM2 towed artillery pieces.

when the Mirages took off from Gibraltar, the radio beeped at the HQ, indicating a message came through. Triancian.
"This is VLCDF HQ. Rockets? what kind? AT we've got Eryxes, AA we've got Starstreaks and no rocket artillery. VLCDF out."

above Almeria

The Five Mirages were under fire. but not from Listeneissian (OOC: is this spelling correct?) F/A 18's, they were Wingardian AIM-120 missiles. luckily, the AIM-120 had a lower range than MICA missiles, so turning the aircraft would prove the best option. The craft banked and dived, engaging ground-following systems, to fly as low as possible. it had however support coming their way, in the form of 20 Mirage 2000-5 Fighters, divided into 5 flights.
however, the AIM-120's reached the Mirages first. two managed to escape, but the others were "shot down"

MP side

Namen and his squad progressed towards Tabernas, Sat Intel showed hostiles
in the city, becuase of the VAB APC's. therefore, he was on his way together with 12 other squads, trying to intercept the VLCDF forces in the village. they now reached the river. bridge blown up? use Zodiac's. simple? too simple. as they crawled to the dusty desert, with the apartment blocks in sight, Namen brought out a megaphone and put the switch to "on". what they wanted, was the 1,000 men alive.
"This is the Special Service Rainbow, you have been surrounded by us! throw your weapons down and come out of the village with your hands on your head or we will have to storm the village!"
what namen did, was saying that they were surrounded by Special Forces, but in fcat, they were only sparely surrounded by 12 normal Van Luxemburgian army squads.

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 16:11

ooc: All places below can be seen if you pop open this map centered on the operations area. (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/la+fuente+de+la+higuera/Mapa-Zoom/)

To: COMMANDERS, VL MP Coalition, Wingarde Federal Army, The Vuhifellian States
From: COMKLEF

We should definitely have someone driving E to Uleila del Campo (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/uleila+del+campo/), then south to La Fuente de la Higuera (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/la+fuente+de+la+higuera/). From there, 16km south to Tabernas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/tabernas/).

VL MP Coalition committed: "I'll send the 23rd towards the direction you said."

KLEF was hoping VS might also be on that line of advance.

Current status:

We kicked off MP start line from El Pilar (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+pilar/) area.

Combat now is focused on two main points:

Sorbas (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/sorbas/) in SE corner where KLEF has engaged Triancian armoured forces, who are not fighting withdrawal actions towards El Barranco de los Lobos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+barranco+de+los+lobos/), and

Engagement between Lucianena de Las Torres (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/lucainena+de+las+torres/) and Venta de los Yesos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/venta+de+los+yesos/) in the S where WAF is deployed operating against other Triancian force, plus now reports of significant VL OPFOR corps-strength reinforcement.

KLEF is also on the heights in front of (S, SW) of El Punta. 1st Division has achieved objective line along the Rambla de Sorbas, and captured the bridge intact.

What's required next is to take Uleila del Campo, cross the Rambla de Sorbas, and turn the line south.

Meanwhile, WFA, do you need reinforcements or support?

MP Coalition_________________________________OPFOR
VL MP......... 32,000 (disengaged) x-------x Spizania...... 80,800 (disengaged)
Vuhifellian St 15,450 (disengaged) x-------x
Wingarde...... 50,220 <--------------------> VL OPFOR...... 50,000 (45,000 engaged)
KLEF.......... 40,300 (15,500 engaged) <---> Triancia....... 7,000 (split vs. KLEF, WFA)

Van Luxemburg

13-10-2005, 16:19

"Meanwhile, we have units of the 21st moving towards Tabernas, trying to take out OPFOR forces based there."

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 17:01

River crossing of the A-813 along the Rambla de Sorbas

The 1st Mechanized Division had reached the river crossing of the Rambla de Sorbas, north of Sorbas. There were olive orchards all around on both banks of the river.

As per the agreement with the General and the orchard owners, the armored vehicles avoided entering the lines of trees. But the men filtered through, dashing from tree to tree. 2nd Infantry Brigade began to sweep out in a wide fan.

The infantry fighting vehicles, after each disbursing their troops, began to join 1st Mechanized Division's own organic armoured Brigade heading south along the road that 1st Armoured Brigade had passed up before. It was west of the Rambas de Sorbas, but still across another bridge before joining the highway.

Though they were not all across yet, 1st Mech had another 180 MBTs, 240 IFVs, 24 IFV/ATGM systems in a Cavalry Squadron, 30 more LOSAT 4x4s, and now, turning on the Triancians, the full brunt of the 1st Division's 90 155mm howitzers and 112 120mm mortars -- all on top of what was already being hurled down on them from 1st Armored Brigade.

It was still the "tip of the iceberg," but each passing minute more and more of the KLEF troops were across the bridge and into the grove, or were speeding down the road south. That tip was the tip of a knifeblade slipping towards the Triancian's ribs.

Some vehicles were prudently sitting back at the comfortable engagement range for their weapon systems, giving overwatch fire. Others sped towards the highway, eager for a fight but watchful for anything coming from the south or west.

If they were successful, they would cut the road of retreat for the Triancians. Infantry with ATGMs also started flowing through to the south, all eager to get a bead on whatever vehicles were trying to make their way westwards to El Barranco de los Lobos (http://www.pueblos-espana.org/andalucia/almeria/el+barranco+de+los+lobos/).

Further west, they could hear the sound of the engagement of the WFA with the front elements of the VF OPFOR.

If they did not succeed, it was possible that the Triancians could break through and plow into the flank or rear of their allies.

Van Luxemburg

13-10-2005, 17:37

Tabernas, OPFOR

"what was that?" Diaz looked towards his second.
"Special Service Rainbow, the most elite unit in van Luxemburg. "
"I know that, but what should we do?"
"First, let the artillery shell the area surrounding us, and then we see if they're still there."
"great idea. I'll call them"

Shortly afterwards, the shells began to rain on the heads of the MP soldiers outside of Tabernas. luckily, only one squad was blown away, because of the Artillery fixing at one location. afterwards, MP soldiers decided to storm Tabernas.

Tabernas, MP

Namen ran towards the apartment block, fixing fire from his FN F2000 on a window on the 3rd floor, where, shortly before, the face of a marksman was seen by one of Namen's colleages. three men stormed into the block, and returned with the marksman. nobody else. after that, they stormed on, just like the other 10 squads did. they jointly charged the Governmental building, taking Diaz, whereafter the full 1,000 men OPFOR Force in Tabernas gave up and were made "POWs". Tabernas was in MP hands, for now.

Wingarde

13-10-2005, 18:17

19th, 23rd and 28th Armoured Divisions, 9 km southeast of Tabernas.

"The artillery has confirmed several hits in the bombarded area, Herr Strauss." One of the general's communication officers reported while carefully monitoring the radio channels.

"Excellent. There's definitely a decent Triancian force then." Konrad grinned as he gazed at the radar screens. "We're assaulting their positions, transmit to the other units." The general commanded, his vehicle accelerating with the rest of the divisions.

The Guardians at the front picked up their speed to their maximum cross-country one, while a good part of the Outriders slowed down to cover the tanks' flanks. The 23rd Armoured division took position in the rearguard of the group to defend its back. The town of Tabernas was clearly visible now, and eventually were the Triancian positions. The land radar Stalwarts and the Defenders intensified their ECM operations to minimize damage while the first battle tanks opened fire at the enemy vehicles and personnel. Every KP-3 eventually got in range, unleashing constant barrages of APFSDS and HEAT rounds, supported by the lighter, 105 mm guns of the Outriders.

Meanwhile, 2,000 meters above their position...

"Sir, a huge amount of land contacts, bearing three-four-one, heading zero-nine-six. It looks they're trying to repair that bridge." Jaguar 2 reported to his flight leader, amazed at the sheer amount of dots in his land radar.

"Roger that. Let's have them start over and fix another bridge, shall we? Jaguar Flight break and attack those two bridges, we'll isolate them." Jaguar 1 replied and sent the coordinates of the enemy mass to the Vindicator line behind.

Four WF-33 Avengers veered towards the two bridges surrounding the large VLCDF contingent. At 250 meters, almost scratching the ground, the tactical fighters approached their targets and readied their AGM-65s. Once they were within firing range, four Mavericks dropped from their wings and activated their engines miliseconds after, two at each bridge. The Avengers pulled out and back to CAP duty above the tank forces attacking the Triancian 8th Cavalry.

Artillery line, 5 km north of Polopos.

"Understood, thank you, captain." Kunstler received the coordinates from the Jaguar flight leader. Indeed, it was a very worthy target, and the cannons had to act quickly. Excited, the major general commanded the PH-7s to open extended fire at the 45,000 troops stranded between the two bridges. "Vindicators, 20 barrages within 400 meters from the indicated coordinates. FIRE!" The howitzers once again rose their barrels up towards the sky and shook the earth twenty times. Many infantrymen swore under their breaths as they saw the PH-7s getting ready to fire, and quickly covered their ears.

Tiger Flight, 3,500 meters above Almería.

The two duos of Firebolts broke out of the clouds with full burners and darted towards the remaining Mirage 2000-5s. "Splash three bandits, two to go, sir!" Tiger 2 reported enthusiastically as they approached the rather confused opponents. Not giving them time to realize what just happened, the Tigers got into Sidewinder range, two of the WF-27s firing one at each Mirage. As the AIM-9Xs streaked towards their targets, the other two Firebolts afterburnt into close range and snapped off several bursts of their internally-mounted 27 mm guns.

Van Luxemburg

13-10-2005, 18:31

Bridge over the Barranco del Peral

the men saw their job gone up in smoke, a sthe Mavericks hit and destroyed their bridge. immediately, a bunch of the gunners of VAB's got to their Stingers and managed to lock and fire.

a few seconds later, large shells rained down on the convoy, leaving "disabled" vehicles in the hundreds.

over Almeriá

The two Mirage 2000-5's suddenly received the message that they had been locked. they deployed flares and hit their afterburners. what they didn't knew, was that the missiles were way closer than seen on their radars.
"hit, hit, kill, kill, left wing lost, Tail lost, engine 1 lost, engine 2 lost"

(OOC: I'm tired, so it's a short one for you, Win.)

Listeneisse

13-10-2005, 19:06

"Strategic Recon report, sir."

"Yes?" asked Gen. Orberica.

"There's a lot of confusion, but it seems that the entire OPFOR force is either stalled at the start line, or caught up still in the bridge-blowing. Wingarde apparently just blew out the improvised crossing they had arranged."

"What about Spizania? They are the bulk of OPFOR."

"Apparently they are sleeping in late today sir. Tanks all still in laager."

"Remarkable!"

"More sir."

"Yes?"

"Sorbas is turning into a heavy fight. The Triancia forces there have fought well, but are heavily outnumbered. 1st Armoured Brigadier is asking whether we can offer them honorable surrender."

The General thought about it. "By all means, yes. They've fought well. In fact, those few men have quite distinguished themselves today. Bold move to try to stop a corps with a regiment!"

He genuinedly smiled in admiration at their bravado. Then his face turned serious.

"If they want to fight on, so be it. I would never wish to ask a soldier to abandon his duty if he thought he had a fighting chance. But they are cut off. It will be a grim day if they push to the limit. They might also be hoping for a counter-attack. I'm not sure they know about the blown bridges -- chances of anything getting past Wingarde Federal Army is slipping away. And Van Luxemburg is streaking down unopposed from the north to seal off Tabernas. See that their commander is informed by communique. If this information convinces them to capitulate, they still deserve credit for stalling the advance as long as they have."

Triancia

14-10-2005, 06:03

Triancian Strike Force, Over Hill 610

The pilots of the Triancian Strike Force don’t have time to gloat over their victories against Listeneisse’s land based Air Defense System. Even the powerful engines of the Strike Eagle’s which could normally allow the aircraft to climb at a 90 degree angle weren’t enough to get them out of the line of fire of all missiles. Every one of them were recorded destroyed by various methods. Two birds were actually classified ‘destroyed’ twice. Those pilots would be a bit mad when the scoring came out.

Those happened to be the least of concerns, however. One Strike Eagle, flown by the 2nd Flight’s commander, Flight Leader Harold Stas, was flying to close to the ground. Or the Patriot detonated too late, or too early, or a combination of any number of factors. The end result was shrapnel from the advanced misses slicing through the aircraft. In an instant, hot, metallic shards ripped through the left engine, left wing, and Stas’ left thigh, nicking the femoral artery.

“2nd Flight Lead! What the hell happened!?” The Wing Commander shouted into her radio, keeping her eyes locked on the smoking craft. “Harry, are you all right?”

“Fuck!” The grabled radio transmission came back. “I thought they weren’t supposed to use live munitions!” Harry had only one hand to pinch the artery the nicked artery. The other was desperately reaching for the ejection handle. Judging from the shaking and the calm, electronic female voice informing him of obvious shit, his plane was dying. He didn’t plan to go with her. “I need medical attention. I can’t stop the bleeding when I eject, but I’ll die hitting the ground any other way. Tell the Army to get here now!” HE wrapped his hand around the handle to his side, and gritted his teeth. “Ejecting!”

“Harry!” The Wing Commander happened to know that Stas wouldn’t be able to here any more radio signals until he pulled out his survival unit, but when you see an airman you train with for over a year, response aren’t always rational at first. To her credit, before the parachute had deployed on Stas’s ejection seat, she was already on her radio to the ground forces. “Attention, Listeneisse ground forces! We have a bird down! Cease all live-fire operations! I repeat, cease all live fire operations! Triancian AWACS is out of this exercise, and is requesting nearest SAR with medical capabilities to proceed to the follow coordinates: 36 degrees, 48 minutes….”

Triancian Air Assualt, 8th and 10th Cavalries, Venta de los Yesos

The Triancian Air Assault personnel were not people prone to inaction. In 30 seconds, two UH-60’s were singled out to provide assistance. In two minutes, medics from every squad, as well as some of the better rappellers, were on board these choppers. In four minutes, they were heading with all possible speed to the downed pilot. The collective was up high enough that both whirleys would be seeing maintenance for another two months.

The pilots would have pushed them higher.

Triancian 8th Calavary, Tabernas

Battle was a confusing thing. The fact that a pilot had gone down would probably not reach the ground circuits until Colonel Franklin inquired where the /hell/ his air support was. He wouldn’t be doing that for awhile, thought, as he found that his only escape option has been wiped out. He slammed a fist into the front MFD on his common track, shattering the LCD display. He knew this wasn’t a real conflict, but no one like playing a game where they’re destined to lose.

“Inform the Tenth that we cannot rendezvous at Yesos. I am out of options. I intend to disperse my dismounted scouts into town, to prepare for a long term guerilla defense. I will take what’s left of my armor, and try to break through the Wingardian’s lines, and move up toward Castro de Filabres. I will surrender when I feel I can no longer do significant damage to enemy forces.”

Through the Regiment, the tactics changed. Treads stopped, and reversed. Turrets spun around, and there guns started firing more often. The causality rates increased as well, despite the fact that most of the light 105mm shells fired ‘bounced’ off curved armor. The scouts moved out as well, into buildings, avoided fire. It would take a while to clear out each squad.

The streets were soon filled with massive amounts of main guns, lighter 20mm autocannons, and even 50 caliber machine guns, the sound slowly growing fainter as the sky was filled with purple smoke.

Triancian 10th Calvary, Sorbas

“DAMN!” Brigadier O’Reilly would have cracked a screen too, if he didn’t have more experience at maintaining composure. The 1st Squadron was now almost gone, and he’d been informed that it’s commander had signaled a surrender request. Of course, some of his scouts had ‘deserted’, and he couldn’t be responsible for their actions…

A textbook move, and one that would buy the last bit of time needed for the surviving Triancian vehicles to move across the bridge. They had returned fire through out the retreat, focusing 20mm autocannon’s on the light targets, and bringing main guns to bear on the MBT’s. Even using the destroyed vehicles as cover, though, only a squadron of vehicles would manage to clear the bridge.

He had heard the reports of the OPFOR, and sighed. This battle was over.

“Order all surviving scouts to disperse. Inform the commander of the Multinational Pact that I wish to discuss terms of surrender.”

Well, at least it was a case study in being the underdog…

Listeneisse

14-10-2005, 08:15

KLEFHQ

The thunderous barrage was not of artillery shells, but of complaints.

The General had grown a bit concerned of late. It was not unusual to have casualties, even deaths in a corps-sized exercise. People were flying and driving at combat speeds. Multi-ton tanks could plow over a road embankment and down into a ravine. Already there was a significant list of traffic-related accidents on the narrow highways of the area.

But then the alarmed Subaltern entered. A Triancian aircraft was downed -- by a Patriot!

A true foreign casualty of this friendly little wargame.

Everyone looked at General Orberica for his response.

"Cease fire."

Further, he added, "Halt and hold all ground units in place until further orders. Aircraft are to remain on station in holding pattern but not engage. Those on low on fuel may return to base."

Collecting his first-level reports, he ordered, "Have all commanders establish communication with their peers on OPFOR to confirm this condition. If they ask, they can be told that there was an accidental downing of a Triancian aircraft, which is being responded to presently."

The entire crowd immediately turned and began carrying out and passing on his orders.

He asked the Subaltern further: What of the air crew of the downed craft?

He was informed it was an F-15 Strike Eagle, but though they were generally supposed to be two-person aircraft, only one chute was reported. The Grail Templars were already en route with a Search and Rescue helo. Condition still unknown, but the pilot was confirmed wounded before ejection. No information about any WSO.

That troubled the General, and he pressed the Subaltern to find out if the jet was indeed flying without a Weapons Systems Officer.

Noting his Artillery commander across the room had a look of long-suffering frustration, and was usually one to press forward regardless of such "minor" incidents, the General openly commented to no one in particular, "It is regretful this happened, but this is the right course. I am sure the King, the Minister of Defense, and the Lord Marshal would agree with me on this. They shall be keen to hear of all that happened. Let us hope we have not lost the respect of our superiors or our foreign peers in the conduct of this exercise, or if we have, by prompt action we can re-earn their trust."

A number of people in the room understood what was meant by this, and put in a bit more effort to make sure everything could be done, at least from HQ's standpoint.

General Orberica then immediately got the communications center to put him on the radio to the commander of Triancia. He offered his personal apologies for the incident, and confirmed the course of action had taken: search and rescue team was en route, and a cease fire before their forces was put in place.

The Triancians had proved brave men and women in all their engagements today, he added.

He gave assurances the Kingdom of Listeneisse would investigate the situation thoroughly, and fully share the results with Triancia upon conclusion. Listeneisse' military was renown for its near-to-real wargames, but there were supposed to be self-destructive measures on the missiles to prevent this from happening. He would be in touch again once the fate of the air crewman was made known.

Next, he contacted the commander of VL's forces, to ask for advisal on whether to continue the operation or suspend it for the day, pending a review of engagement procedures in a Force-on-Force exercise, and clarify Force-on-Force vs. Live Fire protocols.

Not only did he communicate it verbally, he had the following sent formally, to ensure it was documented for subsequent review.

To: Commander VL
From: Gen. Orberica, COMKLEF

We were led to believe at first that there were to be MILES simulators for all systems, but not all systems have them apparently. Instead, in some cases actual practice or training munitions were being used. In response, my own forces deferred use of MILES and decided to deploy their own practice and training munitions. While not patently lethal and while it helps simulate combat conditions, in at least this one case of a Triancian aircraft, it regretably led to a destroyed aircraft and human crew casualty.

The Kingdom of Listeneisse apologizes to the government of Van Luxemburg, Triancia, and all other participants in the exercise for this most unfortunate accident.

Further, concerned civilians continue to approach KLEFHQ alarmed that actual war had broken out. My public relations group has been fielding complaints all day. In one case, an angry citizen's militia group took to threaten KLEF Forward Observer forces for "invading" their village. We departed immediately without desiring confrontation, but two KLEF personnel reported over their headsets they were taken as "Prisoners of War." They surrendered willingly rather than exacerbate infuration. We are working with the local Policia to establish their repatriation. This could turn into a public relations nightmare back at home. Should the exercise continue or be halted?

My forces are in cease fire, at halt and on standby for now. Request serious review of simulated force-on-force (FOF) engagement guidelines versus Live Fire (LF), and operations in civilian areas, even if population sparse, before next exercise.

"Regrettable," he repeated.

Over the Desierto de Tabernas

The HH-60G helicopter was painted all white, with large red crosses painted on its sides, front, and bottom. While it could have been painted black for special operations, it was given over to the Knights of the Order of the Temple of the Holy Grail (KOTHG), or Grail Templars. The difference between them and most special forces were that they wore distinguishing white surcoats with red crosses on them. Even in the heat of the desert.

GPS was leading them to the precise location where the pilot was reported down. The crew closed the doors to minimize wind resistence as they hurtled forward. The aircraft was rated by its manufacturer for 193 knots -- 100 meters per second.

For a bleeding man, each second was important.

In the hold was Dame Behalim. She was trained as a trauma surgeon, but the Army itself was doing care within their field hospital. She was waiting for casualties and acting as medical advisor for KLEF. She had already been on two flights today.

The first was a soldier of a howitzer crew who bled profusely from his ears and mouth. He apparently had not been following prescribed safety precautions for artillerymen. Another was a soldier who had tripped and fallen clearing his IFV near the olive orchards. Another IFV in his platoon, eager to get off to the simulated fighting, missed spotting him down on the ground ahead and rolled over his trailing foot. Twenty five tons of weight, even distributed by the spread of armoured tracks, does terrible things to a foot and ankle.

It was a relatively light day, given these sorts of massive exercises. There hadn't been a fatal rollover yet reported, which was a miracle given the steep ramblas, unfamiliar terrain, and windy roads. There were a good few "ditched" vehicles, but so far, no fatalities or critical injuries. SAR helos were not sent out for minor injuries.

She gazed at the eyes of de Montor, the Templar Sergeant who was acting as cabin crew and medic with her today.

He nodded, "We'll be there soon, madame."

She waited for their approach as seconds and the desert below drifted by.

Soon, the whine of the rotors and downward lurch indicated they were arriving at the site of the downed pilot.

Grabbing her satchel and straightening her white-with-red-cross surcoat, she prepared for the landing. Sergeant de Montor opened the door, letting in the roar and dust of the rotor wash, and the blinding reflected sunlight of the Spanish desert.

Even before the helicopter was fully on the ground, they had leapt out and rushed off in the site of the ejection seat.

(ooc: Let me know if Triancian helos get their first or later, and if the Dame and Sergeant find the pilot, what condition he's in. Also note I was surprised there was not a WSO. It might have just been an oversight on your part, or there might not have been a WSO in the A/C. Please let me know if there was supposed to be a second crewman, and I can revise my story above to match. btw: You've been telling a great story so far!)

Listeneisse

14-10-2005, 09:18

Sorbas

The tanks of A Squadron had cleared the highway bridge in the west, though not without cost. Mostly virtual, but actual as well. One tanked was ditched and needed to be towed out of its position. The tank recovery vehicles were getting their chains readied to haul the near-70 tonne beast back up. Fortunately, the gun hadn't plowed into the dirt, or it might have caused the whole turret to sheer off.

For their daring dash, the Brigadier had given them the honor, and duty, to meet with the commander of the Triancian regiment.

To the west, the simulated fighting was called off just before 1st Mechanized reached the bridge. Had it continued on for another half-hour, Sorbas would have been shut in and the forces remaining there trapped.

Major Grace was ordered by the Brigadier to represent KLEF. He was allowed to bring a tank platoon to accompany him into the town. He conferred with his subordinates, and took each of their top nominations, and another crew who were new but performed well all day.

The five vehicles drove into the town to meet the Triancians.

Looking around (http://www.renaudvisage.com/en/image/ES100534_Sorbas+Andalucia+Spain,search+Sorbas.aspx) from various views (http://www.viva-almeria.com/mediafiles/private/page-28/master.jpg) within the town, the Major considered it would have been difficult or nearly impossible to assault. even on foot, from some directions. They had only crossed the bridge, and hadn't actually gotten into the town the the fighting was called off. Yet at the same time, the town was ultimately untenable, surrounded by high ground (http://www.viva-almeria.com/mediafiles/private/page-28/View-from.jpg) and isolated from the rest of OPFOR.

The tanks parked before the old Town Hall (http://www.viva-almeria.com/mediafiles/private/page-28/Town-Hall.jpg), and the Casa del Duque de Alba (http://www.viva-almeria.com/mediafiles/private/page-28/Casa-del-Duque-de-Alba.jpg), under the view of the white bell tower (http://www.renaudvisage.com/en/image/ES100528_White+bell+tower+Sorbas+Andalucia+Spain.aspx) of the adjacent Church of Santa Maria (http://www.viva-almeria.com/mediafiles/private/page-28/Church-of-Santa-Maria.jpg).

There, Major Cadoc "Amazing" Grace, commanding officer of A Squadron, 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, 1st Armoured Brigade of the Royal Army of Listeneisse, first met with his counterpart, Brigadier O’Reilly, commander of the Triancian 10th Calvary.

He gave a crisp salute, introduce himself, and said, "Greetings, Brigadier. I bring you terms of a cease fire, not demands of a surrender. I offer you my nation's apology for what had happened with your downed aircraft. The Brigadier will be along personally once he's done talking with the General. Meanwhile, if you wish, we can talk about your situation here, or we can speak about any other complaints or issues regarding the conduct of KLEF during the exercise. Lastly, my General and Brigadier pass along their compliments and commendation on your hard fighting today. You have my own as well."

With that, his salute dropped to a hand offered in friendly handshake.

Van Luxemburg

14-10-2005, 16:04

Almeriá

"This is Hospitale Alba, we're sending one of our Trauma helicopters."
Meanwhile, the EC-145 took off, presenting it's red-with-white colour, with a red cross on the white banner going straight over the belly of the helicopter.
while being somewhat slower as the UH and HH-60's, it probably had better equipment, as it was an official trauma helicopter, instead of a large Medevac. it could also transport the pilot to an official Hospital, instead of a field hospital. anyway, it was on it's way, with it's own Garmin GPS guiding it to it's target, the downed Triancian pilot.

OFFICIAL VAN LUXEMBURGIAN COMMUNICATION

seeing the surrender of Triancian forces, the downing of a Triancian F15 and almost no other forces left in OPFOR, Van Luxemburgian Exercise command has decided to halt exercise Battle 1, and make our forces move to the Gulf of Lyon before the next exercise. we will have debriefing in Almeriá, at the local VLCDF HQ. any complaints made by civilians will be filed and solved, and there will be granted a short look at the losses and needed strategies for Desert battles, altough inhabited. also, there will be discussed how the affair like the Triancian F15 could be prevented, so using Live/exercise or plain blank shots.

Ruben Diaz- Commander VLCDF

Wingarde

14-10-2005, 17:27

19th, 23rd and 28th Armoured Divisions, 5 km southeast of Tabernas.

The land battle had intensified when the Federal Army armoured divisions charged at the Triancian positions in the vicinity of Tabernas. Almost every Wingardian vehicle engaged the outnumbered enemy, destroying many vehicles in a swarm of 125 mm and 105 mm shots. Nevertheless, the Guardians suffered the most casualties from the Triancian ST-21s, with their powerful 145 mm main guns.

The enemy had suffered heavy losses, and the Wingardian tanks were slowly enveloping the main force when the message about the end of the battle arrived. The guns went silent and soldiers began cheering at their victory over the OPFOR elements in the desert. General Strauss popped out on the hatch of his command Stalwart with a wide grin on his face. The general congratulated his subordinates nearby and ordered his vehicle to roll towards the Triancian 8th Cavalry, flanked by two KP-3 Guardians. He would meet the Triancian commanding officer and compliment him for a good battle.

Tiger Flight, 3,000 meters above Almería.

The Tigers witnessed their two remaining enemies being defeated by the Sidewinders fired their way. The flight's channel was flooded with cheering. They had won a dogfight against a superior enemy without suffering any casualties whatsoever. Then again, the VLCDF wasn't Van Luxemburg's best, so outcomes against their proper Air Force were yet to be decided.

"And that's for engaging in wrong places! Get outta here!" Tiger 4 commented over the enemy channel as he and his wingmen reformed and headed towards the battle zone. However, they were forced to turn around and land on their base in Almería once they received the notification about the end of the excercise and the victory of the Multinational Pact.

"It seems the land boys did it. Nicely done, Tigers. Let's go home." The flight leader said over the comms as he turned his Firebolt 180 degrees and back towards Almería.

Triancia

14-10-2005, 23:50

OOC: Ecch. Time seems to have gotten away from me. I'll be posting a lengthy response by tomorrow. Once again, sorry about that.

Triancian 10th Calvary, Sorbas

The report, hastily produced by a printer on the command track, was a disheartening piece of information indeed. Luckily, the Brigadier understood things like this happened in war games. Listeneisse would have to hope that the high Triancian brass understood the same things.

Of course, there was only so much he could do about that situation, and other matters competed for his time. He left the report in his chair, and stepped out of the command track’s hatch, flanked by two of the remaining dismounted scouts, as he headed to the Listeneissian Major. Upon reaching the town hall, Shawl came to attention, and crisply returned the offered salute.

“I appreciate the KLEF’s kindness in this matter, but wish to inform you that, while I will honor such a ceasefire, a number of my dismounted scouts and air assault personnel have deserted me in this battle. I cannot be held responsible for any actions they may take.” He says this with a lopsided smile. “But for the purposes of this exercise, I don’t believe we need to continue this exercise. My similar congratulations to the KLEF on a well-earned victory and a job well done.” He lowered the salute, and grasped the Major’s hand, giving it two firm pumps. “Now, I understand you happen to use live-ammo in your exercises?”

Spizania

14-10-2005, 23:58

OOC: sorry, about not posting, i was just about to blast MP forces with massed artillery.. oh next time

Van Luxemburg

15-10-2005, 08:51

OOC: ah, no problem. just make sure you join battle 2, which is about to be launched, after evaluation of this battle.

IC:
Sorbas

The NH-90 helicopter shortly landed after the Gazelle, carrying both Van Luxemburgian commanders, Yakov and Diaz. Altough totally unexpected, a third helicopter, an Augusta-Bell A109 Power, from the Royal Yacht VLS "Nieuwstraat" landed 10 minutes later. out of it came the Grand Duke, wearing his uniform once again, and, the Premier of Van Luxemburg, Jean-Pierre Claude. He felt that he needed to visit here, as elections were only half a year away, May 2006.
"Well done, MP. but I have to say, the VLCDF's OPFOR show was nothing more than embarassing. losing 5 aircraft versus 2 Wingardian Firebolts? a full battlegroup being annihalated and set stuck by 2 Wingardian aircraft? 1,000 men in a village being took by 150 Van Luxemburgian soldiers without having to fight? please, go and get some training. Triancia, to counter it, has fought well, and, despite the real loss of an F-15, had almost won the battle for OPFOR." The Grand Duke walked towards all commanders, congratulated them and shook hands.
"What do you think of a party and evaluation at my Royal Yacht, the VLS "Nieuwstraat"? then we could also follow battle 2 afterwards. By the way, how's it going with that downed pilot?"

Listeneisse

15-10-2005, 10:49

“Now, I understand you happen to use live-ammo in your exercises?”
"No, not live ammunition. That was the training round."

The Major explained how the Patriot PAC-3 flew at Mach 5. With the limited distances of the exercise, the self-destruct sequence couldn't stop the missile in time. It scattered debris over a huge cubic volume. Some of the shrapnel had penetrated the Strike Eagle.

It was a training round -- designed not for force-on-force exercises, and certainly not for firing at human-piloted aircraft -- but for long-range interception tests against incoming ballistic missiles.

"As for your stragglers, we can give them a lift on the way to Tabernas if we spot 'em. Otherwise," he imaginatively squinted at the sun-filled sky above, "They'll have a long, dry walk home."

Van Luxemburg

15-10-2005, 11:01

Sorbas

"Okay, let's make that a talk aboard the Yacht, or anyone had another proposal?" The Grand Duke got a pistol out of his pocket, showing the insignia's of the Van Luxemburgian Army and Throne. A JK-6a. He put it back again and waited for everyone to get in the Augusta-Bell, before the helicopter could leave.

"I think we need some Bio-Kerosene in this one."
"Why that? I suppose it has been fueled up before this flight."
"negative, the tank is completely empty"

half an hour later....
from the outskirts of the village, an heavy truck, type DAF XF95, coloured green, armed with warning messages about carrying Bio-Kerosene entered the field where the Gazelle was put down, waiting for refueling. the dirver got out, introduced himself and got the fuel hose. the pump started and pumped in the Gazelles total capacity.

Triancia

15-10-2005, 18:55

Deserito de Tabernas
The pilot of the lead SAR aircraft checked his radar display again. He was two minutes away, but it seemed that the Listeneissian flight had already gotten there. He sighed. In two minutes, a man could bleed to death. As much as Triancian forces wanted rescue Triancian pilots, the survival of said pilots was even more important. He swiveled his head to the cabin. “It looks like those Grail Templar guys got there before us! I’ll move to the hospital their taking the Flight Lieutenant to!”

“Fucking Royal doctors?” One of the medic’s commented, spitting out the open door. “God Damn it! Probably some med student who’s the son of somebody important! Fuck!”

On the ground, however, Harry could have seen a news chopper land with someone who had a store-bought first aid kit and a CPR card. He wouldn’t have lasted much longer. When the surgeon reaches him, she’ll find him shivering, his face almost paper white, gripping inside a blood soaked thigh with a shaking hand. He still manages a weak smile

“I.. I did-didn’t know angels ca-came from choppers….”

Triancian 8th Calvary, Tabernas

Colonel Franklin is already outside his command track when the Wingardian representative comes forward to meet him. His left knuckles are still slightly dripping with fluid from the LCD screen that now has been obliterated. He would offer the Wingardian Commander a salute, before removing his sidearm, and offering it to him, butt first.

He does not look happy, but at least he’s respectful.

Commander, Triancian 1st Calvary Division, Sorbas

“Really? You couldn’t have used smoke rockets? Or simple radar painting, to get the job done?” He shakes his head. “Ahh, it doesn’t matter. My government is going to want to be reimbursed for its aircraft. As long as the pilot doesn’t die, I think I can stop things there, chalk the rest up to the fog of war.”

The Brigadier nodded. “And I would appreciate the lift for my men. They’ve been through too much to have a forced march through this god-forsaken wheather. If you see any of them headed to the assembly point, just offer.”

The Brigadier walked back to his command track. He had to write up an AAR. It would be RTN’s turn, then.

EDIT: A bit of research into the Triancian Air Force, as well as quick look at the bilets of Triancian Personnel, would show a releving fact: Since 1998, the Triancian FST-12B (better known as the F-15E) has been a one-person aircraft, the WSO replaced by software and remote support from third parties, like ground teams, AWACS, Foward Air Controllers, and other aircraft.

Van Luxemburg

16-10-2005, 07:01

Deserito de Tabernas

The EC145 touched down, while two doctors jumped out. they had red overalls, with "Cirujano Emergencia/ Ambulancier" written on the back, with a white cross under it. they shortly landed after a news helicopter, written "RTVL Television". they almost threw away the reporter from the body and got to work.
"Defi!"

"Yes! I'll get it!" the doctor ran away and got the defibrillator, or simply called "Defi". a few seconds later, the pilot and co-pilot came with a brancard, to carry the pilot away.
"And 1, 2, 3!"

meanwhile, a Land Rover Range Rover of the Van Luxemburgian Police was in a cloud of dust, storming in at the news Helicopter. The two Policiers got out, and forced the reporter and his crew to get out, as this was closed Military terrain, for the day.

"Alba Salvacion 1, Triancian and Listeneissian helicopters, we have reached the Pilot, permission to leave for Alba Hospital in Almeria? out."

Listeneisse

16-10-2005, 10:20

(ooc: Edited to incorporate VL's helo arrival and news team.)

Deserito de Tabernas
On the ground, however, Harry could have seen a news chopper land with someone who had a store-bought first aid kit and a CPR card. He wouldn’t have lasted much longer. When the surgeon reaches him, she’ll find him shivering, his face almost paper white, gripping inside a blood soaked thigh with a shaking hand. He still manages a weak smile

“I.. I did-didn’t know angels ca-came from choppers….”

She dropped down beside him and responded with a gentle, "Hello."

Then with a soft smile she added, "Let's see how you're doing..."

Immediately her eyes began to search the wound, and she drew forth a pair of medical scissors to cut the flight suit open. The man's lap and leg were dark and soaked.

Simultaneously the Sergeant came up on Flight Leader Harold Stas' other side, popped open the medical kit, and introduced her as she worked.

"This is Dame Behalim. She is an angel, and I've seen her perform a few miracles."

The Dame's green eyes came across Stas' rank and last name marked on his uniform, then turned back to the man's strong but presently-shaky hands clamped on the wound.

"Alright. The Sergeant here is going to start you on an IV to keep fluids in you. What is your blood type? Do you remember?"

She meanwhile gently lifted Stas' hands and showed him the place near the groin crease, the indentation along the join of his leg and hip, where he could apply pressure to keep the circulation down. She quickly snipped the scissors splaying open the ragged edges of the torn and bloody cloth to reveal the damage underneath.

A deep puncture. She began to clean and pack it.

The Sergeant got the IV drip going, occasionally peppering Stas with questions on his medical background. Part of this was necessary to avoid any problems with medication or aid, and the other part was to check the wounded man's alertness and see if he was slipping into haemorrhagic shock.

His work at last done, Sergeant de Montor relieved Stas' bloody hands by offering his own to keep pressure on the femoral artery.

"Here now, you just sit back and relax. I'll take over."

Carefully checking the back of his leg, the Dame found no exit wound out the far side. Meaning the shrapnel was still in the leg.

"How are we doing, madame?"

Being a bit circumspect, she said, "We'll be doing better in the helicopter. Let's move him."

By that time, the co-pilot had brought a stretcher up. The pilot stayed aboard keeping the engines revving.

The three Grail Templars were swift about prepping him for movement. The third crewman meanwhile opened the injured pilot's flight suit more and started applying ECG pads.

That was when the Van Luxemburg helo arrived. They brought their own equipment. The Dame told them there was no need for the defibrilator.

The Dame had no visibility to the internal damage, but from the hemmoraging she cleaned up she was sure it was an arterial laceration. Femoral. Possibly distal profunda femoris. She knew exactly what to do. If she had an x-ray to confirm the placement of the shrapnel, if she could operate to get access to the damaged vessel, and if she had a Dacron graft, she could ligate the artery, bypass it, and start repairs.

Unfortunately, she didn't have what she needed. Putting aside the knowledge of what she could do theoretically, she focused on what she actually needed to do. For now, her job was triage, life preservation, and ambulatory care.

Taking over a medical form on a clipboard from Sergeant de Montor, she swiftly added her own notes on the patient's condition while listening to the ECG monitor.

"Sounds like you have a good heart there," she smiled at her patient, then added reassuringly, "We'll get you to hospital soon."

The Van Luxemburg team wanted permission to take over the patient. The Sergeant was a bit annoyed, but the Dame remained calm. The most important thing was to get the patient to care immediately once he was stabilized. Van Luxemburg would likely have better care facilities than a mobile field hospital, no matter how well-staffed.

Dame Belahim asked the Sergeant and co-pilot to help lift the stricken Triancian pilot to the Van Luxemburg helicopter. She passed the information she had collected to the Van Luxemburg crew and made sure to review what she thought the damage was to the leg arteries. Rather than delay switching ECG equipment, she told them to keep the unit.

Bidding farewell to her patient as he was loaded aboard, squeezing his arm, she said, "I'll come see you later, once you're all patched up."

With that, she backed away to avoid the prop wash. She told the Sergeant they should stay, to inform the Triancian teams en route what the status of their patient was, and asked the co-pilot to go radio in what information they had collected.

She had no interest in speaking to a news crew.

Van Luxemburg

16-10-2005, 13:39

OOC: now that I think about it, I've totally reworked my Wiki entry. it should be alot better now....
link (http://ns.goobergunch.net/wiki/index.php/Category:Van_Luxemburg)

Van Luxemburg

16-10-2005, 18:14

OOC: Okay, NS is a few famous personalities poorer, but I think we should move on and on to the next part of this exercise, the short debriefing before the next battle starts...

IC:

Aboard the VLS "Nieuwstraat", Gulf of Almeriá/Alborán sea

The A109 touched down, and was rolled into the hangar when the NH-90 arrived. Yakov disembarked together with his 2nd and leaders, including Namen. immediately taking off to make it possible for other helicopters to land, the NH-90 left for Almeriá AFB. after that, the Gazelle lowered and lowered until it was on the deck. it accommodated only the highest commanders, because of the low capacity of the craft.

Meanwhile, The two La Fayette-Class Stealth frigates guarded the Royal yacht, under the careful eye of one of the Van Luxemburgian Navy's Bordeaux-class Stealth Destroyers. Nothing was seen, and nothing was coming, except for the occasional yacht inbound for the harbour of Almeriá.

Inside the VLS "Nieuwstraat", it was cozy, not hot, because Airconditioning had been running for the whole day, to keep the hot air outside and keep it cool inside. The Grand Duke walked through the hallway, with beautiful views of the sea and Almeriá, together with all of the Van Luxemburgian commanders. it was now waiting for the foreigners...

La Fayette-class Stealth frigate VLS "Giessen"

instead of being cool aboard the bridge of the "Giessen", Captain had ordered to keep Airconditioning on "off". to keep fuel costs down. the Thermometer had already approached forty degrees, although it was 7 o'clock in the evening. the Bridge was closed off, and could not profit from the coolth outside, which had been an improvement, following the Bridge personnel.
"Captain! Radar shows large object, warn it?"

"I shouldn't, that is the line of a Perpignan CVN of the Van Luxemburgian Navy, probably the "Reutte" the Captain answered, while granting himself a short look at the LCD screen.

"Ofcourse, sir." The Guard was embarassed, aswell as proud of his captain, being an excellent one.

Van Luxemburg

17-10-2005, 06:36

(OOC: an EC145 is a Helicopter, just like the UH-60, and from what I've read, the Triancian aircraft is a UH-60 too. second, it was a news chopper, and my Van Luxemburgian police car was a Land Rover Range Rover, patrolling the area, because of it being locked down.)

Listeneisse

18-10-2005, 00:26

The arrival of the KLEF staff included the following representatives:
General Lord Mordrains Oberica, Royal Army of Listeneisse (RAL), Commander KLEF
Air Marshal Sir Roger Petipace, Commander KLEF Air Forces, Royal Air Force of Listeneisse (RAFL)
Vice Admiral Lord Murray Oriande, Second-in-Command KLEF Naval Forces, Royal Navy of Listeneisse (RNL)
Air Commodore Sir Juvenal Bishop, Commander Fighter Group, RAFL
Brigadier-General Sir Claudin Beauregarde, Commander of the 1st Mechanized Division, RAL
Colonel Sir Guiron fiz de Argons, Staff Officer, 1st Mechanized Division, RAL
Colonel Hadrian de Montelei, KLEF G2 (Intelligence Officer), RAL
Brigadier Sir Carradoc Breichbras, Commander 1st Armoured Brigade, RAL
Lieutenant-Colonel George Florent, Commander 1st Theater Defense (SAM) Battalion, RAL
Commander Ionn Jones, Commander No. 1 Naval Fighter Squadron, RNL
Major Cadoc Grace, Commander A Squadron, 2nd Royal Tank Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade, RAL
Sir Alain ap Bron, Battalion Commander, Knights of the Order of the Temple of the Holy Grail (KOTHG)

Triancia

18-10-2005, 02:05

OOC: I'll be posting tomorrow with my opening naval post, the response to the medevac, and an AAR from the Triancian perspective. (Unlike Listeneisse, I can't name every member of the 1st CDs staff and their positions, and I think I speak for all particpants when I ask Listeneisse to stop making us look bad. :D )

Listeneisse

18-10-2005, 02:21

(ooc: lol! Sorry. I saw that some other nations had named all the players in their World Cup Soccer teams and was inspired. I first started with just the names of the units that I wanted to send, then thought about their ranks, and finally, tossed in some names. Names come from The Arthurian Name Dictionary, by Christopher W. Bruce, primarily, though often altered or mixed with a few other herbs and spices.)

:)

Van Luxemburg

18-10-2005, 06:23

(OOC: Lol! well, I could suck as many names out of my finger as I want (last names.) but first names are mostly a problem....)

Van Luxemburg

18-10-2005, 10:29

Kiev

"well, if we get to here, it should be easy! BOOM! All Foreigners gone, together with large chunks of the Van Luxemburgian army."
Dmitri Yakovla turned around, looking at the two persons behind him, both wearing Van Luxemburgian Police Uniforms.
"These uniforms aren't the best fitting around, but what you're saying is, we drive towards Skandinavia, Norwegian province to be precise, and we blow the whole MILEX up at the last battle?"
One of the two, obviously the leader, asked Yakovla something what a normal person didn't even wanted to know. most knew that he was very rude, and violent. if Yakovla didn't like you, he had already ditched you somewhere hidden. and that's not alive, but probably in 20 bags full of your parts.
"That's the plan, yes. you get about 900 KG of C-4, which we managed to get a hold on on the black market. if we set that off, the whole OPFOR camp is blown away."
"I should blow the MP camp, there are the better units of the VLAF."
"You think of something. now, how do those fake officer suits fit?"
"badly" He moved in his suit, which crackled on all sides.
"no complaining, it's the only pair we've got. also, we've managed to get a hold of a shipment of Mercedes-Benz Viano's, of which one is ready for you, in van Luxemburgian Police colours. get in and try to get to there, we don't want a failure, or you're dead. got it?" Yakovla turned to the other one, which was seemingly frightened.

The two got into Mercedes, which already was loaded with the 900KG of C-4, and drove off, towards Norway.

Van Luxemburgian Force Assesment and Objectives

FROM: HIGHCOMVL
TO: JOINTCOMNAV
SATMAP (http://i17.photobucket.com/albums/b76/VanLuxemburg/battle2-1.jpg)

OBJECTIVE:
MP:
ESCORT THE CONVOY FROM ALMERIÁ TO TOULON, WITH AS LITTLE LOSSES AS POSSIBLE, YOU'VE GOT 76 HOURS. LIMITED LAND-BASED NAVAL AIR STRIKE CAPABILITY. YOU HAVE CONTROL OVER SPAIN AND FRANCE, ASWELL AS THE BALEARIC ISLANDS
OPFOR:
DESTROY MP CONVOY FROM ALMERIÁ, INTERCEPT FROM 8 DEGREES EAST. LIMITED LAND-BASED NAVAL AIR STRIKE CAPABILITY. YOU HAVE CONTROL OVER SARDINIA, CORSICA, SICILIA AND MALTA.

Convoy Auxiliaries:
3 Pioneer class Mine Countermeasure
1 Keppel-class LPD
9 Hopper-Class AS
15 Marriman class AOE
6 Levett class Fleet Tender
Manufacturer: Aequatio Military Industries.

3 280,000 T (Total weight) VLCC tankers.

Van Luxemburgian Navy Assesment MP:

2 Perpignan-class Aircraft Carriers, Nuclear
2 Montpellier-class Helicopter Carriers, Nuclear
5 Le Havre-Class Stealth Guided missile Cruiser Nuclear
9 Bordeaux-Class Stealth Guided Missile Destroyer
15 Marseille-Class Stealth Guided Missile Frigates
3 Verdun-Class Stealth AAW Frigates
5 Nimes-Class Stealth Patrol Frigates
2 Seawolf-class Ballistic missile Submarine, Nuclear (Mk. 48 ADCAP)
1 Seawolf-Class Ballistic missile submarine, Nuclear, modified. (Vortex underwater rocket)

15 Breguet Atlantique ATL2 ASW
4 Falcon 20 ASW
2 Global Hawk UAV's
1 Airbus A330 MRTT
aircraft included on ships.

OPFOR assesment:
3 Charles-De-Gaulle CVN
1 Jeanne-D'Arc Helicopter Cruiser
10 Tourville-class DDG
9 Georges-Leygues class FF
1 Lafayette Class stealth FFG
7 le Triomphant-Class Ballistic missile Submarines
1 l'Inflexible class Ballistic missile Submarines

8 P-3C Orion ASW
2 Global Hawk UAV's
1 Airbus A330 MRTT
aircraft included on ships.

(OOC: NOTES: 1. OPFOR is using ships out of the reserve force, VLCDF mans it, with a Van Luxemburgian navy captain watching over them. the Charles-de-Gaulle fields Super-Etendard and Rafale fighters, the Perpignan Rafales and Mirage 2100 (which was originally designed as a naval multirole fighter)
Vortex is an underwater rocket, with a range of 10 km and a speed of 300 kts. my Navy and airforce sheet on "the Van Luxemburgian Military" is outdated, I'll need to update it soon. the upper part of this post could get interesting, but you'll need to find out who they are... hint: use NSwiki and my factbook there.)

Van Luxemburg

18-10-2005, 18:14

Gulf of Almeriá/Alborán sea

The VLCC Tankers slowly entered the harbour of Almeriá, without touching any private yacht floating around. after them, the Naval complement took up position just outside of the pier, before the auxiliaries arrived at their position next to the VLCC's. meanwhile, the Breguet's, together with the Falcons and the MRTT, made a fly-over. Global Hawks were already busy patrolling Aerospace, while a lone Seawolf took to the seas to scout a few km's ahead.
Van Luxemburgian MP had arrived.

Near Ajaccio, Corsica

just a few km's west of the harbour of Ajaccio was the Van Luxemburgian OPFOR fleet, just fielding their weapons. they had nothing to prepare for a convoy, so they started planning.

(Secret IC)
Aboard the OFS "Canadia" Admiral Von Klausen and his staff were already busy deploying their tactics.
"If you pop up at the Balearic Islands, we'll take them at Marseille."
"No prob, but I thought we were to catch them all at once?"
"We're doing it in two sections."
"Okay."

Van Luxemburg

19-10-2005, 10:27

OOC: C'mon, people. BUMP!

Listeneisse

19-10-2005, 13:00

The debriefing began as a bit of an uncomfortable thing for the people of Listeneisse. But it did not go off as they expected.

Rather than begin with a discussion of what happened on the ground in the desert, it had opened with a presentation of the scenario for the next MILEX exercise: a rather impressive gambit to escort a fleet from the coast of Spain to French ports.

Presuming that no one switched sides, there was not much of OPFOR.

MP Coalition (Not including non-combatant escorted ships)
VL MP......... 2 CVN, 2 LHD, 5 CGN, 9 DDG, 15 FFG, 3 AAW Frigates, 5 PF, 3 SSN, 3 MCM, 1 LPD
Wingarde...... 1 CVN, 4 CGN, 32 DDG, 4 SSN
Listeneisse... 2 CV, 2 LHD, 4 LPD, 11 DDG, 2 DDL, 1 DD, 8 SSN, 4 MCM
Vuhifellian St 1 CVN, 2 CGN, 1 DDG, 1 LHD, 1 SSN
_____________________
Total MP..... 129: 4 CVN, 2 CV, 11 CGN, 53 DDG, 2 DDL, 1 DD, 15 FFG, 3 AAW FF, 5 PF, 16 SSN, 7 MCM, 5 LHD, 5 LPD

OPFOR
VL OPFOR...... 3 CVN, 10 DDG, 9 FF, 1 FFG, 7 SSN, 1 LPD
Spizania...... (N/A)
Triancia...... (N/A)
_____________________
Total OPFOR.. 30: 3 CVN, 10 DDG, 9 FF, 1 FFG, 7 SSN, 1 LPD

The three OPFOR carriers were also far smaller than the large Nimitz-class carriers of MP Coalition. There was no way around a fleet more than four times your size.

Unless this was simply a race to see who could send OPFOR to the bottom quickest and count coup on the most theoretical enemy tonnage you had sunk, there probably needed to be some change of the scenario's sides to balance them out.

There was also the question about land-based air, and whether sortees against shipping should be allowed from coastal bases.

This generally advantaged the side with the most aircraft at convenient air bases. Obviously in this case, with the forces amassed, there would be far more aircraft brought in against OPFOR. Unless, of course, sides were changed.

A few observations and counterproposals were put before the assembled persons by Vice Admiral Oriande:

"If we are going to make this a meaningful exercise, the weight of the burden should be on the escorts. There are a few ways to get through this while remaining balanced. Some number of forces can 'defect' back to OPFOR. Listeneisse is one candidate, since it has two carriers. We also have a significant submarine squadron. Yet this would still leave a mostly unbalanced scenario, with 65 OPFOR vessels facing MP's fleet of 94, though nominally OPFOR would have five carriers to MP's four."

Pointing out the salient points, he continued, "The main advantage would be 15 submarines versus MP's 8 attack submarines. Remember that the OPFOR carriers are smaller than the other Nimitz-class carriers, about 40% of the size of the others for the VL Charles de Gaulle class, and that the conventional CVs of Listeneisse are about 80% of the large carriers' tonnage. In other words, this still seems insufficient."

"Alternately, all of Van Luxemburg's fleet -- 78 ships and five carriers -- could be placed against the amassed fleets of the other nations -- 81 ships and four carriers. The forces would be about comparable, at least, barring land-based air use by either power."

"Given this, Van Luxemburg would be given an option -- to act as MP, or to act as OPFOR. The other navies would take the other side."

"Lastly, I would point out that Listeneisse and Wingarde also have significant support vessels."

"If we wanted to make the situation even more dicey, and if the other nations were acting as MP Coalition with a destination of Toulon, we might have to escort those additional vessels to port in Toulon. In addition to the 34 Van Luxemburg ships (pardon me, for I put the Mine Countermeasures ships in with the fighting ships), there would be 79 other vessels of various types to get to port safely. This could make it a rich environment for hunting submarines and make the escort vessel's job tougher."

"Alternately, if VL was acting as the MP Coalition, and it was directed towards Marseilles, the other forces, acting as OPFOR, might be trying to get their ships to Almeria or Gibraltar for a supposed planned re-invasion of Spain."

"These are merely suggestions, and we leave it to the discussion of others what we do from here."

_______________

MILEX Naval Forces

Wingarde
1 x CVN WFN Nordheim
4 x Wernover-class Heavy Missile Cruisers
32 x Engelburg-class Destroyers
4 x Framzig-class Attack Submarines
40 x S3-class Transport Ships

The Vuhifellian States
1 x CVN V.S.S. Louis Mastroeni (carrying 60 F/A-47's) - Nimitz Class
2 x CGN V.S.S. Michael Daniels, V.S.S. Stevan Daniels - Ticonderoga Class
1 x DDG V.S.S. Farbanti - Arleigh Burke Class
1 x LHD V.S.S. Tylian - Wasp Class
1 x Intelligence Vessel V.S.S. Milky Way - Andromeda Class*
1 x SSN V.S.S. David Macker - Ohio Class
1 x Supply Ship V.S.S. East Point[i] - North Point Class*

Royal Navy of Listeneisse (RNL)
2 x Aircraft Carriers, Conventional (CV) - [i]RNL Galahad, Parzival
Each carrying a carrier air wing, with:
24 x F/A-18E (48 total)
4 x Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Aircraft (8 total)
8 x ECM/Ground Strike Aircraft ("Growler"-equivalent) (16 total)
6 x Naval Airborne Refuelers (12 total)
24 x Naval Attack Helos [AH-64D Longbow] (48 total)
6 x Heavy Helos [MH-53] (12 total)
6 x Light Helos [UH-60] (12 total)
2 x Amphibious Assault Ship, Heavy (LHD) - RNL Pellinore, RNL Palomides
4 x Amphibious Assault Ship (LPD) - RNL Lamorak, RNL Dornar, RNL Safer, RNL Segwarides
11 x Destroyer, Guided Missile (DDG)
2 x Destroyer, Littoral (DDL)
1 x Destroyer (DD)
8 x Attack Submarines, Nuclear (SSN)
4 x Mine Countermeasures (MCM) Ships
10 x Logistics Support Ships (RO-RO/LO-LO)
9 x Fast Sealift Ships (RO-RO)
13 x Fleet Container Vessels
2 x Fleet Oilers
1 x Fleet Ammunition Ship
1 x Fleet Combat Stores Ship
1 x Submarine Tender

Spizania
none indicated

Triancia
non indicated

The Maccabees
none indicated

Van Luxemburg

19-10-2005, 13:16

"we might want to bring to the table that we have Intel on the Triancian Naval complement, from very trusted source. they could be carrying as much as 6 CVN's, which could, given the size of the complement being big enough to escort the CVN's, make up for the size of other ships on the MP size, thus making the sides even. this is merely based on speculations." The Grand Duke managed to bring in against. "Also, seeing that van Luxemburgian naval ships are considerably weaker than others, they couldn't make up a force of their own. they however probably have superior VLS capability. and, the ships are going towards the harbour of Toulon, not the one of Marseille, as Toulon is a more logical choice, as main Van Luxemburgian Naval Base in the West Med. no objections otherwise."

Spizania

19-10-2005, 16:15

OOC: I can bring in more ships fi you want, il post them leaving there bases

"All stop" called the vice admiral from the flag deck
"All Stop Aye" returned the officer of the watch
"Signal Commodore Arndt aboard the Glorious, ask him to join us for dinner"
"Yes Sir"

The spizanian fleet consisted of the Argentine-Class Galleon Repulse its 8 Paramount ADVs, Three Seydlitz Class Cruisers Sunrise, Liberty and Victory, and the Indestructable Class Carrier Glorious and 8 Ocean Class Helicopter Assault Transports. Between them they had 85 Lu-45s, 24 ATGA Sandstorms, 200 Lu-25s (VTOL) and 32 B-257 StratoSpirits, they weilded enough aerial firepower to send the MPs Nimitz class Carrier to the bottom several times over in a single strike.
The battle would be hard but the MPs would taste defeat.

At the Naval base in Castle VSI eight Ohio-II Class SSGNs, 10 Manstein Class Destroyers, the Elusive Class Battleship Illustrious, the Rommel Class Battleships Warrior and Warspite, 9 Paramount ADVs, the Model Class Carrier Victorious and 18 more Ocean Class Helicopter Assaults ships left and headed towards Van Luxembourg at Flank Speed.
They would add 450 Lu-25s, 65 Lu-45s and 35 WF-33s to the OPFOR roster

Triancia

19-10-2005, 23:26

Commodore Halley listened with interest to the discussion, running over the scenario in his head, with the proposed forces. Of course, things seemed over balanced to the OPFOR now. But, of course, they had just gone up against the damned Army, and, while he liked Shawl personally, he felt one shouldn't assume the Triancian Army to be the best Triancia had to offer. That's where he came in.

He looked quite surprised at the Grand Duke’s assertion. Did one of his captain's get drunk in a wardroom somewhere? Probably the skipper of the Regiylas. That man could take a Carrier and do wonderful things with it, but he couldn't drink a glass of brandy without getting tipsy.

He stood up, and addressed those present. "Sorry I couldn't speak up sooner. I had arrived late because our delegation's designated commander was a bit long-winded at a private briefing.

"To address concerns, yes, at this moment, the 5th Carrier Battle Fleet has been diverted to our location to assist the 2nd CBF, already in theater, with this exercise. However," He adds, given a quick glance over to the Grand Duke, "Neither I, nor the designated Commander of this delegation, have yet to decide weather they will be participating in this exercise, or act as a back up force.

"What I can tell you is that the force Triancia can bring to bear in this instance will be more than able to make up for any deficiencies on the OPFOR. The 2nd CBF, which is currently moving through the Gibraltar Straight, has the following ships and aircraft attached to it."

He clears his throat, and begins the list.

Royal Triancian Navy, 2nd Carrier Battle Fleet, Gulf of Lyon

Naval Assests:
3 Jonathan the Eighth Class Fleet Carriers, including the 2nd CBF's Flagship, RTS Ridgewood, CFWN-62.
9 Al Hasira Class Air Defense (AD) Cruisers.
6 New Haven Class Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Destroyers.
6 Cerzana Class Fast-Attack Submarines, with limited strategic capabilities.
3 Parthenon Class Multi-Mission Frigates.
3 Halberg the First Class Battleships, modernized.
4 Barnyard Class Multi-Mission Fleet Support Ships (Surface).
1 Mother Hen Class Multi-Mission Fleet Support Ship (Subsurface).

Air Assests:
Carrier Air Wings:
60 FMR-10Bs multirole aircraft. (common designation F-15E, navalized). Total: 120 aircraft on two carriers.
The RTS Ridgewood has replaced the FMR-12C with the FMR-17 (common designation F-35C). Total: 60 Aircraft on the RTS Ridgewood.
8 MBS-22 (Wingardian designation WE-10) Overseer airborne command and control aircraft. Total: 24 on three carriers.
12 HUT-15 (Wingardian designation WR-6) Sea Ranger utility helicopters. Total: 36 aircraft on three carriers.
Other Aircraft:
1 HSC-15 (Wingardian designation WR-6) on all New Haven and Parthenon Class ships. Total: 9 Aircraft on 6 destroyers and 3 Frigates.

"I would like to inform the people here that the 2nd CBF, as well as the 5th, are as of yet the only two Carrier Battle Fleets that have been completely processed through the Royal Triancian Navy's eleventh evolution of the Force/Fleet Modernization Program, and, we are proud to say, will be the RTN's debut of an all-nuclear Carrier Battle Fleet to the international community. I would also like to mention that the 78th and 97th Royal Marine Expeditionary Fleets are also in theater, as well as the new 1st Sealift and Support Fleet.

The Commodore smiled. "I think you will all find that the Royal Triancian Navy will complement our comrades in the Triancian Army, with our strategy, strength, and courage. Thank you."

Van Luxemburg

20-10-2005, 06:37

Van Luxemburgian Force Observancy

"We have seen, or better, afraid, that the OPFOR side now has severe airpower. counting in that the MP has about 260-300 (not minus Vuhifellian Aircraft) aircraft on sea, Spizania alone already has 351 aircraft ready at sea, in which we count 32 bombers. altough not sure of the size, we highly doubt that they're able to take-off from a ship, ot they should be of the same size as, say an E-2C Greyhound. we also count 180 aircraft coming from Triancia and 96 fighters from our three Charles-de-Gaulle CVN's. this comes to 627 aircraft for OPFOR, which is way too much. now, we could change all our OPFOR ships to MP, but making almost no change. "
OPFOR:
86 ships ( plus VL OPFOR, Spizanian ADV's counted (?))

MP:
129 ships (minus Vuhifellian Ships: 121)

"We're not sure as of yet, but The Vuhifellian States seems to have problems with their Interface and will probably not be able to do anything until it's fixed. but, we also have to say that the problem just is that OPFOR has too much aircraft and less ships than MP. OPFOR can make this up by lowering the Aircraft complement and we think that the sides are balanced, as the Galleon could make it up for the missing ships, probably."

Spizania

20-10-2005, 17:26

OOC: An ADV is an air defence vessel, think a floating SAM battery, also the B-257 is a hugely scaled up Stealth bomber with 12 massive engines, capacity is 380 Tonnes, it can just take off on teh Indestructable-class' flight deck which is over 400m long when it has a load of about 190 tonnes, which is still alot of payload.

Van Luxemburg

20-10-2005, 17:30

(OOC: okay with the ADV, but ehm, about the B-257, we're keeping this MT, a B-2 isn't capable of taking off from a CVN, so a massive aircraft with 12 engines surely won't.)

Spizania

20-10-2005, 17:33

Right scrub them from teh roster, can i transfer them to shore bases?

Van Luxemburg

20-10-2005, 17:36

(OOC: ofcourse, what do you want for an OPFOR base: Bastia, Cagliari or Palermo?)

Spizania

20-10-2005, 17:45

OOC: Palermo please, are we allowing my extra ships? And so the last exercise is goign to be sabotaged?

Van Luxemburg

20-10-2005, 17:48

OOC: ehm, only the ships that don't carry aircraft, and for Battle 8, I guess you'll have to find that out for yourself.... :)

Spizania

20-10-2005, 17:50

OOC: 30 More warhips then, MP is in for a kicking especially when each of the 32 B-257 launches its entire payload of 200 Shockhound 1 Avenger AntiShipping missiles, thats 6400 in total, then returns to base, rearms and repeats.

Van Luxemburg

20-10-2005, 17:51

OOC: you thought, MWUHAHA [/mean laugh] I'll get you! (Or not.)

Van Luxemburg

20-10-2005, 18:41

(OOC: now that i read it, spiz, 200 missiles for a twelve engined aircraft (which is still somewhat believable) is ridiculous, especially when an P3C Orion can carry 6 rockets at max (which is a four-engined aircraft, multiply by 3 and you get 18 as max number of rockets)

Spizania

20-10-2005, 20:06

Thats because those engines produces 70000lbs of thrust EACH! Add that to an enourmous wing area and there you are. The Damn thing will go up like a torch if you so much as dent the paintwork

Van Luxemburg

21-10-2005, 09:02

(OOC: moment, let me talk it over with some of my advisors and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.)

Wingarde

21-10-2005, 20:44

OOC: Please, I'd like to see some stats on the B-257 and the "galleon". I can immediately tell you those things are definitely not MT, but I just want to be sure. :)

Spizania

21-10-2005, 21:17

Argentine classs Galleon on the Kriegzimmer Storefront
So a 12 engined bomber witha lifing power of 380 tonnes cannot be MT? Heavy lift transports can carry up to 200 tonnes+ with 6 engines today.

EDIT: Here it is:-

B-257 StratoSpirit
The B-257 StratoSpirit is a multi-role bomber capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear munitions.

Along with the B-2 and B-1B, the B-257 provides the penetrating flexibility and effectiveness inherent in manned bombers of the the Confederate Airforce. Its low-observable, or "stealth," characteristics give it the unique ability to penetrate an enemy's most sophisticated defenses and threaten its most valued, and heavily defended, targets, although these functions are somewhat impaired by the StratoSpirits enourmous size.

The blending of low-observable technologies with high aerodynamic efficiency and large payload gives the B-257 important advantages over earlier bombers. Its low-observability provides it greater freedom of action at high altitudes, thus increasing its range and a better field of view for the aircraft's sensors. Its unrefueled range is approximately 6,000 nautical miles (9,600 kilometers).

The B-257's low observability is derived from a combination of reduced infrared, acoustic, electromagnetic, visual and radar signatures. These signatures make it difficult for the sophisticated defensive systems to detect, track and engage the B-257. Many aspects of the low-observability process remain classified; however, the B-257's composite materials, special coatings and flying-wing design all contribute to its "stealthiness."

The B-257 has a crew of two pilots, an aircraft commander in the left seat and mission commander in the right, compared to the B-1B's crew of four and the B-52's crew of five.

The B-257 is intended to deliver gravity nuclear and conventional weapons, including precision-guided standoff weapons. An interim, precision-guided bomb capability called Global Positioning System (GPS) Aided Targeting System/GPS Aided Munition (GATS/GAM) is being tested and evaluated. Future configurations are planned for the B-2 to be capable of carrying and delivering the Shockhound Avenger Missile, the MTAAM-3 Silencer AtA missile and Tomahawk Cruise Missiles among numerous other types, virtually everything in teh COnfederate Airforce Arsenal that is below the wieght limit can be delivered by this remarkable aircraft.
B-257s, in a conventional role, staging from Castle AFB, VSI; Olympia Mountain Base; and Neuvo-vilnius can cover the entire region with just one refueling. The StratoSpirit can carry 380 Metric Tonnes to it full range at Mach .6, this translates into 760 500kg Laser guided weapons or 200 Shockhound AntiShipping Missiles.

This enourmous strike capability is provided inpart by the massive wing area of the aircraft and by the 12 70,000lbs thrust Confederate Aerospace TurboFan Engines, powered by the enourmous fuel tanks in the wings, however thsi massive fuel capacity has led to the aircraft responding to damage rather badly, sometimes going down in flames at the slightest provocation. However it is incredibly difficult to detect so this vulnerabilty is covered rather well, nevertheless it is equiped with Chaff and Flare dispencers ebhind the bomb bays, of which the StratoSpirit has 5, each with the rotating bomb racks required to drop the various munitions to be used in the mission in seconds.

Specifications
Crew: 2
Engines: 12 70,000 lb thrust turbofans
Length: 354 feet, 8 in
Height: 29 feet, 11 inches
Wingspan: 230 feet
Empty Weight: 288,000 kg
Expected Full Weight: 700,000
Maximum Take-off Weight: 750,000 lbs
Maximum Velocity: High Subsonic
Flight Range: 6,000 nm
Ceiling: 60,000 feet
Bomb Load: 380,000kg

Wingarde

21-10-2005, 23:33

OOC: It just can't carry 200 anti-ship missiles a piece. It's not a matter of weight but space. I don't know about your missiles (I'd like some stats and dimensions on them, too), but let's take the Exocet MM.40, for example.

5.8 meters long and 1.13 meters wide. The B-257's wingspan is of about 70 meters. That's enough for around 61 missiles, but not counting the main fuselage, the 12 engines, the large fuel tanks on the wings and the special equipment needed to fit each missile there. All those factors harshly reduce the amount of ordnance to be carried below the wings. The Tomahawk is longer (6.25 meters) and a lot wider (2.67 meters). Oh, and if you care about stealth, mounting missiles below the wings is suicide. Think about it.

As for space in the ordnance bay, same problem. Equipment necessary to mount each weapon safely (that is, not causing the plane to explode on take off), the size of each missile, space for electronic equipment, the cramped design to achieve a stealthy air-frame and ordnance loading space hampers the carrying capacity.

Triancia

21-10-2005, 23:45

OOC: Not only those point brought up by Wingarde, but how can it be stealth with 12 engines that produce 70000 pounds of thrust, each? An IR missle will probably think it's a second sun!

Spizania

22-10-2005, 00:13

I said it is stealthy, bnut hindered by it size, its not as visible as a bomber this size wihtout these stealth technoplogies but its still pretty visible.

Im using these http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=8601244&postcount=27

And the missilles are stacked in three dimensions. They cant all be fired at once, im sorry if those figures are worng, i just scaled them up, those were jsut orginal estimates, il up htem.
That doesnt really matter as theyre taking off from land bases.

Wingarde

22-10-2005, 01:20

OOC: Of course they're stacked in three dimensions and can't be fired all at once, I had already considered that. The Shockhound Avenger I is even longer than the Exocet which translates into even less space for missiles. In addition, from what I can see in the stats, the SA I is also PMT...

I hate to brake it to you, but most of your assets belong to a PMT timeframe. I haven't thoroughly researched, but the Lu-45 is too fast to be a MT aircraft and the Argentine-class is definitely PMT, just looks at its equipment, and the Indestructable-class is also not MT given its size and equipment (and basically because trimarans are in early planning stages). What's more, the dreadnought killers manufactured by Kriegzimmer were developed after the Zealous-class Superdreadnought, which was completed in 2017. Anything past 2010 is considered PMT.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 06:49

OOC: He has the good points where I couldn't think of. and don't try to get into an MT-PMT discussion with him. he's really good, I already tried that.
but anyways, as far as most equipment is now complete, shouldn't we start? this is getting quite boring.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 10:19

Near the Balearic Islands....

The Modified Seawolf-class was at ultrasilent. it made only the noise of the engines. it was on a recon patrol, carrying the Vortex-underwater rocket, to see if there was something to shoot at, when it recieved a message.

FROM: VLCOMSUBMED
TO: SSN-53, LAS PALMAS, MODIFIED SEAWOLF-CLASS

ORDERS: START OPERATION TESTFIRE VORTEX, AMETHYSTE SUB INBOUND. STOP.
2. RETREAT TO ALMERIÁ, JOIN MP FORCES. STOP.

SUCCES!

Commander Bruise immediately ordered the sonar to check for the signature of an Amethyste-class SSN, somewhere near. a few minutes later, the sonar operator returned with the signature of the needed SSN.
"firing solution for target SSN at 2 km, heading 56. flood tubes 1 and 2"
Bruise whispered into the ear of the weapons officer.
"aye sir, tubes are flooding."
"fire tube 1"
"aye sir, 1 away."
the Vortex catapulted away from it's tube at 56 knots. it then propelled itself to the max of 300 knots, and engaged active radar. it was aimed well, and if it followed the current line, it hit the SSN immediately. the onboard computer of the vortex began calculating where to hit. the SSN was recognised, and the target was the conning tower. with a fictive sound, the Vortex slammed against the tower, destroying the Sub. altough, if it had been a live-fire one.

Aboard the Amethyste...

The Commander looked at the screen, behind the sonar operator. some time before, an unknown sub had opened it's tubes, and flooded them. after that, a thundering sound almost deafened the operator, as the Vortex launched.
"Sir, unknown weapon launched from Submarine, Nuclear. speed is 240 knots and climbing, heading is 304, coming on us."
"max speed and countermeasures."
"we are cavitating"
"countermeasures deployed"
"weapon has gone active and missed the CM's"
"weapon at 300 knots, distance 500 metre-"
"HIT, Con hit. conning tower is destroyed,submarine is flooding."
"roger. test complete, return to base."

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 11:28

Aboard the Attack Submarine RNL Glatisant

The RNL Glatisant was smaller than the Seawolf-class marauder, but just as silent.

It was not equipped as well for arctic operations, but the Kingdom of Listeneisse did not have many arctic interests. Besides, the warm watered Mediterranean was far from the arctic.

Instead, it had been designed for littoral combat, with both acoustic and magnetic stealth capabilities.

The Glatisant sat below a tepid thermocline. It had been silently trailing the Amethyste in a quiet game of follow-the-leader, seeing how long it would take before they were noticed. They had good fortune so far.

Suddenly, Captain Gandin Anjou was informed there had been an actual torpedo launch from a nearby hidden Seawolf-class submarine. The submarine they had been tailing deployed countermeasures and tried to evade. Observing it all in concern, they could not be sure but it seemed like it was hit.

But there was no subsequent return fire, and the submarine simply turned course and began to run northwards.

The Captain ordered full stop. Dead silence.

"God damn the Devil!" the Captain cursed. "I heard what happened to that Triancian aircraft. I don't want anyone shooting at us."

Frowning, he said "Launch a lamprey."

The Underwater Unmanned Vehicle (UUV) Model 650, also known as a "Lamprey" was loaded into a torpedo tube. Because it could launch systems far more novel than just torpedoes, it was more proper now to call it a "horizontal launch system" to differentiate it from the vertical launch system (VLS) further aft. But the crew still called them torpedo tubes.

The tube was flooded, and the UUV released. But it was not shot out at great speed. Instead, it glided forth quietly and, once away, slowing increased speed to just a little faster than most submarines could travel. It was not designed for rapid intercept speed like a torpedo, but for stealth. It was an underwater reconnaissance and surveillance vehicle.

Its job was to shadow the submarine that just fired a torpedo. Find out what it could about it, and then send back data. It was equipped with quite a few gadgets and a bit of autonomous programming to make that mission possible. For now, it was in passive mode. A lurker in the deep. Being far smaller than most submarines, and about the size of a torpedo, it could make itself quite unobtrusive. It could sprint if it needed to, but that cost it silence and endurance. It was designed to simply shadow a target for a few days. It could even, like a true lamprey, clamp on to a target using suction and hang on for a long ride, or leave a small package that would the same job on its behalf.

"If they do detect it, let's at least find out if they shoot a torpedo at our toy boat first."

His Executive Officer, Commander Harold J. Macgruder wondered if they had ever gotten word on precisely how they were supposed to operate during the exercise. Rules of engagement? Safety procedures? Objectives?

"Bloody-H, Harry! I have no idea. I'm not sure of our target, our mission, or anything. All I know is that someone's launching torpedoes."

Meanwhile the Lamprey slowly and quietly swam out ahead, using the magnetic signature of the Seawolf-sized boat to home in on.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 12:24

OOC: Il rotate my Lu-45 wings back home and bring in my old Lu-05s instead from mothballing and the fleet reserve, the B-257s will be rotated back infavor of 32 B-1Bs, Theres not really anything i can do about the Argenine, as OPFOR is already outnumbered and i have nothing i can replace it with.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 12:49

OOC: OK with me.

IC:

Aboard the VLS "Las Palmas"

The Seawolf submarine had cut running at ultrasilent, and was now heading for the Alborán Sea. to join up with the MP coalition.
"Sir, Sonar here. we're tracking an unknown object, it's very vague, and it could be something out of the local population here, requesting for ultrasilent again."
"Aye, all, rig fur ultrasilent. speed down to 1-0 knots, keep an eye on it. what's the MAD on it?"
"We can't recognise it."
"Okay, try to send out a message on all frequences. I don't trust it."
"Aye sir, send message."
FROM: VLS "LAS PALMAS", MODIFIED SEAWOLF CLASS
TO: ALL VESSELS IN THE AREA

1. WE SUSPECT BEING FOLLOWED BY UNKNOWN VESSEL
2. REQUEST BACKUP, IN THE FORM OF ASW PROTECTION
3. IF HOSTILE, REQUEST FOR FIRE
OUT.

"To periscope depth and raise the radio mast!"
"Aye, sir"
The Seawolf class raised to Periscope depth and raised the required mast. it sent the message, which was heared by the airbase on Palma de Mallorca. they did send a Breguet Atlantique ATL2 aswell as a Dassault Falcon 20 ASW, to identify the possible target.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 13:00

Ohio-II Class SSGN Vigilant

The teletype cattered adn the mesasge from teh Las Palmas,
The Captain tore off the page almost before ti had stopeed typing, he read it and moved forward to the operations room and began issuing orders
"Comm, repsond tell them we are coming in, give them our course and speed; Weapons, load 4 Mk49s in hte forward tubes;
Pilot, new course two-five-zero, make your depth 300 metres, increase to flank speed"

The Ohio changed course and moved towards the Les Palmas.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 13:11

Over the Balearic islands...

The Breguet lowered it's altitude somewhat, and it's crew readied for the search of the unknown vessel. it carried several torpedoes, type Mk. 50. together with the 200 sonobuoys, it could be possible to locate, identify and destroy.
"Drop Sonobuoys!"
"Aye!"
it took several minutes to fully deploy the buoys, behind the Seawolf.
"Hot buoy, heading 304 and 56"
"Heading 56 is the Seawolf, what's the 304."
"Designation is Sierra 1, Sierra is probably a small vehicle. not capable of transporting more than one man."
"No sub, more an UUV."
"request for Radioman: send message with contact report. ask all troops for identification."
"Aye, sir."

FROM: MOBILE ASW PLATFORM ATL2-7
TO: MILEXCOM

1. CONTACT: LOCATION 3 KM BEHIND THE "LAS PALMAS", UUV, NATIONALITY AND MODEL UNKNOWN.
2. REQUEST IDENTIFICATION FROM MILEXCOM, PLEASE REPORT BACK TO "LAS PALMAS" AND SURFACE SHIPS IN THE AREA, ASWELL AS PALMAS DE MALLORCA AFB
3. POSSIBLE DESTROYING OF THE UUV IF NOT IDENTIFIED
OUT.

The Breguet flew on, to ensure that nothing was in the area. quite quickly, two other submarines were detected.
"Sir, two contacts bearing 304, one is the Amethyste, the other one is probably a Listeneisse Attack submarine, judging at the sound it's the RNL "Glatisant""
"probably the platform of the UUV. keep a track on both, then we'll decide if we'll try to destroy the UUV. after the message from MILEXCOM"

Spizania

22-10-2005, 13:25

"Sir we have a contact, a UUV, its not in the database, contact matches that of teh Van Luxembourgians,"
"Arm the torepdoes, plot a solution for all 4, send a message to MILEXCOM that we also have a solution if the ASW aircraft fails,"

FLASH TO MILEXCOM
1. We also have UUV contact also
2. Firing solution for 4 torpedoes plotted
3. Request furhter instructions
BREAKBREAK

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 13:37

(OOC: by the way, everyone is complete, isn't it? then we could start the exercise after the UUV incident.)

Spizania

22-10-2005, 13:48

OOC: Im ifnished, are we excepting the Galleon as OPFOR is so badly outnumbered?

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 13:49

OOC: it's OK with me, as long as nobody else objects. also, rememebr that OPFOR has about 2 times the size of MP's aircraft complement...

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 14:06

Vice Admiral Oriande was astounded, "What do you mean the exercise has begun? We haven't even held a debriefing of the last operation! There were targettings of craft outside the target area. Even using training rounds we thought had safety features there was an accidental downing of an aircraft -- which we deeply regret."

Commander Jones stiffened at the mention of the incident he was involved in. The Lieutenant-Colonel of the responsible SAM battery set his jaw but remained quiet.

The news was quickly confirmed by Colonel de Montelei. Ships and planes were already dispatched. The naval exercise had apparently begun.

The General spoke on behalf of all KLEF forces. His voice was calm but deliberate, "Grand Duke, Your Excellency -- we must lodge an urgent protest. There is no such thing as a 'MILES system' for a torpedo. It was for the reason of safety that we came to speak today. We ask that the scenario be halted until all parties are clear of what the rules of engagement are."

The Vice Admiral was even more firm and urgent in his plea, "We have not even given our ship commanders scenario parameters. They will not be able to tell an exercise from an actual attack. Remember the isolation of submarines and even pilots in the air. If they are fired upon, they may legally, by maritime law, fire in return. If we cannot guarantee safe operations in international waters, we must order a withdrawal and pull out before this turns into an inadvertant escalation into an exchange of deadly force. While our commanders and captains understand that there is supposed to be a military exercise going on, if there are actual weapons being deployed, or even practice weapons at first indistinguishable from real ones, this can be wrongly interpreted by human actors given limited intelligence into the proceedings."

With a set frown, he concluded, "Not to be further personally indignant, but I came here for a briefing. I was supposed to be back on my vessel commanding the exercise when it began. A Vice Admiral is supposed to be leading the van of the fleet. My staff and the fleet's Admiral will be urgently seeking my counsel. You must excuse me."

The Air Commodore quickly followed, as did Commander of No. 1 Squadron.

General Orberica wryly questioned, "I do hope no one plans on shooting down our Vice Admiral as he tries to take his helicopter back to his ship?"

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 14:15

"I understand, and that's why we use computer simulations after the launch of the weapon. the weapon will run out of fuel soon enough, will come to float and cn be picke dup. then, the computer will continue the simulation, to be shown on screens of all participating. We haven't officially started any operations than tests, and not the actual exercise. we are still busy getting any commander to know that the exercise will be starting at approximately 5 o'clock, GMT +1 summertime, or in about 1 hour, 40 minutes. thsi will be enough time to set up the units. all units will be starting from their scheduled points, and hopefully, nothing will go wrong in the process. and i have to say, WE never had an accident during naval trainings. and, this ship is unarmed, so the chance is small that we will kill any person"

(OOC: I don't know when I get back, as I'm going towards an electronics shop.)

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 14:25

The UUV simply dropped off sonar. With sonobuoys pinging all over the area, it simply dived. It could "see" the Seawolf-class submarine ahead echoing back from the trail of sonobuoys' active sonar.

A sonobuoy gave a ping. That registered on the UUV first. Soon, another echo from same ping off the more distant attack submarine also came back.

Because of that, using passive sonar, the UUV could easily tell where other ships were in its environs. Its sensors and programmes calculated sea salinity and temperature, which affected propagation waves of sound. It simply paused now and then to listen. If it were a dog, you might think it was cocking an ear in curiosity. Instead, it was using the opportunity to think, and shift positions to listen from different locations to the incessant sonar echoes bounding through the sea.

Both the UUV and the Seawolf submarine, as well as other submarines in the area, were covered in acoustic-absorbing material. But that did not make them completely silent.

Yet the sub was over 9,000 tons displacement. The UUV was a meagre 1.5 tons.

Because of that, the UUV did not need to shadow its quarry so closely. It was like watching someone holding a torch aloft to see a distant figure in the night. In comparison, it was a tiny silent creature of the sea listening to the whale song of the attack submarine's sonar echo.

It dropped back, and down. Being unmanned, it could withstand rather significant depths (though it was not designed for true deep ocean diving). It merely followed its programming, and prepared to slip down a good few hundred meters and follow from a new bearing.

It calculated how far away it might need to stay to shadow the Seawolf, where it was undetectable because of its small displacement, but the large submarine would not be able to hide. Slowly, it was learning the behavior of its opponent. And adapting to it.

Aboard the RNL Glatisant

The pinging was a submariner's nightmare. The active sonar sonobuoys made quite clear that there were a few subs in the area. Fortunately, Glatisant was furthest away from the noise.

It was like turning on the lights and seeing all the roaches that visit your kitchen in the middle of the night. The sea was littered with dark, acoustically-absorbing bugs, displacing a few thousand tons each.

The fattest roach on sonar presently was a big one you needed two feet to stomp on. Acoustics indicated probably a ballistic submarine.

The Captain idly wondered, "Who in world thought it was a good idea to bring ICBMs to a military exercise?" Then he considered, "Probably converted to a cruise missile boat. But it makes for a damned large target out here in the deep water. It's far too big to play games of cat and mouse."

"Whoever those boat captains are, they are not ours, and I don't trust them. Get us the hell out of here."

The RNL Glatisant slipped away in the opposite direction of the sonobuoy trail, altering depth and putting to good use a thermocline stream of sonar-reflective cold water deep below the surface.

Of all the submarines, theirs was the smallest in the area. Perhaps not the fastest, but fast also meant "loud" under water. Therefore, they had the least acoustic signature. They could sit furthest back and "listen" to the other boats operating. Which is what they planned to do.

It was time to let the UUV do its work.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 15:07

OOC: HAs the exercise Started?

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 15:20

Aboard the VLS Nieuwstraat

The General fell silent.

The representatives of the Royal Navy of Listeneisse had all left.

It was up to Colonel de Montelei to explain, "We don't have any practice torpedoes. And for main guns aboard ships, or even CIWS, there's no such thing as a practice round they can recall or self-destruct in mid-air. Firing any weapon -- even if your forces believe it to be a practice round -- cannot be identified as such, and we have no way to fire in return."

"While our military often trains hard, and are used to no-notice taskings in military exercises, we have to seriously request that a fair and safe mechanism is used -- without requiring actual munitions -- for the simulation of force-on-force combat. If we wish to have live fire at drones and targets, we should do so. But we should be avoiding at all cost the actual launch of live weaponry. Especially if it might harm sailors, airmen, or their vessels."

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 15:38

aboard the VLS "Nieuwstraat"

"Yes, blank shots. if we use those, we can simulate the firing of a gun, but the actual weapon will not be fired. those will be simulated by computers, so everything is safe. and for the practice torpedoes, what kind do you use? maybe we can supply some. MK. 48's and such aren't a problem."

leading the operations against the UUV

"This is the Modified Seawolf-class sub "Las Palmas", we urge any controller or operator of the UUV to stop it's operations and let it return to base. this is our last warning, before we fire at it. let this be seen as an example for the actions of the Van Luxemburgian navy. out."
meanwhile, the "Las Palmas" gave the order to all Van Luxemburgian ASW operators, to ready their weapons. the "Las Palmas itself didn't want to fire one of their Vortexes at it, so they did it by the ASW aircraft in the neighborhood.

the Breguet was busy readying it's gear, to open fire at the UUV, whn it got the message of formal exercise start. their area had been on exception, because of the hunt for the UUV. the weapons officer preheated one of the Mk.50's, to be launched at the craft.

OFFICIAL MILEXCOM MESSAGE

1. EXERCISE START, ALL SHIPS RETURN TO THE STARTING LOCATION
2. EXCEPTION FOR THE AREA AROUND THE BALEARIC ISLANDS, BECUASE OF THE HUNT FOR AN UNMANNED UNDERWATER VEHICLE.

MILEXCOM OUT.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 15:47

The Combined Spizanian fleet with the exception of the Vigilant moved into combat formation and started to move into battle, 40 SHockhound AntiShipping Missiles Launched and started towards the combined MP fleet, htey woudl explode well short of the MP vessels and there ONC had been replaced with low-grade gunpowder ot reduce danger to the MP forces. However the MILES system would simulate the missiles slamming into the MP units and exploding will full force.

At the OPFOR base at Palermo 32 B-1B lancers took off and headed for the Wingardian section of the fleet, escorted by 48Lu-05s. The bombers were not armed, neither were the fighters, but governors on thier engines made htem act as if they were loaded down with ordanance. The Bombers were "loaded" with 72 GBU-31 JDAMs in their internal bomb bays and 6 Shockhound Avengers on their Wing Hardpoints.

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 15:54

ooc: No. Sort-of-but-not-really. But we're just going with what we would do if someone started launching torpedoes in the area.

There was some traffic back to MILEXCOM asking for permission to fire.

I presume the submerged submarines are using a towed cable array to communicate with headquarters. If they are, that shows up on acoustic signatures readily.

The Glatisant has not deployed their towed cable array antenna to keep their acoustic signature minimal, which is why they do not know about anything. And with an aircraft dropping sonobuoys, they are not about to go surface any time soon.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 15:58

OOC: Our sub captains to not know this

Vigiliant
"Still no answer to the VL message captain"
"We still have a solution on the UUV"
"Yes Captain"
"Flood tubes, open outer doors and retransmit the message verbally on the Gertrude, its mother sub may be close enough to hear"
"Sir"

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 16:12

OOC: mine usesd his main radio tower, to be raised when surfaced or almost surfaced. (periscope depth). but anyways. the exercise has started as of now, and i think the seawolf will just move back to the alborán sea.

IC:
MP

Aboard the Verdun class AAW frigates, most alarms began to sound, as the missiles stormed on the fleet. immediately, the Van Luxemburgian ships started evasive manouevers, aswell as activating their Phalanx CIWS systems. they immediately locked onto the incoming Shockhounds, and began firing into the Shockhounds. this actually wasn't needed, because after 450 km's, the shockhounds hurtled to sea, with still 850 km to go. thereafter, The Le Havre class Cruisers began with a solution for the source of the missiles, but couldn't fire, because the distance was too great.

OPFOR

while the most surface ships stayed berthed, the Amethystes and L'indomitable-class subs left off from their base in Cagliari. main concern was to take out the escorted ships, as it could lead to an earlier end of the exercise. they however had to pass the escorts.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 16:27

OOC: Is that what range were at? Well then its up to the Lancers to strike the first blow

IC:

The bombers recieved bnew orders they were to target the VL MP forces first, they "armed" there weapons, they were now only 600km form teh enemy, they woudl hold until25km so that the JDAMS could be launched simultanously.

Wingarde

22-10-2005, 16:39

OOC: Tag, will post later. And Spiz, sorry if I was too harsh.

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 17:21

Aboard the RNL Glatisant

A "Gertrude" was sometimes referred to as an underwater radio. But infact it was sonar based. It was based on transducers on the hulls of ships or submarines sending off sound signals which could be heard and interpreted by hydrophone equipment. Aboard the Glatisant was an AN/WQC-2A Sonar Communication Set just for that purpose. Its operator was picking up something, but it was distant. Ranges on such transducer-and-hydrophone-based signaling was typically unreliable -- often a kilometer or less, or up to 10 in remarkably clear conditions.

Apparently the other two submarines were communicating using the "Gertrude." Either that, or they were trying to get ahold of the Glatisant.

Meanwhile the silent little UUV continued its relentless scanning of the seas, using passive detectors. Its integrated motor propulsor allowed it to sneak through the ocean in a wakeless flow of water.

The sonobuoys were falling mostly wide of it now, but the Seawolf-class submarine and a more distant Ohio-II-class submarine were well within earshot.

The Glatisant was already behind it by a few kilometers. The UUV's detection equipment was good, but had its technological limits.

It was operating autonomously. It was programmed to shadow vessels. But it had no way to actually interact with curious humans on hydrophones.

It made acoustic recordings of all that it was hearing, for future playback and interpretation.

It efficiently and emotionlessly considered what its options were, and waited for its opportunities.

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 17:41

Aboard the RNL Parzival

The Vice Admiral's helicopter had not even landed when the intercepting aircraft began to be launched off the forward catapults.

The Captain of the Parzival had ordered his aircraft sortee for interception. There were bombers inbound apparently, and they meant to carry antiship missiles. Bombers should be met by fighter escorts. Far beyond launch range, if possible.

They had no armed weapons, of course, but they flew off to meet the bombers nonetheless. The Galahad was also lofting her squadrons.

It was insane, the Vice Admiral fumed. No planning. No prior communication with allies. It was as if the entire thing was being run as a surprise attack. While it was true there were surprise attacks in the real world, in this case, the convoy mission was a disaster. No one was assigned to escort duty per se.

He hadn't even gotten a chance to communicate with his peers in the mission. He was convinced that if a single ship got to Toulon it would be a miracle.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 17:42

OOC: yes, it's 1300km. EDIT: Listeneisse, for strategical planning, get on MSN, if you want...

IC:

MP

as soon as the Shockhounds felt into the water, another danger became imminent: a group of B-1B Lancers, inbound for the fleet. the verdun class AAW frigates were at their guard now, and picked them up quite quickly. altough they were closing, the Crotales and Asters weren't capable of hitting the bombers at this distance. so, the Verduns just had to wait, their time would come....

meanwhile, the group steamed on, at a steady 11 knots. the VLCC's could keep it up that way. The Perpignan carrier, altough not the fastest one, was leading, together with her protection, a normal Seawolf-Class and two Bordeaux-class destroyers. for it's own protection, it launched a wing of 5 Mirage 2100's, to intercept the B-1B's and their escorts. if they were alright, they could intercept them from the first contact, those fools wouldn't even know what hit them...

OPFOR

The subs were making good progress, and had almost reached their destination: the Balearic islands. they were travelling in a sort of wolfpacks, to spread out over the sea when they reached their final destination, to wait for their targets to come.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 17:54

"Target is in range, DROP DROP DROP!"
The bomb aby doors opened and the "Launched" there munitons. The 2034 JADMs went after the smaller Cruiser sized vessels in the fleet, the 192 Shockhounds equally split amognst the enemy carriers.
The Lu-05s screened tehma s they returend to base to rearm adn refuel.
EBlow hte armada ground on.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 18:01

MP

when the weapons were dropped and the bombers approached, the AA Phalanx systems went into effect. a complete spree of all Van Luxemburgian Navy ships enraged along the missiles, while several Mirage 2100's engaged the leaving B-1B's with their MAGIC-2 missiles. also, the Spizanian aircraft were almost engulfed with Aster 15, 30 and crotale missiles, aswell as the Standard missiles and 25 MM MG's.

meanwhile, the VLCC's moved on at a normal speed, not affected by the heavy weapons flying around. most of the Auxiliaries were equipped with CIWS systems so they were busy engaging enemies. the VLCC's not. they just got on, and on.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 18:10

The Lu-05 Screen salvoed 10 AtA missiles each, nearly annihalting the enmy inbounds, finishing them off with Lunatic Systems.

They then folowed the B-1Bs out of range of hte enemy SAMs

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 18:12

ooc: Shockhound questions

It's said that this is a 1,900 kg missile that travels at Mach 3.5 for 450km.

Exocet AM.39 weighs 640 kg, speed Mach .93, and range of 70-75km.

Harpoon/SLAM-ER weighs 630 kg, travels Mach .7 (855 kph), with a range of 280 km.

Exocet MM.40 weighs 825 kg, speed Mach .93, range of 180km, but that is because it is surfaced launched with a booster.

Patriot missiles surely fly at Mach 5, and weigh 900kg, but only have a range of 70km.

The PJ-10 Brahmos (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/BrahMos) weighs about 3,000kg, and travels at Mach 2.8, but for only 290 km.

The SS-N-19 'Shipwreck' weighs 4,000 kg, travels at Mach 1.5 - 2.25, with a range of 550 to 625 km. Also, the Shipwreck cruises slower, then has a fast and furious terminal approach. It doesn't always fly at its peak speed, from what I understand.

I'm not getting where this thing gets to fly at Mach 3.5 at that range. Unless of course, when it hits, it merely goes 'ding'! (i.e., no warhead.)

I think the Shockhound needs to probably be a bit less shocking, unless someone can provide me with the data on how it can be that fast and that long range for that weight. It probably needs to be toned down a little. But as the Brahmos and Shipwreck show, not all that much.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 18:17

"Missiles inbound, dive! dive!" the advanced Mirage 2100's dived, and nearly dove into the sea.
"HIT!"
"HIT!"
"Shit, we've lost number 3, returning to base!"

Meanwhile, the convoy steamed on. they were 1 frigate and 1 cruiser
poorer, but that didn't do much, as the whole fleet nearly was annihalated by some furry missiles. too bad they didn't had their advanced equipment, they could have shown the enemy something with that.

(OOC: ehm, spiz, shouldn't any of my AA hit any of your aircraft? that's ofcourse fictive.)

Spizania

22-10-2005, 18:26

OOC: Tis the Macabees design
Shouldnt the amount of nmunitons i fired do more damage?

IC: The Bombers returend to base and rearmed, caught 15 minutes of rest and headed out again

Teh Armada was not 600km from teh enemy

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 18:30

MP

The Joint commanders were at a conference aboard the VLCC, to determine what to do against the bombers.
"I just say we use our crotales and asters, and everything on AA we have, and fix us on the B-1B's. does anyone still have a Starstreak aboard?"
"YES!" all hands raised for a little, before another one stood up.
"Okay then, we wait for them to come again and then shoot them out of their own aerospace with a mighty salvo of AA fire, coordinated, ofcourse. who's against?"
no hands raised.
"okay, thanks alot, all return to your duties!"

Spizania

22-10-2005, 18:38

The bomb loads this time were different, tehy still ahd 6 shockhounds each but the JDAMs had been replaced by 192 Mk85 Naval Mines each, they would be dropped infront of the enemy armada, out of range of the SAMs batteries.

Van Luxemburg

22-10-2005, 18:51

MP

while the Convoy moved on, the Mine Countermeasure ships were slowly put in front, to sweep ahead, might something happen. this was ofcourse not sure, but the commander had a feeling. and if he had that feeling, some things could go terribly wrong.
"We've got them on radar again, sir. those assholes are history, very soon."
"Okay then, coordinate attack, we're gonna be victorious!"
the crie was done by all Van Luxemburgian Commanders, to keep morale up, and ensure the missiles were fired. when any of them got into range, 30 km for the Aster 30's, the missiles would be fired.
"Sir, we've got Shockhounds on Radar."
"deploy Phalanxes on the Verduns"
"Roger, sir."
The Phalanxes jumped into action, and fired their stream of bullets against the 6 Shockhounds, before returning to passive again.

meanwhile, the carrier VLS "Reutte" launched it's complete complement of aircraft, 50 rafales and 13 Mirage 2100's, to counter any possible surviving aircraft.

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 18:54

The fleet flew its radar jammer aircraft before it. The massive barrage of radar-homing missiles were rather inneffective looking for as-yet-distant targets hundreds of kilometers away through a forward screen of radar-blanking systems.

They could be guided by GPS for the most part, but terminal guidance by radar-homing was doomed to fail. So long as the ships took evasive action, they could be a kilometer away or more from the plotted target point.

Still, attack helicopters were lofted to swarm the sky and "intercept" any missile that kept its course.

The Royal Navy's 48 fighter aircraft, each armed with air-to-air missiles that could move at Mach 4, with a range of 30km, flew far beyond the range of the electronic warfare screen. Instead, they made a direct line for the bombers and their escorts.

They wanted to prove that they were not simply going to be declared 'destroyed' in this sham of an exercise. And if they were, they were going to make sure that the bombers were declared likewise.

It's far easier to say you killed an opponent than to do it. The men and women of the Royal Navy of Listeneisse were there to prove there was no such thing as a 'quick kill' when you fought against strongly-trained pilots.

While Spizania were momentarily hunting down the MP Mirage 2100's, the RNL decided to 'bounce' them and shove a few virtual missiles up their rears.

Cries of "Tally ho!" and "For King and Country!" rose gallantly over the comms systems.

While 36 of the aircraft barreled into the swarm of the Spizania aircraft, the remaining twelve took a faster afterburner intercept course against the fleeing bombers. They ensured each bomber was pursued by a virtual missile or two. The Lu-05's got a taste of their own medicine, targetted by two or three virtual missiles each.

Satisfied to chase off the bombers with some theoretical radar-homing parting gifts, the squadron returned to the close-in dogfighting with the Lu-05's.

In clear voices, they barked into their flight recorders and radios their launches and claimed targets. WSOs launched countermeasures and monitored the battlespace in the air. There was no streak of contrails. There was not a single ounce of material or ordance dropped.

They did not idly wait for their RH missiles to "hit" either. They sped faster ahead to follow up with closer-in IR missiles or virtual cannon.

With a furor borne out of indignancy and in virtual revenge for whatever the long-range missiles were likely to be ruled to hit their fleet, they cut a swath through the Spizania formation.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 18:58

Firslty taht 6 SHockhounds per each of teh 32 Bombers and there stiill 300km away.

Teh bombers fired the shockhounds and dropped hte mi nes in the path of the ships before returnign to base again.

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 19:00

ooc: It would help if you actually let people respond to your initial attack.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 19:07

I did Van Luxembourg responded, im not sure what the rules are when attacking combined formations

Listeneisse

22-10-2005, 19:22

Aboard the VLS Nieuwstraat

General Orberica had not departed from the Royal Yacht. Apparently this was the place he was going to watch from as the exercise unfold.

Someone fetched laptop computers so they could watch the updates, patched in to a satellite channel.

Complaints were coming in from all over that they had not been notified there was an exercise commencing today.

"Apparently it was a 'sneak attack,'" he informed them.

Reports had that a Royal Navy submarine was operating off the Balearic Islands. Its skipper had not surfaced to get the orders that this was all just an exercise.

There were threats that someone wanted to actually torpedo a deployed UUV out of the water. The General frowned at the suggestion.

"In a real war, those are expendable. But no vessel is supposed to be targetted with actual weapons. I suggest to whoever is requesting to fire on our vehicle to stow it."

He actually wondered if they'd dare fire at it anyway. They'd find out a bit about how it operated if they did.

The supposed helicopter base of OPFOR on the Baleares Islands had a cruise missile strike declared aimed at it. If it was going to be used as an ASW base, it was not going to be OPFOR's.

The General pondered who was in fact adjudicating the effectiveness of jamming and countermeasures.

Did any of the supposedly-launched munitions from Spizania hit?

The Vice Admiral was saying none of them did. To him, radar jamming and countermeasures would have ensured that none of the fired weapons found a target.

Of course, the opponents could try to counter that, but now it was up to technicians to argue whatever guidance systems were being used. The Kingdom of Listeneisse had certain radar jamming equipment and anti-missile techniques it did not want to simply blurt out.

The General shrugged, uncertain how the day would play out.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 19:51

"Range to enemy battlegroup now reads 345 km, All missile launchers FIRE! All gun batteires come to bear and await furtehr instructions, Scramble Scramble!"

150 Shockhound Avengers were "Launched" at the enemy vessels, equiped with IR secondary targetinfg systems, the moment RADAR aquisition was lost they would aim for the nearest IR signature moving at under 50knts and count that as their target.
125 Principe IIIs followed them. They woudl drop there torpedoes whihc woudl then be guided by SONAR onto the enemy carriers.

This Engagement was about to heat up.

Triancia

22-10-2005, 20:11

OOC: I don't suppose I could ask for a pause in the massive amount of posing being done? I need to catch up with all of this, and make my first pose, something that a bit daunting to do when I see three pages of RP has been added in the last two hours!

I don't want to be left in the dust, after all.

Well, not /massive/, but still a large amount of stuff to respond to.

Wingarde

22-10-2005, 23:18

Task Force Fenrir, enroute to Toulon.

"Cougar Flight, you're cleared for launch." The catapult of the WFN Nordheim hurled Cougar Lead and the rest of his wingmen forward. Jaguar and Tiger Flights, made of WF-33s, were already airborne and heading towards the mass of Spizanian aircarft. The WF-27 Firebolts engaged afterburners and darted towards the other friendlies to form up.

"Lynx Flight, cleared for take-off." The flight deck techinicians stepped away from the other Firebolt flight as large metal panels raised on the back of each fighter. Engines flared up and the Lynxes were airborne and enroute after merely 30 seconds.

Once the Firebolts and Avengers had formed up, totalling 16 fighter aircraft, they fired up their burners once again and raced towards the formation of Spizanian B1-Bs and their escorts.

Meanwhile, in the WFN Nordheim's control tower...

"I want Cheetah Flight prepped for take-off ASAP, Emmo." Admiral Friedmann commanded as he gazed his aircraft disappear in the distance, valiantly charging against the enemy.

"Yes, Herr Admiral!" His first officer acknowledged and transmitted the orders to the the flight deck. However, a report suddenly came in from the radar officer, whose screen showed a huge amount of small dots beside the aircraft contacts.

"Missile wave, bearing zero-seven two, closing in at above Mach 3!" The first mate quickly reported. However, the large amount of Engelburg-class destroyers has already been put on alert and their anti-missile systems were online. They had formed up between the task force and the enemies way before the Shockhound Avengers were launched. Once they were in range, each of the 24 destroyers in the outer formations launched volleys of anti-ordnance missiles at the incoming threats. The remaining missiles would be torn apart by miniguns installed in each vessel.

Back in the air...

Tiger, Jaguar, Cougar and Lynx flights quickly got in range of their AIM-54 Phoenix missiles. Their primary targets were of course the bombers, which they didn't hesitate to take out from afar.

"Destroy the B-1Bs at all costs. Tiger Lead, fox one!" The Phoenix from this WF-33 was the first one of many launched towards the large enemy aircraft. One AIM-54 was tracking each bomber, racing towards it at 4,500 km/h.

"Break formation and take out the surviving primary targets, gentlemen." Jaguar Lead ordered as the four flights fanned out and darted towards the B-1Bs which would survive the initial Phoenix wave.

And 200 meters beneath the Mediterranean waves, between the MP and Spizanian fleets...

The four Framzig-class Attack Submarines of the 3rd Submarine Squadron crept silently through the vast blue depths towards the enemy ships, especially the Argentine-class Galleon the Spizanians had at the heart of their forces. The leader sub, the WSN Ostara, was at the head of the formation. Each vessel was suficiently distanced from each other to avoid the detection of the whole group at once.

"We're getting close, load tubes 1 and 2 with Sea Drakes. We'll take the pride of their fleet away from them before they realize what's going on." Captain Pfizer commanded. The distance between the squadron and the enemy decreased by the minute as the silent hunters approached at 10 knots. The SC-1 Sea Drake would quickly take out the Repulse once they were in range.

Spizania

22-10-2005, 23:41

Ohio-II class SSGN Sentinel

"Sonar Contacts on the lateral Array, designate Targets CW-1 through 3 sonar signature sugests Wingardian Attack Submarines, 500 metrres off the port for-quarter"
"Flood 3 forward tubes and open outer doors, plot solutions"
"Sir"
*A short pause*
"Doors open, Solutions plotted"
"Match Bearings and Fire!"
"Sir"
"Reload Tubes"
3 simulated Mk49 Torpedoes shot off towards the enemy submarines, one each for the detected three

In the Air
32 of the escorts salvoed two MTAAM-3s each, taking out all but three of the inbound weapons, destroying anotehr two with a combination of 20mm Slugs and there Lunatic guns, nevertheless one broke through and caused simulated damage to one of the B-1Bs, that would be the last sortie it would be fighting today.
In response the other 16 Lu-05s salvoed of two missiles each at the Wingardian Aircraft as the B-1Bs continued to withdraw at Mach 1.1

Triancia

22-10-2005, 23:46

Wardroom, RTS Ridgewood

“Surprise attack? No, /fucking/ way!”

The Commander of the RTS Nova was particularly incensed. He normally didn’t use such language, even when it was just the carrier principles and the Fleet Commodore, as it was now. However, no one in the room thought they could blame the Nova’s CO for the outburst. His ship had been through a massive run of bad luck while sailing to the exercise area. He had to run only one reactor at a time, to complete emergency maintenance. His number one and three wires on the flight deck needed to be replaced because of a very hard landing. One of his catapults had been thoroughly wrecked. And now that he had finally managed to limp a slow, less effective carrier to the battle front, he’d been told that the exercise had already begun, as a ‘surprise attack’ on an MP battalion?

It wasn’t fair! To most parties.

The CO of RTS Denalia shook her head, as well. “I’d agree with you, John. They started the exercise without even consulting us on the strategy. This isn’t a surprise attack. It’s damned incompetence!”

The man commanding RTS Ridgewood interjected. “Alright, fine. This whooole exercise is a shame, horribly run, presented, and played. What are we going to do about it, though? Issue a formal complainant? We’re here to fight, and we can’t just sacrifice this opportunity because we don’t like the situation it presents itself in.”

Commodore Halley nodded to himself, and stood, up, heading over to the sound powered telephone on the wall. “Alright. We’ll fight. But this issue is coming up in the post briefing.” He lifts the receiver, and clears his throat. “CIC, Wardroom. Need a status check from the OOD.” He placed the receiver back down, and hit the buttons nescceary to switch the feed to an electronically amplified speaker system.

“Wardroom, CIC.” The OOD spoke up after a few moments. “We’re about 130 kilometers out from the main area of engagement. CAP is currently out in force around the group, and ASW operations are actively being conducted. Current So-tiff (SOTF) report states that all ships are ready to conduct offensive operations at range.”

The Commodore nodded to himself. “Excellent. Status of the enemy fleet?”

“Our allies from Spizania are currently engaged in a large scale aerial battle against MP forces in the area. Reports from our Overseers in the air are sketchy, and- Standby….”

The wardroom itself remained in tense silence, and only the background noise of the CIC preventing it from being and ear-shattering one.

“Sir, we’ve got reports of a large amount of aircraft launching from the Nordhei, from the Wingarde fleet. They are heading away, repeat, away from our position. It looks like they’re conducting an Air Superiority sortie against the Sipzanian aircraft.”

The commodore turns around sharply, but the Commander of the Denalia beat him to the point. “Sir, an alpha strike now would-“

The Commodore interrupted almost immediately, “Aware of it!” He looked quickly to the Ridgewood’s commander “Tom-“

“Five minutes!” The addressed man yelped, before almost jumping out of his seat, and sprinting toward the door, out to the corridor. He wouldn’t run all the way to the CIC, however. Just when there wasn’t anyone looking.

Triancian 2nd CBF

Orders given were quickly obeyed, first by the Ridgewood, then by Denalia and Nova. In a little over ten minutes, a total of sixty fighters, thirty armed with Exocet missiles, and thirty modulated with HARMs and AMRAAMS, were moving on afterburner from the three carriers toward the Wingarde Fleet, intent on making sure those recently launched aircraft had no where to land.

And, from under the waves, the RTS Spectre, one of the new Cerzana Class submarines, moved forward, far ahead of the fleet and it’s wolf pack, and a mere 25 kilometers from the enemy force. The Captain himself was keeping his boat quiet. At least until he could launch his TASMs at such a range that interception would be unlikely. Then he was planning to run as fast as possible, and to hell with the noise.

Wingarde

23-10-2005, 00:13

OOC: Spizania, all your methods for shooting down my AIM-54s are invalid. Air-to-Air missiles can't shoot down other AAMs and so can't guns: too small, too fast. What's more, any Phoenix that hits is almost a certain kill against an aircraft such as the B-1B, not just "damage".

As for my subs, they were running silent and over 200 km away from your ships, so they couldn't have been detected.

I'm giving you a change to disregard what happened and correct this. I'll do it myself next time, and you'll lose important equipment if you don't use it appropriately.

Spizania

23-10-2005, 00:22

YOu think i have my sub screens only right on top of my own ships, i could have heard you with the submarines huge towed SONAR array.
The B-1B is famous for its massive resistance to Damage, anyway its a write-off, in this situation a writeoff is effectively a kill.
Also the MTAAM-3s dont ahve to hit your missiles, they just ahve to explode near enough that the blast from tehre warheads and remaining fuel catches the missile and triggers its explosives. Teh Lunatic is designed speciffically to kill missiles.

Wingarde

23-10-2005, 00:39

OOC: Both the MTAAM-3 and the Lunatic guns are PMT, so I downgraded them to MT according to the rules of these excercises. No MT weapon can intercept supersonic AAMs.

My subs were running silently, so it's very unlikely they could've been detected.

Listeneisse

23-10-2005, 04:37

ooc: I'll join Wingarde in calling for a bit of sanity. The requirements for air-to-air interception of a Mach 4 AMRAAM with a Mach 3.7 ATAAM-3 are phenomenal.

There's a way to do it. After all, Patriot (moving at Mach 5) was designed to intercept Scud (Mach 4.2). They can also have quite a failure rate; intercept of Scuds in GW1991 was 40-70%. While Patriots can be improving (i.e., PAC-3), there probably needs to be more than one or two missiles getting through of a volley of over a hundred.

First, Scuds are larger and easier targets. Scuds are also not noted for their agility. They follow a nice lofted ballistic track -- the missile equivalent of a gentle picnic softball pitch with a beer in your off-hand. Whereas AMRAAMs are making constant course corrections with high G terminal maneuvers to track down evading aircraft.

Also I note the ATAAM-3 has a beyond-ludicrous range of 275km for its speed and size. A tenth of that I could buy. Possibly even a quarter. AMRAAM has a range of about 40+ km.

Tone it down.

Listeneisse

23-10-2005, 05:13

The Vice Admiral got the permission from the Admiral even as the Shockhounds and JDAMs were inbound.

There was time, but they needed to inform the marshals of the exercise.

As the virtual swarm of missiles approached the fleet, the Kingdom of Listeneisse authorized the use of four tactical nuclear weapons, in the 150 kt range, deployed well over 100 km to the flank of the fleet, interposed between it and the incoming missiles.

Each of the weapons would obliterate any incoming missiles in a 52 square kilometer area with an overpressure blast of 2psi and intense EMP. The four weapons, spaced apart by 12 km, would create a devastating effect knocking out any missiles travelling through the area.

Further, it would provide a persistent zone of ionization -- a gigantic electronic warfare screen -- based on the wash of EMP radiation for the next day. In essence, a gigantic whitewash of any radio emissions -- radar, radio, GPS systems -- and even a hazard to unhardened electronics aboard aircraft, surface vessels and overflying satellites.

The Vice Admiral was serious. He wanted to know what the effectiveness of electronic countermeasures were against the over one thousand inbound missiles. If they were deemed not sufficient to save the lives of his crews, or if the marshals equivocated or hesitated in an answer, then he was deploying the nuclear weapons defensively, and swiftly.

Any stragglers that got through the blast zone could be picked off by conventional countermeasures.

According to this exercise, he was here to safeguard a convoy. He was therefore not going to be let it sunk in the first hour. They barely even rounded the cape off Almería.

He also got clearance that there were no MP aircraft or submarines operating in the target area. The fighters were already further east. They'd have to divert around the area on their return flights. The attack submarines were further north, off the coast of the Balearic Islands, clearing them of OPFOR forces.

"Make it so."

Van Luxemburg

23-10-2005, 06:52

(OOC: and, Wingarde/Spizania, don't forget that my Advanced multiroles are right behind the B-1B's, and have fired MAGIC-2 missiles at them. and Listeneisse, the Barearic Islands, Palma De Mallorca especially, is an AFB, used for ASW operations. there are some of my Breguets stationed there.)

40 metres under the surface...

Silently, the two Seawolf class submarins joined up with the third, carrying the Vortex. they now didn't pay attention anymore to the UUV, if it got away, it was away. one signature poorer. they now moved at 5 knots, ultrasilent, to avoid detection. at approximately 200km off Sardinia, they were closing quite fast. commander Bruise had took the lead, and the submarines had been spread out over an area of over 10km, but still able to contact eachother.
"Sir, contact on sonar, heading is 45, closing, distance is approximately 50 km. designated Sierra 2"
"Sir, we've got active radar on Sierra 2, they have just gone to active"
"to periscope depth, raise the MK. 18!"
"Aye sir!"
the Mk. 18 periscope slowly raised from it's little home, and peeked over the surface. while Bruise was looking around, another alarm had gone off.
"Sir, radar contact, is AS365, closing, heading 48. designated Sierra 3"

OPFOR Battlegroup

While the Seawolfs were busy identifying ships, an AS365 "Panther" took off from the flightdeck of the "Charles de Gaulle", heading for a recon flight, not knowing of the location of the Seawolfs. the battlegroup had decided to surprise any MP units off the coast at Perpignan, or anywhere in that area.

Location of the MP convoy

The convoy was still moving. the aircraft had now returned to their mobile bases, and it was silent and relaxing again. but, only for the men aboard the auxiliaries and VLCC's. others were busy searching for possible enemies.

Listeneisse

23-10-2005, 13:59

(ooc: Alright. I was just checking Palma De Mallorca was "friendly." If that had been OPFOR ASW, it was going to get cruise missiled into a crater.)

Off the coast of Palma De Mallorca

The UUV, frustrated that it had lost its signal, let its tethered transmitter bob to the surface. Once it broke the waves, it began to "squawk" to the satellites above all the information it had collected.

There were many curious and interesting submarines in the area.

They suggested that the Lamprey join a network of similar devices all swimming along ahead of the fleet. Apparently it was not alone.

There were in fact, now, three dozen of the little drones looking ahead of the fleet, spaced about a kilometer apart. Another dozen trailed to the east of the fleet and another dozen to the west. In all, there was a nice arc of submarine robots about fourty kilometers wide all actively chirping or passively listening, looking for acoustic and magnetic signatures in the seas around them.

Overhead and further out there were dozens more ASW helicopters trawling for fish to net.

Behind this came the screen of ocean-going mine countermeasures ships, followed closely by the guided missile destroyers.

Aboard the RNL Glatisant

The Glatisant had finally shook off whatever was tailing it and raised its tethered radio system. It was finally able to learn that the boat that fired was on MP Coalition's side -- a Seawolf operated by Van Luxemburg. It had also threatened to sink the UUV.

"Christ on a cross! What were they thinking?" the Captain was shocked by the near-disaster. How in blue blazes were people actually going to claim they "sunk" a UUV? It certainly didn't care about wargames. And he'd be damned if people were going to just start shooting ASW torpedoes at $60 Million government investments.

He also wanted to know precisely how the hell all these nations were able to detect a god-damned torpedo-sized stealth UUV that was in passive mode. They went freaking ape and started yabbering with sonars as if someone had tipped them off they were operating in the area.

It was a good thing they learned this before they deployed the antiship/ASW UUV Shadowfins. Those could be actually god-damned dangerous if you fired on them. There was no safe way to test those in these conditions. It was patently insane to try.

The ballistic sub was probably a Wingarde Ohio-II. There had been no communications yet with Wingarde as to tactical cooperation.

"Fan-bloody-tastic."

They were warned that there had been an "event" of a nuclear nature that interdicted a blocked zone further east of the islands. It was to be considered irradiated, ionized for purposes of communication, and disruptive of communications on a wide scale. Prevailing winds were to the east, so whatever simulated fallout was not to land on shore.

"I'll be double-dog damned!" quote the Captain.

Their orders were passed to them for the exercise at last. The Glatisant was to make best possible speed, first cutting west of the main isle of Mallorca, then north-by-north-east to the Gulf of Lyon in advance of the fleet. Stealth was not important on the mission out. They were to be beyond ASW helo range of the OPFOR fleet until they got further out into the Gulf of Lyon.

There, they were to rendezvous with the rest of the attack submarines to form a screen against OPFOR moving to deprive MP of the SLOC to Toulon.

Aboard the RNL Parzival

The Vice Admiral had not gotten any response from whoever it was marshalling this naval event. So he declared that there had been a nuclear weapons discharge, ignored the incoming "missiles" as destroyed, and went on to the next business at hand.

He had his science and meteorology teams inform the other sides that they should at least simulate fallout and difficulties of radio communications due to the ionization.

Meanwhile, it had begun to rain over the Mediterranean. Temperatures were 24C during the day and 12C at night. Overcast skies and showers were expected to last for the next 24-48 hours. Scattered thundershowers were expected around Palma de Mallorca but would clear in the next 12 hours.

Wave height was to be less than one meter west of the Balleares, and up to 1.5 m to the west over the rest of the Gulf of Lyon. No winds should be above 25 kph. Things were a bit rougher just to the south of Almería, with waves up to 2 metres and wind speeds up to 29 kph. Sea States 2 or 3 for the most part. Acceptable for carrier landing, other than the scudding rain clouds.

Winds were blowing from the southwest, carrying the supposed fallout north and east -- out over the open sea. And the rain would ensure that there was little airborne fallout.

The ionization would persist, however, and should worsen the thunderstorm in the area.

Van Luxemburg

23-10-2005, 14:36

Aboard the VLS "Reutte", command ship, Perpignan Class carrier, VL MP

The Commander was busy reading readouts, coming in over SATCOM. the weather post was busy calculating where the leftovers of tropical storm Béta would head, as they were closing in from the south. they would however clash with the persisting cold front in the Alps, which had seen over 4 metres of snow in the past weeks. the weather in the Med was good, while inbetween the two fronts, it had been 28 degrees for the past days, but it would degrade because of the storm in 12 hours. 25 degrees, up to 9 Beaufort and heavy rainfall would make it almost impossible to launch aircraft and other vehicles. it would make it close fighting. however, there was some light in the tunnel. it would not pass for the coming 12 hours.

the one pro of the carrier was that you had a magnificent view from the bridge, with the coast on portside, and the Balearic islands as far away points on the horizon. the sun was slowly becoming weaker, but the heat wasn't gonna get less. The slow wind southern wind, with a high humidity almost made it too hot, seeming like if you were in an oven and couldn't go anywhere. the oven inside the commande center was great, with airco on and filtered air, instead of the constant smell of kerosene and fire on the deck, including the heat. the alarm for air attack hadn't gone off thanks to the Listeneissian navy, shielding off the missiles by a small Nuclear blast. "Tactical". the slow convoy got on, not knowing that they had visitors...

Amethyste-class submarine, in formation with l'Indomitable class submarines, VL OPFOR

The Commander hadn't been ready for this. now he was. he had the convoy on sonar, and the large fumes coming out of the pipes of the auxiliaries made it almost impossible to miss it. the convoy was inbound, just what they were waiting for.
"Sir, Solution for VLCC made. load Mk. 48's?"
"Correct. load Mk. 48's, preheat, open bay doors, flood them."
"Aye! Pre-fire!"
The command was spread over the submarine, and the weaopons officer got to work on his domain. his crew loaded the torpedo carefully, and preheated it. the bay doors were opened thereafter and the tubes were flooded.
"FIRE!"
"Fire, aye sir!"
the Mk. 48 used it's launch speed of 56 knots as a sort of kickstarter. thereafter, it shortly returned to the maximum speed of 55 knots, and followed the orders coming through by the wire.
"make search pattern, switch to active, and cut wires!"
"Aye WO!"

VLS "Menorca", Le Havre class Cruiser

"Sir, we've got the sound of flooding bay doors over starboard, and, we've got a torpedo heading our way! Mk. 48 ADCAP, speed 55 knots. designated Sierra 1"
"Make Snapshot!"
"Aye!"
one of the ASROC's shot away from the VLS tubes, and made it's way towards the last known position of what was the Amethyste class submarine. the Mk. 48 didn't have to do more than explode.
"Sir, Sierra 1 has gone to active and is heading for the VLCC"
"deploy countermeasures, noisemakers and everything we also have!"
"Aye sir! Whole Rifraf coming up!"
"Sir, Sierra 1 just fell in love with one of our noisemakers!"
"Sir, we have a positive on the ASROC. target destroyed!"
"Okay, all return to normal"

Listeneisse

23-10-2005, 15:25

Reports of actual firing -- not just declarations -- of ADCAP torpedos and ASROCs made the whole Royal Navy flinchy. However the submarine that took to fire at the convoy was "taken out."

What the Vice Admiral wanted to know was how in the world was the OPFOR attack submarine force operating off the southwest of Mallorca, far away from its "start line" by Sardinia/Corsica. That was the second one reported "sunk" and the exercise was not even half-way into its first day.

There were many allegations of "cheating," to which the Vice Admiral answered them all, "It was a surprise attack I guess."

The ironic and cynical remark was echoed throughout the fleet. Something was decidedly odd here. Nations claiming all sorts of outlandish weapons far beyond what was technically possible. Declarations that Listeneisse attacks simply missed while theirs were all hits.

It was infuriating. The military exercise was quickly being re-named "Operation, Bang-Bang You're Dead." To which others harped in reply, "No I'm not! I'm invincible!"

Petty Officers throughout the fleet were telling scalliwags (veteran recruits) and pollywogs (recent draftees) to stow it and to focus on their work.

The weather was turning decidedly worse. The fighters of the carrier squadrons made sure to get their last licks in against the Spinazia fighters and returned towards their carriers, avoiding the virtual "ionization" field. Because of their long dogfighting and the necessary diverted route of return, they needed to top off again from air-to-air refuelers to circle and await their time to land.

(ooc: Beaufort sea state 9 (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beaufort_scale) is a strong gale. You're free to up the weather if you want; suddenly we've lost all ASW and antiship aircraft missions.

It's a boon for MP Coalition, since we seem to be outnumbered and outgunned. However, let me get my fighters back to my carriers before the storm hits!)

Van Luxemburg

23-10-2005, 15:38

(OOC: ofcourse you amy retreat your aircraft, but it won't start until the next 12 hours. I did this becuase I saw that it was more becoming an air battle, not an actual NAVAL battle. it more looked like OPFOR attacking with aircraft and the MP defending it. that's a thing I don't like and don't see as a naval battle. anyways, if you have questions, meet me on MSN.)

Spizania

23-10-2005, 16:02

OOC: Have i missed something or has Listenesse just used Tactical Nuclear Ordanance?
If he has he justmade the biggest mistake of the battle

IC:
"Sir, MILEXCOM has jsut reported that the B-1B Strikes ordanance was destroyed by multiple, nuclear explosions sir"
"Nukes?!"
"Thats what the missile status sheet says"
"Load All Cruise Missiles tubes, set for simulated nuclear tipped weapons, 'load' teh aircraft for a tactical nuclear strike, AIM-929s, and AIR-2 Genies, W54s for the sandstorms, we go when the weather clears"
"Sir, what abou the SSGNs?"
"Get teh six that are on the surface to launch simulated Nuclear Tipped Cruise Missiles when the weather clears, get them to 'load' there 50kT Warheads"
"Yes Sir"

OOC: Il edit if he hasnt, also the AIM-929 is a guided version of the AIR-2, those otehr things can be found on Wikipedia.

Listeneisse

23-10-2005, 16:18

The Vice Admiral conferred with his staff.

"If the opponent is as brutish as he appeared in his initial barrage, he'll likely be readying nuclear weapons convinced that we did something untoward."

"However," he noted, "We saved the fleet from conventional destruction. If he tries to destroy us by nuclear forces, suddenly this is a whole different other sort of war. Either he becomes a reasonable gentleman conducting a conventional war, or this swiftly all goes to hell in a handbasket."

This was an important lesson for the navy. There were powers out there that were simply looking to use whatever force they had to achieve their ends, without mercy or cessation of war.

Someone asked whether it was just not time to pull out of this mock-war and head directly to defend Zodno-Pomorskie (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9824800&postcount=96) along with the rest of the fleet.

The Vice Admiral tended to agree.

However, the fleet's Admiral thought differently. This exercise was teaching them some discipline, and it could make them powerful allies if they remained level headed.

They were faced with a possible nuclear retaliation, even if they had defended the fleet and escorted vessels. It was time to see how nuclear war was fought, or averted.

Spizania

23-10-2005, 20:10

OOC: Since were restarting ive put together this fleet

4 Iowa Class Battleships
12 Ticonderoga Class Cruisers
3 Nimitz Class Carriers (Later Version and Fitted with 3 Sea Sparrow launchers)
32 Type 45 Frigates
18 Sandown Class Minehunters
6 Horizon Vlass CNCFs
8 Ohio-II class SSGN (Ohio class SSGN with improved Computers and Propulsion)

CARRIER BASED AIRCRAFT
144 F/A-18
48 W-33s
48 Tornado GR-4s
15 E-3 Hawkeyes

LAND BASED
48 B1-Bs
144 F-22s
12 AWACs

This OK, you massively outgun me without the Galleons

Triancia

24-10-2005, 00:51

A simulated use of nuclear weapons. Now that made things interesting, in the instance of wargames. If had been real, of course, it would have been met with horror and trepidation throughout the fleet. Simulated, however, it was an opportunity for advanced training, drills, and thoughts on policy. Certainly redeemed part of what this shame of a wargame was becoming.

The Commodore’s opinion wasn’t the only one in the Ridgewood’s CIC, however. The Commander of the ship itself was grumbling in low tones. “What the hell are those second-rate commanders at in the Listennesse Navy. Idiots?”

The Commodore shook his head. “You’re not considering the entire situation. A surprise attack, advanced weaponry wielded by the opposition, and needing to defend an unarmed convoy from a superior force. I’m wondering why they didn’t deploy those weapons sooner.”

The Captian grumbled in still-low tones. “With all due respect, sir, not all of the principles in this fleet believe in the winnable nuclear war. In a real war, this would only escalate to the use of strategic weapons. It seems to me that the enemy’s taking the form of exercise, and using it to there advantage.”

The Commodore again indicated a negative. “I don’t think so. In any case, this presents a unique training opportunity. This fleet will consider that an actual nuclear weapon detonation. All ships are to cease external ventilation immediately. No unnecessary personnel on any exposed deck for anything but short periods for necessary operations.” He turned to the screen that demanded attention in the CIC, showing the most recent SOTF report.

Ridgewoord’s commander sighed, and indicated the Alpha Strike sent against the Wingardian fleet. “If you want to consider this an actual strike, we would have lost a majority of the aircraft sent against the WFN carrier. About ten FMR-17s might have survived, and, with the weather getting worse, would be in no condition to conduct any operations. The remaining ten would probably return to this ship on the cognizance of the surviving Senior Officer in flight. I’ll issue the orders to have them return.” He looked to the Commodore. “Are you assuming a Free Use Authorization would have been issued by TRINAVCOM?”

The Commodore becoming pensive. “Don’t know…. I would guess it would depend on the nuclear forces each country had…” He looked around. “Where’s Arrey?”

“Here, sir.” The Commodore’s Intelligence Attache moved from one of the screens across the room. “And I don’t know what information we have on respective strategic forces of the MP nations. I’ll check with my sources, see if I can’t find anything.”

The Commodore nodded. “Okay. I want two things done right now. I want to see if the SLBMs on the Cerzana’s in 2nd and 5th CBF’s can reach any enemy MP nations, and I want all forces to prepare for a tactical retaliation on the enemy fleet. We are assuming a nuclear battle as of now. Order all ships to NBC Condition 1, and have the fleets disperse.” The Commodore consulted the screen again. Yes, this was going to be interesting.

Across the fleet, orders are again carried out. Ships start pulling away from each other, and sealing out every port to outside air, and shutting down all unnecessary electronics. Fallout was going to be a constant danger, as well as any EMP. Most of the ships had taken only simulated light damage to their electronics, but FleetCom was betting closer detonations as time went on.

Weapons were also being readied, mainly cruise missiles on every combatant ship, loaded with variable-yield weapons. Carriers were readying, albeit slowly, a flight of surviving aircraft armed with advanced copies of the B-61 Thermonuclear Free-Fall Bomb. And under the sea, Cerzana Classes readied the two SLBMs on each ship, for strikes on enemy missile fields.

The following order would be based on policy and strategy, not tactics. If this was real, the same care would be needed to prevent escalation that would cause the destruction of the Triancian Homeland, as well as open up the gates of Apocalypse to other nations.

OOC: What would my intelligence know about the strategic capabilities of Wingarde, Listennese, and VL to strike the Triancian homeland? Could an SLBM launched from the battle area reach any of these countries?

Listeneisse

24-10-2005, 04:49

(ooc: Intelligence services probably prepared something akin to the following.)

TOP SECRET

Kingdom of Listeneisse Nuclear Weapons Programme

Assessing nuclear capabilities of the Kingdom of Listeneisse is problematic in terms of budget analysis. The Kingdom does not pass budgets through a parliament or congress, but through the Privy Council of the King. As such, there are open budget items revealed to the public and private budgetary items kept within the sealed conversations of government.

As one of its first decisions upon entering international engagement, the Kingdom of Listeneisse opened up specific areas of the Perilous Forest National Park for uranium mining. Therefore, it is self-reliant in terms of nuclear fuel. Poor radiation controls on behalf of the operation, which begun operations in the midst the nation's worst depression, led to a massive irradiation of woodland areas and watersheds. The ebb and flow of desertification along the edge of the forest is known as The Wasteland.

The government shunted all resources into a massive cleanup. Mining tailings were processed to ensure the vast majority of uranium avoided polluting the groundwater and rivers. Ecological and health care programmes were instituted to deal with the issue. Because of the remote areas under development, casualties tended to be miners and persons from mining and rural towns. Cancer and other illnesses symptomatic of radiation effects remain high in the area. Top doctors and scientists were recruited to analyze and treat radiation-related illnesses.

Ever since, the government has been rabidly anti-nuclear outwardly, focusing on defense against nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. It has tried, but failed, to lobby for restrictions and bans on chemical weapons in the UN.

Internal discussion of treatment of radiation accidents and poisonings causally led to discussion of defenses against nuclear weapons and protections for civil and military populations. Security programmes allowed government monitoring of public places with television cameras, even scanning the Internet for related terrorist information traffic. It has produced its own NBC reconnaissance vehicle, which accompanies all major ground force deployments. The government first invested heavily in theatre defense surface-to-air missile systems (q.v. "Patriot"). Many of the missiles are kept ready for home defense.

Finally, seeing how disarmament was useless in the face of so many rogue nations in the world, use of nuclear force for national defense was broached and the King apparently assented to it under grave reservations.

The nuclear weapons programme was begun first as a method to analyze their effects to lead to defensive systems. Therefore all weapons development was kept to the sub-megaton range.

Delivery Systems

The Kingdom does have a very active space programme, with Titan IV-class boosters capable of conversion to ICBMs, but it maintains no ready fleet of missiles in silos similar to other nations. Neither does it have a strategic bomber programme. Rather than invest in ICBMs or strategic bombers, it was felt attack submarines and surface vessels deploying cruise missiles tipped with tactical nuclear warheads could be produced less expensively yet provide a similar deterrant. They could also provide other military functions using conventional weapons.

Arsenal

The number of exact warheads in the Kingdom of Listeneisse arsenal is unknown, but estimated at less than a thousand.

Yields on the first generation weapons tended to be set to 25 kilotons, but the recent classes of weapons were selectable "dial-a-yield" types that could range between 5-150 kilotons.

Therefore maximum yield of all weapons combined is estimated at 150 megatons or less.

If the Kingdom has designed larger weapons, or has more weapons in its arsenal than estimated, both of which are likely and quite possible, the above figure could be vastly expanded.

Weapons are controlled by the Royal Navy of Listeneisse (RNL) and the Royal Air Force of Listeneisse (RAFL).

Van Luxemburg

24-10-2005, 07:10

(OOC: now, we were restarting, but I'll mention my Nuclear capability)

http://www.bradmesser.com/images2004/topSecretStamp.jpg
Van Luxemburgian Nuclear Capability

ICBM

The Van Luxemburgian Strategical Forces or shortway VLSF, have a large number of nuclear missiles, mostly not homeland-produced, but imported. at least, the nuclear warheads. VDZ & VL is capable of producing the missiles needed to fire them. they come in the form of about 100 (one-hundred) LGM-118A Peacekeeper ICBM's. those are mainly stationed in top-secret bases around Van Luxemburg, mainly in uninhabited areas. Nuclear Fuels are available, but uranium may not be mined.

SLBM

The Sub Launched Ballistic missile is the most commonly used in the Van Luxemburgian SF. The number is set at about 150 (one-hundred-and-fifty)
SLBM's, mostly of the type Trident II D-5.

Air Nuclear capability

The air nuclear Capability of the Van Luxemburgian Airforce, or Van Luxemburgian Armeé de l'Air, is limited. they mostly carry the Apache and Storm Shadow/Scalp EG Cruise Missiles, to be loaded with nuclear warheads. no bombs of the Van Luxemburgian Airforce have been loaded with nuclear warheads as of now.

Surface fleet

In the Van Luxemburgian surface fleet, the msot used cruise missile with Nuclear warhead is the BGM-109 Tomahawk, of which even up to several thousands could be loaded with Nuclear warheads.

Capability of reaching the Van Luxemburgian Mainland

only when a nuclear weapon is launched, the VLSF will take revenge. the VLSF is trying not to be an offensive weapon, but a defensive weapon. the Nuclear weapon launched by the other party could reach the Van Luxemburgian Mainland, then evacuation and medical care will immediately take place. sadly enough, Van Luxemburg has not the capability to destroy a nuclear weapon while in-flight, except for possible cruise missile with the Patriot PAC-3 and other AA missile systems.

Other Weapons
http://www.epinions.com/images/opti/be/6d/3080442SSHA0344-resized200.jpg

Listeneisse

24-10-2005, 09:15

(ooc: re location... Consider Listeneisse "a continent away" in the Warzone of the Defenders. Reachable by orbital or suborbital weapons, but not by cruise missiles. Other regional allies might see the inbound munitions. I cannot say they'd even notice in terms of RPing, but WotD is a regional defensive military alliance.)

Spizania

24-10-2005, 12:33

OOC: I might have cahnged my fleet, but my ships are still laden down with a couple of thousand nuclear warheads of various types, nothing bigger than 50kT though, delivery systems available are fighters, the B-1s and Tomahawks.
My ICBM silos at castle and at home might in range, my 500 Peacekeeper III super-heavy ICBMs (Its half the size of a Saturn V) could each deploy 39 1Megatonne Thermo-Nuclear weapons over targets across the MP nations.

Listeneisse

24-10-2005, 13:14

As the protests of Spizania were lodged with Van Luxemburg, and their posturing was made against the Kingdom, the General was pleased to note that he still had a fleet.

The General asked a leading question of his staff, "Has anyone ever looked at the issues of stopping ballistic and cruise missiles?"

So it was time for the Air Marshal to inerject, "We might be able to stop a good few of those ICBMs coming inbound. We have paid for quite a few thousand antiballistic missiles for home defense. We also have some space-based defense. I believe we had budgeted for 3,920 Patriots missiles in the past six budget cycles alone. We had stockpiled 9,040 antiballistic and anticruise missiles before that in past budget cycles, and I believe there are now a fleet of 50 or 60 orbital KKVs -- kinetic kill vehicles. I'd have to check to see the exact number in orbit. I'd also have to check on the break down between types, but I do believe that most are capable of suborbital interception long before detonation."

The General thought he had heard something about that, "Yes, so about 10,000 anti-missle interceptors to catch them if they get sub-orbital, and a fair number can even get bagged in orbit before they MIRV. Thank you, Air Marshal."

The General called the question, "Shall we halt the exercise at this point, and discuss rational rules of engagement for this and future exercises in MILEX, or shall we continue to exacerbate the situation with unplanned escalations from a regional naval exercise to mock threats of intercontinental thermonuclear war? I believe it is safe to say that we could all, collectively, make the Mediterranean uninhabitable by any participant nation if we wished."

Van Luxemburg

24-10-2005, 15:41

"Yes, we agree wholly. we've set up a list of the RoE, which I have here:

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT (RoE)

1. Limited Air strikes. this is a naval battle after all, and no air battle.
2. No Nuclear warfare, in the form of cruise missiles, any form of Ballistic Missiles and bombs. nuclear-tipped torpedo's are allowed however.
3. every Nation should use training torpedo's, aswell as blank-shot missiles and gun rounds.
4. Some aircraft are considered "neutral", especially the Airbus A330 MRTT's. they may not be fired upon by any side. both sides may use this facilities. They are considered "Neutral" while approaching and refueling. this is a potentially lethal operation after all.
5. Only technology feasible in our nation. this means, strictly what is or can be at the market now.
6. engagements should be done "fair" and "honest". no rigging of MILES computers.
7. Van Luxemburgian officials will monitor the exercise for a fair and nnice exercise.
8. any nation may add any rule they can think of.

those are the ones. as stated in number 8, any nation may add something. all ships are asked to return to their starting position. we've still got Tropical Storm Béta moving in, or, at least the leftovers of it. all commanders should have got this message from MILEXCOM now.

FROM: MILEXCOM
TO: ALL UNITS PARTICIPATING

EXERCISE HAS BEEN HALTED. RETURN TO STARTING POINT FOR RE-START. WHEN ALL UNITS HAVE ARRIVED, THE EXERCISE BATTLE 2 IS RE-STARTED. RoE WILL BE SENT SOON.

MILEXCOM,
GRAND DUKE KOEN VAN LUXEMBURG

(OOC: so, to summarize it: everyone can add rules, and I will look over them.
also, as filed, everything that has been messaged about (e.g. weather) is just going on, IC.)

Spizania

24-10-2005, 16:53

OOC: Coudl you Define Limited Air Strikes?

Van Luxemburg

24-10-2005, 16:59

OOc: well, it's quite simple: if anyone gets 200 aircraft his way, then it is more something like an air battle, instead of a naval battle. just use a small complement of fighters.

Triancia

24-10-2005, 17:43

OOC: That does destabilize those who've bulit their Fleets around tha carrier and use of carrier-based aircraft. Will you allow time for a quick reorganization of the fleets?

Van Luxemburg

24-10-2005, 17:46

OOc:well, it's just not YAY! I SEND 200 AIRCRAFT AT YOU! but just maximally something like 50 at once, so just don't worry. and, you may change anything you wish now.

Wingarde

24-10-2005, 18:53

Weapons of Mass Destruction - Nuclear

= CLASSIFIED =
Level 3 Priority

- Wingardian Nuclear Weapons Program

Initiated a few years ago with the discovery of uranium deposits in certain spots of archipelago, the national nuclear weapons program's main objective is to act as a deterrant to prevent other nations from engaging in nuclear warfare with Wingarde.

In the event of a conventional conflict, nuclear weapons will be kept aside unless the government has sufficient and grave reasons to employ them against the enemy.

With the recent increase in the defense budget, the program has managed to accelerate development of various vessels, upgrade some systems, improve the training of the personnel and boost security measures in facilities.

- Delivery Methods

-- Land

There's a single, large nuclear silo complex on the archipelago, from which most of the nuclear retaliation would take place via ICBMs and tactical nukes. Throughout the islands there are several anti-ballistic missile batteries to protect Wingardian citizens in case of a nuclear attack directed at Wingarde.

-- Sea

The Federal Navy makes use of the new Hilmentz-class Ballistic Nuclear Submarines to deliver SLBM from the sea. A variant of the Wernover-class Heavy Missile Cruiser which allows it to fire tactical nuclear missiles has been recently introduced in the Navy.

-- Air

Aerial nuclear weapons delivery is currently limited, since only the WT-19B Skymaster and WT-25B Stratolifter (bomber variants of the transport aircraft) are currently the only airplanes outfitted to carry such payload. This is expected to change in the future, upon the completion of the WX-38 supersonic bomber project and breakthroughs in the national space program.

= CLASSIFIED =

Listeneisse

24-10-2005, 18:54

The Listeneisse group needed to confer with the navy commanders, who were all back at their ships. Once the halt was called, the Vice Admiral and his staff responded to the proposed Rules of Engagement.

1. Limited Air strikes. this is a naval battle after all, and no air battle.
We are actually in favor of land-based naval air. Land-based antiship missiles and ASW assets are indeed part of a realistic environment of war. However, if you wish to limit air strikes, whether by fleet or land-based air, you should define what you mean by this. What is a limit and what limits do we have to strike back at air forces?

2. No Nuclear warfare, in the form of cruise missiles, any form of Ballistic Missiles and bombs. nuclear-tipped torpedo's are allowed however.This seems to advantage the submariners. It reminds us of other wargames in which naval commanders simply swept away objectionable results and played out scenarios to reinforce bad strategy and tactics based on false premises.

While we generally agree that wars should be fought without use of nuclear weapons, we need to have an understanding of what happens if they are.

3. every Nation should use training torpedo's, aswell as blank-shot missiles and gun rounds.

Training torpedoes are not all as exciting as you might think. Most of them travel for a short distance, then they sink. Or, if you thought to plan ahead, you have a kevlar float (http://www.ilcdover.com/products/aerospace_defense/floats/mk50.htm) deploy to carry it up to the surface where it can be recovered by ship or helicopter. We'd prefer not to shoot any practice torpedoes, if we can help it.

We already had an incident with a missile in a past exercise. We would prefer to have simulations take care of calculating hits and misses, so that they were uncontestable. All this does is add to aerial and navigational risk.

4. Some aircraft are considered "neutral", especially the Airbus A330 MRTT's. they may not be fired upon by any side. both sides may use this facilities. They are considered "Neutral" while approaching and refueling. this is a potentially lethal operation after all.
If we need to abide by this, we suggest a radius of 10km around which no combat actions can take place, and a clear radio message to be sent out when an aircraft was declaring its intent to refuel.

However, we also point out that this might lead to unfair tactics, allowing aircraft to refuel and perform operations that would not be possible in a true warzone where airborne refuelers would be primary unarmed targets of enemy fire.
5. Only technology feasible in our nation. this means, strictly what is or can be at the market now.

(ooc: An OOC rule for MT, which we are in agreement with.)
6. engagements should be done "fair" and "honest". no rigging of MILES computers.
We have pointed out before that MILES works for ground systems and direct fire weapons, since it is based on lasers. It is not useful for over-the-horizon (OTH) or indirect fire weapons. Nor can it be used underwater.

Instead, we propose to work together, ad hoc for now, on an advanced Weapons Effects Simulation System (WESS) to be produced after the exercise. Visually and auditorily it should include smoke generation for atmospheric or air discharge for submersible weapons to simulate launches; we have that for some of our systems. However, we should do all we can to not discharge actual ordnance, even practice rounds.

We in the meanwhile need to work with our computer systems to calculate accuracy of systems including CEP, estimated penetration of RHS armour, effectiveness of countermeasures, and so on. In some cases we are going to surprise each other with unconventional tactics -- such as a UUV.

7. Van Luxemburgian officials will monitor the exercise for a fair and nice exercise.
Good. We might wish to call operational holds on part of an exercise if there is a contention. It might or might not hold up the rest of the exercise. It should not if it is not a critical mission to the rest of the events. But there are times when it would be appreciated if we were all able to stop and ask for clarifications to serious issues of differences.
8. any nation may add any rule they can think of.

A. That we remain cognizant of actual possiblities of war and acts of terrorism during the event. While in war our UUV is a valid target, we hope that no one was actually going to blow it out of the water! But if there was a 'foreign entry' into the exercise, we hope that there could be a signal that all parties would observe that there was an actual issue at hand -- not simulation.

Issues of actual disaster or accident at sea, whether aboard participating ships or aircraft, acts of terrorism or piracy, detection of unknown vessels that cannot be positively identified by any of the participating nations, and so on. All of these need an actual signal that we halt the wargames in those areas and do what we need to in order to respond.

B. A method to call into question the technical effectiveness of opposing defensive, offensive, sensor and communications systems.

______

ooc:

I also hope people understand how hard it would have been to detect the small fielded UUV; the fact that everyone leapt immediately to detection sort of obviates their value. It is detectible by massive active sonar pings, but how did anyone know to even start pinging? How did anyone know that it was there?

It's supposed to be a bit less conspicuous than a man dressed in a clown costume at a funeral.

Conversely, folks scooted away ultrasilently themselves or flew back to bases or carriers without any recognition of combat or pursuit.

Harumph.

People might recall how hard Listeneisse worked to get a partial rig-up of a multipoint radar array to detect stealth aircraft over Tabernas. It was only partially successful at best, and I roleplayed frantically getting it set up. It would help if people who tried to find the UUV figured out how they knew it was there and read up a little on sonar and UUVs. For instance, such a UUV is just not detectible by magnetic anomoly because they are far smaller than a 5,000+ ton submarine. As for my subs, my boats are Virginia-class equivalents; as good as Seawolf stealth-wise, if not better, because they are a 1,000 tons smaller. Anyhoo...

At the same time, while I was trying to get people to reconsider some of the technological advantages claimed brought to the table, there are some tactics Spizania used -- such as the massive bombardment of a fleet -- which was a valid but unexpected strategy. Many of us hope to surprise the other side with novel weapons and tactics. It's part of the game of war -- to bring out a defense or attack or tactic that the other fellow just never thought of that.

We should not rule them out just because they were unexpected. We should give a fair thought to continuing the exercise in case of oddities, but allow objections to be filed.

The same with the nuclear weapons as an antimissile screen. I admit I misread the issue of Spizania getting within 25km of my fleet to launch JADMs and Shockhounds -- I thought he was much further away. Wingarde and I have already given our opinions upon getting so close to the surface ships without having to face the fighter screen.

So... we might want to clarify more and ask questions, and put to a sort of discussion of the group what we think is fair, right, and best for all.

Triancia

24-10-2005, 23:06

RTS Ridgewood CIC

The reports on Strategic capabilities surprised the CO and the Commodore, as both shuffled through them to gain insight. “Dear God,” The Commodore remarked. “How in the hell did we get this information?”

“Sir, I am obligated to inform you that such information has been declared confidential and classif-“

The Commodore interrupted the attaché with a wave of his hand. “Got it. Spare me the litany.” He sighed. “It’s a shame this exercise was restarted. There was some real potential for lessons here, on all sides. Hell, I just wish I could have taught the commander of the Listenssnian Fleet the mistake he just made.”

The CO nodded sourly. “At least I’ll agree with you there, sir. Starting a tactical nuclear exchange would most likely lead to a strategic exchange. And, with those damned new FOB system on Cerzana’s Classes’ missiles, we could have made a strategic decision to destroy their capital in a matter of twenty minutes. He wouldn’t have been able to do a damn thing but compete with us here.”

“I believe he might have been hoping cooler heads prevailed. With the amount of nuclear weapons at our disposal, that wouldn’t have been likely.” The Commodore closed the last file he was reading, and handed it back to his Intelligence advisor. “It would have been much better if he had launched a couple dozen nuclear cruise missiles at us, make us think it was an anti-ship attack. We wouldn’t have been able to respond in force, and would only have a few uncoordinated subs to launch a counter attack. Even then, we would still have a sizeable strategic nuclear force ready to launch from this position.

“But, none of that matters, now. While it would have been interesting, we now have a fair fight to contend with. I’d rather have that.” The Commodore turned his head to the comm station. “Petty Officer! Inform the fleet to step down to NBC Condition Four, and reassemble into formation. We’ll head full speed toward the starting point, and get our hits in early, this time.

OOC: I would like to state that interception of a blasstic vechicle might be possible, if you had a nuclear-tipped interception missile. I've also contemplated using the MIRVs on one of my SLBMs as sort of a 'nuclear shotgun' to destroy incoming warheads. Does anyone think that's feasible?

Listeneisse

25-10-2005, 01:53

(ooc: It doesn't require nuclear weapons, though those are certainly applicable in a sort of Nike-Zeus defense system. Check out Arrow 2 (http://www.army-technology.com/projects/arrow2/) and of course, PAC-3 Patriots (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MIM-104_Patriot), actually deployed and operational as well as the National Missile Defense (NMD) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Missile_Defense) programme, now renamed GMD (Ground-Based Missile Defense) (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ground-Based_Missile_Defense) -- which has been operational since 2004. THAAD (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/THAAD) is in system test. As for actual discussions of exoatmospheric intercepts, here's a transcript (http://www.defenselink.mil/news/Jan2000/x01192000_x119bkgr.html) from an initial 2000 test, a failure, of an EKV. Also check out work on pursuit/evasion game theory (http://www.scienceagogo.com/news/20000612224419data_trunc_sys.shtml). Such improving mathematics and sciences allowed Patriot to get a recent software-only upgrade to be able to destroy MLRS as well as traditional cruise missile and ballistic-missile intercepts.

Finally, look at the actual systems and plans for the US Missile Defense Agency (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missile_Defense_Agency), which is building out defenses against both boost, midcourse, and terminal phases.

One thing to note is that the US Navy's also trying to use Aegis to upgrade its ballistic missile defenses. I would expect this for both fleet and coastal defense. I'm not sure how well they are doing.)

Listeneisse

25-10-2005, 04:45

With so many thousands of sailors, word leaked back to the press about the wargame ending in nuclear confrontations.

Antiwar Protests Lead to Police Death (http://listeneisse.blogspot.com/2005/10/antiwar-protests-lead-to-police-death.html)

While the protesters were a small number compared to the overall population of Listeneisse, there were still private diplomatic requests to ensure the wargames had firm boundaries of behavior.

It was proposed that for now all nuclear exchanges were "taken off the table."

But after the exercise concluded, the government wanted to have a very thorough examination of the actual conduct of such "dirty wars," and asked for leaders of other nations involved in the exercise to attend. Listeneisse did not wish to simply shelve the issue as unconcievable. Perhaps instead of a live exercise, a simulation and discussion between War Colleges and national strategists could take place.

Van Luxemburg

25-10-2005, 07:16

(OOC: updated.)

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT (RoE)

1. Limited Air strikes. this is a naval battle after all, and no air battle. there is a limit of 50 aircraft per sortie, either land or navalbased
2. No Nuclear warfare, in the form of cruise missiles, any form of Ballistic Missiles and bombs.
3. every Nation should use training torpedo's, aswell as blank-shot missiles and gun rounds. training torpedoes must come afloat using Kevlar Float (http://www.ilcdover.com/products/aerospace_defense/floats/mk50.htm). they will be picked up by Van luxemburgian Auxiliaries topping clear white flags.
4. Some aircraft are considered "neutral", especially the Airbus A330 MRTT's. they may not be fired upon by any side. both sides may use this facilities. They are considered "Neutral" while approaching and refueling. this is a potentially lethal operation after all. they will be flying shortly out of the battle arena, and within 5 km any fighter is also considered neutral.
5. Only technology feasible in our nation. this means, strictly what is or can be at the market now. (OOC: MT.)
6. engagements should be done "fair" and "honest". no rigging of exercise computers. (OOC: no godmoding)
7. Van Luxemburgian officials will monitor the exercise for a fair and nnice exercise.
8. (Added by Listeneissian officials) That we remain cognizant of actual possiblities of war and acts of terrorism during the event. While in war our UUV is a valid target, we hope that no one was actually going to blow it out of the water! But if there was a 'foreign entry' into the exercise, we hope that there could be a signal that all parties would observe that there was an actual issue at hand -- not simulation.

Issues of actual disaster or accident at sea, whether aboard participating ships or aircraft, acts of terrorism or piracy, detection of unknown vessels that cannot be positively identified by any of the participating nations, and so on. All of these need an actual signal that we halt the wargames in those areas and do what we need to in order to respond.

9. (added by Listeneissian Officials) A method to call into question the technical effectiveness of opposing defensive, offensive, sensor and communications systems.
(should be filed at the Van Luxemburgian Arbitrage)

10. everyone is allowed to be discussed and new RoE's can be requested, added.

Spizania

25-10-2005, 10:00

oOC: SO were not allowed nukes at all now, that does remove an important aspect of these wargames, having two large fleets with nukes fighting each other is inherently dangerous, especially if one side is loosing the engagement, many forces participating here do not have experience of this warfare, so removing it limits the scope of ability to train the participants in new tactics.
IC:
The Confederacy of Spizania moves that torpedoes tipped with sub-kiloton nuclear ordanance be allowed into the war-game.

OOC: Whats our posistion on simulated chemical and biological weapons,

Van Luxemburg

25-10-2005, 12:40

OOC: that could be, but we're keeping it as realistic as possible. if anyone should use any Nuclear weapons, then the wildlife and nature should be largely destroyed and could damage their own fleet. if this is counted, no captain or commander should ever think of using the weapon. at least, any wise shouldn't do it.

Listeneisse

25-10-2005, 13:50

The ships of the Royal Navy of Listeneisse pulled back to the starting longitude. If the exercise was going to begin again, it was going to help that ships were all behind their respective "start lines."

The rules of engagement were reasonable, though there was hot debate as to whether nuclear weapons should simply be banned or not. It was like pretending that another fellow was carrying a gun and picking a street fight with him. Surely you could both lay aside your guns, but in a real "shooting war," such niceties would not be pragmatic.

Aircraft and helicopters were grounded as the sea swells rocked the ships. Green water over the bow swamped some of the smaller ships. The rougher seas of the high sea state were ridden out by the crews. It was probably best that the exercise had been called temporarily. This sort of sailing would have been hard to operate in.

Submariners had it best, able as they were to ignore the weather above. For them, the ocean was much the same as it ever was, but the chop from the surface interfered with sonar somewhat.

They waited now for the weather to clear, and perhaps for the allies of the MP Coalition to come up with a unified strategy for convoy escort and forward defense.

Van Luxemburg

25-10-2005, 14:24

While the rain streamed down on the deck of the VLS "Reutte", Admiral Von Halten looked on the map laying beneath him, on the table. he was creating the strategy which the Van Luxemburgian, and hopefully MP ships would follow.
"then we take it between the coast and the Balearic Islands, and then follow the coast, to assure Air support, continous. they would try to avoid the open seas as much as possible. the only time they would go into full sea was from their starting position and the Balearic Islands, to assure that some OPFOR could reach them. the VL submarines would form a Wolfpack and go hunting after the OPFOR naval units. that was his strategy. hopefully all MP commanders would think like that.

Spizania

25-10-2005, 14:32

In the Strategic planning centre on the Nimitz class Carrier Intrepid the Vice-Admiral incharge of the Operation looked at his assembled captains and commanders.
"The plan is simple, we stand off and fire as many Tomahawk Block IVs and TASMs as we can find, we empty our virtual armouries if we have to, the Ohio-IIs and some of our Frigates will form an outer cordon to protect us from enemy submarines, all torpedo nets will be lowered at all times during phase 1. No Aircraft will approach closer than 800kn to the enemy fleet until I give the word, the B-1s will drop loads of Tomahawks at 900km, they will then return to base and repeat" He paused "Everybody understand? Good Luck"

Wingarde

25-10-2005, 22:04

OOC: Tag. I'm busy now so I'll post later. And Spiz, I hate to break it to you, but Tomahawks are designed to attack land targets, not sea ones.

Spizania

25-10-2005, 22:34

OOC: There is a Tomahawk AntiShipping Missile Called a TASM

Wingarde

26-10-2005, 00:19

OOC: Ah, yes. Remember those can only be launched by submarines (from their vertical tubes, I assume).

Spizania

26-10-2005, 12:12

OOC: Which is why i brought 8 along :P
Im also using SS-N-19 Shipwreck Anti Shipping Missiles.

EDIT: The only difference between the TASM and the regualr Tomahawk is teh Radar and terminal approach pattern, so i dont see the reason why it can be air droped or launched from a surface vessel, or air-dropped.

Listeneisse

26-10-2005, 14:19

IC Secret #1: MANPADS Mania

The Admiral wondered how many Starstreaks and Stingers he had aboard his ships.

After all, the Listeneisse military had invested in over 114,000 Stingers and 100,000 Starstreaks.

Logistics reports indicated a general rate of issuance across the military had been about 1 of each sort of SAM issued per every five active military personnel (including counting active components of the reserves). That had been standard throughout the military: Army, Air Force and Navy. Hence why each AFV on the ground had Starstreaks, and many had two.

The Starstreak were visually-sighted weapons using laser designators. Hence they were a bit unstable at high sea states even using tripod-mounted automatic-tracking gyroscopically-stabilized laser designator mechanisms. They had those aboard all ships. Yet in a fog or high seas condition they could be less reliable than the IR Stinger. They'd also need LI or IR gear (and designators) to spot incoming targets at night. Again, they had those aboard too. Their advantage was they would not be fooled as much by IR countermeasures. Not an issue so much for fighting off cruise missiles, but a key defense against incoming aircraft. Because they were a bit less useful at sea than on land, they had traded many to the Royal Marines for a higher proportion of Stingers instead.

They had plenty of Stingers. Good old-fashioned, but up-to-date IR homing SAMs.

How many did that make for the fleet total? They had to count.

1,832 Starstreaks, with about a third of that number of launchers (600), quickly reloadable.

6,268 Stingers, all kept in independent launchers.

They were disbursed generally by number of crew aboard ships, so there were a disproportionate number aboard the carriers or carrier resupply ships. Yet even the fleet cargo vessels with a crew of 40-60 had between 4-6 Starstreaks and 12-16 Stingers.

They were quite effective against targets under 5km in range, which would help with terminal defense. Anything that got through the longer-range aircraft interceptors and radar-homing missile defenses could be gotten by point defense MANPADS, and of course CIWS for last-ditch defense.

The Admiral thought about it, and informed the marshals that the Kingdom of Listeneisse would be using a surfeit of crew-based MANPADS weapons. Especially on the otherwise defenseless cargo ships. He also took to redistribute weapons aboard the escorts and cargo ships, plus Marines and other MANPADS-certified personnel.

Unlike many of the other navies, the Kingdom of Listeneisse had not made everything "highly automated." They had many men -- from cooks to deck hands -- who needed "something to do" during battlestations. Point-based air defense using MANPADS on deck could be one of those duties.

Of course, it would help if the sea state was a less than gale-force.

The Starstreaks might be a bit less handy on smaller vessels if the sea state was high or there was fog or a tremendous amount of cloud cover from a high-angled attack. But if the weather cleared and the pitch from waves diminished, they'd be quite handy to have aboard.

It also made the Admiral mindful of the fact there were still times when an IR or radar-guided missile might be useful over a laser-guided weapon.

IC Secret #2: Submarine Antiaircraft "Popup"

It also gave him quite a tricky idea. He passed it on to the commanders of the vessels in question. It was a highly risky gambit, and was only to be used if the opportunity presented itself.

Submarine commanders were not to be deprived of all their Stingers or Starstreaks. In fact, they were given a few more, along with contingents of Marine Commandos. If the opportunity presented itself, they were authorized to pop up to the surface, let the Marines off in small rigid-hull inflatable boats with a few MANPADS -- since the Starstreak was laser-guided it could even be used as a close-range (4-5km) antiship missile -- and then submerge again. A small flotilla of floating air-defense boats could come in handy.

The boats could also have life vests and even scuba gear in case they were spotted and wished to bail overboard or perform other autonomous activites. But it was advised that this not be put to the test if there was predictions of a storm or high seas.

IC Secret #3: GPS Jamming

Lastly, he checked on capabilities to jam GPS. The Squadron Commanders of Electronic Warfare assured him there were both air-based and ship-based GPS jammers. It was trivial to do. The hard thing had been to assure their own GPS-based systems worked. That was why Listeneisse had afforded its own GPS satellite system which had a special military channel to communicate on different frequencies to other GPS satellite networks. They still gave off standard signals for commercial GPS systems, but the military net would still operate even if jamming occurred on other standard frequencies. Of course various munitions, including JDAM GPS-guided munitions would have an "Up-Looking" GPS which would be less sensitive to jamming from the ground, which was why the "Growlers" were equipped with airborne jammers. So long as they were flying at a higher ceiling than the dropping bombs and inbound cruise missiles, airborne jamming could knock out the up-looking directional GPS. At the very least, it would send the system into a less-effective mode of unsurity at long ranges from the jammers. At best, the system would be utterly useless.

Hopefully OPFOR would not note the difference in time to figure it out, and they'd gain tactical surprise. It's not as if every nation lofts its own GPS satellite network into orbit.

The Admiral enquired with the marshals if it was possible to use GPS jamming (http://www.avweb.com/news/avionics/182754-1.html). Not simulated but actual, much like others would be doing with radar-homing and other communications signal jamming. It was up to the marshal whether they would permit it, and he cautioned that he was leery about it. If they actually did activate GPS jamming, it could ruin civil commercial air and sea traffic. Even their small airborne GPS jamming systems would extend to 100km radius. Larger, more powerful ship-based ones could blank out 500km.

It was also supposed to be a strict surprise weapon. He did not wish the marshals to inform all sides beforehand. Of course, they might be deploying their own similar measures.

If it was to be permitted, he also suggested it be included in a civil advisory be sent to be included with any warning on air and sea traffic, radio and radar effects within the operations area. The last thing he wished was for a small aircraft pilot or a jet liner to lose its navigation signal because of a military exercise.

So he was willing to allow it to be either simulated, or actually deployed, as the marshals thought best.

If it became an issue, he wanted to be informed before the exercise began.

He also took to inform the commanders of the other MP fleets, in strict secret. He asked them to give their advisals on the plan as well. They might need GPS equipment issued from Listeneisse on loan for the exercise. They could borrow a few thousand units from the Army for the duration of the exercise if need be, to be issued to MP Coalition. However, this was to be kept strictly MP secret! (An especial reminder to VL's MP Coalition units.)

The problem would be if they had GPS-guided munitions of their own. There would not be time to retune it all for the new signals.

What they could do would be to drop the jamming during attacks -- "lift the veil" so that MP Coalition's own weapons could strike, the "drop the curtain" once their ordnance was delivered. And of course, with ranges of only 100km for the aircraft and 500km for the ships, much of the OPFOR fleet would begin or remain out of jamming distance of MP Coalition's forces in any regard.

If the marshals also assented, they could give GPS units to the airborne refueling tankers. They were good for 3D, and would drop back to 2D only if a certain number of GPS satellites were "under the horizon." At these latitudes they would be fine.

Considering there were still other methods of sea and air navigation, it should not truly present a deadly danger. Any mariner or airman worth his salt could still navigate using other mechanisms -- so long as those navigational systems were not likewise jammed. But for "smart" weapons that relied solely or mainly on GPS, it would be a devastating blow to effectiveness.

They'd suddenly be very stupid.

"Terrain Following" cruise missile systems would report "wave... wave... wave..." Not very useful over a hundred kilometers or more of water. Hence why GPS was so crucial to many guided systems.

Yes, if they could knock out GPS for everyone's weapons, that would change matters dramatically. If they could knock out GPS for OPFOR specifically, that would make it all the sweeter.

IC Secret #4: Radar Homing Jamming

The "Growlers" and destroyers were also going to be crucial to stop radar-homing missiles. It was vital that they jam the hell out of radar. Frequencies were analyzed of the various missiles being deployed by the OPFOR.

P-700 Granats (http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/russia/ss-n-19.htm) -- called "Shipwrecks" -- were tricky. They used inertial guidance, active radar, IR, and radar-homing. "Punch Bowl" satellite communications systems where target location data is fed by ships or spotting aircraft.

They also depended on a communication network of satellites (http://www.network54.com/Forum/thread?forumid=243030&messageid=1097050815&lp=1099288469) to get information relayed to them for those updates.

(ooc: Did people who bought Shipwrecks know that they actually have to pay for an entire network of ship-monitoring satellites to get them to work? If you didn't, and are going... "Uh...No..." then I'd like to ask that you be fair to MP Coalition and not say "Um.... yes! of course! We knew that!" and then go and retroactively alter your defense budgets. You can launch the requisite satellites after MILEX VL '05 is concluded. If you are going to claim that they are GPS guided, then you are still going to be hampered by the countermeasures above.)

Van Luxemburg

26-10-2005, 14:38

(OOC: Sneaky things. maybe I should arm my Airbus A380's with military GPS! [mean laugh] anyways, we'll wait for Triancia to reply, and then we could start.)

ADVISORY TO ALL CIVILIAN AIRCRAFT AND VESSELS COMING CLOSE TO THE WESTERN MEDITERRANEAN

Due to MILEX VL taking place, we strongly advise to not using the Vector airways in and around the Western Mediterranen, as sudden jamming of GPS could be common. also, Van Luxemburgian and foreign fighters could behave unfriendly to dangerous. therefore, all airways in the vicinity of the Western Mediterranean have been closed, and Van Luxemburgian Airforce Fighters will patrol the area. any violator will be forced to land on any airfield, where the aircraft will be took by the Van Luxemburgian Police. This is also done by Vessels of any size and importance.

~Grand Duke Koen van Luxemburg,
Board of Van Luxemburgian Civilian Transport Safety (VLCTS)

Spizania

26-10-2005, 15:10

GPS jamming was a standard strategy, every ship having its own system o ftransmitters which flooded EVERY frequency that could concievably be used for communications of any kind, including GPS type transmissions, except ofr several very precisde alternating frequencies which are used for teh TOP SECRET CSBCPS (Confederate Space Based Communication and Posistioning System), this integrated system owuld allow the modified GPS and Communications system to finctionin enviroments where standard GPS was being jammed, ofcoure there were aother methods of battlefield locatoin determination, hte iowas class battleships had directional antenna that pumped out megawatts of enerfgy on rtating frequencies syncronised with the jamming system, missiles launched from the fleet, followed one opf these tight beem transmissions until they met another, they would then activate there terminal guidance systems, this system known as CTGC had hte advantage that the target could move in mid mission, allowing it to track moving naval targets much more easily.

AS for airdefence, every ship had three CIWS systems on the port and another 3 on the starboard, SLYVER systems ahd been installed to fire various air defence missiles that could take down enemy aircraft, last but not least, each of the Iowas mounted a dozen long range AAA peices firing flak rounds to help kill enemy bombers at medium and low altitudes.

Listeneisse

26-10-2005, 22:13

Point #1: Granit/Shipwreck does not use GPS

Most people who are using Granits/Shipwrecks do not understand how they actually navigate. They need a bit of prodding during flight from an independent naval-monitoring network of satellites above them. If you didn't get that satellite network, oh well.

They are still deadly since they have onboard inertial guidance, and IR sensors that allow them to match target profiles against an on-board database of possible targets. They even are reputed to have a "hive mind" between the group so that they each go after different targets.

But I think that might require rendezvous with the satellite network to work. If you didn't pay for that, then you bought very expensive, possibly quite inaccurate missiles. Still deadly -- if they were launched in the right direction. They'll be lacking mid-course correction. If they do get within LOS of a target they can do terminal navigation to target.

It's not GPS-based anyway.

Point #2: You can frequency hop, but if the frequency is jammed, it's still jammed. Even for someone who just 'hopped in.'

If you're jamming all the bands, how do you get your GPS through?

It can be directional GPS -- like the JDAM -- in other words, your GSP is looking "up" only, and ignoring jamming coming laterally at it.

But even if you are frequency hopping, if all the freqencies are filled with noise, then they are noise.

GPS is renown for being a weak signal system, and there's nothing really to be done about that. Hence why it is trivial to jam, with jammer power outputs as little as 1 watt killing 100km radius, and 4 watts killing 150 - 200 km (http://www.ac11.org/gps1.htm).

GPS Jamming Countermeasures (http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/munitions/jdam-antijam.htm) are just starting to be investigated. Some are deployed on some weapons systems. JDAM was the first candidate.

While I cannot be sure, I am rather certain the jamming they defeated was from a ground jammer, not a jammer above them in altitude. They were testing to ensure that jammers at a target site would not stop the GPS signal. Hence why it was directional.

(Jammers can also be made directional, btw, to project a jam forward but keep the area behind or to the sides with a clear signal.)

Spizania

26-10-2005, 22:21

1. PErhaps i did not make this clear, the jaming is synchronised with COnfderate comm signals, so that those channels are not being jammed while they are being used ot comunicate, these frequencies rotate regularily (once every few seconds) as determined by a common computer algorithym loaded into all the recievers computers

2. The CSBCPS can perform multiple tasks, including the role of keeping the Shipwreck missiles on course, they are multipurpose satelites and have survellience equipment required for this onboard

Triancia

26-10-2005, 22:30

OOC: So, just to be clear, in an engagment, Listeneisse would engage in judicous use of GPS jamming equipment in the area around their fleet, attempting to shut down guidance systems using it? And, I do understand that the information listed was Secret IC, and therefore not known to the OPFOR, or those Listeneisse does not wish to notify. But would it be common knowledge that Listeneisse had launched their /own/ GPS constellation?

Spizania

26-10-2005, 22:43

OOC: Not sure, we coudl see satelites up there but we couldnt tell whose they are, and with the amount of countermeasures being thrown about, i don think precision munitions are going to be much good.

Listeneisse

27-10-2005, 09:58

But would it be common knowledge that Listeneisse had launched their /own/ GPS constellation?
(ooc: Yes, it would be known to anyone who researched into Listeneisse that it has its own GPS satellite network. In fact, it would also be known Listeneisse offers all citizens (and foreign visitors) personal radio sets which tune to government channels. News, classical music, and a pop station. Many are a more deluxe combination radio/GPS system available at surprisingly reasonable costs. The false rumor is so that it lets the Kingdom find anyone in the nation. That's not actually the case, since it's just a reciever. But it does allow anyone the ability to find their own way about the Kingdom with hardly a chance to say they are truly lost. They are commonly rented out to tourists travelling into different cities, the Perilous Forest National Park, the deserted Wastelands, and other excursions. Also popular with delivery fleet drivers, such as pizza boys and the ubiquitous unlicenced "gypsy" cabbies. High end models are popular as additions to or including mobile telephones and wireless PDAs, allowing salespeople to track precise driving directions between client visits, along with all their account data. It seems to be a government-private partnership, with the government helping people develop the desire for GPS with the low-cost model, and then a commercial firm selling the upgraded GPS systems with fancier features. Teens, having no curfew and quite used to independence, commonly meet for dates or spontaneous rave parties based on Lat-Long coordinates.)

Van Luxemburg

27-10-2005, 14:22

(OOC: OK, now that Triancia has replied, we're ready. I believe that the RoE's have been talked over well enough. my fleet will start moving at 16:00 hours, GMT+1 summertime. they're going at a rate of 11 knots, over a distance of about 1400 km. the OPFOR fleet of mine will start moving then too, moving towards Perpignan, to ambush them there. this is actually top-secret, so no MP member knows of it, got that? okay. now that's all clear, we're starting in 40 minutes. )

Van Luxemburg

27-10-2005, 16:40

Almeriá, MP starting location

The Cruisers slowly left, leaving a white lane behind them, in the blue/greenish waters. they were second to leave, after the Mine Countermeasure Ships. those already left the harbour, and were now checking the Alborán sea for safe entry. behind the Cruisers, which were moving up in a line, were the 3 VLCC's, to be guarded. Inbetween was the VLS "Reutte", guarded by a few Bordeaux Class Destroyers.
"Commander on the Bridge!"
The commander of the VLS "Lisbonne" was proud of his crew. that was felt in the same way by the crew, for both them and their capt'n. they were the leading cruiser in the squadron and Capt'n Reginald was promoted to Vice Admiral, and was asked to report back to the Fleets Commanding ship and officer, the VLS "Reutte", and it's Commander Von Halten.
"Ship AHOY! MCM, Aequatian Build. Van Luxemburgian markings"
"Our RV. Standby for boarding!"
As soon as the Cruiser came alongside, a sharpshooter appeared from the bridge of the "Lisbonne", arming a pressure rifle with a rappling hook. he fired it, and hit the railing of the MCM, which wore the name "Canet-en-Roussillon". The hook was quickly took by the crew of the MCM, and a bridge, constructed out of steel beams and wood was set up along the line. Vice-Admiral Reginald was the first to pass over it. He walked over, without paying attention to the aggresive seawater under him.
"Reginald, Vice Admiral. "
"VICE ADMIRAL ABOARD!"
After the call, the captain of the ship, Greyan, quickly stepped off the bridge and took the stairs towards his superior.
"Okay, I want your MCM's to sweep ahead, for possible mines. if you spot them, destroy them. hopefully, you will get some support from our allies."

Sardinia, OPFOR Starting location

The Charles de Gaulle class was not a large carrier, but it was sufficient with three of them embedded in the OPFOR side. they swiftly moved along behind eachother, escorted by the whole VL OPFOR Fleet. there were not much communications, as they were still steadily heading for their target, an RV with the MP Navy at Perpignan. The only sounds made were the usual sounds, together with the take-off of an E-2C Greyhound, which was inbound to scan for the area ahead. several P3C Orion aircraft cirkled around, usin the MAD equipment to check for possible submarines. if they had one, it was an MP one, as the OPFOR ones already had set sail for the Balearic islands.

(OOC: Or: start. go, go! you're free now, have fun!)

Listeneisse

27-10-2005, 17:02

Across the Kingdom of Listeneisse's ships sailors, submariners, Royal Marines and air crews made ready.

The seas were fairly high but the weather was clear. No chop on the waves.

The submarine squadron headed up at best possible speed towards the Gulf of Lyon. They wanted to get there with plenty of time. A few destroyers were also deployed ahead to help with ASW and AMCM activities.

The rest of the fleet swung wider out south and east behind the VL vessels but before the escorts, giving wider air defense coverage and making sure to see where air power was being committed.

RNL Glatisant

"All right pollywogs and scalliwags. I want this to be clean running. They say this boat can do better than 25 knots. So let's see how much better than 25 she can make."

Spizania

27-10-2005, 21:25

The Confederate Fleet started moving to close to nine hundred kilometres at a speed of twelve knotts, arming 42 TASM missiles, when they reached this shadowing range htey fired 42 Missiles from the Ohio II submarine Screen, which then rearranged itself to escape any counterfire the enemy may carry out. AS teh missiles launched the rotating frequency systems came online adn the jamming began, blocking any transmissions other tahn those from the missiles, the fleet or the CSBCPS system high overhead.
At their base 12 B-1Bs, 1 AWAC and 37 F-22 Raptors took and got ready for their part in the operation.

Listeneisse

29-10-2005, 15:25

Aboard the RNL Castle of Marvels (DDG-6)

At about 460km (250nm) the long range radar (http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/an-sps-49.htm) began to show the inbound missiles.

Warnings went out across the fleet. More men piled on deck with ready-held Starstreaks and Stingers.

The missiles were travelling at under Mach 1, which would give the inbounds over 30 minutes to get here.

The order was given to engage the targets once they were within range -- 40km -- about 160 seconds before impact.

The guided missile destroyer was packed with the latest ESSM missiles, which significantly narrowed their width. Four of them could now pony up in a single Mk41 launch cannister.

With 96 launch cannister in 12 different launchers, and a significant percentage of them geared towards air defense of the fleet, one Chief Petty Officer declared their official inventory as "buttloads."

Still, it would take four volleys of the VLS to get sufficient interceptors in the air.

The RNL Bellegarde radioed and offered to split the defenses between them.

In the air above

Winging swiftly past the front of the destroyer screen were eight aircraft from No. 1 Fighter Squadron. They had come for air-to-air interception. Kicking in as fast as they could, they accelerated past Mach 1, then Mach 1.5. Bursting momentarily upwards of 2,000 kph, then decelerating, they would reach the targets in about 8 minutes.

They had six AMRAAMs each. They didn't need to fire their whole number. Coordinating with the fleet, they agreed to intercept one each, and then see how the surface ships did on the rest. No. 4 Squadron was also in the air nearby.

Intercept was calculated at a 90% hit-ratio. Four got through. They were still 220 km from target. It took twelve more minutes for the missiles to reach maximum range for the ESSMs.

Castle of Marvels was credited with downing two and Bellegarde the other two.

The VLS tubes stayed shuttered. "Expended units" were simply ticked off an inventory of what was aboard.

Meanwhile, the returning planes from No. 1 Squadron were already being retrieved and turned around while four others remained in combat air patrol with the other fighters.

(ooc: The AN/SPS-49 is resistent to jamming. Since the rest of your fleet is hundreds of km away, I don't think you have a more powerful jammer within range of my AEGISs' radar. If we got closer, or if you sent in ECM decoys, that's one thing, but as it is, the missiles can be 'made'.)

Van Luxemburg

30-10-2005, 06:58

Aboard the VLS "Reutte" (CVN-331)

As soon as the radar warning began to multiply itself, Phalanx systems were st to on-line and a few VLS tubes set to active. the radar began to make it's round, set to active. Airgroup 1, aboard the "Reutte" was launched, with 12 Rafale M's being launched to intercept possible fighters and bombers on their way to attack the fleet. 25mm AA guns were manned by their respective crew, which had been bulled out of the sailors' mess as quickly as possible.

The 12 Rafale M's had been launched a few minutes ago. The heavy engines rumbled over the, now quite silent, seas. they had been armed with MAGIC 2 missiles, aswell as the MICA missile. the MAGIC 2 was better as a Sidewinder, and was treated as. the MICA however, was loaded to fire at a possible target "over the horizon". they were not capable of doing more than a US ASRAAM, sadly enough. The fighters tried to come in low, to evade possible early detection. it was also a great weapon against missiles, but none of these tactics were watertight, in this case.

Listeneisse

30-10-2005, 12:08

No. 4 Squadron suggested to keep a sharp eye peeled for more inbound radar targets, and backed up the VL squadron from nearby. It stayed high to ensure it would have altitude for a proper bounce.

Meanwhile, the convey churned the waters. It had already gone forward at full speed for about an hour.

Van Luxemburg

30-10-2005, 12:51

"this is van Luxemburgian Airgroup 1, Listeneissian no. 4 Squadron, prepare for the launching of our MAGIC 2 missiles, we aren't sure if the training laser system will recognise you properly. FoF is kinda hard when aircraft are in service on each side. VL Airgroup 1 out."

Listeneisse

31-10-2005, 10:34

"Airgroup 1, are you in MP Coalition? If so, we'd appreciate you not firing at us at all."

The Squadron vectored back towards the fleet, which continued to advance.

It was now two hours past the start line, and was making its way unmolested so far.

Van Luxemburg

31-10-2005, 16:23

"ofcourse. anyways, It's a bit silent down here. I suggest we return to base ASAP. Dolphin Leader out."
The Rafales turned, and slowly but surely began their return towards the carrier.

Triancia

31-10-2005, 17:09

Sorry about the delays, gentlemen. Just to inform you I will be posting shortly.

Van Luxemburg

31-10-2005, 17:25

roger that. we were already thinking where the others were....

Listeneisse

01-11-2005, 08:38

An hour had passed, and then two.

The convoy had started out from 36º 30' North Latitude, 2º West Longitude, and had made its way northeast on a course of 42º at 26 knots. Some of the rear vessels were limited to 25 knots, it meant the convoy stretched a bit over time, but that was better than being too bunched up in a target area.

The convoy had proceeded to 37º 8' 29" North, 1º 26' West.

Moving at a faster 30 knots, the Royal Navy had arced a bit to the east, on a bearing of 55º, to coordinates centered near 37° 04' 08" N, 0° 58' 27" West.

The 22 minutes of longitude put them about 41.5 km east of the convoy. It still seemed too close to the Admiral. They needed to give them more room to hide behind their covering fire.

Overhead, the squadrons of the Royal Navy kept a vigilant watch for more inbound elements of OPFOR.

Submarine Squadron (IC Secret)

The submarines were cruising even faster, making speed at 33 knots underwater. They did not have the same top speed as a Seawolf, but were fast enough. Covering 122.3 km in two hours, bearing roughly 50º, they had made an ever-widening fan centered on 37º 07' 32" North, 0º 52' 12" West.

They were now over 11 km ahead of the main fleet, and had crossed the longitude of Cartegena.

Listeneisse

02-11-2005, 10:20

The Convoy Surges Onward

A third hour passed, and then a fourth. The convoy's lead turned on a bearing of 55º, to pass around Cartegena, and moved forward another 96.3 km making 26 knots. The rear only made 25 knots, and covered 92.6 km.

The ships were spread in a rough oval now, which continued to grow longer and slimmer. The convoy had streamed past Cartegena, The trailing ships were all given a view of the dunes of the beaches below the Calblanque mountains of Murcia as they sped past the shore a few kilometers off. The lead elements were about on even latitude with Cabo de Palos. To the northwest stretched the Mar Menor. Ahead of them lay 0º longitude, which would present a significant objective reached.

Convoy lead: 037° 38' 05" N, 000° 32' 15" W

Surface Fleet

Moving at a faster 30 knots, covering another 111.12 km in two hours on a bearing of 55º, the Royal Navy had advanced from 37° 04' 08" N, 0° 58' 27" West to a new postion at 37° 42' 26" N, 0° 00' 24" W. They were poised to cross the meridian. Further out lay the Balleares.

There was now more room behind them to cover the convoy. It seemed likely there might be contact made before reaching the Balleares, so they advised the convoys to pass west of the islands while the naval forces passed to the east.

Submarine Squadron (IC Secret)

Another 122.3 km were made in two hours, bearing roughly 55º.

From 37º 07' 32" North, 0º 52' 12" West they had forwarded their skirmish line to 37° 49' 40" North, 0° 11' 48" East. They were over the prime meridian, and further ahead of the rest of the fleet.

Listeneisse

02-11-2005, 11:20

Estimation of OPFOR Position

Started at 40º North, 8º East

955.3 km north-east of MP start position of 36º 30' North, 2º West.

Spizania sailed his fleet and submarines on intercept course (bearing 240) at 12 knots (22.22 kph) to within 900 km, so presume that event occurred at roughly 2h 00, with the intercept taking the next 30 minutes (2h30m mark).

They have since advanced another hour and a half total (4 hours into exercise).

The VL Charles de Gaulle battle group was headed at best speed, 27 knots (50 kph), towards Perpignan. This placed them at 40° 52' 52" N, 5° 56' 23" E after four hours.

Meanwhile the VL submarines had headed towards the Balleares. I will presume they went at best-possible speed (27 knots, 50 kph), bearing 270; please correct me if you wished to move slower or in a different heading.

I'll presume any other OPFOR forces are with the Spizania group, moving slower.

OPFOR Fleet: (at 4 hours)

Spizania:
General orders: Intercept MP Convoy
Position 39° 35' 49" North, 7° 06' 06" East
Bearing 240
Speed 12 knots (22.22 kph)
630.4 km to MP Submarine screen
651.8 km to MP Surf Fleet
698.4 km to MP Convoy

VL OPFOR Carrier Battle Group:
General Orders: Station off Perpignan, FR, close to shore.
Position 40° 52' 52" North, 5° 56' 23" East
Bearing 270
Speed 27 knots (50 kph)
599 km to MP Submarine screen
621.4 km to MP Surf Fleet
664 km to MP Convoy
173.5 km to Spizania Battle Group
103.1 km to VL OPFOR Submarine Squadron

VL OPFOR Submarine Squadron:
General Orders: Head towards Baleric Islands, take up antiship operations, search for convoy
Position 39° 59' 13" North, 6° 15' 46" East
Bearing 270
Speed 20 knots (37 kph)
577 km to MP Submarine screen
599 km to MP Surf Fleet
644.4 km to MP Convoy
83.77 km to Spizania Battlegroup
103.1 km to VL OPFOR Carrier Battlegroup

We should still all be outside each other's radar perception, but fighter screens should now be able to come into contact.

Likewise, sea-based strikes at fleets are possible.

Listeneisse

02-11-2005, 14:30

Aboard the Carriers

No. 1 and No. 4 Fighter Squadrons were recovered to give the crews a breather, while No. 2 and No. 3 took their place aloft. They were all armed for air-to-air interception.

The fighters spread further out beyond the carriers, at a range of 300 km ahead of the fleet, with a spread of 3 AWACS behind them about 50 km back. This gave them a picture of the ocean out another 320 km or so -- about 570 km ahead of the surface fleet. They knew the enemy was out there somewhere. The question was where.

Within a 50 km radius of the fleet, attack helicopters were constantly hovering about, armed with air-to-air Stingers for a screen of forward air defense against cruise missiles.

Listeneisse

02-11-2005, 16:07

The Vice Admiral gazed at the map. He knew the enemy was likely somewhere between Sardinia and the Baleares, but the question was where precisely?

He asked that once No. 1 and No. 4 Squadrons were back in the air for them to see what they could find and flush out the other navies. It was not time to strike them. Simply to find them.

They were to remain armed for air-to-air interception.

Calls went out to the other battlegroup commanders of VL MP and Wingarde to see if they might be able to provide antiship strikes when ready and also to double-check that there were sufficient defenses aboard the commercial vessels and escorts.

Spizania

04-11-2005, 22:41

OOC: Sorry, parents said i had to go on holiday with them, found out the night before anyways.

IC: With the near total failure of the first barrage, the COnfederacy fired again, still tracking the enemy fleet, the subs launched another 75 Cruise Missiles and reconfigured, the Iowas launched adapted naval attack cruise missiles, the warhead had been replaced by a Mk50 Lightweight torpedo, lengthening the missile, requiring the Battkeships longer tubes. 96 of these missiles launched; (at 7km they will drop the torp into the water, it will track the noisiest ship it can hear) followed by another 90 conventional cruise missiles with adapted sea-tracking radars from the Ticonderandas and the frigates.

The B-1Bs reached 900km and each dropped 6 converted AntiShipping Cruise Missiles from there wing points and each followed up with 12 Torp Carrying missiles from two 6 missile rotary launchers in there 3 bomb bays. They turned, kicking htere engines up to full power and withdrew, there F-22 escorts screening them. The AWAC took up station above the fleet.

OOC: There was a plan to fit 3 6-Tomahawk Misslie Rotary launchers on B-1Bs in Rl, i just adapted the concept

Listeneisse

05-11-2005, 08:15

With the near total failure of the first barrage, the COnfederacy fired again, still tracking the enemy fleet, the subs launched another 75 Cruise Missiles and reconfigured, the Iowas launched adapted naval attack cruise missiles, the warhead had been replaced by a Mk50 Lightweight torpedo, lengthening the missile, requiring the Battkeships longer tubes. 96 of these missiles launched; (at 7km they will drop the torp into the water, it will track the noisiest ship it can hear) followed by another 90 conventional cruise missiles with adapted sea-tracking radars from the Ticonderandas and the frigates.

The B-1Bs reached 900km and each dropped 6 converted AntiShipping Cruise Missiles from there wing points and each followed up with 12 Torp Carrying missiles from two 6 missile rotary launchers in there 3 bomb bays. They turned, kicking htere engines up to full power and withdrew, there F-22 escorts screening them. The AWAC took up station above the fleet.

Launched at a range of 900km, the antiship cruise missiles had absolutely no target coordinates provided to them, so all were likely to miss by great distances. Was this blind shooting in the dark?

(ooc: We're outside of radar range by hundreds of kilometers, and you didn't spot the fleet -- which continues to move -- so how in the world did you even know where to target? You cannot be 'tracking the fleet' as we're beyond AWACS and surface-based radar range. The positions I cite above are for OOC reference for you as a player. You don't get to automatically "know" where we are. Unless you can prove your methods. From what I can read regarding the types of radio we are using I'm still looking for an example of these being detectable/triangulatable at 900 km. That's beyond the range of our radio signals.

I let the first attack slide by simply because you knew our start locations. But the more I look at things, the harder it is to simply just fire away without an actual bearing. It's ludicrous, but let's go through this...)

In the air far forward of the fleet

AWACs spotted them at maximum range.

Another 216 inbound targets. Likely a new barrage of cruise missiles. They were off a few degrees in their target if they were making a bee-line towards the ships.

It was decided to intercept them anyway. The two squadrons of forward fighters fired 72 air-to-air missiles. The other two squadrons were scrambled to fire the same salvo. 144 missiles with 14 accounted as "misses" took down most of them, but left a good few in the air above (216 - 130 = 86).

The guided missile destroyers fired one shot at each of the rest, spreading the salvos between all the escorts. In the first salvo, all but nine incoming were destroyed. In the second salvo, all the rest were bagged, even the ones judged so far away as to have no chance of finding the fleet in case they made course corrections.

None reached range to drop a torpedo. The Starstreak operators waited.

The fleet continued on unmolested.

(ooc: I also presume that some other nation might actually be intercepting the missiles as well? I'll gladly recalibrate my numbers if need be.)

Van Luxemburg

05-11-2005, 09:31

VL MP

The Convoy slowly moved forwards. the warning was quickly made unneeded by the Listeneissian ships, and a small group of Mirage 2100's, 5 of them, were launched to protect possible interests. nothng was going on, actually, but you could never know.

VL OPFOR

The Amethyste and it's L'Inflexible counterparts slowly made their move through the shallow waters near the Balearic islands. they had been moving at their maximum speed as deep as possible to get here, but were now severely limited by the shallow waters, not allowing them to make it towards their topspeed. they also hadn't spotted their target yet, the MP fleet. that could be because of the Islands blocking the sonar's view, and the radar mast wasn't deployed in the fear of discovery by possible ASW Aircraft. they would wait however, they were ready, and if something passed, they would identify and shoot it with their Mk. 48's.

Spizania

05-11-2005, 14:42

OOC: CAnt my sattelite cover see you? They have good enouigh surveliance equipement to direct shipwrecks at enemy ships, provided they know where to look, if they cant il get some air based RADAR cover inplace.

Listeneisse

05-11-2005, 14:54

(OOC: The only way to be near the Baleares is if we advanced the time by four hours, so I'll push the clock forward.)

+0800h: Reaching the Baleares

Two more hours went by. Then two more.

The convoy's lead turned on a bearing of 30º, on a straight shot up the coast. For four hours, this made another 192.6 km at 26 knots. The rear, at 25 knots, covered 185.2 km. Then the convoy had just slipped between the Cabo de la Nao and the Isla de Ibiza, the main south island of the Baleares. They were now cruising off the coast of Valencia. After eight hours, the trailing ship was lagging by 8 nautical miles (14.8 km).

Convoy Position
General orders: Make for Toulon
Position 039° 07′ 46″ N, 000° 34′ 44″E (39.129444° N Latitude, 0.578889° E Longitude) -- north of and passing between Cabo de la Nao and Isla de Ibiza.
Bearing 30
Speed 26 to 25 knots (48.15 to 46.3 kph)
158.97 km to MP Listeneisse Submarine Squadron
56.74 km to MP Listeneisse Battlegroup
506.03 km to OPFOR VL Battlegroup
473.96 km to OPFOR Spizania Battlegroup
350.85 km to OPFOR VL Submarine Squadron

Listeneisse Surface Fleet

Moving at a faster 30 knots, covering another 222.24 km in four hours on a bearing of 15º, the Royal Navy and other ships had advanced far ahead of the convoy. They were now sheltered behind the Baleares, just north of the line of Palma de Mallorca and Valencia.

Listeneisse Surface Fleet
General Orders: Protect the convoy, find and defeat the OPFOR naval forces.
Position 039° 38′ 09″ N, 000° 39′ 54″ E (39.635833° N Latitude, 0.665000° E Longitude)
Bearing 15
Speed 30 knots (55.56 kph)
56.74 km to MP Convoy
159.91 km to MP Listeneisse Submarine Squadron
460.5 km to OPFOR VL Battlegroup
462.1 km to OPFOR Spizania Battlegroup
331.63 km to OPFOR VL Submarine Squadron

Listeneisse Submarine Squadron (IC Secret)

The squadron made 244.6 km over four hours, bearing roughly 52º. They were in the midst of the Baleares. Half were streaming north around Mallorca, the other half went west. They suddenly went to quiet speeds, down to 20 knots, suspecting that at last they might be in the range of enemy submarines or ASW.

Listeneisse Submarine Squadron
General Orders: Find and defeat the OPFOR submarine and surface forces; clear sea lanes.
Position 039° 09′ 40″N, 002° 25′ 56″E (39.161111° Latitude, 2.432222° Longitude)
Bearing 0 (half) and 70 (other half)
Speed 20 knots (55.56 kph)
158.97 km to MP Convoy
159.91 km to MP Listeneisse Battlegroup
411.60 km to OPFOR VL Battlegroup
316.29 km to OPFOR Spizania Battlegroup
201.4 km to OPFOR VL Submarine Squadron
_____________________________

OPFOR Positions

Spizania Battlegroup
General orders: Intercept MP Convoy
Position 039° 35′ 32″ N, 006° 03′ 52″ E (39.592222° N Latitude, 6.064444° E Longitude) -- about half-way between the Baleares and Corsica.
Bearing 270
Speed 12 knots (22.22 kph)
473.96 km to MP Convoy
316.29 km to MP Listeneisse Submarine Squadron
462.1 km to MP Listeneisse Battlegroup
335.01 km to OPFOR VL Battlegroup
138.02 km to OPFOR VL Submarine Squadron

OPFOR VL Battlegroup
General Orders: Station off Perpignan, FR, close to shore.
Position 042°25′57″N, 004°43′17″E (42.4325° N Latitude, 4.721389° E Longitude) -- off the coast SSW of Perpignan, approximately half-way between Barcelona and Perpignan.
Bearing 300
Speed 27 knots (50 kph)
506.03 km to MP Convoy
411.6 km to MP Listeneisse Submarine Squadron
460.5 km to MP Listeneisse Battlegroup
335.01 km to OPFOR Spizania Battlegroup
273.61 km to OPFOR VL Submarine Squadron

VL OPFOR Submarine Squadron (IC Secret)
General Orders: Head towards Baleric Islands, take up antiship operations, search for convoy
Position 039° 58′ 26″ N, 004° 31′ 33″ E (39.973889° Latitude, 4.525833° Longitude) -- off Menorca (58.43 km from Mao, at 39° 31' 48" N, 4° 9' 36" E; 39.53N, 04.16E)
Bearing 270
Speed 20 knots (37 kph)
350.85 km to MP Convoy
201.40 km to MP Listeneisse Submarine Squadron
331.63 km to MP Listeneisse Battlegroup
138.02 km to OPFOR Spizania Battlegroup
273.61 km to OPFOR VL Battlegroup
_________________

Situational Analysis

AWACS that MP were flying ahead of the fleet were declared to have a patrol radius of 200 km, with a radar detection range of another 320 km -- a total radius of detection of 520km.

Repeatedly, over days, OPFOR has failed to declare where they were deploying their own airborne detection systems.

Surface detection by an AEGIS-class system is less -- 460km. Plus, our ships are on the far side of the Baleares, meaning you cannot surface detect them from Spizania's BG. The convoy is still too far away to be detected by any OPFOR group.

Which nets out to that both the OPFOR VL Battlegroup and Spizania battlegroups were 'made' by the MP before the OPFOR could see the MP Coalition battlegroups.

A request is radioed to Wingarde and MP VL Battlegroups to see if they wish to attack the enemy fleets.

Listeneisse sends all 48 of its F/A-18F's off to volley at the VL Battlegroup. Proceeded by their "Growlers" to jam radar detection, they flew up to their best possible speed to give their Harpoons an extra bit of of shove, then pull off once they have fired and turn rapidly for home. There are 6 Harpoons fired from each at about 200 km out -- 288 antiship missiles in all. At a cruising speed of 880 kph, they take 13.6 minutes to reach the carriers.

Volley after volley of antiship Tomahawk missiles begin to be loosed from the guided missile destroyers as they reach the 460 km detection range of the MP VL fleet. As soon as the AWACS alerted them, the destroyers had cruised ahead of the fleet to intercept and to provide screening. Soon another 132 missiles were in the air -- a dozen for each of the 11 destroyers in the forward battlegroup. Those would take another 31 minutes to reach their termal guidance.

Growlers that provided jamming of the VL radar systems covering the fighters were replaced by the other squadron further back of the launched cruise missiles. While the missiles raced ahead, behind them a wave of radio noise sought to screen the fleet from detection.

About the Submarines

ASW helicopter patrols are typically 93 km (http://www.mindef.gov.sg/imindef/publications/cyberpioneer/weapon/2005/28sep05_weapon.html) which means that no one's submarines are likely in detection range yet. And even then, it would be a chance of spotting them; it would not be an automatic detection once they came within that radius.

Wingarde Deployment?

Wingarde, you have not stated precisely where your fleet is, but it can either be forward north, northeast or east of the convoy.

NationStates Jolt Archive

MILEX VL '05 (Closed)