NationStates Jolt Archive

Almaty, Kazakhstan...

A light snow was falling on the city of 1.300.000 people in the Eastern Sphere of Kazakhstan, the largest land territory of Germania. Within the Industrial District of the city, called the Barlau Oblystar by the native Kazakhs, the first massive storage complex, built on top of the beginning (or end) of the Great Eurasian Line had just been completed.

This colossal complex, which would house up to 20.000 barrels of crude and refined oil at one time, would be the homebase of the Oil Transportation Line of the Great Eurasian Line. Almaty, already the largest city in Kazakhstan, was chosen to be the Eastern-most end of the Railroad Line because of its current status of being the largest Oil Refinery city in Germanian Central Asia. It was there that 70% of all oil from Northern Afghanistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan was refined and then distributed via transport planes to Europe and railroad to Central Asia. While Germania relied less on oil for purposes of fuel, it had proven to be an invaluable economic tool.

However, the process of flying the oil to Europe had proved to be far too costly, with the income gained from exporting the oil only barely covering the costs of transporting it. The Reich was still making some profit, but only 5% of what they would be making if the oil could be directly shipped. Not only did this drain on the economy affect Germania, it affected Germania's trading partners who were paying 300% more per barrel than they would under normal circumstances.

However, at the direct & special request of the Reichskanzler, the economic brain of the Reich, the Handelhaus - located in Salzburg, Austria - and its top team of economic scientists devised a simple, but costly solution to the problem: a railroad line that would stretch over 2.800 kilometers from Almaty, Kazakhstan to Kiev, Ukraine.

The only problem, though, was that in order to connect the lines, the railroad would have to cross through Russian land which did not belong to Germania. On the other hand, the land belonged to a friendly neighbor of the Reich -- Celtayoshi. Without much deliberation, an agreement was made between the Reichskanzler of Germania and the Premier of Celtayoshi: the railroad line would be built through the section of Russia connecting Europe to Asia, for a monetary payment*.

The railroad is to cross several great rivers: the Syrdariya, the Volga, the Don, and the Dnipro. For these crossings, several huge bridges are being built to accompany the massive transportation/supply line.

Advise was given to the Reichskanzler by Premier Nemeth of Celtayoshi that extra care be taken in the form of security forces while constructing the line through the two Oblasts of Russia belonging to him, and that was because of the reportedly high rate of terrorism in the region. Following this advice, the Reichswehr will be protecting the line while it is under construction, and even more so after it is finished.

This project, estimated to cost 8.5 trillion Reichsmarks by the time of its completion, which includes the cost of supplies, labor, engineering, etc., will be the first ever to connect two continents through a single travel line. The Great Eurasian Line is being praised as a brilliant economic, social, international, political, military, and cultural accomplishment. Other nations such as Layarteb, Cotland, The Russian Federation, Hirgizstan, as well as many other have shown a great interest in the project, and a number of foreign corporations have shown interest in investing money into the construction of this line.

While the price of the Great Eurasian Line is drastically high, it will pay itself off through tourism, oil exports, jobs, and other forms of revenue which it will naturally generate.

The first spike was driven into the soil of Kazakhstan today by Reichskanzler Heydrich Kübler, signifying that the project had officially been placed under construction. Following the Reichskanzler driving the large spike into the ground, a huge crowd of workers, citizens, and soldiers cheered with pride as their leader again proved the ingenuity of the Reich.

Later that day, Reichskanzler Kübler was meeting with several foreign diplomats and economic advisors in the governing house of Almaty to discuss opening more trade routes with foreign nations...

[Translated from German]

Reichskanzler Kübler: "This sum of money will put a damper on our coffers for some time. While we already have trade routes with the Kingdom of Norway, Layarteb, Hawdawg, and Greece just to name a few. But we will need more to pay off the cost of building the Great Eurasian Line. Of course, it will pay itself within a year, but we can do better. Where else can we export oil to? Who would be interested?"

A native Kazakhstani, and a brilliant economic scientist who helped devise the plan for building the Great Eurasian Line spoke up first in a thick Kazakh accent.

Dr. Vladimir Nabarvayev: "Herr Reichskanzler, the United Eastasian Republic for one. As China borders Kazakhstan, exporting the oil would be cheap and easy."

Dr. Daniyal Akhmetov: "Herr Reichskanzler, I agree. I believe the Russian Federation may be interested as well. I believe Bjornoya might be interested. While it is a bit more difficult to ship the oil to their territories, we could simply raise the export cost. The price will already be drastically reduced."

Reichskanzler Kübler: "Very well. Let's keep it at that for now. We will have a number of trading partners when all is said and done. Send offers to the United Eastasian Republic, the Russian Federation, and Bjornoya."

---------------------------------------------------------

- Encryption Light -
Message To: The United Eastasian Republic; The Russian Federation; Bjornoya
Message From: Reichskanzler Kübler
Subject: The Great Eurasian Line and Trade Routes

"To the esteemed leaders of the United Eastasian Republic, the Russian Federation, and Bjornoya: I invite you all to discuss with me the possible opening of oil trade routes from Germania to your respective nations.

By the time the Great Eurasian Line is completed, we will be able to export oil at a very low cost to any nations who wish to import it. Because of the fact that I have had little dealing with any of you, I have selected you to be possible candidates for new trade routes to better our political relations, as well as to benefit eachother economically.

Please inform me of your response."

---------------------------------------------------------

- Encryption Open -
Message To: Premier Nemeth
Message From: Reichskanzler Kübler
Subject: The Great Eurasian Line

"To my friend Premier Nemeth,
I would like to thank you for allowing me to construct a vital section of the Great Eurasian Line through your lands in Russia. The completion of this project would not be possible without you.

Sincerely,
Reichskanzler Kübler"

---------------------------------------------------------

* = I think I paid a monetary sum to Celtayoshi in order to build the line through his Russian territory and Volgagrad.

---------------------------------------------------------

-- N.G. --

OOC: Premier Németh is dead :) he was assinated shortly after agreeing to this project.

Message To: Reichskanzler Kübler
Message From: P. Nikea, Temporary Leader, CNP
Subject: The Great Eurasian Line

We are delighted to be able to assist in the industrial growth of this area. It has great potential to enter a new Golden Era.
However, on more serious matters the security threat to this line is very real. We have put the Celtayoshi Army in charge of security of the line through our Russian lands. They will have constant patrols along the line, and the area immediately surrounding it will be fenced off. New laws will be rushed through parliament allowing us to 'deal' with the problem in a more effective manner. It is only a matter of time before we should have the regular Police in charge of security.

OOC: I have replied to your message in the Voronej Cooperation thread but don't reply to my quesions there please. Why would you build a trainline? Why not a pipeline?

OOC: Because it's better to have something that is effecient. It serves to transport citizens, soldiers, various cargo, and oil. It also connects two continents. It's better to do this than to build a pipeline. This is much more efficient; it serves multiple purposes rather than just one. The trainline and connecting trade routes and depots also make this a larger and more globally-important project.

Ok, I guess I'll just wait a while until it's completed, then I'll announce something.

OOC: Visara Co. is more interested in giving it's constructive expertise with building the project rather than receiving any oil shipments. We get most of what we need from Offshore Arctic oil drilling sites, but if a line could be built to Bjornoya it would be an added benefit. It is however, not entirelly necessary.

OOC: Because it's better to have something that is effecient. It serves to transport citizens, soldiers, various cargo, and oil. It also connects two continents. It's better to do this than to build a pipeline. This is much more efficient; it serves multiple purposes rather than just one. The trainline and connecting trade routes and depots also make this a larger and more globally-important project.

Ok, I guess I'll just wait a while until it's completed, then I'll announce something.

But you won't be able to pump as much oil as with the pipe line, why not have a pipeline and a train line? That kind of makes sense.

OOC: Is there a map of the route of the Eurasian Line?

The Empire is pleased that the line is being constructed as of the present time. We have pledged funding to the project as well as defensive measures.

We would like to create a train line that would jon up with the one you are constructing and will deliver energy products from our Siberian region to the global markets. We will provide full funding for the train lines in Siberia and will also award funds to your overall project. Would this be possible?

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

OOC: Not a bad idea, Pushka.

Andrehervia, no map yet. But the line is pretty damned extensive.

Bjornoya, feel free to send people to help construct this thing.

------------------------------------------

Berlin, Germany...

VRIN News Update

A young woman in her mid-thirties stood in front of the Reichstag -- the Federal Building which dealt with every aspect of the Reich. A cold Autumn wind blew through her blonde hair, tossing a few strands of it over her blue eyes. Behind stood three OS soldiers holding MP-5/SD3 submachine guns. In the background, two men dressed in black - also members of the OS - were positioned on the roof, armed with GS-66 sniper rifles. Two machine gun teams of three men each manned scoped MG-23 machine guns on large tripods. These men were the best the Reich had to offer. They would fight to the grave protecting the Reichskanzler and the Reich itself. Along the perimeter were three OS Infantry Squads, a total of twenty-seven men. Inside the Reichstag itself, there was no telling how many officers and soldiers there were.

The reporter was here to cover Reichskanzler Kübler recent announcement that there would be a pipeline built to accompany the Great Eurasian Line. It, like the trainline, would extend from Almaty to Kiev. After a discussion with several scientists from the Handelhaus in Salzburg, Austria the Reichskanzler had decided that in the event of a great war where the Great Eurasian Line would have to be dedicated entirely to military purposes, a pipeline was to be constructed in order to maintain the flow of oil from Central Asia to Europe.

[Translated from German]

"In a recent development concerning the Great Eurasian Line, Reichskanzler Kübler has announced that a pipeline is to accompany the great railroad line, providing refined oil directly to certain towns and cities in Central Asia and Europe. This announcement comes as a surprise, as just over five weeks ago the Great Eurasian Line began construction.

Offers from several foreign nations, including Bjornoya and Pushka, showed interest in the latest addition to the project. Political and diplomatic relations with Bjornoya have increased and improved since the Reichskanzler has been discussing possible trade routes with the country. The same situation has occured with the nation of Pushka, and the vice-president of that country - Nikolai Bezrukov - recently spoke with the Reichskanzler, specifically proposing that a trade route to Siberia which would directly branch from the Great Eurasian Line. The Reichs government would not release specifics on the proposal, but mentioned that it had something to do with energy resources.

More to come later."

------------------------------------------

- Encryption Maximum -
Message To: Vice-President Nikolai Bezrukov
Message From: Reichskanzler Heydrich Kübler
Subject: Siberia/Great Eurasian Line

"Your offer interests me greatly. To clarify what you mean, do you wish for the Russian Federation to move its energy products through the Great Eurasian Line for trade on the global market?

If so, we request a small percentage of your profits for use of the railroad line. As you know, Herr Bezrukov, transporting these types of materials costs money. I am, however, very interested, and this would be a sign of peace between our two great nations."

Sincerely,
Reichskanzler Kübler

- Encryption Maximum -
Message To: Reichskanzler Heydrich Kübler
Message From: Vice-President Nikolai Bezrukov
Subject: Siberia/Great Eurasian Line

You understood me correctly Gospodin Kubler. We are of course prepared to pay a tariff for transporting our resources via your train line. You can make your initial tarrif offer and we can start bargaining from there.

The Empire of Layarteb would like to establish a small airborne base somewhere along this line, in friendly territory. If leasing is required, we could lease without a problem. If we can buy the land it would be even better. We would like the permission and information to do this. We would like to place in the base in the middle of the line but perhaps it would be easier with a map. When a map is constructed, we would like to, possibly, have this taken into consideration.

The Empire

Formal Request for Area

The Empire of Layarteb would like to establish an outpost in the center of the line for protection of Layartebian assets crossing the line as well as friendly assets. We would like to lease and/or buy 200 km² of land to place an airfield, army base, helicopter base, and refueling station. We would like to base some 500 aircraft, 388 helicopters, 36,600 soldiers, 3,292 vehicles, and associated air defense assets in this land. The Empire is willing to pay for leasing though we would like to purchase the land. We would like it to be centered in the line and be in friendly territory. Our initial offer is $2.5M per square kilometer or $10,117.15 per acre. This will give a total of $500M for the land.

Thank You

I am afraid that with Layatreb requesting to place such great amounts of troops along the eurasian trainline Russian Federation is forced to reconsider its earlier proposal. If Layartreb's purchase of land is confirmed Russian Federation will withdraw from the deal. I hope you understand that we must put our own interests infront of everything else and Layatrebian presence is hurting our interests for obvious reasons. In addition to withdrawal of our proposition we will raise the number of ПО (Border Guard, armed non-military unit) troops along the Russian/Panthean border and possibly reinforce them with military ground and air forces.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

I am afraid that with Layatreb requesting to place such great amounts of troops along the eurasian trainline Russian Federation is forced to reconsider its earlier proposal. If Layartreb's purchase of land is confirmed Russian Federation will withdraw from the deal. I hope you understand that we must put our own interests infront of everything else and Layatrebian presence is hurting our interests for obvious reasons. In addition to withdrawal of our proposition we will raise the number of ПО (Border Guard, armed non-military unit) troops along the Russian/Panthean border and possibly reinforce them with military ground and air forces.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

The presence of Layartebian troops is for the purpose of defense of all civilian and military traffic throughout the line, as well as a quick-reaction force should people fall into trouble. Bandits and rebels will find this line most appealing for their operations and, by all means, it must be dealt with. Russian withdrawal would only be counter-productive and allow even more harsh feelings against the line, causing more bandits and more rebels, causing more grief for both Russia and the signatories of the line. In addition, withdrawal would represent a major financial blow to the Russian people as the profits for this line will affect each and every individual signatory, at least ten fold.

The Empire

We do not feel it safe to allow Layatreb to have their forces so close to a line that will be transporting our materials. The only feasible compromise is to allow Russian Federation equal access to the line, however we are not that interested in the project to commit our troops to foreign soil. Do not worry yourself about our economy Gospodin Emperor, we control very, very large natural resources deposits, finding a buyer would not be a problem, neither would be transportation since we already have an extensive trainline network that allows us to transport oil from Siberia to Europe. As for the point you brought up, i don't see a reason for Layatreb to get involved, i am sure that North Germania is fully capable of protecting their own train lines.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

We do not feel it safe to allow Layatreb to have their forces so close to a line that will be transporting our materials. The only feasible compromise is to allow Russian Federation equal access to the line, however we are not that interested in the project to commit our troops to foreign soil. Do not worry yourself about our economy Gospodin Emperor, we control very, very large natural resources deposits, finding a buyer would not be a problem, neither would be transportation since we already have an extensive trainline network that allows us to transport oil from Siberia to Europe. As for the point you brought up, i don't see a reason for Layatreb to get involved, i am sure that North Germania is fully capable of protecting their own train lines.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

The Empire wishes to augment the defensive forces of North Germania, Norway, and other participants of the line. The forces deployable are a QRF meaning their ability to deploy to a threat takes only as long as them to get there. The Empire feels the actions of the Russian Federation are foolish and could be a prelude to a strain in relations not just with Russia and the Empire but with Russia and the area. We respectfully ask you to reconsider.

The Empire

We must decline your offer for reconsideration. Maybe it seems foolish to you for Russian Federation to try and protect its interests but nevertheless we shall do just that. We can not ignore such a large displacement of possibly hostile troops in the vacinity of the trainline that will be transporting our materials. If Layatrebian troops in such great numbers are involved in this project then Russian Federation will not be. This is only reasonable. We did not seek to join this project to gain better relations with nations of our region, although that would be a welcome side effect; we already have warm relations with the nations that interest us. We pursued this to gain profit, but that maybe compromised by Empire of Layatreb; Russian Federation does not want to take that risk. At this point Russian participation is not up to Russian Federation government or to the government of the Layatrebian Empire. It is up to North Germania and Celtayoshi. Their decision concerning Layatrebian request will also decide the involvment of Russian Federation in this project.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

We must decline your offer for reconsideration. Maybe it seems foolish to you for Russian Federation to try and protect its interests but nevertheless we shall do just that. We can not ignore such a large displacement of possibly hostile troops in the vacinity of the trainline that will be transporting our materials. If Layatrebian troops in such great numbers are involved in this project then Russian Federation will not be. This is only reasonable. We did not seek to join this project to gain better relations with nations of our region, although that would be a welcome side effect; we already have warm relations with the nations that interest us. We pursued this to gain profit, but that maybe compromised by Empire of Layatreb; Russian Federation does not want to take that risk. At this point Russian participation is not up to Russian Federation government or to the government of the Layatrebian Empire. It is up to North Germania and Celtayoshi. Their decision concerning Layatrebian request will also decide the involvment of Russian Federation in this project.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

The Empire must question the motives of the Russian Federation. The presence of Layartebian troops would not in Russian land but rather friendly land, the land of the Fourth Reich. The presence of Russian troops in Bolivia has not caused us to withdraw from any treaties, any ventures, or any relations. The presence of Layartebian troops are for no offensive purposes against bandits, thieves, and terrorists that will harrass the line. We must question if your concern lies in thwarted plans to attack the line or invade friendly nations to the Empire. Russia and the Empire are not hostile nations towards each other for if we did this conversation would not happen. The only way they could become hostile, from our end, is if the Russian Federation made due to seek hostilities with the Empire. Perhaps that is your ulterior motive?

The Empire

You can speculate on our motives all you wish, that doesn't change a thing. We do not trust the empire with safety of our materials and so we must withdraw from this project. We do not see a reason for the presence of over 30000 troops and 500 military aircraft if the enemy you seek to counter are simply rebels. That is our reasoning, and our decision will not change, not the empire and not anyone else can tell us how to do our business. In any case do not worry about our business, worry about your own, if you think that we will attack this trainline, then raise defenses, it makes no difference to us because attacking it is not our objective. Our sole objective is to protect our interests and the presense of such a large Layatrebian force so close to the route which our products will travel crosses the Eurasian trainline from the list of our interests.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

"Herr Bezrukov, perhaps we can come to some understanding here. As the Empire of Layarteb is my most trusted, most long-time, and greatest ally on this Earth, we do not at all question the Emperor's motives. His, I can assure you, are not hostile.

Perhaps, Herr Bezrukov, if the Empire of Layarteb decreased the number of combat soldiers, armor, and attack aircraft this would reassure you that the Emperor's interests are genuine. The business between Layarteb and the Russian Federation is only the business of those two sovereign Nation-States.

I would like to remind you, however, that withdrawing your participation in this endeavour would greatly affect your economy. As I am sure you well know, oil is the Earth's most valuable asset to world commerce, military, and global progression. This Eurasian Line, without denial, is the greatest supply line ever to be constructed and it will benefit immensely those who are involved with it.

It would be short-sighted and unwise for your sovereign Federation to pull out of this project. Keep in mind, Herr Bezrukov, that the great international collaboration between many countries and nations is what gives this subject its strength. For you to decline participation would only damage your own economy.

I understand you are concerned for your country's safety, as any national leader is. However, as the Empire of Layarteb is a member of The October Alliance, it would be quite easy to launch an invasion against your nation, as your and my great Nation-States share several borders.

This is not a threat, but do keep in mind that the Empire of Layarteb's and the Fourth Reich's militaries to not operate in such a sneaky manner. We are much more bold. Please reconsider your stance."

- Supreme Commander of the Fourth Reich,
Reichskanzler Heydrich Kübler

Gospodin Kubler, i noticed that you for some reason lead yourself to believe that Russian Federation needs the Eurasian trainline. I assure you we do not. Our economy will remain as healthy as ever even without us participating. We control vast deposits of oil, natural gas, gold, coal, wood and so on. We also have a very strong manufacturing sector. We do not need this trainline to survive or prosper, if we do not participate we will simply remain at the current level of economic development which we are completely satisfied with. On the other hand if we do not participate we will keep our resources out of reach of possibly hostile nations and will not be forced to pay tarrifs to the government of the Fourth Reich. Finding a buyer for our products is not a problem for us, as you said everybody needs oil. However if we would get Layatrebian Empire and the Fourth Reich to agree to our most reasonable demands we would not pass this chance to give our economy a little bonus. Our demands are as follows:

Empire of Layatreb must reduce the number of troops they wish to place along the Eurasian trainline by half, making the final number 18300. The number of jet fighter aicraft must be reduced to 20, and number of transport/logistical craft to 124. Number of helicopters should be reduced to 71 combat helicopters and 102 transport helicopters. The number of vehicles must be reduced to 754, this does not concern the number of transport trucks which can remain the same as before. These are our demands for the Layatrebian Empire.

In addition each Russian Federation train using the Eurasian trainline should be allowed to have a full ЖД (RR) army battalion. If the Empire and the Reich agree to our demands then we shall participate as planned earlier, if not we shall make our withdrawal from this project final.

Vice-President of the Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

Herr Bezrukov, while I am sure your economy will be able to maintain its stability, finding buyers for your natural resources will be more difficult than you presume. With the completion Great Eurasian Line, the Fourth Reich will be able to sell and transport oil, steel, natural gas, uranium, weapons and other such materials at a much lower cost than it would for your nation to.

I would like to point out that nations are more inclined to buy things for a lesser cost than a higher one. Furthermore, I do not believe you are in a position to dictate to me the terms of my Eurasian Line. Herr Bezrukov, while I respect you greatly as a world leader and progressive man, it is quite unlike you to be foolish enough to think that my Armies would allow any type of attack on a nation that we have no quarrel with.

I have been quite generous to offer you - a man whom I have had very little dealings with in the past - a situation where you would be able to transport your resources at a very low cost while maintaining the export value of those aforementioned resources.

Take no offense, Herr Bezrukov, but the Fourth Reich is well in control of its assets, in all territories. One of those hypothetical assets would be the Russian Federation. I am getting the impression that you are attempting to dictate the terms of something that is mine. My offer still stands to involve your state in this project, but I will not allow to have the hand that feeds bitten.

Keep in mind, Herr Bezrukov, that this line will produce more income than you believe. Consider the fact that my resources will be sold to nations all over the world, not just our current trade partners.

Frankly, I find your stance on the matter to be a bit arrogant. Please consider the fact that your income would be greatly increased if you were involved in this great project. I mean no disrespect to the Russian Federation, as it is one of the foremost countries on Earth, but your great concern over military presence [which my Armies already provide in the area] which is to protect the line from terrorists and bandits, eager for money.

If you are concerned about a hostile Layartebian Military Base, you should be more concerned about the four Army Groups in Central Asia belonging to the Reich.

For your sake, please reconsider your stance, as the Fourth Reich will offer top-notch protection for all involved parties.

Supreme Commander of the Fourth Reich,
Reichskanzler Heydrich Kübler

I assure you we can compete with the Eurasian trainline and we will find buyers, VCO alliance members for example, in addition we have much cheaper ways of oil and natural gas transportation on our side, such as pipelines. Its faster and its cheaper. We also have an extensive train network on our own soil that can transport any sort of resources from Asia to Europe. Your claim that Eurasian line will somehow be cheaper way of transportation then our own trainlines has no factual basis behind it.

We can understand you protecting your own territory with your own armed forces, we can not understand Layatreb moving into the area with a force that is much too powerful if its focus is simply to deal with gangs of bandits. The number of troops concerns us much less then the number of military aircraft which is simply unreasonable.

And since our resonable requests were not met and we were not allowed power to protect our property, we are withdrawing completely from this arrangement and most naturally we shall increase border protection along the duration of this line.

We shall view Eurasian line as a competitive economic entity with which we will have to compete. As such we will make appropriet moves at the next annual VCO council meeting to limit number of nations participating in this project amongst VCO members.

I assure you Gospodin Kubler you have underestimated our ability to do business.

Vice-President of Russian Federation,
Nikolai Bezrukov

Very well, Herr Bezrukov. Since you have decided to be so condescending and insulting to the Reich and the Layartebian Empire, your non-participation in this project is a blessing. Keep in mind who controls most of Europe when you speak of transporting oil from Russia to there.

Rest assured, Herr Bezrukov, that if your military presence increases along my borders for no reason - as you have given none - my Armies will be quick to reciprocate and move closer to your borders. We will, however, not go to war over an argument of economy.

It is unfortunate that your short temper has caused such tensions between us. I simply cannot accept this superior attitude of yours. Perhaps I would have been better off negotiating with a rock.

Supreme Commander of Germania,
Reichskanzler Heydrich Kübler

This is not the first time we have encountered stubborness on the part of the Russian Federation. Once more we shall be extending our temporary closure of borders to Russian Federation citizens. This will cover our Baltic and Siberian states.

We will, however, like ot further assure users of the Eurasian line that it is safely guarded by the Celtayoshi Army, and we will strive to ensure no harm comes of it.

Since the Russian Federation has bowed out of this project, the Kingdom of Norway would like to join this project in its place. We feel that the Eurasian line will be a blessing for the economies of the nations involved, and are offering among other things engineers to help build the line (these are used to working in both temperate and artic conditions), materials for the construction of the line, supplies for the workers, assistance in protecting the line and technical expertise in helping construct the line. If the Germanian government wishes the assistance, it shall be available. We would also like to assist in the funding of the line. Already, a sum of $600 billion has been set aside, and more can be provided if necessary. We hope for a successful and profitable venture alongside our allies.

[signed]
Geir Berge
Minister of Commerce
Kingdom of Norway

In light of the establishment of the Republic of Chechnya, the Empire hereby withdraws its request for a permanent military base along the Eurasia line. In addition, should the line be routed through the Caucasus, the Empire will not object to the line running through Chechnya.

http://www.lib.utexas.edu/maps/commonwealth/kazakhstan_rel01.jpg

The city of Atbasar was quiet. 1,010 feet above sea level, the city was cold, 26°F and snowy. Construction crews had commendeered an old air force base no longer used by the Reich and were working to build an airbase big enough to support up to 256 aircraft and just under 2,000 soldiers. It airbase would be called Atbasar Airfield and hold soldiers, pilots, and fighters for the Empire of Layarteb. This was part of the Eurasian Line defense plan. The airfield would have three runways, one at 4,500 meters, another at 3,800 meters, and a last one at 3,000 meters.

This would allow heavy bombers to take off and fly. However, the cover story wasn't for heavy bombers. Based at the airbase would be a number of KC-10A Extenders, C-17A Globemasters, and C-5B Galaxys, all of which required long runways. In addition, the airbase would be seen an emergency field for any civilian or military aircraft. The presence of a 4,500 meter long runway meant that just about everything could land there, including reusable spacecraft.

The morning sun had not yet risen when the first of the trains started arriving at Atbasar. On it, the equipment of Theatre Air Defense Unit 7, Logistics Unit 86 and Forward Surgical Team 67 as well as the men of those units arrived at the city. They were assisted by engineers who would start on the construction of a large airbase outside the city. It wouldn't be complete for another week, but when it did, it would be holding three runways, each more than 1,900 meters long, and one of them was going to be 3,700 meters long. Pre-fabricated runway parts were arriving via train soon, and that would make up the basis of the runways. Later, they would be upgraded to asphalt runways.

Another thing which was to be made was a camp large enough to house the 639 soldiers of 5 Para Battalion, as well as the 7,300 support units and the crews for the aircraft the Norwegians were stationing at the air base. The Germanian government had graciously enough allowed the Norwegians to station the troops there, to help protect the Eurasian Line. The camp would consist of mainly quickly fabricated barracks first, but it would be upgraded as time passed. 5 Para would arrive later that day, only that they would deploy the way they were trained to: from the air with all their equipment! The camp would be made quickly, and upgraded later. The protection systems were also state of the art. High-tech motion sensors, infrared cameras, minefields and sentries armed with AG6A1 assault rifles and guard dogs were just part of what they were going to use to protect themselves. They were close to Russia...


************************

ORBAT
Note Units marked with * are Top Secret IC, and are thus not known to anyone but myself, and in this case Layarteb and North Germania.

5 Para Battalion
Officers: 21
Paratroopers: 598
Logistics: 20

PV-7A1 Olden APC: 22
PV-7A2 Olden ATGM: 4
PV-7A3 Olden C2I: 10
PV-7A4 Olden FAADV: 2
PV-7A5 Olden PM: 12
PV-7A6 Olden ICV: 9
NH-14A1 LW155 TH: 10
Five Ton Truck: 5

Theatre Air Defense Unit 7
Officers: 60
Soldiers: 2,500
Logistics: 640

MIM-211B Salt TEL: 50
MIM-104F Patriot PAC-3 TEL: 16
MIM-120D-2 SLAMRAAM: 24
IPV-6A7 Gramstad FAADV: 48
LPV-1A2 Devestator AAA: 24
IV-8A1 Dingo APV: 320
Logistics: 160

Logistics Unit 86
Officers: 50
Logistics: 700

IV-8A1 Dingo APV: 300
Five Ton Truck: 250
Fuel Truck: 300
Other Logistics Vehicles: 150

Forward Surgical Team 67
Surgeons: 4
Nurses/Medics: 15
Medical Operations Officer: 1

IV-8A1 Dingo APV: 4
Deployable Rapid Assembly Shelters (DRASH): 2

Luftving 51
Aircrew: 570
Maintenance: 2,200
Logistics: 300

A-10D Thunderbolt II: 20
B-9A Sphinx: 10
C-5B Galaxy: 8
C-17A Globemaster III: 20
C-130J Hercules: 30
E-5B Kami AWACS: 3
F-22B Raptor: 30
F-37C Razor*: 20
FB-22A Manta: 10
KC-10C Extender: 5
RQ-15A Mack*: 10
SR-71B Blackbird: 3
AH-75B Stalker: 4
CH-47F Chinook: 4
MH-53H Super Stallion: 2
UH-60L Black Hawk: 10

Atbasar, Kazakhstan...

By order of Reichskanzler Kübler, the 7th OS Mechanized Infantry Division and the 9th OS-Panzer Division have been stationed in Rachau Base 3. Accompanying these two Divisions is the 13th Techniker Division, which will participate in the respective Layartebian and Norwegian airbases being constructed outside of that city.

The 9th OS-Panzer Division is the first Panzer Division of the Reich to be equipped with the brand-new StuG-I Primary Assault Tank. There are a total of 30 of these attached to the Division. The additional tanks and armored vehicles include 60 Panzer-XI Fast Attack Tanks, 35 Panzer-X Multiple Assault Vehicles, 80 Predator AAAVs, 45 Predator IFVs, and 55 Panzer-IX Main Battle Tanks.

These elite Divisions were moved to Atbasar in order to provide ground protection and support the Norwegian and Layartebian aircraft in the area.

"Get up!"

The loadmaster in the C-130 called out to the men inside while signalling the same thing with his hands. The sound isolation in the Hercules wasn't the greatest in the world, and that combined with the howling winds outside ensured that almost no one heard the loadmaster. Still, they saw his signal and stood up.

"Equipment check!"

The men of 5 Para checked the parachute and equipment of the man in front of them.

"Sound off!"

"Fifteen OK!"

"Fourteen OK!"

"Thirteen OK!"

"Twelve OK!"

The paratroopers signalled that they were ready to jump, and when at last the first one in the line sounded off and attached the lines that triggered the parachutes to the wire above their heads, the loadmaster signalled for the first one to approach the ramp. The first man, a løytnant in charge of a rifle platoon stood ready to jump. As the indicator light went from red to green, the loadmaster slapped his shoulder and the løytnant ran forward and jumped from the ramp and fell a few seconds. Then the parachute triggered and the man was slowed down quickly. Looking up, he saw that the rest of the Para Battalion was getting out as they should as well. The equipment had already been pushed out from the C-5s and C-17s, and were now also falling to the ground, fifteen kilometers away from their new home.

As the men started to reach the ground, they cleared themselves of the parachutes and got their equipment out. They were lightly armed, with carbines, rifles and light machine guns being the main weapons, in addition to the PV-7 series armored tracked vehicles. They were being readied for use by the crews now, and would be ready for action in ten minutes. Meanwhile, the paras were heading for the rendevouz-point. People were gathering there already, and some vehicles as well. Mostly PV-7A1 Olden APCs, but also a few PV-7A5 Olden prime movers for the NH-14 LW155 towed howitzers. Several of the soldiers had just preformed their first jump after training, and were sharing experiences with eachother while the officers figured out where to go next. The quickest way would be past the Layartebian base which was being constructed and through the city, so they decided that that was the way to go.

After an hour, the battalion had completed the rendevouz and were heading to their new home. As they passed the Layartebian airbase, they stopped for a moment and said hello to the new neighbors, with promises to visit again when the base had been completed. They also invited the Layartebians to visit the Norwegian base when they had settled in. After that, the battalion met up with Germanian advisors and paraded through the city of Atbasar, showing off themselves and their equipment. After that, they finally arrived at the location of the base and started setting up camp outside where the main camp was being built. In three days, they would move in. Not that they wouldn't be busy for the three days before the move-in. They would walk up the perimeter, dig trenches and defensive positions, lay the mines around the outer perimeter and motion sensors, as well as various other drills. This was potentially a dangerous posting, so the paras had to be ready for anything.

Seven days later
The past week had seen a lot of hard work. The engineers from both Norway and Germania had worked like heroes, managing to finish the runways, tarmac and camp. For now, the aircraft would have to stand in temporary hangars, but permanent ones would be built soon. They would also asphalt the runways, enabling them to accept the heaviest of the aircraft. However, that was a bit further into the future. The goal now was to have the runways accept the transport aircraft, fighters and UAVs, and that goal was about to be met in the form of a C-130J Hercules transport plane on its final approach. The Hercules landed on the runway, and taxied to the tarmac area before it stopped. Inside were more personell and equipment. Among that equipment was parts for a powerful jammer which would jam any spysatellite trying to take pictures of the area. However, it wouldn't be operational untill later.

Also becoming operational were the five MIM-211 Salt extreme-range surface to air batteries that the Norwegians were setting up. The Salt had a range of 500 kilometers, and a ceiling of 110,000 feet. That, combined with the advanced guidance software gave it a hit percentage of 95 %. However, this was the first overseas deployment of Salt missiles, and the Norwegian MoD was curious as to how it would behave in case someone attacked.

5 Para was settling in nicely in their new barracks. They had heating, air condition, comfy rooms, satellite TV and Internet, and a good mess hall just down the block. A far cry from what they had seven days prior, with survival tents and MREs to eat. The camp for the Paras consisted of seven barracks (of which one was for the officers), a mess and dinining barrack, an armory and three warehouse-like buildings for the motorpool. The Para compound, as it had become known as, lay in the west end of the camp. To the south, the compound for the ones working at the airbase lay, holding about twelve barracks. To the east, the 30 barracks for the air defense people lay, and to the north, the barracks for the rest lay. In the middle, there were administration buildings, the PX and a relatively large building for recreational purposes. All in all, a total of 50 barracks, four motorpool buildings and about half a dozen other buildings made up the main camp, which took up a area of about 3 km² and housed approximately 8,000 people. It was protected by a minefield which consisted of Claymores and S-mines, about twelve kilometers of fences and barbed wire, and state-of-the-art motion sensors and infrared cameras, not to mention the many guard dogs and sentries there were there.

The camp was to be known as Camp Delta and the airbase as Delta Airstrip in official records and communications, as well as in the interaction with the allies. In case of a Russian attack, Camp Delta and Delta Airstrip would be on the front lines, and the inhabitants knew it. They were prepared for the worst, which was Ivan the Russian bear coming knocking on the door. If he did, the Norwegians could greet it with a shotgun in form of 5 Para, Luftving 51 and the rest of the units here. Weapons training would be conducted very often here, even with the logistics people. Everyone would have to know what to do in case of an attack. They all just hoped and prayed it wouldn't arrive. Ever.

OOC: The entire post is top-secret IC, a battle plan being drawn up inside a bunker somewhere.

http://www.theforsakenoutlaw.com/Graphics/Nation-States/Role-Playing/Eurasia%20Line/Kazakhstan-Military.jpg

"As you can see from the map above, we will be placing the following in Kazakhstan, with the permission of the Reich. An air force base, the red dot, and a missile defense site, the teal dot. The yellow ring represents the range of the missile defense base. All of these are protected by four medium-range and four long-range missile sites, the blue and brown circles, respectively. The red circle is a radar site." The General of the Air Force said. He was inside a bunker, deep inside a bunker, in Westchester County, New York. The bunker had been built into a natural rock face and mountain face that ran north. The bunker was no less than eighty feet underground at its top point and no more than one hundred and eighty feet underground, at its lowest point. It served as a major command center, should Layarteb City be knocked out by a military strike. Given its close proximity to Layarteb City, the Emperor and his Cabinet could be at the site within a half hour, if flying by helicopter. A natural quarry adjacent to the site would serve as a helicopter landing pad, should it be necessary.

"Now, onto the gory details." The General took a sip of his water. "Our four long-range sites will consist of two Crow sites and two PATRIOT sites. Each Crow site will contain 252 missiles, of which 240 are the A version and the other twelve are split evenly, six and six, for the B and the C versions, both nuclear. Each site will contain eight officers, eighty logistics personnel, forty-eight crewmen, sixteen men for self-defense, and thirty-six soldiers, split into one assault team, one medic team, three rifle teams, and two sniper teams. Self-defense will consist of two Wizard MANPAD launchers, two M163A3 EADS units, and two M2016A1 LAADS units. There will be seventy vehicles at the site including ten Bushmasters and eight Dingos. The former will be armed with one M50, six M31s, and three M49s. The latter will carry four M31s, two M49s, and two Firefly launchers. The remainder of the vehicles will be units for the sites. Each Crow site can detect targets at up to five hundred miles, engage them at three hundred and fifty-miles, track at three hundred and eighty miles, pick up infrared targets at eighty miles, and passive emissions at one hundred and eighty miles.

"Each PATRIOT site will consist of 256 missiles. 172 will be the H REM-ER version of the PAC-3 and the rest will be PAC-4 missiles. 212 people will be present at each site. There will be eight officers, ninety-two logistics, sixty crew, sixteen self-defense, and thirty-six soldiers. The same soldier arrangement will be as last. Self-defense is the same as the Crow. There will be seventy-six vehicles. Bushmasters and Dingos will have the same arrangement. Detection range is three hundred miles, tracking at one eighty, engagement at one fifty-five, and infrared at eighty.

"Each medium-range site will be an Advanced Air Defense Medium-Range Missile Site. This site will have 162 missiles: 90 MIM-120E AMRAAMs, 60 MIM-179F BVRAAMs, and 12 MIM-179G BVRAAMs. Each site has sixty-three people: two officers, eight logistics, ten crew, fifteen self-defense, and twenty-eight soldiers. The soldiers will consist of: one assault team, one medic team, two rifle teams, and one sniper team. There will be ten MANPADs, two M163A3s, one Predator ADU, and one LAADS. There will be fifty-six vehicles. Eight will be Bushmasters and six will be Dingos. For the Bushmasters there is one M50, four M31s, and three M49s. For the Dingos, two M31, two M49, and two Firefly launchers. Detection is one eighty, tracking at ninety, engagement at seventy-six, infrared at forty-five, and passive at twenty-eight.

"Our single Advanced Anti-Ballistic Missile Systems Site will provide missile defense. It will have two hundred and seventy missiles, one fifty As and one twenty Bs. One hundred and sixteen people will be at the base: six officers, thirty logistics, twenty crew, twenty-two self-defense, and thirty-six soldiers. Soldiers will be just like the long-range sites. Self-defense is eight MANPADs, two EADS, and two Predators. There are sixty vehicles with eight Bushmasters and six Dingos, like the medium-range sites. Detection is at seven hundred and fifty miles, tracking at three forty, engagement at three hundred, and infrared at two hundred.

"Our radar site can detect at one thousand, using over-the-horizon methods, track at six hundred. Passive emissions work to five hundred and infrared to two hundred and forty. Sixty-one people man the site: six officers, eight logistics, twenty-four crew, eleven self-defense, and twelve soldiers arranged as one medic team and one rifle team. Self-defense is six MANPADs, one EADS, one Predator, and one LAADS. There are twenty-three vehicles, four Bushmasters and four Dingos. The Bushmasters have one M50, two M31, and one M49. The Dingos have two M31, one M49, and one Firefly.

"Now for the Air Force Base. There are two hundred and fifty-six aircraf to be based there. There are three runways, all asphault. Sizes are 4,500m, 3,800m, and 3,000m. We are moving aircraft in in three phases. The first phase is during daylight hours. We'll be moving in four KC-10As and four KC-130Ts from the 5th and 6th Aerial Refueling Squadrons, 2nd Aerial Refueling Wing; four E-8Ds and four E-9As from the 3rd and 4th Air Control Squadron, 2nd Air Control Wing; sixteen C-17As, twenty-four C-130Js, and eighteen C-5Bs, from the 9th, 10th, and 11th Airlift Squadrons, 4th Airlift Wing; and eighteen F-16E Block 60s, twelve F-26As, and twelve F-22As from the 23rd, 24th, and 25th Fight Squadrons, 3rd Fighter Wing.

"The first phase will show the airbase to be a logistics base, defended by a mere forty-two fighters. This will be done on purpose, to give this illusion. Keep in mind that the C-5s will be each carrying an AGM-189 Orion air-launched ballistic missile. Nine will have A versions and nine will have B versions. They will be loaded internally inside hangars in the Empire, flown to Kazakhstan and offloaded inside hangars. Nothing will be seen and their cargo unknown.

"Each Orion has the following specifications. 59.79 feet long, 5.50 feet wide, and 10 foot wingspan. 84,000 pounds for the missile, another 8,000 pounds for the launch canister. The A version will have a two megaton fusion warhead and the B will have three seven hundred and fifty kiloton MIRV warheads. These are four stage missiles: canister drop, climb to altitude, flight, and re-entry. They have a maximum re-entry speed of 15,000 miles per hour and a ceiling of 800 miles. Their range is 500 miles to 9,240 miles. They have inertial navigation systems boosted by GPS giving a 100 foot accuracy rating and hard-target penetration capability. If capable, we can deploy them from C-5s, firing from mid-air, behind friendly lines, and hit anywhere we want in Russia and just about anywhere else.

"The second part will come during a horrific blizzard to come at the end of next week. This blizzard will reduce visibility to a sheer minimum, thereby negating any prying eyes from satellites or reconnaissance vehicles. High-range cameras won't be much use either. Our base security will ensure nobody is around for this flight. Landing will be twenty-four A-10Cs and eight A-13As from the 5th and 6th Attack Squadrons, 3rd Attack Wing; twelve B-9As from the 1st Bomber Squadron, 1st Bomb Wing; and twenty-four F-36As and eighteen F-37As from the 18th and 19th Fighter Squadrons. They will land and immediately go to hangars to keep themselves hidden.

"The third part will arrive during another blizzard as well, same conditions, possibly worse. They will include another twenty-four F-36As and thirty-six F-37As from the 20th, 21st, and 22nd Fighter Squadrons; and 12 RQ-10As from the 3rd Reconnaissance Squadron, 2nd Reconnaissance Wing.

"This will complete the entire operation. Aircraft will only fly through friendly territory, namely Reich land and other friendly territory. They will be refueled inflight when necessary and they will maintain full stealth the entire way, radio silence included.

"The base will be manned by 1,924 people: 400 ground crew, 884 pilots, 30 self-defense, and 650 base personnel. They will have twenty MANPADs, 2 EADS, 2 Predators, two LAADS, and two Layarteb 88s at their disposal. We are still working on the figures for the soldiers and army equipment but they will be ready shortly. Shall we break until they are?" The General had spoken for a while and took another sip of his water, almost out of breath.

"Perhaps we should." The Emperor's main aide said as he looked at the map once more. They took a twenty-five minutes break, during which the map was analyzed, reconnaissance data collected on Russian units in the AO to the north was reviewed, and all sorts of items were taken into account.

"Alright men, I apologize for the wait. We are going to deploy an army battalion of 864 men with 822 cavalry crew. In addition, we will deploy 100 men from Delta Force and 100 men from Recon Force. They will be augmented by forty BOF soldiers from Force Lightning. This will raise the total number of personnel to 3,850. Barracks will accomodate this and vehicle yards will have to accomodate all of the vehicles, 300, we will be providing. The listing is as follows:


M1A3 Abrams MBT: 12
M2A4 Bradley IFV: 12
M3A4 Bradley CFV: 6
M6A1 Bradley Linebacker: 4
M777A1 LW155: 24
M2008A1 Dingo APV: 20
M2014A1 Howitzer: 12
M2015A1 Cobra APC: 18
M2015A2 Cobra MRTR: 6
M2015A3 Cobra AT: 8
M2018A1 Wolf LBT: 18
M2021A1 FPV: 40
M2023A2 Stryker NBC RV: 4
M2023A5 Stryker MEV: 12
M2023A6 Stryker ESV: 12
M2023A7 Stryker C3: 4
M2023A8 Stryker FSV: 8
M2023A9 Stryker RV: 4
M2025A1 Piranha AT: 12
M2030A1 Medium Assault Tank: 12
5-Ton Truck: 32


M2008A1 Dingo APV: 20

7.62MM Rounds (4): 4,000
12.7MM Rounds (4): 4,000
15.5MM Rounds (4): 1,680
40MM Grenade Rounds (4): 1,152
MGM-187C Firefly (4): 64



M2010A1 Bushmaster IMV: 20

7.62MM Rounds (5): 5,000
12.7MM Rounds (5): 5,000
15.5MM Rounds (5): 2,180
40MM Grenade Rounds (5): 1,440


"In overflow capacity the airbase can support a full division and up to 1,100 vehicles. And that concludes my briefing." He sat down, finally allevied from being the center of attention for so long.

"Perhaps it is my turn?" The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs stood and cleared his throat. "Our presence and the Norwegian presence combined is massive. The Reich will be deploying a ton of forces to the area already. This presence should worry the Russian forces. We can explain this base as being a logistics base and the vehicles present, none of which are airborne qualified, despite being capable, are for Eurasian line protection. We will not be able to hide the vehicles and satellite reconnaissance will be able to guess a full battalion here, which is what we will have. The only aircraft that will be out during the day and flying are our non-stealth aircraft, namely just our transports and our tankers. C-5s will do normal transport duty and their AGM-189 missiles will remain hidden from any prying eyes. Loading of these weapons will take no more than twenty minutes per aircraft and we can load all eighteen simultaneously. They can be in the air in less than an hour, in full force, and with that they can launch a crippling strike on any enemy within range inside of two and a half hours. Their presence as cargo aircraft will keep them on their toes. The AGM-189 remains completely unknown and has never been deployed or seen outside of secure grounds. It is an easy system to hide and will remain as such.

"Our B-9 force will remain a secret as long as they are kept inside their hangars. We can run operations only at night with them but sooner or later they will be found out. However, there are only twelve of them and they maintain the stealthiness the same as the B-2A Spirit. Our fighter presence will remain marginal as this goes. Should it be necessary, F-37 and F-36 fighters can be used as forward attackers, covering our attack aircraft. Our A-10s can be shown to exist and should be done during training and such. The best idea is to show the presence of this airbase as a logistics base with marginal fighter support. Attack aircraft and fighter aircraft are there to protect the line and logistics assets." He concluded with a cough.

"What is the estimated time to completion?" The Aide asked.

"Well. We're looking at three days until we can land our first aircraft. The second and third groups will come at the end of the week at seven days and the third on the eighth. Conditions during the blizzard are going to be pretty bad. We've specifically chosen pilots who can pilot in these adverse conditions, having trained them in the Arctic, near Greenland and Baffin Island. They will perform excellently."

"Good. Very good."

"Any further questions?" Nobody answered. Everyone was satisfied now.

Same Bunker, Same Secrecy, Different Day

The Generals had all met before about the Kazakhstan base. Now they were meeting a final time concerning it. The snowstorms had been more powerful and larger than anticipated, which slowed down the landing processes but all was done. The base was now ready and all stealth, classified aircraft were hidden from prying eyes, inside underground shelters.

"Gentlemen. It is my pleasure now to welcome Colonel Alexander McCaffrey to our meeting."

The Colonel stood. "Thank you. As you all are aware, I have been named the base commander for Altsar Air Force Base. In light of this I have been asked to brief you on the operations done moving our aircraft there.

"First and foremost, the daylight move was successful. Transports and our base fighters moved there, in plain view of Russian satellites, as planned. No doubt they are surmising the ramifications of this base. All of our aircraft were parked and ready for business by the end of the day. All of our C-5s with their AGM-189s successfully offloaded them, inside hangars, hidden from any prying eyes.

"Secondly. The snowstorms were much larger and more powerful than anticipated. We had to run far more snow clearing operations on the runway and we were forced to slow down the recovery of these aircraft. All landed without difficult although we did burn more fuel than anticipated because of this. All of those aircraft were safely tucked away in our underground, reinforced shelters.

"Thirdly. All surface-to-air batteries are fully operational. The ranges of our weapons extends into Russian territory. Should a strike be on the way we can destroy them before they reach the Kazakhstani border. Our radar site can fully sweep into Russian territory using over-the-horizon scanning and phased-array scanning."

"Very well. What are the Russian options for this base?" The General of the Air Force asked. He knew the answer but he wanted the Colonel to say it.

"Well sir. Should the Russians have any hope of a successful offensive into Kazakhstan, Europe, or really anywhere against any of our allies, they would have to neutralized the Norwegian, Germanian, and our assets inside this city. Given, the strong presence of surface-to-air batteries, aircraft, trained soldiers, their only option is the nuclear, chemical, or biological one. They are not known to have any radiological weapons, which would, if used, harm them as much as it would us. If they were to attack conventionally, attrition rates would be phenomenal on their part. Their best bet is the use of a tactical nuclear warhead in the area of two hundred kilotons or better, which would essentially annihilate the city, should it get through the defenses. A biological strike, if used effectively, could do damage but they run the risk of infecting their own troops and the virus spreading back to their land. A chemical attack would not harm any of our equipment, for the most part, and many of our soldiers would survive, but it would still be crippling."

"Understood. Any further questions?" The General of the Air Force asked. Nobody answered. It was done.