The Zevkhay Conference (CLOSED - FU only)

[Alfegos]

(OOC - Continued from http://forums.joltonline.com/showthread.php?t=594248&page=2. Sorry about the delay.)

The delegate nodded, noting all the concerns raised by the member panels.
"Excellent. I will see if I can task for a treaty to supplement the current Union Treaty to be drafted before the end of this conference, so that we can put into writing all that has been discussed here in terms of the conduct of the FURRF.

But the Zaheran delegate has brought up an excellent point that we were to discuss. Depending on the size of the active core of the FURRF, which has yet to be decided on, we will at some point need to purchase or donate equipment. Currently, I believe that lyran armaments have been decided upon as the standard across the FURRF, with local arms supplementing the different garrisons - the current Operation Goshawk is using readily available arms from the Alfegan Overseas Territory of Neo'los, whilst I know that the Union Deployment Base and Garrison on the Oraz Joint Territory uses Zaheran armaments to supplement its stocks. Apart from the large purchase made of lyran armaments, in terms of IFVs and APCs, the only other equipment used by the Union are donated obsolescent equipment from Alfegos and a few other nations - for example, decommissioned transport airships seized from pirates have been donated to the Union, a few old C-130s and the odd other piece of equipment, including a few surface vessels. However, for the most part, the Union is currently relying on local logistical support from militaries - borrowing space aboard local air force flights, for example.

If anyone has any opinion on what should be done, I believe that we should focus armaments to having the FURRF as its name suggests - a Rapid Reaction Force - the emphasis should be on mechanisation of infantry, and on lighter armour and mobile artillery. Thus, the air arm will be an invaluable asset, as will the ocean arm. In that regards, we believe that the focus should be on lighter ships, steering clear of battleships and most submarines, to focus on lighter and faster vessels. Indeed, if air support can be provided as needed, we may be using lighter combat carriers as the main arm of the fleet. Airships would be invaluable for filling the middle ground between mass-transport of sea vessels, and the fast transit speed of air units, of which discounted purchases can be made through our delegation.

This also begs the question of funding. I know that most Union nations here put funding into the Union as part of the government budget, and that funding is received as a result of Union ownership of certain amounts of land, donated for the purpose of military installations. However, for large purchases such as this, I doubt that an acceptable amount of money could be diverted from foreign budgets to pay for it. Thus, as an extra note, we will need to discuss loans, possibly from the Novan Monetary Reserve, and other assets that the Union can acquire to aid with funding, or at least reduce running costs.

Your opinions, ladies and gentlemen?

[Katonazag]

/reservation withdrawn

[Mokastana]

/reserve

[Zaheran]

"We agree with the Alfegan delegate that the focus of the FURFF should on light and mobile mechanised infantry, supplemented with lighter naval vessels and air units. Should a situation demanding heavier equipment and doctrine arise, for example in a crisis situation above level three, I'm sure that the FURFF units could easily be strengthened by forces from the member nations' national forces. To further increase mobility and rapid response cabability, we believe that giving the FURFF some amphibious capacity would be a good idea. As the Alfegan delegate mentioned, however, transportation of troops could also be done by airships, although this, correct me if I'm wrong, would as I have understand it require proper airport facilities.

"When it comes to equipment, I would like to press the importance of having as much of the equipment as possible produced within the Union itself. If, for example, during a wartime situation important trade routes are denied to the Union by enemy forces, the FURFF must be able to replace destroyed equipment if it is to remain as a functioning military force. If too much of the equipment is imported, this may not be the case. Lyran equipment may be a good choice taking this into consideration, for although they are not an member state, many union members maintain large stockpiles of such equipment. I know that the Alfegan military industries, as well as those other member states, produce much excellent equipment that may be put to good use by the FURFF.

"As for funding, we agree that monetary loans might be a viable solution in the short term. In the long term, we would prefer a solution that guarantees the FURFF steady funding. One idea brought up by our staff members would be to grant the Union the right to directly collect taxes from, for example, the free trade hubs that exists within its borders. I know that the subject of financing the Union with taxes on the commercial activity on Neo'Ilos have been discussed before between us and the Alfegans, and the new joint Zaheranian-Monavian colony S:t Therese might also come in question. Due to the enormous influx of goods and money to these trade hubs, a tax of only a few percent may give the Union a good income. Coupled with funding recieved from the national governments, I think it would cover the expenses by quite a good margin."

[Alfegos]

"It is to my knowledge, representative of the Zaheranian delegation, that airships do not necessarily require airports for mass transportation purposes. I suppose one could draw parallels with naval transport in this regard - the facilities of a well-equipped centre, be it a port or an airport, enable mass transportation to be undertaken more efficiently, with less net cost, and with numerous other advantages. With the example of the Hurgat Free State, Operation Goshawk is supported by Alfegan airship runs. Whilst the only airport available is in the capital, they are able to routinely drop off heavy amounts of supplies, and have the ability to pick up equipment, and for personnel to embark or disembark. However, without the secure perimeter of an airport, the supporting operation for the airship becomes much more expensive, and the target is obviously vulnerable. Whilst operations on water bodies are supportable by the dedicated mobile airship support squadrons of ekranoplans, I believe that land-based operations are much more difficult in terms of supporting and resupplying airships.

The normal Alfegan tactic is to go for a three wave attack, in terms of transport. Aircraft provide the first wave, of paratroopers and supply drops, and sometimes of larger kit amounts on temporary airstrips. Stopping the gap between them and the arrival of forces by sea are the airships, which can transport mass bulk at a higher speed than sea vessels, and with, in some cases more security. As a comparison of transport times, a C-5 cargo aircraft can travel between Alfegos and Katonazag in about 8 hours, at near maximum speed. An airship would take around 36 to 44 hours, depending on winds. A naval force would take almost 5 to 6 days. This time difference becomes much more exaggerated as the distance lengthens - for example, from this conference hall to Mokastana.
But, away from me trying to sell you airships as a tactic - that should be left to the salesmen!"

There was a pause, before he looked down at his notes.

"National production of equipment is, of course, a reasonable point to make. The problem is, of course, whether it can be acquired at the same price as any mass-produced international market forces, and whether it is compatible with Union demands. I believe that most nationally produced vehicles are specialised - in Alfegos, for example, the only mass produced APCs are the specialist 'Basalt' arctic/high mountain warfare vehicle, and the 'Driftwood' Amphibious warfare vehicle. Whilst there are exceptions, we have to again look at their superiority and price comparison. Whilst it would be preferable to have non-Lyran equipment, to gain the knowledge advantage over a similarly-equipped force, there is also compatibility as well with many nations, and the vast abundance of cheap parts and surplus, the latter of which would be useful for stockpiling as reserve vehicles, as equipment is destroyed.
Of course, this is only viable for the mid price-range units. Aircraft, naval vessels and airships, for example, will have to be nationally made, due to their high price cost, long manufacturing times, and suitability for use. It may be suitable, for example, to design a standard Union fighter aircraft, that would provide similarities to all nationally used aircraft - I know Yanitarian aircraft are particularly popular, but nationally produced equipment such as the Alfegan Palmfighter and Sunbeam bomber might be an idea for investment, if only to help with the focus within the Union.
And, with the cheapest ranges of equipment, such as uniforms, rifles and the like, I believe that nations within the Union should contribute with equipment, since it is easy to produce vast surplus for cheap prices, and keeps business in the Union.
But that is my opinion.

As to the raising of money, I believe the point raised by Zaheran would be viable. Oraz/Neo'Ilos, one of the most wealthy nations in terms of trade travelling through and to it, would provide vast amounts of funds. I believe that, even with the introduction of a 5% tax, that would keep it a competitive area for prices, not drive off trade, and provide at least $5 billion per annum. If any other such unique territories in joint governance were able to provide such income, then we would be able to fund equipment sales and a loan without having to implement taxation on union members, which I assure is a last resort."

[Mokastana]

Charles continued to listen to the delegates discuss the needs of the Rapid Reaction Forces and wondered quickly how Mokastana could contribute to the financial effort, already 2% of the Government budget went to the Fegosian Union, usually paid out of the Defense and Administration Budgets. Charles thought for a minute as he began to figure out the backbone of Mokan Industry, which was farming surprisingly enough. Farms in Sur, Mejico, and Aqua Anu provided everything the Mokans would need, literally a multi-trillion dollar industry made up of local farmers and haciendas. Perhaps a slight increase in tax for the...no no no...the farmers fight any increase in tax. The corporations, now there is a taxable income. Most notable the shipping and freight industries, already the Shipping Companies made a fortune charging farmers and businesses to ship their goods to the different continents of Mokastana, as well as her trading partners.

"We in Mokastana should be able to contribute a half percent tax increase on the transport industry, once I can get it approved by parliament. At any given moment their are roughly a hundred freighters and dozens of planes transporting goods across Mokastana, not to mention international deliveries. We believe this should contribute roughly $3 billion annually to the Rapid reaction Forces. If we tax the transport Industry as a whole across the Union, or simply just the major Players like Montana Shipping and the Fegosian Airshipping Consortium, Miguel?"

"One second," Miguel began punching the numbers on his computer trying to figure out a close approximation to the effects a half percent increase on shipping would have.

"Rough estimate, if we charged Inter-Fegosian transport an additional Tax of half a percent, we could see an increase of roughly $10 billion. However I would recommend instead charging transport and trade outside the Union, perhaps 1% or so. This way our businesses and companies can still trade outside the Union, but we would make a little more off of it, and companies focus more on working within the Union. In other words, I propose a tariff of 1% for trading outside the Union. My only worry is that Nova policy restricts Tariffs within the Region. Since I am sure most of the non-Union trade is in Nova, it seems that I would need further information on them before I can determine the income this tariff would bring."

[Katonazag]

General Ibrány chimed in, "The HCSK military is built around a high mobility strategy, and can offer a good deal of expertise especially in the area of air mobility. The HCSK was landlocked until 2008, and was totally dependent on air mobility for projection of power outside of the HCSK. As such, we have forces who are highly trained for the mission of establishing airfield operations where there is inadequate or no landing assets.

Naturally, the first option is to capture enemy landing strips intact, but that isn't always an option. C-130s can land on anything flat, but just about anything heavier will need an improved landing strip. We have teams that incorporate special forces, security forces, and civil engineering to go in, secure an area, land construction equipment, and have a viable landing strip for C-17s inside 24 hours, and C-5s within 60 hours. The durability of these strips is limited, but if done in phases, the strips' durability can be improved with the use of multiple landing strips until a permanent one can be established.

As far as the funding is concerned, I'm going to have to defer to Dr. Kázmér"

"Thank you, General," said the former President of St. Istvan University. "The new super-ports being established in each of the states in the HCSK were originally going to be a reduced tax point-of-entry. By raising the taxes on it to be comparable to other ports, that will generate an additional $12B a year that can go into FURRF."

[Alfegos]

"Excellent. I have to applaud firstly the Mokan leadership for their continued, and now escalated financial support of the Fegosian Union, especially with their sacrificing of a significant part of the their GDP. As the delegates fronting the FUTC, I believe that they provide an excellent example, which we must all aspire to. We give thanks as well to Katonozag - that extra donation will help fund the Union, and reduce our purchasing parameters by a great amount.

However, I must voice our delegation's concern for a tariff within the Fegosian Union - if that were to occur, we would force trade away from inside the Union, and end up with a net loss in the long term. However, if there were to be a limited tariff on shipping, as an export duty rather than an import duty, it will likely circumvent most of the regional laws on tariffs - indeed, most nations charge export duty as standard, and it would make little difference if it were a minor increase in the range of 0.5%.

Anyhow, with these points looked over, I believe that the Mokan delegation can ensure the FUTC organise a discussion for later in terms of regional tariffs, alongside confirming the commitments of our nations to fund the Union. If they will also ensure that kit proquirement alongside our doctrines we are discussing for the FURRF is made, with the aim of increasing the FURFF to a large operational strength, then I believe this section of the discussion is over.


Onto doctrine. Again, specialists across the Union can help in the training up of personnel in this area of warfare. If we ensure that the air mobile section features a significant part of the professional core, alongside heavy logistics, then the concept of the Rapid Reaction Force will be most tangible and useful. I believe that, if we have logistics focused in capturing landing points as a method of entry, allied forces will fufill the needs of the ground-capturing forces, allowing the FURRF to blitzkrieg - if that is the way we are able to operate - against the weak points of the enemy's forces.

I believe a number we settled on was for the professional core to be aimed at as 100 000 as a first figure. Currently, there are a few tens of thousands of units at the various garrisons, most combatants trained in mobile warfare, who will likely act as the first wave of any attack - our seasoned fighting men, so to speak. Of these, I believe the current aim is for support - to - combatant ratio to be somewhere along the lines of 3 to 1 - therefore, 25 000 men will make up the fighting core of the force at the initial stage. Of this unit, I think we can subdivide it into 5 rough combat divisions, for simplicities sake. The first two would be best off supported and transported by aircraft, as the most mobile unit. The next two, when the next batch of airships are delivered, would act as an airship-mobile force - I believe that converted transport airships can carry 250 men and all their heavy equipment. The final would act as the garrison forces for the FU garrisons in held or unstable territories, and as the sea-or-land mobile infantry for backing up the land-capturing wave, possibly with lighter equipment. In initial deployments, alliance main army units will have to support the FURRF, but afterwards I believe they will be able to operate by themselves.

From experienced gained in the Hurgat Free State, under Operation Goshawk deployments, as I said there will need to be part of the force trained in holding and capturing ground. Working alongside airship assets, I believe the experience of the units cycling through there will help in the integration of such units into the FURRF."

He took a breath, composing himself.
"Once this problem of main organisation is solved, I believe we should take a short break. After that, since time is pressing, I believe all non-vital members of the delegations should be given leave, whilst the closed meeting discussion sensitive alliance matters takes place. I think there are quite a few people here who would welcome a break from the hard talk!"

[Zaheran]

"We agree with the Alfegan delegation on the matter of force organisation and doctrine. The focus of the FURRF should be on mobility and the ability to quickly respond to arising crises. For this purpose, organising the force to be carried by aircraft or airship is probanly the most viable solution. Our only, minor, concern is that may cause the FURFF to be somewhat 'lacking in punch', so to speak. Obviously, being airborne, some FURFF units will not be able to have the heavier equipment, for example main battle tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, that may be required in a conventional war against a modern enemy force. While this may not be the case with the combat divisions carried by airship, which as I have understood it can take an impressive load, it will certainly apply to the units carried via conventional airlift. But on the whole, we believe that the advantages of a highly mobile able of- as the Alfegan delegate put it- blitzkrieg, by far outweights the relative disadvantage of lighter equipment and doctrine.

We also concur that a short break might be in order, after which some of us should reconvene to discuss more...sensitive matters. I understand that there have been some situations arising."

[Katonazag]

"I agree with the Fegosian and Zheranian delegations on the force-type allocations," said General Ibrány. "The challenges noted by the Zheranian delegation indeed bear examining... but I have some solutions to present when we reconvene in private. I second the motion to recess for a short break."

[The State of Monavia]

Minister Carter and Minister Blake listened to the discussion for some time while they formed several conclusions about the need for more standardized equipment, improved planning and command structure, and deployment strategies.

But the Zaheran delegate has brought up an excellent point that we were to discuss. Depending on the size of the active core of the FURRF, which has yet to be decided on, we will at some point need to purchase or donate equipment. Currently, I believe that lyran armaments have been decided upon as the standard across the FURRF, with local arms supplementing the different garrisons - the current Operation Goshawk is using readily available arms from the Alfegan Overseas Territory of Neo'los, whilst I know that the Union Deployment Base and Garrison on the Oraz Joint Territory uses Zaheran armaments to supplement its stocks. Apart from the large purchase made of lyran armaments, in terms of IFVs and APCs, the only other equipment used by the Union are donated obsolescent equipment from Alfegos and a few other nations - for example, decommissioned transport airships seized from pirates have been donated to the Union, a few old C-130s and the odd other piece of equipment, including a few surface vessels. However, for the most part, the Union is currently relying on local logistical support from militaries - borrowing space aboard local air force flights, for example.

If anyone has any opinion on what should be done, I believe that we should focus armaments to having the FURRF as its name suggests - a Rapid Reaction Force - the emphasis should be on mechanisation of infantry, and on lighter armour and mobile artillery. Thus, the air arm will be an invaluable asset, as will the ocean arm. In that regards, we believe that the focus should be on lighter ships, steering clear of battleships and most submarines, to focus on lighter and faster vessels. Indeed, if air support can be provided as needed, we may be using lighter combat carriers as the main arm of the fleet. Airships would be invaluable for filling the middle ground between mass-transport of sea vessels, and the fast transit speed of air units, of which discounted purchases can be made through our delegation.

Minister Blake spoke up after the other delegates finished speaking. "Given the lack of high-grade, cutting-edge vehicles and arms, perhaps it would be prudent for us to take our standard designs and implement the creation of factories in all member states for producing what we need in larger numbers. The country known as Lyras, to my knowledge, is not located in Nova, therefore I cassume that all shipments have to travel vast distances. Such inconveniences add to the expense of producing and purchasing such arms. With internal means of production, we can more readily provide ourselves with the appropriate means of supplying our forces at a lower cost.

"On the matter of creating reaction forces for specific situations, I am inclined to accept the roposal from Katonazag's delegation, pending certain amendments and revisions to the same, in order to clarify the exact demands which these forces will place upon our logistical capabilities."

This also begs the question of funding. I know that most Union nations here put funding into the Union as part of the government budget, and that funding is received as a result of Union ownership of certain amounts of land, donated for the purpose of military installations. However, for large purchases such as this, I doubt that an acceptable amount of money could be diverted from foreign budgets to pay for it. Thus, as an extra note, we will need to discuss loans, possibly from the Novan Monetary Reserve, and other assets that the Union can acquire to aid with funding, or at least reduce running costs.

Your funding issue is only further complicated if we choose to expand the power of the FURRF to include enforcements of the Dagora Doctrine. I believe that we should send out an appeal for funds to all governments and observe what quantities of money we are able to receive from our governments. While an appeal is simply a euphamism for asking for donations, any monies, hower small, are still of assistance, and should we require more, we may discuss more viable alternatives."

"We agree with the Alfegan delegate that the focus of the FURFF should on light and mobile mechanised infantry, supplemented with lighter naval vessels and air units. Should a situation demanding heavier equipment and doctrine arise, for example in a crisis situation above level three, I'm sure that the FURFF units could easily be strengthened by forces from the member nations' national forces.

Minister Blake said, "I concur with the Zaheranian delegate's proposal to supplement our forces with individual contributions of personnel."

"As for funding, we agree that monetary loans might be a viable solution in the short term. In the long term, we would prefer a solution that guarantees the FURFF steady funding. One idea brought up by our staff members would be to grant the Union the right to directly collect taxes from, for example, the free trade hubs that exists within its borders. I know that the subject of financing the Union with taxes on the commercial activity on Neo'Ilos have been discussed before between us and the Alfegans, and the new joint Zaheranian-Monavian colony S:t Therese might also come in question. Due to the enormous influx of goods and money to these trade hubs, a tax of only a few percent may give the Union a good income. Coupled with funding recieved from the national governments, I think it would cover the expenses by quite a good margin."

"While levying a tax may be an excellent solution to the funding issue," Minister Carter added, "any tax or tariff upon the S:t Therese Colony or similar free trade zone would require a renegotiation of the taxation laws concerning the territories in question. The 'free trade' status of said locations would also have to redefined if such changes in the laws which address revenue are allowed to take place."

As to the raising of money, I believe the point raised by Zaheran would be viable. Oraz/Neo'Ilos, one of the most wealthy nations in terms of trade travelling through and to it, would provide vast amounts of funds. I believe that, even with the introduction of a 5% tax, that would keep it a competitive area for prices, not drive off trade, and provide at least $5 billion per annum. If any other such unique territories in joint governance were able to provide such income, then we would be able to fund equipment sales and a loan without having to implement taxation on union members, which I assure is a last resort."

Carter nodden in assent, but made a mental note that S:t Therese's economic laws would need to be renegotiated to allow for this. While he bore no qualms about changing the tax laws, deals were deals and anything established by treaty would have to be amended by treaty.

Charles continued to listen to the delegates discuss the needs of the Rapid Reaction Forces and wondered quickly how Mokastana could contribute to the financial effort, already 2% of the Government budget went to the Fegosian Union, usually paid out of the Defense and Administration Budgets. Charles thought for a minute as he began to figure out the backbone of Mokan Industry, which was farming surprisingly enough. Farms in Sur, Mejico, and Aqua Anu provided everything the Mokans would need, literally a multi-trillion dollar industry made up of local farmers and haciendas. Perhaps a slight increase in tax for the...no no no...the farmers fight any increase in tax. The corporations, now there is a taxable income. Most notable the shipping and freight industries, already the Shipping Companies made a fortune charging farmers and businesses to ship their goods to the different continents of Mokastana, as well as her trading partners.

"We in Mokastana should be able to contribute a half percent tax increase on the transport industry, once I can get it approved by parliament. At any given moment their are roughly a hundred freighters and dozens of planes transporting goods across Mokastana, not to mention international deliveries. We believe this should contribute roughly $3 billion annually to the Rapid reaction Forces. If we tax the transport Industry as a whole across the Union, or simply just the major Players like Montana Shipping and the Fegosian Airshipping Consortium, Miguel?"

"One second," Miguel began punching the numbers on his computer trying to figure out a close approximation to the effects a half percent increase on shipping would have.

"Rough estimate, if we charged Inter-Fegosian transport an additional Tax of half a percent, we could see an increase of roughly $10 billion. However I would recommend instead charging transport and trade outside the Union, perhaps 1% or so. This way our businesses and companies can still trade outside the Union, but we would make a little more off of it, and companies focus more on working within the Union. In other words, I propose a tariff of 1% for trading outside the Union. My only worry is that Nova policy restricts Tariffs within the Region. Since I am sure most of the non-Union trade is in Nova, it seems that I would need further information on them before I can determine the income this tariff would bring."

After listening to Charles' comments, Minister Blake thought about the numbers being given and wrote down a list. About $13 billion (USD, I assume) was possibly coming in from Mokastana. Curious, he turned to Charles. "Do you know how much money the Union's forces require to remain in operation? Exact figures can allow us to calculate exactly how much money that we would need to raise."

"Thank you, General," said the former President of St. Istvan University. "The new super-ports being established in each of the states in the HCSK were originally going to be a reduced tax point-of-entry. By raising the taxes on it to be comparable to other ports, that will generate an additional $12B a year that can go into FURRF."

Blake wrote down another $12 billion with the thirteen that had already been placed on his list. That, in addition to Alfegos's potential $5 billion brought the total to roughly $30 billion.

OOC: Pardon the rough quality of this post and my lack of participation here. I have been wrapped up with school, running a diplomatic conference with the Republic of Ruccola, and writing up my post for the new Smoke on the Water thread.

[Mokastana]

Minister Blake spoke up after the other delegates finished speaking. "Given the lack of high-grade, cutting-edge vehicles and arms, perhaps it would be prudent for us to take our standard designs and implement the creation of factories in all member states for producing what we need in larger numbers. The country known as Lyras, to my knowledge, is not located in Nova, therefore I cassume that all shipments have to travel vast distances. Such inconveniences add to the expense of producing and purchasing such arms. With internal means of production, we can more readily provide ourselves with the appropriate means of supplying our forces at a lower cost.

"On the matter of creating reaction forces for specific situations, I am inclined to accept the roposal from Katonazag's delegation, pending certain amendments and revisions to the same, in order to clarify the exact demands which these forces will place upon our logistical capabilities."

"Currently my brother is finishing up a deal with the Lyran government to produce some of their lighter equipment in Mokan facilities for sole use in the Fegosian Union Rapid Reaction Forces. Some of you may know of Montana Inc, which has sold 30% of its ownership to the Lyran government in exchange for a contract with us to allow them to produce the Lyran goods in the Sur Region of Mokastana. Thus many Lyran goods can be produced in the Fegosian Union and then we do not have to deal with to many issues of standardization our mechanized units.

Already the Mokan Government has a licence for a version of the Ironheart that replaces the extra 7.62mm gun on the roof of the IFV with two “Helios” Anti-Tank missiles.

As for quick transportation, the backbone of the Mokan transport still uses the aged IL-76s. We can donate some to the creation of the Rapid Reaction transport units, but no doubt we are looking for something a little more effective. However this still can be a temporary solution for now. "

After listening to Charles' comments, Minister Blake thought about the numbers being given and wrote down a list. About $13 billion (USD, I assume) was possibly coming in from Mokastana. Curious, he turned to Charles. "Do you know how much money the Union's forces require to remain in operation? Exact figures can allow us to calculate exactly how much money that we would need to raise."

Charles looked back at him curious as to why he was being asked that question, seeing as the Trade Commisioner was next to him and as far as he knew, the exact growth of the RRF had yet to be determined. However he did his best to answer the question.

"Mind you I am not a financial expert by any means, but if I had to assume I would go with roughly $60k to $100k for each soldier per year, probably a little high but no one will complain if we go under budget. Judging by the latest numbers we will be $9 billion to $15 billion annually. So at the max, assuming we make it to 300,000 men all paid, feed and supplied very well, $30 billion.

[The State of Monavia]

So at the max, assuming we make it to 300,000 men all paid, feed and supplied very well, $30 billion.

OOC: Our donations now total about $30 billion.

IC:

Minister Blake listened to Charles' reply to his query about funding. "With those numbers in mind, I believe that the Monavian government can divert some money from our bugetary slush fund." After running some numbers and converting thalers to USD, he came up with a total. "I think that we can offer up to $20,000,000,000 USD per annum. Would that be sufficient, for our part?"

[Alfegos]

"Excellent. I thank you all for your valuable opinions, and thank you all for the decisions reached in this session. We will now take a short 15 minute break, in which refreshments will be served in the Antechamber. After this break, we will continue into the secure section of our talks, regarding recent developments. I thank you all again for your presence and views, and call this session to a close."

The Alfegan delegation stood up, starting a short round of applause, before leaving through the doors to the side of the hall. Outside, in a small yet comfortable room, a number of comfortable chairs sat scattered around the corners of the room, along with tables holding beverages and snacks. A few serving staff started to mingle with the crowd, as talking commenced. Lieutenant-General Ge'ji Qe'noa stood to one side, quickly gulping down drink before returning to the conference hall. He had notes to compile, overseen by the Foreign Minister in a spate of short-sightedness and urgency to move on to the most sensitive point of discussion - that of the deterrent the Union was to field. In the meantime, the Foreign Minister quickly talked with his aides, dismissing all but one as his 'secure staff' for the meeting. Quaffing back a cup of effervescing Ja'li juice, one of the local products mixed in with an international range of drinks and food, he turned to politely greet the Katonozagi delegation.
"It's good to see you, Mr President, attend this most important of conferences. I hope I have not dragged you away from anything pressing in your nation - otherwise, I hope this next session will make it worth your while being here!"

-------

After the break had finished, and all were assembled back in the hall the Foreign Minister began speaking once again.
"Welcome to this secure session of the Conference. I trust that all non-essential staff have been dismissed, and that we have security in the hall. For that purpose, I request that any listening or recording devices are disabled for the time being, so that we can mutually assure security of the session.

In light of recent escalation in conflicts close to home, I believe it a priority to focus on the nature of the Union deterrent measure. Even in this day and age, the MAD doctrine still holds purpose, even if in a more limited extent - as a weapon of last resort in defence of our nations, and our Union. This deterrent is, in our delegation's opinion, a system that should be divided into two separate categories - the first should be the use of strategic systems as the main deterrent from all-out warfare, and the second should be the use of tactical systems, such as chemical and biological warfare, in a bid to deter or make as costly as possible a determined attack upon the Union.
This discussion will need to discuss the following:
> The organisation, size and make-up of the deterrent.
> The location of deterrent devices.
> Who will control or authorise the actual launching/deployment of devices, should it come to that stage.
> The code of conduct, or Union Treaty, concerning the use of such devices.

Before I give you the Alfegan brief, I open the floor to the opinions of all delegates present."

[The State of Monavia]

The two ministers nodded ina pproval as the Alfegan announced the end of the first part of the session. They took some time to walk to the antechamber and relax over Alfegan fruit juice and converse about possible ways of determining the exact amount of funding that they could contribute. After the brief period of rest had ended, they went back to business, noting that the next portion of the session would probably shift the focus of discussion.

After the question of dealing with the Union deterrent was raised, the two spent some moments contemplating the various ways of managing it. Within minutes, they had some ideas that appeared agreeable.

"I address the question of the location of deterrent facilities, as postulated by the Alfegan delegates. Having seen that the deterrent is a matter concerning the an alliance which spans large parts of Nova, no known delivery systems of the more converntional nature will be able to provide sufficient protection over such a large area without being spread out. Every member should house at least one facility which can provide protection over its area of responsibility, with an additional joint facility being built in an international zone or joint territory."

[Katonazag]

"It's good to see you, Mr President, attend this most important of conferences. I hope I have not dragged you away from anything pressing in your nation - otherwise, I hope this next session will make it worth your while being here!"

President Sabo shook his hand and greeted him. "Building alliances is always a worthwhile endeavor - no country is an island unto itself these days, as they say. Unfortunately, there are those back home who don't see things this way and would like a return to isolationism. But what they don't understand is that the problems 'out there' are soon going to become problems they have to deal with personally. No better illustration than the recent nuclear alert from Salzland being targeted. Hopefully, we can make some headway on the subject in this next session."

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

When the session reopened, the delegates from the HCSK promptly found their seats. After listening to the delegates from Monavia, General Ibrány said, "I think what our Monavian counterparts are trying to say, is that location and coverage area are going to determine the organization, size, and modeling of the deterrent force." He pulled up on a screen a map of Nova and two circles appeared, encompassing the HCSK and Kingdom of Krommindy each. "These areas here represent the area for which we are currently prepared to shoot down ICBMs, SLBMs, and cruise missiles. Primarily for ICBMs, this is through ruining the warhead's electronics at the peak of it's trajectory. For the others, we use several types of satellite and surface tracking to develop fire solutions for the interceptor missiles. But the beauty of this is that our military satellite system, known to some of you as BMS (pronounced "beemuss"), can take control of much of this function, provided the operators have the mode enabled. This reduces reaction times and human error by cutting many of the human operators out of the equation - however, human operators at SATCOM can manually override any BMS functions if necessary.

It appears that the People's Nation of Alfegos is our nearest neighbor, at 10 to 12 hours by air, so that puts our systems out of range to defend the other nations here. Our actual nuclear force is comprised of the Helypásztor II rocket in use since 1985, but an upgrade package to II/B is currently underway with completion of the entire project projected for September 2010. It is also the same rocket we use to launch satellites and related hardware into space. It is truly a workhorse of a rocket and gives us our ICBM global strike abilities. Our secondary strike capabilities are from aircraft launched cruise missiles, launched from a variety of airframes. Our tertiary launch capabilities will begin to be brought online in October of 2009 when the HCSK Navy is officially chartered, with SLBMs, and cruise missiles from surface and subsurface ships.

At the present time, if the plan is to turn over a small percentage of our nuclear arsenals to the Union for deterrent, then this can be arranged. We have an active duty base in North Katonazag that was going to be turned over to the Reserves, but it can be turned over to the Union instead. It has four sets of two ICBM silos, and can accommodate large strategic bombers. It could be upgraded to handle airships easily enough, I expect. Of course, the HCSK would still need to observe the operation there for safety and security reasons."

[Mokastana]

Charles and his entourage went to enjoy the break that the Fegosian hospitality had left for them. Miguel and Charles exchange pleasantries with a few other members of the discussion and once it was time for the meeting to continue Charles left Miguel and the staff outside to wait or leave as the more sensitive materials were discussed. Miguel may have been Trade Commissioner for the Union, but secrets this big had to be kept to small numbers.

As the group sat down and Charles listened to the other delegates speak and scribbled notes down on his pad so that he could properly explain what Mokastana has.

org, size and make-up of deterrent.
location
control/authorize launch
Union Treaty

After hearing other defensive networks, especially the set up the HCSK has, Charles decided to introduce there own.

"As you already know, Mokastana is to far away for a mutual shield over the Union, but we have our own defenses in place for a moment like this, which we hope is to never occur. We are currently protected by Lyran "Skyguard" divisions, more specifically the LY4032 “Rampart”, designed for interception of the ICBMs and the like. We have divisions spread around the Federation and have been building more along with ordering more from Lyras. The Rampart is, from my understanding, a low yield nuclear weapon designed to take out incoming nuclear weapons, most noticeably the ICBM.

In addition to the 'Skyguard' we have the IDN satellite network, which was originally part of the IDN, but expanded to protect the Sur and Mejico Regions. Wellovia has satellite coverage from MBSA networks while Aqua Anu is still under progress of bringing it under the 'Mokan Umbrella'. The Satellites can detect incoming ICBMs by way of heat signatures, RADAR, orbit tracking and if need be, visual confirmation.

Some of you may know of the Genesis Project, which if you don't then I will explain. The Genesis Project is a space station we have over the Mainland kept in geosynchronous orbit in that is militarized. The extent of the work done on it is far beyond classified, and the cost is enough to bankrupt small nations, but seeing as it gives us the edge of using laser technology to hit incoming missiles while they are still on the way and in orbit, it is a price we are willing to pay. I do not pretend to understand the why's or how's of Genesis, but I would bet my life on it.

As for offensive operations, the backbone of Mokan MAD doctrine is the Supersonic Bomber, aka the Tupolev Tu-160. We have officially somewhere around 300 in service and in airbases scattered around Mokastana far enough that enough should get airborne in the event of a surprise attack. In addition to the Tu-160s there are the Ohio class submarines that are nearly always at sea armed with nuclear warheads. I say always because at any given moment about half are deployed away from bases either on patrol or with their respective Wolf Packs working in dangerous areas. The navy controls a good portion of the nuclear assets Mokastana has, air force and MBSA control the rest. All actions involving nuclear weapons must go through Juventud Island, who in addition to the Umbrella, is protected by the IDN as well as a few MBSA measures put into place.

In the event of full scale war, the Mokastana Bureau of Secret Action has the FOBS program, Frequent Orbital Bombardment System, the details are sketchy, but a small number of our communication satellites are actually carrying usable nuclear warheads. One variant is designed to rain nuclear weapons down on a country and use the EMP blasts to black out countries. While the other can be used as either a first strike or last strike means of raining warheads down directly on a nation without propulsion, and supposedly they have stealth technology built into them. I do not know how well they can hide the tail tell signs of a meteor cutting threw the atmosphere, but they claim it is the most effective method of delivery we have."

[Zaheran]

The Zaheranian Foreign Minister took a sip from his fruit drink to clear his throat and stood up.

"Before I present our ideas for the proposed Union deterrent, I will briefly explain Zaheran's own policies on the subject. Our deterrent system has since its beginning relied on the idea of MAD, a concept with which I am sure you are all familiar. The reasons for this are quite simple: even with the best ABM system in the world, it is inevitable that some missiles will always get past, and in the end, three hundred or even thirty missiles will ruin your day as well as three thousand. After all, whether you are killed ten times over or a hundred matters little, you are still equally dead. Even if our enemies has an ABM system able of killing ninety-five percent of all incoming warheads, they will still hesitate to push that red button, because they will now that if we fire forty thousand missiles at them, two thousands of those warheads will escape their defenses to wreak havoc on their major cities.

When it comes to delivery methods, we rely mostly on a mix of ICBM's and SLBM's, so that we may retain a second-strike ability in case the enemy decides to strike against our silos. We also have a fleet of strategic bombers of which about a quarter is kept airborne at all times in case of a sneak attack. A launch must be authorized by the Emperor, or in case of his death, by the Defence Minister, Foreign Minister or Interior Minister, in that order of succession, as well as another senior government official. If a war threatens to go nuclear, all senior ministers are kept at different locations, so that at least one segment of our administration will survive an eventual attack long enough to deliver the retribution.

During the latest years, we have started a program called Schutzengel, with the goal of building up an ABM system with an efficiency of at least eighty percent. While this may not entirely prevent a catastrophe, it may at least limit the damage somewhat. From what I have heard, and I am by no means an expert, it relies on the same principle as many others; satellite and ground surveillance to detect a ballistic missile launch in its early stages and calculate its trajectory, using this data to provide fire solutions for interceptor missiles. This provides us with some basic capability to deal with a nuclear strike, but against developed nations with large arsenals, it has the same problem as most such systems: MIRV's. Since a single missile can carry several independent warheads, several interceptor missiles must be used against a single 'offensive' missile, thus rendering the ABM system ineffective rather quickly.

Thus, we have been looking into other ways to intercept the missiles. The best way would be to shoot them down in their boost phase, before the MIRV's separates from the missile itself. For this purpose, an airborne or space laser would probably be the best alternative. We have started several research programs to develop such devices, but they are at best in the experimental stage and will not be ready for operation for several years. It seems that the Mokan Genesis Project works along the same principles, but you are a few years ahead of us if it already is operationable."

He stopped to take another sip of the strange Alfegan fruit juice.

"Now, for our recommendations for the Union's detterent, they will be as follows. Firstly, since an ABM system covering the entire Union is more or less impossible due to geographic reasons, at least for the moment being, we suggest that the Union should focus on improving and extending the ABM systems of the individual nations, since this seems to be the most effective way to guarantee a reasonable level of protection over the entire Union.

Secondly, that a body is created inside the Union to integrate the early warning systems inside the invidual nations with each other, so that we more effectively may watch hostile nations and detect ballistic missile launches in time to act. This body should also be tasked with defending the Union's assets in space, since these will be invaluable for an effective defence against a nuclear attack.

Thirdly, that a Union deterrent will be sufficiently sized to ensure that regardless of the attacking nation's ABM system, enough missiles will get through to ensure that the attacking nation is no longer a threat. We agree with Alfegan delegation that the Union should also, if possible, have the option of using chemical or biological warfare systems against the enemy. The authority to use NBC weaponry should belong to the Fegosian Union High Command, alternatively be issued after consensus between our respective chiefs of state. Both systems have their advantages and disadvantages. I must stress that this sort of weaponry should only be used in case the Union itself is attacked, never as part of offensive warfare.

Deterrent devices should be spread out among the Union countries so that we will have a second-strike ability in case we are attacked. We have several territories which may be suitable for such uses, but that might be a later question. That is all I have for now. I offer the floor for the next speaker."

[Alfegos]

The Alfegan delegates had taken notes carefully throughout the session, brief pointers on short-life paper - once removed from its packet, the notes would only last for a couple hours, before becoming illegible and finally dissolving into dust. A useful innovation, and something to help install trust in delegates present.
"Well, I must say that the Union shows a formidable wall of defence against the enemies we may encounter. I agree with the Zaheran delegate, and I believe all as well should, in knowing that the Union as a whole is armed with enough in the way of strategic missiles and ABM systems to provide a substantial threat to an aggressor. What we need to work on though is the co-ordination of the systems, into both a Union Early Warning System (UEWS), and a Union Combined Anti-Ballistic System (UCABS).

The former would take the form of a single centre, perhaps a couple, in a fortified FURRF facility. It'd be best if it were on a joint territory, for diplomacy's sake. Using information input from sensor networks across the Union - satellite surveillance feeds and long range RADAR - it would be possible for the centre to alert of launches, or potential launches, from across a wide area. As well as the inputs from FU nations, dedicated facilities could be deployed by the Union - possibly ultra-long range RADAR systems on territories such as Tho'lara, Oraz/Neo'ilos, and other territories held as possessions by FU nations; maybe even the launch of a couple satellites by the Union would aid tremendously.
With launches tracked by the UEWS, the UCABS would be there to launch both FURRF systems to deal with these threats, such as missile batteries and electronic scrambling systems, and would co-ordinate members of the Union in launching both anti-ballistic strikes, and counter-strikes if necessary."

The speaker scrolled down his notes, to where a short series of notes sat surrounded by officious linked boxes.

"And now, to the aggressive side of the deterrent. I believe that all here will agree that any CBRN weapon possessed by the Union should only be used in defence, and not in aggression. Strategic weapons will doubtlessly be of the Nuclear and Biological kind - the latter, Alfegos specialises in as a method of ensuring a long-term destructive force to follow up nuclear attacks. This would aid enormously in the MAD aspect of deterring a nuclear attack.

However, tactical weapons will have to be of a different nature. As the delegates may be aware, Alfegos operates considerable amounts of tactical chemical weapons, cylinder borne, which can be used to a devastating effect. Again, these would only be used defensively by the Union - if we are fired upon first with such weapons, or if we have no other choice in the defence of the Union, they will have to be deployed. The same could be said in the use of tactical nuclear and/or radiological weapons. In a tactical sense, I believe biological weapons should not be included, due to their long-ranging effects.



Finally, here is a first draft of the Fegosian Union Zevkhay Amendment - for I think it would be best to give it a non-specific name to this amendment of Article III, Chapter 5 of the Union Charter - which will help co-ordinate our efforts into the development of such a network. I haven't got into the details of the defensive system yet, and there is still a great, great deal of work to be done. However, it is a useful insight to how we will organise things.

The Zevkhay Amendent

Preface
In light of the ever-increased threat of attack by a power with CBRN weapons;
With the realisation of the increasing prevalence and potency of CBRN weapons;
And with the need for the Union to co-ordinate CBRN systems;
And with the need of a Joint System for the Co-ordination of counter-CBRN systems;
This Amendment will amend Article III, Chapter 5 of the Union Charter in line with the following amendment.
This Amendment will amend Article

Chapter VI - Concerning CBRN weaponry, and Defensive Systems[b]

[B]Article 1
Clause 1 - All member states of the Fegosian Union will agree to maintain, if required, Union facilities relating to Deterrent weapons, defensive systems, and the paraphernalia of facilities required in their upkeep.

Clause 2 - The alliance defines a 'Deterrent Weapon' as a weapon making use of a biological, lethal chemical, radiological, nuclear or electromagnetic pulse source that may cause mass indiscriminate damage to a nation. A deterrent weapon is also defined as an orbit-earth high-energy kinetic projectile, with a potential yield of above 1kT TNT equivalent.

Clause 3 - The alliance deterrent will be composed of weapons sufficient to provide an effective strategic deterrent, yet will not be of such a level as deemed unnecessarily high by the Fegosian Union.

Clause 4 - No alliance member may use, interfere with or impede any deterrent system in use by the FURRF, unless the use of such a weapon has been made without permission from the FURRF Supreme Council.

Clause 5 - All decisions related to the aggressive use of CBRN systems must be agreed unanimously by the FURRF Supreme Council.

Article II

Clause 1 - Union members will agree to stock a fair share of CBRN weapons, in whatever form they may be in, relative to the need of their use by the FUSC.

Clause 2 - CBRN weapons in the Union's possession will be under the permanent control of the FURRF Deterrent Control (FURRFDC).

Clause 3 - All CBRN weapons must be suitably defended by all means against attack or hijack, and must be kept in a state suitable for use should it arise.

Article III

Clause 1 - The Union will form a permanent Early Warning Systems (the UEWS), to provide a Union-wide analysis of threats and detection of CBRN deployment.

Clause 2 - Union-wide responses to occurances highlighted by the UEWS will be co-ordinated by the Union Combined Anti-Ballistic System (UCABS), using FURRF assets and aiding in the control of Union member assets.

[The State of Monavia]

Reserved for IC post.

[Katonazag]

"The HCSK delegation agrees with the intent and general premises in the Amendment," Dr. Kázmér said after reading it. "I will notify the War Department that the plan to turn Banská AFB over to the Reserves on hold."

[Zaheran]

"The amendment is more than acceptable to His Imperial Majesty's government, although some specific details still need to be worked out, as the honoured Alfegan delegate pointed out. When it comes to facilities for deterrent weapons and early warning systems, we agree that the Neo'Ilos zone would be an excellent choice, since it already is heavy militarised for Union use and further extension of the current facilities would be an easy matter. If necessary, the other islands in the area are sparsely populated, in some cases totally unhabited, and could be opened up for Union use in a metter of months. Another option would be the joint colony we share with our esteemed Monavian allies, the island S:t Therese. It already has some early warning systems operational, so again, its simply a matter of extension of current facilities.

Since the deterrent are going to contain both biological and radiological weapons, both with long-lasting effects if something should go wrong, we believe it would be a good idea to incorporate some sort of control/inspection committee within the FURRFDC, which would control that facilities for storing deterrent weapons are secure and that the storing itself is done correctly. Quality and security standards should naturally be kept very high."

[The State of Monavia]

"My Zaheranian counterpart is correct in stating the need for a controilling agency to monitor the integrity of our stockpiles. The colony on S:t TRherese should provide ample space for the construction of needed facilities, and the stable geology of the island should provide an excellent location for secure storage and deployment sites." Minister Blake looked over some of his notes, and then continued.

"I would prefer that all biological weapons be of a kind meant for more precision strikes. Diseases which kill quickly are best, as the target or targets will be eliminated before the agents are spread to unintended parties, thus minimizing potential collateral damage. Delivery systems should be secure enough to prevent accidental release. In addition," he added, speaking more slowly to ensure that his words possessed greater force, "it is advisable that we do not use any biological agent for which we possess no treatment or cure, in case of accidental release within one of our facilities, or, heaven forbid, if a terrorist organization with access to similar agents used it against us."

"Nuclear devices should have a limit in terms of total yield. Guidence systems are accurate enough to negate any need to create a larger blast in order to make a strike more effective." He began to look over the proposed amendment, and made some changes as needed.

The Zevkhay Amendent

Preface

In light of the ever-increased threat of attack by a power with CBRN weapons;
With the realisation of the increasing prevalence and potency of CBRN weapons;
And with the need for the Union to co-ordinate CBRN systems;
And with the need of a Joint System for the co-ordination of counter-CBRN systems;
This Amendment will amend Article III, Chapter 5 of the Union Charter in line with the following amendment. [line below modified]

Chapter VI - Concerning CBRN weaponry, and Defensive Systems

Article I

Clause 1 - All member states of the Fegosian Union will agree to maintain, if required, Union facilities relating to Deterrent weapons, defensive systems, and the paraphernalia of facilities required in their upkeep.

Clause 2 - The alliance defines a 'Deterrent Weapon' as a weapon making use of a biological, lethal chemical, radiological, nuclear or electromagnetic pulse source that may cause mass indiscriminate damage to a nation. A deterrent weapon is also defined as an orbit-earth high-energy kinetic projectile, with a potential yield of above one kiloton of TNT or a comparable equivalent.

Clause 3 - The alliance deterrent will be composed of weapons sufficient to provide an effective strategic deterrent against foreign aggression, yet will not be of such a level as deemed unnecessarily high by the Fegosian Union Supreme Council.

Clause 4 - No alliance member may use, interfere with, or impede any deterrent system in use by the FURRF, unless the use of such a weapon has been made without permission from the FURRF Supreme Council.

Clause 5 - All decisions related to the aggressive use of CBRN systems must obtain unanimous agreement by the FURRF Supreme Council. [old wording revised]

Article II

Clause 1 - Union members will agree to stock a fair share of CBRN weapons, in whatever form they deem practical, relative to the need of their use by the FUSC.

Clause 2 - CBRN weapons in the Union's possession will be under the permanent control of the FURRF Deterrent Control (FURRFDC).

Clause 3 - All CBRN weapons and facilities constructed for storing, deploying, launching, or producing them must be suitably defended by all means against attack or hijack, and must be kept in a state suitable for use should the need arise. Members are obligated to maintain appropriate security forces to protect said facilities.

Article III

Clause 1 - The Union will form a permanent Early Warning Systems (the UEWS), to provide a Union-wide analysis of threats and detection of CBRN deployment.

Clause 2 - Union-wide responses to occurances highlighted by the UEWS will be co-ordinated by the Union Combined Anti-Ballistic System (UCABS), using FURRF assets and aiding in the control of Union member assets.

After making the changes, the minister stood until he was recognized, and announced, "The revised draft is ready for review by the rest of the delegates."

OOC: Most of my changes are minor textual revision, although some actual changes in provisions have been added as well. Remarks in blue are OOC notes I have added, please remove them when preparing subsequent drafts of the amendment.

[Katonazag]

"The points raised by the other delegations have their merit, and we agree that the issues must be addressed during implementation of this Amendment."

[Alfegos]

"We thank the relevant delegations for their points of information, which have been considered in the following further revision. We further thank the Monavian delegation for their rewording of the amendment."

The Zevkhay Amendent

Preface
In light of the ever-increased threat of attack by a power with CBRN weapons;
With the realisation of the increasing prevalence and potency of CBRN weapons;
And with the need for the Union to co-ordinate CBRN systems;
And with the need of a Joint System for the Co-ordination of counter-CBRN systems;
This Amendment will amend Article III, Chapter 5 of the Union Charter in line with the following amendment.

Chapter VI - Concerning CBRN weaponry, and Defensive Systems

Article 1 - Definitions and Restrictions
Clause 1 - All member states of the Fegosian Union will agree to maintain, if required, Union facilities relating to Deterrent weapons, defensive systems, and the paraphernalia of facilities required in their upkeep, as part of the FURRFDC (Fegosian Union Rapid Reaction Force Deterrent Control).

Clause 2 - The alliance defines a 'Deterrent Weapon' as a weapon making use of a biological, lethal chemical, radiological, nuclear or electromagnetic pulse source that may cause mass indiscriminate damage to a nation. A deterrent weapon is also defined as an orbit-earth high-energy kinetic projectile, with a potential yield of above one kiloton of TNT or a comparable equivalent.

Clause 3 - The Union Deterrant will be restricted to perform its need as a tactical and strategic weaponry, complying with the following guidelines:
(a) - The stockpile will only utilise lethal biological agents, which can either effectively be vaccinated against or treated with inexpensive drugs.
(b) - Radiological weapons will be limited to a maximum yield of 1 Gray/m^2 above background radiation levels, with at least 80% of the component isotopes having half lives of under 2 years.
(c) - Agents acting specifically as carcinogenic or tetragenic agents will not be used in the Deterrent.
(d) - Nuclear weaponry will be limited in the deterrent to a maximum yield of 1Mt TNT equivalent. Devices must have a fuel-energy conversion efficiency of at least 80%, and either be high yield fission or fusion devices. Special consideration must be sought if such devices are to be used in a ground burst.
(e) - So-called 'salted' nuclear devices will not be used in the deterrent.
(f) - To prevent collateral damage, no EMP or Nuclear device in the stockpile may be converted to be used at either high altitude (>20km) or in space.

Clause 4 - Alliance members have a right to maintain and produce prohibited weaponry from the article above, though will have to notify the Union of the type and quantity of such devices, and give special consideration before their use, even if the Union approves of launch of CBRNE weaponry.

Clause 5 - The alliance deterrent will be composed of weapons sufficient to provide an effective strategic deterrent against foreign aggression, yet will not be of such a level as deemed unnecessarily high by the Fegosian Union Supreme Council, to avoid provokation.

Clause 6 - No alliance member may use, interfere with or impede any deterrent system in use by the FURRF, unless the use of such a weapon has been made without permission from the FURRF Supreme Council.

Clause 7 - All decisions related to the aggressive use of CBRNE systems must obtain unanimous agreement by the FURRF Supreme Council..

Article II

Clause 1 - Union members will agree to stock a fair share of CBRN weapons, in whatever form they may be in, relative to the need of their use by the FUSC.

Clause 2 - CBRN weapons in the Union's possession will be under the permanent control of the FURRF Deterrent Control (FURRFDC).

Clause 3 - All CBRN weapons and facilities constructed for storing, deploying, launching, or producing them must be suitably defended by all means against attack or hijack, and must be kept in a state suitable for use should the need arise. Members are obligated to maintain appropriate security forces to protect said facilities.

Article III - Early Warning and Defence

Clause 1 - The Union will form a permanent Early Warning Systems (the UEWS), to provide a Union-wide analysis of threats and detection of CBRNE deployment. The UEWS will also be responsible for co-ordinating Union Member defence strategm against the deployment of CBRNE
weapons, and advise member governments accordingly.

Clause 2 - The UEWS will be provided with sensory resources sufficient to carry out its purpose, and offices in each Union Member nation from where it can carry out national advisory roles.

Clause 3 - Union-wide responses to occurances highlighted by the UEWS will be co-ordinated by the Union Combined Anti-Ballistic System (UCABS), using FURRF assets and aiding in the control of Union member assets.

Clause 4 - The UCABS will be provided with anti-ballistic weaponry systems able to defend Union members sufficiently, yet not to an excess. UCABS will be allowed to use sensory resources of Union members, and of the UEWS.

Article 4 - Concerning Union Member's Usage of CBRNE weaponry, and Maintenance

Clause 1 - Union Members must recognise the significance of the manufacture, stockpiling and use of CBRNE weaponry, and as such recognise the impact of the use of such weapon systems.

Clause 2 - Union Members must agree to the foundation and upkeep of the Fegosian Union Deterrent Supervisory Office (FUDSO). This office will be tasked with the inspection of FURRF and Union members CBRNE weaponry, and of the facilities of UEWS and UCABS, ensuring that Chapter VI, Article II, Clause 3 of the Union Charter is upheld. Inspection of national Deterrents and support systems is voluntary.

Clause 3 - All FURRFDC, UCABS and UEWS facilities in Union territories must be maintained by the host nation alongside the relevant agencies, and must have an appropriate level of defence provided alongside the FURRF.