International Coalition for Expansion (MT signup)

[Phonencia]

"Duely noted."
Parker said towards Amstaad's representative, high in the back of the top tier.
"Now, uh, Miss Angelic you are aware the subjects of this meeting are highly classified. If someone other than properly cleared ICE personnel are present they need to vacate the premises immediately or we'll have to sever the connection and begin an official investigation."
he reminded, hawk-like eyes noticing when she mouthed something.
"We should begin with liberating the Beringian colony in Verktha yes. Phonencian Military strategists will be meeting her in a few hours to plan for this assault. Any ICE Member States with holdings on the continent of Verktha should send a military delegation to assist in the planning. We don't need any foreign forces landing on the continent and complicating things further just yet. If things go south though we may request support. Ah yes, that reminds me,"
he looked down the row of desks at Taronix's representative.
"It is the findings of ICE Central Command that the tactics and equipment employed during the so-called Battle of Despair between Taronix, Phonencia and Khalite were so unsatisfactory that the officers responsible for the planning are due a severe demotion at the least. It is recommended that Taronix's military officers begin attending Shelton Military Academy in Gracemeria, Phonencia and it is also suggested Taronix re-vamp its military budget and overhaul its armed forces to focus more heavily on armored units and less on lightly equipped infantry."
the battle had been a disaster for Taronix with over 600,000 dead in only one day. On the flipside, Phonencia had deployed only a few hundred tanks, self propelled howitzers and a handful of attack helicopters to the battle and inflicted hundreds and hundreds of casualties on Khalite's armed forces, beating them back more severely than Taronix's hundreds of thousands had done thus far. This had in turn forced peace talks between the nations and prevented further loss of life. Many in Phonencian command positions however were furious over the failure of Taronix's officers and several had petitioned to have them executed by firing squad though that fringe group's request had not been met.

[United Nations Alliance (Ancient)]

Amirah blushed slightly as she realised she had been seen. "Sorry, that was my wife, and fellow inspector, she just told me she was heading out, she couldn't hear anything though as I'm in a sound proof room, hence the fact I didn't actually say anything and only mouthed the words I said. Anyway, the UNA still has military forces in Verktha from the recent battle against Khalite. And UNA tactitions agree on the findings into Taronix's ground assault which, while they helped to cause Khalite to withdraw, was still counted as a loss due to the amount of troops lost. That being said, our own navy blockade of the Khalite colony was also a loss as we had to retreat, but then our navy has never been our strongest force" she said.

[Saliu]

ICE HQ - "Can I ask the current official vote for Humanitarian Aid in Trotskytopia and how many more approvals until a majority decision is reached? Also, the Saliuzien side of the forces have been selected and are currently preparing to board as we speak. I believe that a good ratio would be 1 Worker per 25 citizens, thats a Million; plus 1 Peacekeeper per 20 Workers, that is 50 Thousand. That way the citizens will not feel intimidated by us." Burston smiled thoughtfully, it had been a long few days, establishing the office and now onto her first campaign.

"I beleive that the things we should be doing is rebuilding war torn buildings, of course not the ones currently under fire. Also we should provide shelter for the citizens and supplies to those areas that have been cut off or badly damaged. That way we can gain the trust of a broken community and then when we move to give them democracy, forcefully or not, they will be more happy to recieve it. I also do not believe in an invasion at any time in Trotskytopia unless conditions fail to get any better in a reasonable time period." Burston took her seat then looked at her Computer Tablet which had current updates from the SHF.

[Virana]

Menendez ran her fingers through her black hair, contemplating how the UR could aid against the slave state. On her tablet computer she was communicating with Secretary of Defense Aiden Lawson on the availabilities. Then she got an answer.

"Although we have no forces within striking distance of Verktha, we are able to support slavery interdiction missions. If we're told where the slaves are being imported to the colony from, we may be able to deploy naval forces to intercept the slave ships and liberate the people on board. We'd also like to be provided a portion of Beringian territory in Verktha to be a colony of the United Republic, preferably the area that touches the sea. This would also prevent Old Beringia from importing more slaves through the use of slave ships. If you want we could provide a map proposing which areas we would like to control."

Later she heard about the disastrous battle for Taronix. "We suggest Taronix adopt a combined arms approach similar to the United Republic, using armored and infantry units on the battlefield to complement each other. This makes for a more capable force because armored units have their positives and negatives, infantry has its positives and negatives, air units have their positives and negatives, et cetera. Combining them makes for a superior force on any battlefield."

[OOC: check this out: http://futurewarstories.blogspot.com/2011/08/fws-topics-combined-arms.html]

[Capisaria]

"Sorry to interrupt, but what is the other thing, about another invasion? I've been very lost here."

[Phonencia]

Parker nodded, looking over at the camera for Amirah's live satellite feed,
"Very well then. Thank you for taking such impressive security measures. Sorry to trouble you."
his heads napped up to Tier 3.
"Nothing for Capisaria to be concerned about,"
Parker replied, looking up towards the delegate.
"Old Beringia, is an oppressive and violent slave state ruled by a "God-Empress". They're known for their brutality and utter lack of respect for their slaves' life, health and happiness. We're beginning discussions on the subject of an invasion and liberation of the nation and its slave population, starting with its colonial holdings in the continent of Verktha. I must suggest that you pay closer attention during the course of the meeting. You can take notes if you want but make sure they don't leave your hands."
he half-reproached.
"Going back to the subject of extreme import, before we execute any all out attacks, we're going to begin slavery interdiction operations in international waters. I believe it's in the best interests of ICE if we remain anonymous in our operations however. At least for now. We can drop a few sonar buoys and other such early warning systems just outside of Old Beringia's colonial waters. Once detected, we deploy several speedboats or PT boats to assault the ship while another one jams their radio transmissions. Then, we simply board the ship, kill or capture the crew, and leave with the slaves quietly. First we should gather more intelliegence on the Beringians' standard operating procedures regarding the transport of slaves."
Parker explained, slowly turning towards Menendez from the UR next.

"That can easily be arranged ma'am. Whichever nations assist in the conquest will get a portion of the land afterwords. Phonencia will however need control over at least one major port in the colony."
he replied.

[Capisaria]

"Capisaria want's a stake in this process, and had tried before to get a similar idea for anti-slavery actions. We strognly support interdiction, and request we don't kill the crew but rather capture them and put them on trial for violation of human rights."

[Virana]

"I am going to advise you that we will request a land area that will connect the ocean to the sea on the inside of the continent, where we will build a canal. That'll drastically increase trade in the region and promote the growth of ports located along the inner rim of the continent. For a tariff of course, we're generating revenue here, making money off this colony. Oh and we'll use its resources too.

"As for slavery interdiction, the UR's naval special forces (Navy SEALs) are perfect for the job. The crew of the slave ships is expendable; keeping them alive and trying them for war crimes is an option with utmost priority, but if all other options are exhausted the special forces would be authorized to kill them. Our only concern is that after boarding and seizing a slave ship we would have to subdue the slaves aboard the ship to prevent them from outright killing and maiming the crew and tearing apart their dead bodies. That's always an issue when an oppressed population is suddenly free to do whatever they want—they turn on their former captors for revenge."

[The New Lowlands]

Diplomatic Officer Anya Theresa carefully cleared her throat into her microphone, glancing around again. She frowned, then started speaking in accented English:

"Just to confirm, honored representative, that when we refer to Beringia this is the Imperial entity, correct? As in, the one ruled by an God-Empress? If that is the case, I think it would be in the political interests of the Lowlandian Government to volunteer the Black Lions for any covert boarding operations, as well as the interests of the ICE, that is, if we are to maintain a level of secrecy."

She leaned back, sighing, opening the folder on her desk that explained just what the hell Verktha was. It was going to be a long night.

[New Armarzia]

John Beutler, the diplomatic representative of New Armarzia and one of the more senior members of N.O.I.L. was quiet for most of the meeting. He wasn't particularly interested in the dealings with Trotskytopia, both sides in that civil war seemed just as bad as the other. But if ICE was to conduct military actions he wouldn't miss out on the opportunity to gain land and/or influence for New Armarzia. However the possible invasion of Old Beringia peeked his interest, his nation wasn't opposed to slavery, but they were supportive of new holdings for New Armarzia.

John Beutler addressed the other representatives and said, "New Armarzia will be more than willing to offer elements of the Armarzian Ghosts and members of the N.O.I.L. Foreign Operatives to assist in the slavery interdiction operations. These two Armarzian forces are trained in the use of stealth and know the importance of being discreet. I am sure they would be a good addition to the task force assigned to this operation,"

John took a sip of water from a glass and continued as he began to address the issue of invasion, "New Armarzia would gladly join this multi-national invasion of Old Beringia. New Armarzia would like the opportunity to help show International Coalition for Expansion's commitment to dismantling such oppressive regimes. With the approval of ICE and assuming an invasion does happen, New Armarzia would be honored to be apart of the spearhead for this particular conflict as it is in the best interests of mankind to bring an end to these slave states." John Beutler knew everything he said wasn't completely true and it was probable that some of the other members of ICE would know it. New Armarzia made it clear they would not fight on the sole reason of slavery upon admission to ICE, but land was enough of a reason to support conflict that was already likely to happen.

"Furthermore, if this invasion is to proceed, I would most humbly request the support of a fellow member of ICE. New Armarzia does not boast the most powerful of navies in this world, but we believe our ground forces would be a good addition to the invasion. So I request that if these plans are to proceed, one of the members of ICE would provide escort to the Armarzian invasion fleet as I fear the Armarzian navy would be a prime target to enemy forces. Any extra expenses or losses caused by this would be compensated should the need arise."

John Beutler looked back down at his papers, wrote a quick note, looked back up and nodded to signal he was done talking.

[The New Lowlands]

Ms. Theresa carefully pored over her notes, specifically the ones on naval deployments, then glanced over at John Beutler, taking a sip of a cardboard mug of to-go coffee before speaking into the microphone.

"If it would please the New Armarzian Government, the Federal Navy could spare several ships to help escort the Armarzian Navy; Although details would be appreciated, I think we can spare a few submarines, frigates, missile boast, maybe a super-carrier or two. I trust, that should it come to it, the New Armarzian Military can supply its soldiers with gas masks?"

She waited tentatively for his answer.

[New Armarzia]

John Beutler showed a smile of gratitude to Ms. Theresa thought it was forced. He did not like relying upon other militaries, but it was necessary. He took another sip of water and spoke, "The New Armarzian military would gladly accept the escort you are able to spare. The New Armarzian navy is mainly utilized for defense, transport, and support for ground forces. I fear that if we were to engage the enemy on the water alone, my nation would find itself at a severe disadvantage. All Armarzian infantry are issued gas masks, so if it becomes necessary my fellow soldiers should be adequately equipped. As for details, I believe it would be best to discuss them at a later date when plans for this invasion become more concrete and are made official. but I most humbly thank you for your offer and will gladly accept it if this invasion proceeds."
John nodded to Ms. Theresa with smile as he leaned back in his chair and scribbled down a few more notes.

[Phonencia]

Parker nodded, pleased with the general support.
"Any Slaver Crewmen willing to surrender will be taken alive, tried and executed if necessary but our special forces are NOT going to risk their lives playing policeman. The DHEP Slavery and Piracy Interdiction Unit can lead the assaults on slaver vessels. SPI Units are specifically trained for this sort of thing. I would recommend however that we simply form a multinational spec-ops unit composed of volunteers from each of our individual units, SEALs, SPIs, Black Lions and etcetera."
he looked through his papers and scribbled a few notes,
"Uuuh...what does everyone think of Task Force Iceberg? We need a name before we present it to our respective governments."
New Armarzia's request caught his ears,
"The DHEP Navy is rather large and powerful. We can easily contribute over a hundred destroyers, cruisers, landing ships, supply ships and a few carriers and super battleships."
he volunteered.
"We don't have quite enough resupply vessels to keep the operation going easily and securely so if nothing else every ICE State should at least contribute a few cargo freighters to help haul more bullets, beans and band aids."

[Capisaria]

Capisaria would like to volunteer to host the freed slaves. We have facilities where they can live and integrate into society. At a minimum we offer our ports for the captured ships to dock in.

[Phonencia]

"The Council thanks Capisaria for its generosity."
Parker replied,
"These people know nothing other than servitude. Integrating them into society will be an arduous process but one I trust Capisaria can handle."
he glanced down at his electronic tablet and read over a classified message from the Chief Inspector of ICEJ, his eyebrows knitting together as he read.

[The Holy Twig]

Priestess Marie-Isabelle hesitated for a moment before beginning once again, not bothering to stand at this time, "The Theocracy can spare a fair number of anti-air and anti-ship patrol boats, as well as some dozen transport ships. They're currently unengaged, so it will be unlikely to be a problem."

She paused briefly before continuing. Damn, what was the name of the slaver-nation? Marie-Isabelle decided that she would have to start paying more attention to the briefings and general discussion, "We would also like to head an effort to free already captured slaves within their borders and smuggle them out of the country - to Capisaria, I suppose. Covertly, of course. I'm sure that it wouldn't be too much of a problem for us, assuming that they don't host a full-scale military intervention."

[Capisaria]

The Capisarian delegate looked down at his iPad, messaging several city councils, asking if they would be willing to host any freed persons. All except 3 said yes. "Good" he mumbled to himself. Good.

"Capisarian ships will provide cover for those carrying freed persons. The 1ST, 4th, and 10th fleets comprising of approximately 50 vessels altogether can be sent out to assist in vessel raiding, and a pending act in Parliament to allow the issuing of privateer licenses would allow for companies to get licenses to raid and board slave ships, as well as merchant vessels from enemy nations of Capisaria.

[Saliu]

Delegate Burston was listening intently to the conversation happening, "I believe that the ICE could use the services of the Saliuzien Anti-Slavery Taskforce, this taskforce currently attempts to run slavers into WA Waters before boarding however I am sure that they would be happy to help out. We could possibly provide the preliminary warning, do not proceed, you are violating international law, kind of thing. We could also probably blockade the routes. I would recommend running the ships into WA or Our Own Waters, that way we have a legitimate reason for boarding. Also, Saliu would happily host the slaves once freed, on the proviso that they either intend on attending an education facility or entering at least part-time work. We may have huge allocations for welfare in our budget, but remeber that is also where we get most of our Humanitarian Aid money from. Also what is the current vote on Humanitarian Aid in Trotsktopia, is it sufficent enough to pass?" the Brevetted Elder took her seat and started to look on her tablet at the list of the Saliuzien Anti-Slavery Taskforce ships, planes and personalle; which had been given to her by the Attorney-General.

[Glaswegistan]

Glaswegistan supports the invasion of Beringia, although it would help if for those nations that have been unable to attend talks on this matter; any plans for the invasion could be presented to ICE in a succinct format that would allow faster analyzing of the situation, so that we can decide how best to contribute to the situation and what we would like out of our participation in the situation.

[The Holy Twig]

Just found out I'm being subpoenaed via ICE Judiciary over various past human rights abuses. I'll be standing trial on those just as soon as Post War America gives me a good reason that he would know that this happens In-Character-ly, seeing as to how foreigners aren't allowed on most of the mainland Theocracy, there's never been an IC investigation, and my nation doesn't broadcast said abuses (Or much of anything, really) to anyone in the outside world.

[Veceria]

Just realized what's going on here. May I still join this meeting?

[Virana]

[Veceria by all means go ahead, just make sure you know what's going on.]

Kristen Menendez sat back in her seat calmly before leaning forward and speaking. "We can deploy armed patrol boats to aid in the operation. A squadron from Naval Special Warfare Development Group—our main counterterrorism unit and one of the most highly trained forces in the world—will accompany two squadrons of Navy SEALs from SEAL Team 3 to take part in Task Force Iceberg.

"As for Beringia, I suggest we attack the Old Beringian colony on Verktha before doing anything else. That is likely where most of the slaves are being transported in order to mine resources and farm crops for their home nation. We believe, since Phonencia and UNA both have colonies on the continent, that they should lead the invasion and liberation of the colony. The UR is open to aiding the liberation as well. We have also developed a battle plan that will allow ICE forces to more easily capture the colony.

"Since both the colonies of UNA and Phonencia are located well away from Old Beringia's colony, the invasion will undoubtedly force ICE naval forces to attack by going around the continent to the other side. An alliance with a neighboring nation—Hwinn, Heirosalia, Valecia, or the Ruski Federation—may drastically simplify the process of the invasion as allied ground forces can be transported by air to those nations and deployed straight into Beringia. The colony also seems within striking distance of strategic bombers from air bases in the colonies of UNA or Phonencia.

"Viewing the map topographically, the range of mountains that cover most of the northeast portion of the Beringian colony may complicate an invasion. The terrain makes for a perfect last stand against an amphibious invasion force. Also, since that area of the continent is covered in plains—and it is unlikely to be very developed as of yet—expect for standoff armored engagements over long distances of flat land. The patches of forests will force some vintage Vietnam-era tactics, and napalm will be your best friend.

"In conclusion, an amphibious invasion would be the easiest, yet most expensive and costly in terms of casualties, to commit to. It is more advisable to transport, by air, forces to a colony that neighbors Old Beringia's. This would save money and lives over the long term. Also, attempt to destabilize fortified positions in the mountains on the northeast portion of the colony early in the conflict. This will prevent the area from being used as a last-stand position that could cost us—we're not looking for a second Thermopylae here. And expect large-scale armored engagements against tanks from long distances; in these cases, it is much more advisable to take the airstrike approach versus risking ground forces. As a fundamental rule of modern war: ground forces are your last viable option. If your task cannot be accomplished with aerial bombardment, naval gunfire, artillery, or special forces, you can use conventional ground forces for the job. Finally, the patches of forest in the colony will undoubtedly be home to bloody conflict on the ground, unless you want to avoid the issue entirely by destroying the forest with napalm. The rules of engagement are completely up to the nations that will launch the invasion.

"In addition, the UR would like to state that it does indeed have a naval task force that can be deployed to aid in the invasion. However, aside from special forces, we are reluctant to use conventional ground forces in such an invasion due to the cost—since UNA and Phonencia already have colonies in the region, it is much easier for the to accomplish such. Our naval task force would aid in shore bombardment, anti-ship and anti-aircraft warfare, and in enforcing a blockade to prevent seaborne reinforcement. The force would undoubtedly contain a large Ark Royal class super carrier that could project air forces to the region and enhance overall battlefield dominance, giving flexibility to launch complete rapid networked dominance campaigns that are the hallmark of UR offensive strategy [OOC: see conventional/nuclear doctrine in sig].

"For the slavery interdiction, we suggest launching surprise raids in the name of the WA or human rights. At first the ship's communications should be jammed, eliminating their ability to call for reinforcements. Then we can attempt to force them to surrender; if they resist, special forces operating patrol craft and helicopters and such air vehicles—with fighter reinforcements in case things go awry—may be deployed to launch a Visit, Board, Search, Seizure (VBSS) operation. The crew would be given every chance to surrender, but killing them is an option we would give to our special forces to exercise. After taking control, the forces would subdue the slaves—not with lethal force, however—to prevent them from attacking ship crew members still alive and captured. The ship would then be commandeered into friendly waters and its occupants liberated. The crew would then face charges of violation of human rights and be tried for such.

"We would like to remind fellow ICE members that the United Republic is the chief officer of seaborne ICE training units, and so we are open to training for multinational VBSS operations. We suggest all participants send their contributing forces of Task Force Iceberg to the United Republic for familiarization with VBSS tactics in order to ensure a smooth transition to real-time operations."

Kristen was out of breath, her voice now almost gone, but she had said the mouthful that she intended to.

[Sorry it was so long; I was just suggesting some tactics/strategy for the war that I'd like to see some people make use of. Since no one really analyzes this type of stuff that much on NS, but in a real invasion they'd go much farther in depth. Also, Phonencia since you're leading it you should talk with Beringia and make sure it's fine. Also, if anyone's lost, here's a link to the Verktha thread: viewtopic.php?f=5&t=195264]

[The New Lowlands]

Officer Anya Theresa glanced at Kristen with slightly glazed-over eyes, trying and failing to absorb what she had said, blinking and staring. Her aide, a tall, suited man, tapped her on the shoulder and started whispering into her ear, and her expression of focus returned.

"I, uh, the Federal Government is willing to dedicate Army and navy units to such a training program, if the Officer of Defence allows it."

[OOC: Virana, I love you.]

[New Armarzia]

John Beutler leaned into the mike to first say, "I would like to thank the nations that are willing to escort the Armarzian fleet if this invasion is to happen." John Beutlyer turned to Kristen Medendez while still talking into the mike, "You should expect a number of Armarzian Ghosts and NOIL Operatives who will be apart of Task Force Iceberg in due time to begin seaborne training within your nation."

John Beutler took a deep breath before continuing, "I do not believe we should be turning this operation into some ideologic anti-slavery war. I do not believe that anti-slavery organizations should be involved or that we should be representing anything more than ourselves and ICE. I believe it would be in our best interests if we were able to keep a certain manner of discretion in these operations. It would not be in the best interests of New Armarzia if this operation ends up turning into a full-scale war before we are even able to plan our invasion. We need to be quick, efficient, and discreet in these actions. If we are to begin this operation we need to have plans for an invasion already in place for we do not want to give them the opportunity to react and look to slaving organization for help while we are still in the midst of planning an invasion."

John looked down as he poured some more water into his glass as he said, "I believe we could use this operation as a 'first-step' in this invasion. I am sure many of the the slaves we well be liberating would volunteer at the opportunity to fight for the freedom of their comrades in Verktha. I say that slaves we rescue be offered the opportunity to be trained by our forces and deployed in the initial invasion where they would be used as a devastating psychological weapon. Specific special forces whose jobs are to train foreign militias could lead this force in liberating other slaves while the main invasion force takes land. We could than essentially train their slaves to liberate themselves which would be a huge blow to our enemy's defense."

John now took another sip of the water that he just filled before concluding, "I propose that a combined ICE naval force begin blockading this colony prior to the initial invasion which would be led by UNA or Phonencia as they potentially have the best knowledge to be making such invasion plans due to their own colonies. I would like to also offer New Armarzian troops to fight alongside Phonencian and UNA forces in this initial invasion as I do not believe any one of these nations should face the brunt of this invasion, so I would be honored if my nation was given the right to fight alongside your own when we cross the border into this slave-colony. And I do not doubt the URs theories for modern combat, New Armarzia's military make-up and doctrine simply do not allow for that. Armarzian forces rely on using conventional forces while special forces are used to combat specific threats that are presented and air and naval units are used in a supporting role for conventional forces."

[Virana]

Kristen spoke into the microphone after having taken a big gulp of water to soothe her now-sore throat. "We understand your concerns for the invasion strategy," she said to Beutler. "Viranian military doctrine requires complete dominance of all aspects of the battlespace, and the UR Defense Force is carefully organized and set up to provide just that. But let me reiterate the main point; we need to minimize our casualties and maximize our effectiveness. And ground forces are the ones that get hit the most. If there's enemies on a hill, you shouldn't attack them with ground forces, risking the lives of hundreds of your men, just because there is an enemy on a hill. Instead you could use artillery, naval gunfire, or airstrikes to kill them—all without risking a single one of your lives. That is what gives us such an edge when it comes to these types of situations, especially considering the URDF's total 2.5 million active personnel are far lower than several other nations in the world.

"And the fact that this is a combined invasion justifies the use of a complete dominance tactic. UR naval forces, including an aircraft carrier, can seal the colony from the sea and airspace, giving way to a land invasion headed by Phonencia, UNA, and yourself. I'm sure that we'd try to kill off as many enemies that'd be in your way, giving you the freedom to use any type of doctrine you want.

"Finally, I highly suggest you redevelop your military doctrine for a more modern war, before you take a beating like Taronix did in Verktha. [OOC: Or like Iraq took in '91.]

"Also, your idea of using captives to fight against the Beringians is absolutely brilliant. By using them we would drastically minimize our own casualties in a potential invasion of Old Beringia. Those now-free fighters would encourage local slaves in Beringia to fight for their freedom as well; then you've got a chain reaction as part of a proxy war that ultimately is a huge blow to the Beringians. And if that's not enough, we can invade the weakened state and overrun their last defenses." She smiled, knowing that it was a great idea. "But first we'd have to liberate the colony on Verktha. Also, the UR recently made a claim in the Maraun Isles for a colony that is adjacent to Beringia's claim. Should we launch a war against Beringia, the UR would be able to open up an entirely new front in the Maraun Isles and supply even more freed slaves to the effort, as well as help to overwhelm Beringia as they'd be fighting on at least three fronts—their homeland, Verktha, and the Maraun Isles—against an entire coalition of nations." She sat back, excited at the prospect of the potentially well-planned invasion.