Dust Amidst the Plain [IC]

by **Crimetopolis** » Wed May 12, 2021 11:36 am

Japan...

The UC-1 unloaded its cargo of diamonds and gold. Dr. Juan Valdez formally introduced himself as the NOFS
ambassador to Japan. He bore the previously posted offer of alliance to japan.

Off the Technate Coast:

"Greetings from New Orange Free State! We are the Antelope, a trade ship bearing diamonds and gold and offer of alliance with your esteemed nation."

by **Parcia** » Wed May 12, 2021 3:04 pm

Rhodesia

With the front starting to collapse as Rhodesian combat formations pulled back, a few decisions were made at the top, and legislation pushed through an emergency parliamentary hearing.

With a population just shy of 10 million, Rhodesia could, economically, support an active military of nearly 140,000 professional troops, yet had never kept more then a small force of 20,000 in active service. This, while adhering to tradition and historical norms, had likely cost them some serious advantages during the initial hours of the Invasion were such a large force could have completely overwhelmed the Mozambican armed forces if deployed appropriately.

By decree of the Prime Minister and with the support of the Union Party, the RSF would be reorganized more modern military lines as well as an over all expansion in terms of sizes and training.

While the military it self would still be a largely volunteer force, a system of institutionalized sublime tart training would be put in place starting from grade 10 to 12, allowing the earning of extra educational credits in return for applying for and passing the classes, of which would largely be based around supporting roles in military actions as well as giving those who wished to join out of secondary school a head start on the rather high physical requirements. Women would also see available positions expanded to all but infantry arms and select roles in the quickly expanding Rhodesian navy, still stationed out of the privately chartered dockyard in Cape Town.

This would also come at the same time as an official request to the Free State Government to rent or purchase a section of the Cape Town Waterfront for use an an official Rhodesian Port of call, for both Civilian contracted vessels and Rhodesian Military vessels and aircraft.

The Flotilla
The Europeans were paid in full, largely using gold bullion as agreed upon, and with a little extra in the form of several cases of Rhodesian “Bush fire” spiced moonshine, a rare and often sought after spirit rarely found outside of the Rhodesian rural back country.

Which their purchases in Europe finished though, the Shopping expedition would leave rather quietly, the Rhodesian officer onboard agreeing to the added contractual agreement to allow the families of the Sailors on board to travel to Rhodesia with them in time. The crews would be, upon their eventual arrival to Cape Town, officially transferred to the Rhodesian Navy, at their current pay grade (with each sailor receiving a substantial bonus), granted citizenship upon the completion of their contract and guaranteed a parcel of currently unclaimed land outside of Salisbury to do with as they pleased in return for training the newly minted Rhodesian Naval staff.

But, before they could return home the expedition had two stops to make. The first was to Odessa, on the Black Sea, or rather, just outside Soviet Territorial waters on the Black Sea. A less them reputable Soviet officer had agreed to supply a stock of 8 slightly used T-80Bs, or rather, original production T-80s brought up and retrofitted to the T-80B Standard alongside several thousand rounds for their 125mm main guns, as well as several thousand rounds of surplussed 100mm Tank gun shells and various spare parts for the stock of Rhodesian T-55AM-1s.

Then it was off to the Israeli port of Tel Aviv-Yafo for several munitions sets and spare parts for their various procured armaments and weapon systems of IDF origin. As well as to pick up a stock of agents and officers of the HaMossad leModiʿin uleTafkidim Meyuḥadim or more commonly known as Mossad, the rather (in)famous Israeli intelligence service.

After this, it was straight for home, or rather, Cape Town, were the equipment and materials would be offloaded on to either trucks, or in the case of the more advanced systems, directly airlifted to Salisbury via RAF C-130s and C-54s.

The one, possible hitch in their plan, was the UNI fleet lurking in the waters around Mozambique and Madagascar. Once again the Ian Smith would change her ensign and name, this time to the Privately owned Greek Freighter Kassandra being escorted by friendly ships for a currency exchange. Even with the disguise in place, the flotilla agrees to take a rout around Madagascar’s eastern coast to avoid the blockade.

Rhodesian airspace.

The RAF, after having to doge several will aimed SAM locks and dogging with UNI fighter air patrols in maneuvers that never resulted in shots being fired, largely retreated to the boarder airspace, yet maintained a solid aerial patrol. For the first time in 15 years, the S-75 batteries around Salisbury are put in standby and readied.

by **Badassistanian** » Wed May 12, 2021 7:15 pm

The New State

Jonas Savimbi stood stalwart upon The Luanda Air Strip as the hot Angola sun blazed against his deep blue military cap. The promises of The Treaty of Luanda had been upheld with staunch dedication. The foundation of a new national government was founded on the ideals of the integralist cause however the main difference would be the existence of a National Assembly elected directly by the people of Angola that would retain a limited capacity in the creation of laws and advisement of the president. Many of the more popular members of the former government would retain seats of power in this assembly despite its obvious ideological bend. Civilians would immediately be allowed to return to work as their safety, no matter their political ideals, would be protected by The National Angolan Police Force (NAPF). Multiple new offices would be established within Angola to bring the Catholic Church to the forefront of political and moral life in Angola. Jonas Savimbi himself would be declared The President of Angola and would reap the massive amounts of military and political power that the title would entail. Savimbi looked up at the sky as a lone jet came into view. The jet would circle a few times before landing along the airstrip. Savimbi would begin to walk towards the jet followed by a delegation of Integralist politicians and military personnel who would promptly aid in the lowering of the jets stairs. Lider Jair Bolsonaro would exit from the jet and meet Savimbi in the middle of the runway with a firm handshake. Bolsonaro would speak in a loud and confident manner.

"Lider Savimbi, its good to finally see you in the flesh. I have come to tour the country but I also have concerns about Rhodesia and South Africa. Shall we?"

The Meeting

Savimbi lightly grabbed the cigar sat before him and studied it before using the cutter to prepare it to be lit. He looked around the room which had now been filled with Angolan and Brazilian dignitaries. He would light the cigar and take a light puff of its leather like smoke before turning his attention to the front of the room. Bolsonaro stood in the front, wearing a basic gray blazer and button up shirt. The Lider gave off the vibe of a young American entrepreneur rather than that of a dictator. Bolsonaro grabbed the back of his chair as he began to address the crowded and smoke filled room.

"Lider Savimbi and fellow Integralists, I want to first congratulate you on winning the great struggle for control over this beautiful land from the deserts of the south to the platues of the west. I am beyond proud of what has been accomplished here and I believe we are making incredible strides for the advancement of humanity. I am however concerned about the history of your southern neighbors, the so called Orange Free State. They label themselves as fascists and take pride in appropriating the old terms of Hitlerism. In 1930, Salgado visited Italy and became wildly impressed by the fascist movement under Benito Mussolini and took great inspiration from it in forming the ideology that we all stand for today. This much is true. In Germany, however, a great perversion of those ideals had begun to take root in the form of The Nazi Party. The fools labeled themselves as superiors by right of their skin color and blood. They engaged in the mass destruction of the races and they slandered the church. It is true that this perversion seeped into Mussolini as well hence why we don't often echoe his name. Salgado recognized the value of unity among all races and peoples under the love of the almighty god above. This is our creed, is it not? A union of all races and people! That is what Salgado wrote and preached! Harmony, love, unity, faith, and god! These southerners dont see it in that light. They rip not only the names of perverted men but likewise their policies. The African, the native of this very continent, has been denied his right to live upon land that was ordained to him by god because of the choices of these foul southern rats! When I look upon The African, what do I see? I see a brother! A friend! An ally for which I am willing to die! What do they see? They see a mongrel... They see an enemy. These white men playing Nazi in this divine continent are a scourge upon the world!"

Bolsonaro paused, looking down at the floor then back at the crowded room...

"In the east there is a nation known as Rhodesia. Its history is bloody but it has shown an ability to rise above the struggles of its past. It is our hope that The Rhodesians will recognize the folly of allowing Nazis to continue their activity here in Africa but for the mean time we must wait. War has enveloped this southern portion of the continent and what matters most right now is the protection of Angola and Brazil. In order to facilitate this, the southern borders of Angola will be further militarized with the defensive positions needed to prevent an attack of any kind from The Nazi rats. Savimbi! Your day has come! It is now your duty to lead your people to a brighter day! Do not fall for the deceptions of the southern men and remain stalwart in your dedication to the faith. May god protect our families and land."

The room would light up in applause for the Liders speech as well as applause directed towards Savimbi. Bolsonaro would motion to Savimbi who would rise and lock hands with Bolsonaro. The flash of cameras would go off to mark the historic meeting of the two men yet no recordings of the speech would be produced or distributed. Peace was once again in the balance.

by **Crimetopolis** » Thu May 13, 2021 5:49 am

To the people and government of Angola and Brazil:

We, New Orange Free State. respect your achievement in throwing off communist tyranny. We hope to
cooperate with you for a brighter future for all. Our nations have both suffered from outside interference.

To that end, we offer the following.

A. No tariff trade for both Brazilian and Angolan goods and services.
B. Military aid to Angola.
C. If Angola is attacked, we intervene on your nation's behalf.
D. Full cooperation scientifically and trade wise.
E. Full cooperation with both our police agencies.
F. Supporting each vote-wise at the U.N.

We hope to worthy of your friendship.
Dr. Ron Paul
Foreign Ministry
New Orange Free State

by **Redpeake** » Thu May 13, 2021 7:20 am

The RNS Knight of Malta, a general-purpose light frigate, was the northernmost ship in the UNI patrol line. It was just about to turn west and south back towards Comoros when one of the bridge crew reported a fast-moving convoy turning sharply eastward in what looked like a clear attempt to avoid the UNI blockade. Commander Jimenez called in the sighting to the Mjolnir, who patched through to General Headquarters and a tense discussion ensued between General Rausing’s political adviser for General Rausing and the military lawyers at the Advocate-General’s office in Reykjavik. A compromise that no one was particularly happy with was eventually ordered. The Knight of Malta was to detach herself from the blockade and tail the convoy across Madagascar, with MILSATGRID-2 now watching it also. Meanwhile another frigate and one of the submarines were dispatched southward. If the vessels appeared to be heading directly into Rhodesian or OFS ports while the Mozambique question remained unresolved, the dragnet could be tightened. For his part, an unsettled General Rausing kept up fighter patrols of unpredictable size and timing, continuing to engage in elaborate dances with their Rhodesian counterparts. With the missile tubes replenished, General Rausing ordered his subordinates to assemble a list of targets for another round of Viper strikes. The brass and the politicians had said they did not expect another largescale engagement. But it never hurt to be ready.

Noting the growing presence of doves in the regional assemblies, the federal government ultimately decided to recommend to their Osteuropan allies a pragmatic stance on the Angolan situation that kept principles intact whilst avoiding a second front with Brazil, and isolating Rhodesia and the OFS. The draft proposal asked for a commitment for no more heavy weaponry to be imported into Angola in the interests of African security, and for a commitment to free and fair elections in Angola with international observers. In return the UNI and allies would commit to normalising relations with the new Angola pursuant to the outcome of elections, and release some of its export controls on Brazil over the following months.

by **Parcia** » Thu May 13, 2021 2:35 pm

Waters off Madagascar

The UNI ship tailing them was unexpected, but not surprising. None the less, they went about their business. The Ian Smith still looked to be the Greek Freighter, and the other warships were all still under the Osteuropan flag and ensign.

The formation shifted, the Ropucha class Caeser Kunicov radioed the Knight of Malta as its three smaller escorts, the Burya, Briz, and Volna formed a picket screen at 6 kilo-yards of the two larger ships, while the larger escort, the Storozhevoy put her self in between the Malta and her charges, doing periodic radar sweeps with her fire control radars.

The Caeser Kunicov radioed the Knight of Malta over an open frequency.

—Greetings, unidentified ship, this is Osteuropan Warship Caeser Kunicov, officially requesting your reason for shadowing our formation, over.—

by **Socialist Internationale of Osteuropa** » Thu May 13, 2021 10:18 pm

Co-Operative post between TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON and Socialist Internationale of Osteuropa:

Tokyo, Japan
Yokota Air Base
January 15, 1990

Sakurauchi looked surprised but nodded towards Red-22 and replied in Japanese. "Your language skills are very impressive. It is truly an honor to meet you."
Then looking at the two other Osteuropeans continued in English, "Right this way. We have our cars ready and they will take you to see the Prime Minister shortly."

Tokyo, Japan
Prime Minister's Office
January 15, 1990

Prime Minister Nazaki bowed towards the GEHIRN agents as they were led into his office. To his right sat General Hayashi, General Tojo, and Vice Admiral Hashiguchi since Admiral Aioi could not make it. To his left was Deputy Prime Minister Masereba and Lord Keeper of the Privy Seal of Japan Shōichi Fujimori.
Nazaki walked over towards the GEHIRN agents. "Welcome, I am Prime Minister Nazaki and these are some of my closest advisors. I hope that your ride here went well. Feel free to take a seat so we can begin discussions. I believe first on the agenda is about our compensation for your lost ships and future cooperation?"

With Blue-14 and Black-17 having themselves seated, and with Blue-14 sliding a briefcase off to Red-22, she’d take control of the interaction, being that she’s the one capable of the native language, as she gives the Prime Minister nod and sits in the middle between the two agents with her. “Not true, actually. The latter is correct, however: the enemy of our enemy is you. And you, are our friend. However, those weren’t our ships. After the Berlin Wall fell, the ships were either meant to be transferred to the Union Guard, or sent to allies like the MDF after their seizure. We managed only to take in some equipment for study and re-manufacture for export, but that was only getting 5% of the real deal from 95% of the stock. The carriers were seized from the navy as well. Despite their age, the Kiev’s especially weren’t meant to be sent to the MDF. They had capability with our future plans, and for the most part, still had usage for our next generation VTOL fighters. It’s a shame to lose those two carriers, but we can manage. For now however, our offer of compensation, would be... in co-operation.” Red-22 states as she opens the briefcase, and lays the papers out in a neat stack.

“Osteuropa is a dying union. They lie to the public and international community in almost all regards, and anyone of non-Germanic origin is treated as second-class. They’ve been forcing the only way for better status is within serving the country. They want our people to sacrifice themselves for their empire. The nationalists, the religious, anyone who doesn’t adhere to the Assembly is an enemy of the state.”

“GEHIRN used to be their finest asset to deal with then, but they gave us power. More and more over the years, to the point where we influenced and controlled over everything from the colleges, to the prisons, all the way up to the military-industrial complex. Besides being allied with the military and the manufacturers, with their research bureaus, it’s allowed us to independently stock and arm the forces away from the party’s budget and eyes. To counter that, they created the Union Guard a decade ago and armed them with as much older equipment, vying for their quantity over our quality. Our info as well as your torpedoes allowed us to deal a sizable blow to their forces, and with their naval entities being sent to the Mozambique Channel, they’re overall defenseless. Thus, by the anniversary of the union...” She unveils a paper, a plan for invasion, and the plan of a new state, encapsulating the Black Sea and separating it off from what is labelled as the “ex-Osteuropa”, which is shown fragmented into various of dozens of states.

“We wish to establish a nationalist state similar to your own, in the midst of the Ukraine. To enforce a colossal naval power that shall ensure that socialism dies with Osteuropa and the Soviet Union, and one to help disassemble other regimes, like the other Asian powers. And to leave the rest of East Europe to fend itself, collapsed within chaos and anarchy with no value left to it. To ensure that it shall never rise into Osteuropa ever again.” Red-22 stops her postulation to allow them to respond, as she goes and aims to ready further papers.

Prime Minister Nazaki gave a nod. "I see it is a common goal between us to see that Osteuropa falls. In terms of non-military cooperation, I have been in discussions with my Minister of Finance, and we are prepared to secretly 'reevaluate' whatever existing sanctions on your organization as well as offer financial support where we can. In terms of military support, we can give just that. Basing, limited air and naval support, intelligence, possibly special forces and some equipment, and access to Japanese factories to produce supplies in secret for your planned invasion. That is where my commanders come in." He looked towards General Hayashi.

General Hayashi gave a small grin. "While we do not wish to go to a state of all out war with Osteuropa, the Imperial Army is willing to have its Air Force provide support to your operations, although at this range, I would assume most of the Army's air involvement will be in regards to intelligence missions. In regards to intelligence, that can be provided by the Kenpeitai."

Vice Admiral Hashiguchi now spoke up. "We do wish that the majority of our assets remain in the Pacific, however our submarines, and possibly a carrier group could be at your disposal if you so wish. We are less restricted to provide your forces with areas to train. Japan has a vast range of climates and terrains, and we are willing to allow your forces to train at our facilities or in coordination with ours."

Prime Minister Nazaki gave a smile. "In short, we are able to help if you tell us where you need it, and how we can assist."

“Of course. All of your support is appreciated. With the colossal amount of support we have at home, I believe we can handle this war by the end of March at worst. We shall change the scale of Europe with your aid, and even without your maximum assistance...” Red-22 would take a stand, getting herself straight stood, and soon takes a formal bow to the group. “I myself swear to all of GEHIRN that we shall hold our loyalty and assistance to the Emperor as long as the rising sun shines over the world. The Black Sea will be your home from home, with the largest ports and airbases in Europe at your disposal when all is said and done. To the aid you give us, we shall give to you, and I swear to that. We all do.”

In English, Blue-14 chimes in, deciding to have a word in as well. “If you’re going to have warships in Europe, then it’s fair enough that if we’re to compensate, we’ll station ourselves a carrier fleet to aid alongside the effort against the MDF. If there’s one thing we’re hopeful for, though, is if you’d help threaten the Northern Islands if they try to intervene in the coup. Their grandstanding, especially with the pittance they tried against your attack, shows their efforts are futile. But an annoyance, and quite a great one.”

At the same time, Black-17 does have an idea in mind. “If anything, we’ll gladly be able to help deal with the problem south. Our bombers, namely the Tupolev series of strategic bombers, can send missiles from a takeoff in, say, Kyushu, and in under 5 minutes with a single flight of one, a dozen missiles could be sent to a fleet. With more flights planned and with other varying support, we could flood their sensors and defenses with almost hundreds in under an hour: enough that they’d be unable to counter back every single missile in the sky. I do have reports that the Union Guard is still aiming to send supplies from the sky... and our interceptors may be perfect to deal with them far out of the MDF’s operational range. Plus... I know the men in the bureaus are looking for all the help they can in adjusting to the projected “5th generation” of aircraft. And with all brains alight, we’d be happy to share the designs to you as well.”

"Well, this informal agreement is really shaping up. Aside from aid, yes our other objective will be to deter intervention from your actions. If the Northern Islands chooses to intervene, it will complicate things and so we would be willing to exert immense pressure on them to refrain. As previously said, we do not wish to become involved in an all out war. It would risk nuclear conflict, and we recognize nuclear conflict with most European states would be a mistake. However if the Northern Islands became involved, the danger it would pose to your plans and our own would mean we would be willing to exert military force against them." said Nazaki.

General Toshio Tojo, son of the former Prime Minister and General Hideki Tojo and head of the Army Air Force looked serious just as his father used to be. "We already are considering sending a flight off tomorrow Mozambique as a show of force to the Northern Islands since they fired missiles at the Orange Free State whom we have friendly relations with. While we don't actually condone the invasion by Rhodesia or the Orange Free State, we are thinking that we need to remind the Northerners to mind their own business and keep out of affairs not involving them."

He pulled out files to show to the group. "We intend to send three of our fully loaded Nakajima G10N-Kai bombers to patrol and conduct an information gathering flight. It will be helpful for us as we calculate logistics since we may be using similar aircraft at a similar distance in your operations sooner or later. They are not new bombers, but they do their job well."

"I would be very interested to plan operations against the MDF and have technical cooperation with the GEHIRN. The base you landed at today is one we use for experimentation, maybe we can jointly develop projects there. But aside from the future, I believe we have plans for you later this week to view our drills. There you will be able to observe us in action, and maybe then we can plan out our role in your invasion better. The upcoming drills are the biggest since the War, so it will truly be something... Whatever the case, I believe you now have a solid plan for your invasion, and we an agreement, all we need to do is execute it in the coming months.”

"I and my associates are most excited to see what comes of this, as well as what we can do alongside one another: though however, I must state that we are on a matter of a deadline right now: by the end of next month, GEHIRN is slated to be de-established, and for all agents to be set for punishment. They're trying to peel the military from beneath our grip and to ensure their Union Guard replaces it as a whole, so that they would inherit all of the modern equipment that we've kept held away from them. If that happens, they'll be stronger then ever, a union that'll be able to take apart all of Europe and Africa in a matter of a decade. For that, we stand firmly opposed. As well as... the various other acts they've committed to." At this point, Red-22 takes out a large, printed document, one which was binded together and on the front page was labelled "The Salamis Manuscript of Osteuropean Crimes".

"Suppression of polytheistic religions, suppression of political beliefs and destruction of all non left-wing parties, human experimentation, erasure and destruction of historical sites, prison labor camps, small-scale massacres, forced migration... a crime which I was a victim of, as well as embezzlement of funds into personal and offshore accounts within the MDF and other nations, disappearances, and overall violations of human rights. They have censored as much as they could with the east of Europe being their playground for overall disrespecting humanity, and I for one, as well as all of us within GEHIRN, will want everyone to see this evidence. In the upcoming weeks, we'll ensure that we sabotage and eliminate as much as we can before the true war begins. But for now, we stand at the wait to reveal their crimes to the world, and by your side in your plight against the masses of socialism. "If you give us the signal, we will be ready to aid in any strikes among our common enemies as soon as we are done this meeting, and to help however we can before we establish our own regional empire to deal with fixing and strengthening the Black Sea into a force to destroy the evils among the world. Our shipyards and manufacturers are yours to commission as you wish."

Prime Minister Nazaki looked grim. "My condolences for the crimes of the Osteuropean state. If it helps, I can arrange for several of our publications such as NHK to get word of these crimes and help to spread this terrible news. We only wish to help you and your people survive and win the coming war. We are even willing to push back our operational plans should you need more support against the Union Guard."

He paused for a second. "Actually while it is our mission to help you, there is one thing we seek. We already are ramping up our domestic production as we prepare for war. Guns, munitions, naval craft, tanks, missiles, and planes. However we wish to purchase or borrow, whichever is best, some Soviet aircraft if you have any in your possession. We are aware the MDF has Soviet aircraft in their stocks, and as such we would like to have access to some to test to determine their weaknesses, as well as study. If possible, we wish to buy a single example of a Sukhoi Su-24, a MiG-25, a Sukhoi Su-25, and a MiG-29 if possible."

"I have been assured by my commanders that our Mitsubishi F-15Js on on par or more advanced than most of the MDF's aircraft, however it is planes like the MiG-29 that concern me, as in the hands of the right pilot, they are extremely dangerous. However if you can provide us with some of these aircraft, we can practice with them and find their weaknesses to exploit. Together, we can create liberate our regions, free of oppression and socialism, to secure our people and the people of the world!"

Black-17 sits himself up and grabs a notebook, writing down the project numbers as he looks on down, thinking it over a little. “We’ll send over a couple others as well. While we don’t share entirely similar equipment, we can still procure similar aircraft to try and give you a decently comparative testbed for whatever you require. It helps that with those air convoys, I believe that they’ll still have newer Tornadoes sent to them. They’re a possible match against your F-15’s, considering that the closest aircraft we have to compare with would be the MiG-23. However, what truly matters of course, is the training.” He’d note, as he goes ahead and looks to Red-22, who gives a nod to the Prime Minister.

“Spread it across all fronts. It is a win-win: the news gets out, and if it is heard, the Assembly will lose all support. If the allies of the Assembly do not hear it and blindly support them... then it shows who the true oppressive regimes are, does it not?”

Prime Minister Nazaki nodded. "We are grateful for whatever you can provide for us to test." He paused. "Once I get word to our state press and other newspapers, they will be publishing the news for Japan to see. With luck, it will spread, although I am sure a few phone calls here and there can get it to spread to the Americas and other parts of Asia."

“Then I believe it’s all settled. All of Japan will know their true allies lie within the shadow of the red menace, and that the world will bear witness to the suppression of a crimson beast. With your help, we will make sure that the ideals of the Co-Prosperity Sphere are brought back into fruition, and that Japan is to be a truly feared name across all seas.” Standing at attention again, Red-22 leads a salute to the prime minister and his associates, with a smile across her face, one arm behind her back and another struck right up at the top of her forehead, giving a bit of a shout as the other two stayed quiet, only smiling to the matter thatthey know her excitement and attitude will be the best bet for the sake of their unity. ”Tennoheika banzai!”

In the downtime before the meeting with the Prime Minister and the naval drills viewing with the Emperor, the three agents decide to indulge as much as they can within the time they had, with Red-22 working on making purchases of model kits and foods of various types, while Blue-14 took to finding himself some way to get out into the Sea of Japan and simply fish to pass the time: while the Caspian and the Black Seas had a lot to offer, the Pacific was a whole new adventure. And finally, grounded for the time being though still looking to simply enjoy himself, Black-17 takes to anywhere he can, mostly seeing to hang and try to talk with the locals, while taking to seeing his chances on buying alcohol and, unlike the other two, does begin planning on matters involving the hypothetical offensive against the MDF. Best to keep it just as a thought for the time being: he assumes it’ll be after their revolution back home.

by **Livonia and Samland** » Thu May 13, 2021 10:21 pm

Parabellum

A year had passed since the initiation of Project 374, the official designation for the Grand Duchy's properly underway nuclear armament program. All the recent fuss in Africa and the movements of the neighbouring communist states further added to the anxiety of the Livonian leadership, and put pressure on the scientists to complete the project as swiftly as possible. Who, afterall, knew when the final struggle would begin? Livonia had to finish crafting its shield, and it had to be ready sooner rather than later. Even so, it would still be a fair bit of time before the enrichment process yielded enough material for the creation of the weapon itself, there is still work that can be done in the meantime.

Namely, the primary focus of the project's team was the design of the warheads and the delivery mechanism. In fact, their orders had specified the creation of a number of different types of nuclear warheads for various applications. First and foremost, the project was to lay out initial plans for ballistic missiles capable of striking any point within the territory of Osteuropa and the UNI, the primary projected opponents in any future conflict. This was to be done before any of the other designs. Next in the queue were some possible options for SLBMs, and for several more "unorthodox" designs. Of course, even completing the first of these was a ways off, but they had their work cut out for them.

When it was all over, both the project staff and the brass hoped this would safeguard Livonia from any future aggression, or at least, make any enemy think twice before directly striking the Grand Duchy again.

Despite all the country's impressive and extensive fortifications, programs, and measures, there was still a fundamental problem with the Livonian Armed Forces: manpower. No matter what they did, no matter how cunning their plans or extensive their recruitment drives, they would never have enough for a drawn out war of attrition against their bigger neighbours. Even with Project 374, there was no guarantee that nuclear weapons alone would deter their foes. Perhaps some sort of unexpected air defense mechanism could neutralize all their missiles, or they could be knocked out or compromised by foreign agents in worst case scenario. Or, even worse, the enemy could attempt a preemptive strike on Livonia before the project was fully operational. Regardless of the circumstances, they could not grow complacent. They had to be ready for anything.

A keystone in the defense of the Grand Duchy was the Luftstreitkräfte, the Livonian Air Force. They above all were the most prestigious and prized of the branches of the armed forces. They only accepted the best, and they received a disproportionate percentage of the military budget. However, in a drawn out war, no matter how skilled, they would suffer attrition. Even if they defeated their opposite number in a ratio of 10:1, an optimistic figure, they would still lose out in the end. They needed better equipment, but more than that, they needed a means to reduce their losses as much as possible, and also to help counteract the problems of general personnel shortages that were sure to occur in the future.

Because of this situation, the Oberkommando der Luftstreitkräfte had devised a plan. They would order the beginning of development and research into the construction of a large fleet of UAVs, a technology in its relative infancy. These could potentially fill roles in CAS, bombing, and operations in high-risk areas. It would be expensive, and there were sure to be holdups and problems in the early days of the program, but they could save the lives of many pilots and help to increase air coverage in the future. If it went well, this could even see other applications in the future. This new program would thus be given its project number as "404", and scouting for manufacturers and designers for it was to begin as soon as possible.

by **Redpeake** » Fri May 14, 2021 5:36 am

"The Knight has visual on the convoy, sir. Greek ship flanked by Osteuropan-flagged warships. Configurations to come."

In his command centre in the bowels of the Mjolnir, General Rausing scratched his head.

"That doesn't scan. I'm on the MASF joint committee and we've not heard anything about new ships. Get comms to contact both Osteuropan high command and the commander of Osteuropan ships committed to the MASF. See if they recognise these ships."

The staff officer nodded.

"The Knight is also being contacted by one of the ships, sir. The Caeser Kunicov. Commander Jimenez wants a steer on what to say to them."

"Nothing until we've confirmed with the Osteuropans who they are. If it checks out, we'll patch in and apologise. If it doesn't, this gets worse. Put Ops on full alert."

Rausing was already rattled. He had seen on the wires that both the UNI government and Osteuropa were making nice with the Brazilians and planning to attend "constructive talks." He was no hawk and no dove either; he wielded violence carefully, pragmatically. But it seemed a bit off that one invasion gets peace talks and the other gets 400 Viper missiles. This, he supposed, was why he avoided politics.

by **Parcia** » Fri May 14, 2021 7:16 pm

Redpeake wrote:"The Knight has visual on the convoy, sir. Greek ship flanked by Osteuropan-flagged warships. Configurations to come."

In his command centre in the bowels of the Mjolnir, General Rausing scratched his head.

"That doesn't scan. I'm on the MASF joint committee and we've not heard anything about new ships. Get comms to contact both Osteuropan high command and the commander of Osteuropan ships committed to the MASF. See if they recognise these ships."

The staff officer nodded.

"The Knight is also being contacted by one of the ships, sir. The Caeser Kunicov. Commander Jimenez wants a steer on what to say to them."

"Nothing until we've confirmed with the Osteuropans who they are. If it checks out, we'll patch in and apologise. If it doesn't, this gets worse. Put Ops on full alert."

Rausing was already rattled. He had seen on the wires that both the UNI government and Osteuropa were making nice with the Brazilians and planning to attend "constructive talks." He was no hawk and no dove either; he wielded violence carefully, pragmatically. But it seemed a bit off that one invasion gets peace talks and the other gets 400 Viper missiles. This, he supposed, was why he avoided politics.

Put ops on full alert.

This order was mirrored as the Captain of the Storozhevoy peered through his binos at the similarly sized frigate as it tailed him and his charge. The UNI light frigate was newer, and more efficiently built, but from what he could tell off his inteligence cards she was almost purely an ASW escort, and while his vessel was similarly equipped, his primary weapons, the Silex missiles, could be used in Anti-shipping operations as well.

None the less, he kept his men at war time standards. For once they were jovial about it, happy to be actually earning a paycheck. The political officer that had normally hung over his shoulder and was 15 years his junior, who also lacked sea legs, had been recalled. Replaced by a bilingual Rhodesian officer he suspected was former Royal Navy based on his mannerisms and accent.

This officer was simple, kind, and courteous and most importantly, let his captain run his ship. They were under orders to defend them selves, but to defer to the Rhodesian if things truly got hot. The current plan was to swing as wide as they could around Madagascar with out being stopped by the UNI/MASF.

Legally they didn’t have the right to, UN supported International Maritime law pretty much made everything they were doing legal and would be in their full right to fire back if accosted. That and being still under the Ostepean ensign and their ships were still acting under their orders.

but, the MASF had shown them selves to be interventionists in matters they well and truly should have stayed out of. The Captain was not a political man, but he did agree with his African friend in some respects, and that those who showed might were often right by sheer fact of the matter.

His friend had been keeping him up to date about their war at home, and while he held the mentioned true, he also knew the Rhodesians were likely making time for their reply.

The Port of Murmansk
Russia

She was old, commissioned in 1968, but her hull held true and her keel straight. She had been a Kresta-I, refitted in 1975 for the ASW role of the Kresta-II but taken back for service in 1987. The Project 934K was a command variant design, one that was never built...besides the one hull. Adopting the title 934-Zulu

Starting from bow to stern, she fitted a pair of RBU-6000 rocket launchers, behind that sat a twin arm launcher sitting atop its own magazine, firing both “Gadfly” AA missiles and Silex duel purpose anti-submarine and anti-surface ship missiles in its internal magazine. Behind this, in two recessed areas, sat a pair of launchers, two tubes each, for the P-700/SS-N-19 “shipwreck” heavy anti-spatial ship cruise missiles, with loading hatches to the rear for a single reload each.

Further along the sides of the vessel sat, on each side, a pair of AK-6-30 Point defense cannons and their fire control radar and nestled in between them were a set of twin tube ASW torpedo launchers. Further back past the masts and other radars, as well as the smoke stack, sat two 57mm AK-725 duel purpose auto cannons with the second twin arm launcher sat center line behind them. Between the rear SAM launcher and the expansive aviation facilities sat mounted a single 130mm AK-130 naval artillery mount.

Lastly, taking up the stern of the ship, lay said expansive aviation facility. While only having the one helipad, there was enough room for 4-5 KA-27 ASW helicopters, or as many as 7 of the Rhodesian built MD-500 ASW Defender craft, though for her trip from Murmansk to Cape Town, she chose her more capable Russian birds.

Lastly, aside from a mixture of 12.7 and 14.5mm heavy machine gun mounts littered across the railings, lay another pair of RBU-6000 launchers.

She had originally been top heavy, but a refit to her build plan that pushed her re-commissioning as the RNS Corsair, her new name being chosen by a mixed vote of her largely Russian enlisted crew and Rhodesian officers, many of which were former Royal Navy men persuaded to the cause.

Flying the green ensign and being given a military escort as far south as the Mediterranean, she began her second leg down the east coast of Africa. She was, as commissioned on 24thDEC1989, the single most heavily armed and capable warship in the nacant Rhodesian navy.

She headed in to a most interesting situation.

by **The Bio-Regional Cooperative of States** » Sat May 15, 2021 10:20 pm

New Eyes

The Space Program of the Technate, headed by the North American Space Department, is one of the many scientific prides of the nation. Inheriting a wealth of information and spacecraft from its NASA predecessors, it has maintained a high standard for itself as the leading global force for space exploration and research. Maintaining a vast fleet of space probes, several on the way to exit the Solar System itself, it is the pioneering force in the last frontier to establish humanity’s future, with a wealth of resources allocated to its objectives, it remains as one of the few prides of the Technate’s operation. Much to the disdain to the scientists and engineers of the NASD, it has also found itself interlinked with the Armed Forces of the Technate on many occasions. An advanced array of closely monitored surveillance satellites has provided the Continental Board with eyes across the globe even in its long period of inactivity on the world stage. Despite this, scientific discovery has remained at the forefront of its objectives, and the bounds of its ability to see farther into the universe and uncover its many secrets will be pushed with today’s launch. For nearly the past decade, scientists and engineers have collaborated with one another to construct one of the most advanced space telescopes to date. The Hubble Space telescope, named after Edwin Hubble, will provide the Technate’s scientists with new eyes to look deeper into the universe than ever before. On a nationally broadcasted program, at precisely 10:00 AM, the shuttle containing the telescope was launched from the North American Launch Operations Center in Merritt Island, Florida. Millions watched as their fellow men and women rose to the stars once more, accompanying the colossal instrument, the great tower of smoke offering inspiration to many to continue to explore the stars alongside their brothers and sisters.

"Today, I take great pride in witnessing one of the most important moments of not only the history of the Technate's Space Program, but for Astronomy and Space Exploration as a whole. Named after the great Edwin Powel Hubble, the Hubble Space telescope, just like its namesake, will allow us to uncover the secrets of the universe in a greater detail than ever thought imaginable. Through the hard work of our talented scientists and engineers we have given ourselves a new set of eyes to gaze farther into the universe than ever before. Today, we take a great step in discovering our place in the universe, and perhaps this is only the start to our great path in the Cosmos. Today, we begin a new age of discovery, not only for the Technate, but for the whole of humanity, and that starts with the Hubble Space Telescope. " -NASD Administrator Truly, before the launch of the Hubble Space Telescope.

Diplomatic Endeavors

Socialist Internationale of Osteuropa wrote:

North American coast, near Boston, Massachusetts

Flying high over the skies of Boston, a small group of aircraft would be heading in to try and gain clearance to land at Boston Airport, ones of Osteuropean origin: they were a passenger airliner and two cargo aircraft, circling around the water and trying to reduce their fuel usage, as the pilot of the passenger airliner would call out to the ATC tower down below.

"Interflug Flight 092 to KBOS, requesting VIP transport landing, have two cargo craft also waiting for landing, we have precious cargo and are hoping to land in due time. Looking to land and meet with specific individuals, please respond ASAP. We have highly special and valuable cargo, and are looking to display, over."

Logan International Airport

Greater Boston, Northeast Technate.

New signatures appeared alongside the usual traffic on the ASR of Traffic Control, as visual confirmation was soon made. Osteuropean. Two Cargo and One Passenger, noncombat. A speaker soon crackled to life in the ear of an ATC, the mission of these aircraft being stated. After a brief conversation with other personnel, a response was made.

“KBOS to Interflug Flight 092, your request has been granted, and you are free to land at Terminal C, Runway 15R. Contact has been made with Continental Agents, and will meet upon your request upon landing, over.”

Crimetopolis wrote:

Off the Technate Coast:

"Greetings from New Orange Free State! We are the Antelope, a trade ship bearing diamonds and gold and offer of alliance with your esteemed nation."

Port of Miami

Miami, Southern Technate

The Port Command received a transmission from a ship just off the coast of Florida, the Antelope, hailing from the New Orange Free State. The operators of said port were in no position to speak of such terms, and returned with the following:

“The Antelope has been granted docking permissions; from there you may speak with requested personnel at your leisure.”

by **TENNOHEIKA BANZAI NIHON** » Mon May 17, 2021 2:33 am

Tokyo, Japan
Imperial General Staff Headquarters
January 18, 1990

As the bomber operation off the coast of Africa was underway, Imperial High Command had begun to finalize its list of targets in the MDF invasion operation. However now the specifics were very important.

General Tojo presented the map of targets to the Prime Minister and the rest of the Supreme War Council alongside several commanders from the Army and Navy. "Gentlemen, here is our current operational plan for strikes on the MDF. In the first stage, our naval air forces will launch strikes across the Philippines primarily hitting Naval Base Cavite and Naval Base Subic Bay as well as Naval Station Jose Andrada, Clark Air Base, Colonel Jesus Villamor Air Base, Camp General Mariano Riego de Dios, Camp Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo, and Fort Andres Bonifacio. We estimate between 300 and 600 aircraft will carry out these strikes. They will additionally target air defenses, ships, ground vehicles, and air threats."

"Our second stage will consist of 32 cruise missiles fired by four of our cruisers at San Vicente Airbase with other anti-ship missiles being directed from our fleet towards targets determined one in location. Unfortunately, due to our lack of cruise missile launchers on our ships, that is all we can launch at a given time. As a result, it is of the utmost importance our bomber forces launch missile strikes from long range. We estimate we can launch around 300 additional missiles from roughly 25 bombers this way. These would be directed to Sepanggar Naval Base and other air and radar locations in the Philippines. "

"The third stage would be to fire ballistic missiles from the Ryukyu towards Benito Ebuen Air Base, Rajah Buayan Air Station, Camp O'Donnell, and Camp General Vicente Lukban in the Philippines, and bases inside Indonesia. We can fire around 200 missiles over the course of two hours, and then proceed to fire another salvo that night towards targets designated by the council and towards Thailand."

"With each stage happening around the same time, out whole attack should be able to demoralize the MDF, destroy major installations, their naval forces, and elements of their air force. At this same time, out SNLF will conduct landings on several remote MDF islands ahead of a larger ground invasion."

Prime Minister Nazaki nodded. "Impressive."

Admiral Aioi bowed. "Sir, it is our belief our strike will need to include a stronger blow. Our fleet is equipped for naval warfare, not bombardment. We could use investment, but in the short term, we have weighed mounting our older missile systems on cargo ships. They would be extremely vulnerable, but we could launch dozens more of our older, shorter range missiles, making up for the 32 fired by the cruisers."

Nazaki stroked his chin. "I suppose said modification to a few cargo ships could not hurt."

Tojo nodded. "Yes sir, I have already forwarded such to be in our new defense budget request to the Imperial Diet. This plan is still in its early stages, and will only get more elaborate as we go along. We have the list of main targets drawn up, and now our objective is to plan how to strike them. We are still looking into other strikes to gain insight."

Nazaki gave a grim smile. "Very good for now. The plan is very rough, but the current target list is approved. Continue with your operational planning ahead of our drills and I would like to see your next report on the planning to me after our drills. You are dismissed."

Tokyo, Japan
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
January 18, 1990

Message from the Imperial Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
To the United Northern Islands Embassy
Encryption: Diplomatic
1990.01.18

The Empire of Japan only seeks for lasting peace in the Orient and the world. The divine aims our Empire holds true to, formulated by Our Great Illustrious Imperial Grandsire, are to contribute to peace and prosperity across the world. However, if peace is threatened, our Empire will have no choice but to appeal to arms and destroy all that oppose it. It is our recommendation that the UNI not interfere in Asia with Imperialist aims. The Empire of Japan will strongly oppose any attacks on Japanese security and any European attempts at neocolonialism in Asia or Africa. Should the peace be broken in the glorious Orient, our only request to the UNI is that it keeps to its own affairs. The Empire has a long reach.

Message from the Imperial Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
To the Orange Free State
Encryption: Medium
1990.01.18

The Empire of Japan accepts your generous offer. It has always been our wish that the people of Asia and Africa find liberation from imperialist clutches, and together, may we realize this.

by **Crimetopolis** » Mon May 17, 2021 11:14 am

Dr. Juan Valdez told the Japanese military attache. "This secondary briefcase contains our nation's atomic weapons programs. We are willing to trade H-bombs for long range nuclear-tipped torpedo technology."

The Technate: Ambassador Bill Williamson met with the Miami based officials. "We are trading to acquire your Pershing 2 ground to ground missile technology. We are willing to pay you in gold, diamonds, and uranium."

Dust Amidst the Plain [IC]

IC:

IC: Angola

IC: Tokyo:

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