Request for Proposals, Federal Ground Forces(FT)(Closed)

by **The Peninsular** » Tue Dec 07, 2021 3:39 pm

Request for Proposals
Constitutional Federal Ground Forces Equipment Acqusition Office

Purpose:Acquisition of foreign armaments to complement areas in which recent experience has shown room for improvement.

Requirements and evaluation process: The RFP will be divided into sections; winning proposals will be determined per section, after evaluation and testing by the EAO. For this purpose, in each section proposals will be evaluated on a technical basis first, and proposals deemed inadequate or otherwise unfit will be eliminated from competition. Demonstration units from the finalists will be requested for the subsequent testing by the EAO. One or more winners may be selected and orders placed accordingly; should none of the proposals prove adequate, previously eliminated proposals may be tested.

Additional information: Please provide a Per-Unit price of purchase in Dollar-equivalent.Be aware that budgetary restraints due to ongoing Ground Forces projects will be taken into account more so than usual in this evaluation. Faster acquisition opportunities will also be taken into account.

The requirements are as follows:

Important note: The Federal Ground Forces regard networked targerting capability as the bare minimum for vehicle communication systems. Proposals without the capability or option to install such capability will likely be subject to elimination in the first round.

Section I): Ability to provide a Close Air Support Gunship at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Craft should be capable of high-accuracy ground strikes on soft and hard, stationary and moving targets and strong low-altitude maneuvering and speed performance and be able to carry heavy weapons and ordnance. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section II): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Anti-Air Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective against forms of Close Air Support and low-flying aerial vehicles. Vehicle should be maneuverable enough for use in urban environments and protected adequately. Point defense capabilities are requested, but not strictly necessary. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section III): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Long Range Anti-Air Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective at engaging all forms of air targets, including fastmovers, at medium to high altitude. Good vehicle maneuverability is not strictly required compared to Section II). Vehicle should, however, possess adequate mobility to reposition frequently. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section IV): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Artillery Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective at indirect fire against most ground targets at long range. Vehicle should be capable of achieving a long-term rate of fire sufficient to sustain a barrage. Vehicle should possess adequate mobility to reposition frequently. Vehicle should be adequately protected. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section V): Ability to provide an Area Defense Unit at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Unit should be effective at protecting from or defending against incoming indirect fire munitions such as shells and missiles. Unit should be air-mobile (= able to be transported by dropship). Capability to move under own power not required, but appreciated. Unit should be able to be supplied with field equipment. Unit must be operable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

by **Huerdae** » Tue Dec 07, 2021 5:39 pm

This proposal created by participating parties of Mah'Lahn Armories, Kai'Kitalli Incorporated, and Togashi Heavy Industries

Section I): Ability to provide a Close Air Support Gunship at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Craft should be capable of high-accuracy ground strikes on soft and hard, stationary and moving targets and strong low-altitude maneuvering and speed performance and be able to carry heavy weapons and ordnance. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Overlord Destroyer-Gunship Chassis
Availability: Moderate
Crew: 2, Pilot and Gunner
Role Compatibility: Matching the Talon's cruising speed and containing a pilot and gunner, the Overlord is otherwise hardly similar to its much smaller sibling. It contains a massive hardpoint encompassing the entire belly, stub wings, and matching forward-facing hardpoints on either side of the cockpit. Heavily armored, it includes standard ECM defensive suites, active countermeasures, and an increased shield system beyond that of either the Talon Chassis or Griffon Chassis. What it gains in armor and protection, it also gains in heavy firepower and loses in maneuverability. While it is no match for a Talon or many other light gunships in terms of maneuverability, it still maintains acceptable capabilities in the three-dimensional combat of today's gunships, able to advance quickly and easily over long distances. While it loses significant speed during turning, it has a surprising agility while at lower speeds, enabling it to target and engage enemy targets with terrifying rapidity or suddenly change direction. The Overlord is designed to linger and support ongoing combat, enduring enemy fire when needed and delivering blistering and overwhelming retribution in response.
Overlord-Variant Armaments: 2x Dual-Mount 60mm Hephaestus Autocannons, 8x wing pylons, Turreted Dual-Mount 60mm Hephaestus Autocannon
Emperor-Variant Armaments: 2x Dual-Mount 60mm Hephaestus Autocannons, 2x Forgefire Cannons on wing pylons, 4x wing pylons, 2x Armored Rocket Bay with auto-reload capabilities
Revenant-Variant Armaments: Expanded EWar Suite, 2x 40mm Rotary Cannons, 6x Defensive-Mount 40mm Hades Rotary Cannons, Dual 105mm Anti-Armor Rail Cannons with SEAD Munitions, Defensive Fire targeting assist module

TRADE NOTICE: OVERLORD DESTROYER-GUNSHIP CHASSIS IS A RESTRICTED WEAPON SYSTEM. FOLLOWING OPERATION SHIELDWALL PENINSULAR FEDERATION IS AN APPROVED PURCHASER BUT ANY RESALE OR LEASE TO OTHER NATIONAL ENTITIES IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN AND PUNISHABLE BY IMMEDIATE END OF ALL STANDING AGREEMENTS

Section II): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Anti-Air Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective against forms of Close Air Support and low-flying aerial vehicles. Vehicle should be maneuverable enough for use in urban environments and protected adequately. Point defense capabilities are requested, but not strictly necessary. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section III): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Long Range Anti-Air Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective at engaging all forms of air targets, including fastmovers, at medium to high altitude. Good vehicle maneuverability is not strictly required compared to Section II). Vehicle should, however, possess adequate mobility to reposition frequently. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section IV): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Artillery Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective at indirect fire against most ground targets at long range. Vehicle should be capable of achieving a long-term rate of fire sufficient to sustain a barrage. Vehicle should possess adequate mobility to reposition frequently. Vehicle should be adequately protected. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section V): Ability to provide an Area Defense Unit at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Unit should be effective at protecting from or defending against incoming indirect fire munitions such as shells and missiles. Unit should be air-mobile (= able to be transported by dropship). Capability to move under own power not required, but appreciated. Unit should be able to be supplied with field equipment. Unit must be operable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

by **Setulan** » Sun Dec 12, 2021 10:02 am

Proposal from the Republic of Setulan: All sales brokered without fee through the Confederation of Allied States.

Section I): Ability to provide a Close Air Support Gunship at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Craft should be capable of high-accuracy ground strikes on soft and hard, stationary and moving targets and strong low-altitude maneuvering and speed performance and be able to carry heavy weapons and ordnance. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section II): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Anti-Air Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective against forms of Close Air Support and low-flying aerial vehicles. Vehicle should be maneuverable enough for use in urban environments and protected adequately. Point defense capabilities are requested, but not strictly necessary. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

Section IV): Ability to provide a Self-Propelled Artillery Vehicle at the bidded price for no fewer than (1) Arret Year (= (1) x 360 Solar days). Vehicle should be effective at indirect fire against most ground targets at long range. Vehicle should be capable of achieving a long-term rate of fire sufficient to sustain a barrage. Vehicle should possess adequate mobility to reposition frequently. Vehicle should be adequately protected. Craft must be pilotable without any cybernetic augmentations, modifications or Man-Machine-Interface whatsoever. Bid should include indication of availability.

by **Alexzonya** » Sun Jan 16, 2022 5:16 pm

Regarding Section I:

Osprey Fabrication GSG-9v10 ‘Osprey X’ Ground Support Gunship
40mm AMC-40/Rv2 ‘Pluto’ Rotary Gun

Hull Modular Bay:
Troop or Supply Transport Module OR
Weapon Carriage Module, which can hold:

Note: The Osprey can be converted into a Peregrine ASG by the installation of Auxiliary Intercept Engine Reactors and Support Systems. However, this upgrade (which uses the Hull Modular Bay) is not modular and requires an entire conversion / rebuild process at a properly equipped depot.

Wing Weapon Bays x2:

Wingtip Heavy Missile Mounts x2:

Auxiliary Rear Fuselage Defensive Bay
32x Fin-Guided Airburst Defensive Chaff Canisters

Osprey Fabrication ASG-9v4 ‘Peregrine X’ Air Superiority Gunship
40mm AMC-40/Rv2 ‘Pluto’ Rotary Gun

Hull Modular Bay:
Auxiliary Intercept Engine Reactor and Support Systems
Note: Unlike on the Osprey, the use of the hull module for intercept engine systems is non-modular and an integral part of the system, and so cannot be substituted except by a total conversion / rebuild at a properly equipped rear-area depot. This would convert the Peregrine into a normal Osprey GSG.
Wing Weapon Bays x2:

Wingtip Mounts x2:

Auxiliary Rear Fuselage Defensive Bay
32x Fin-Guided Airburst Defensive Chaff Canisters

The Arkasian Osprey X Ground Support Gunship (and it’s cousin, the Peregrine X Air Superiority Gunship) are the most modern versions of the venerable gunship chassis that has been in service with the Arkasian military, in myriad forms and with plentiful upgrades, since before their arrival in NS-01. The Osprey X is an enormous leap forward relative to the previous v9 version, in that the hull can now be used in ways other than troop transport. In particular, the troop bay can now be replaced with a weapon carriage bay, approximately doubling the weapon capacity of the Osprey X relative to the older versions if troop carriage is not required. The revised version also has access to a variety of new weapons, including the Guardian long-range air-to-air missile, the Piranha atomic guided fold-fin aerial rocket, and the Sentry atmospheric area defense missile. The Peregrine variant trades off the hull bay for a series of boost engines and extra reactor systems, allowing it to obtain speeds more in line with an atmospheric superiority fightcraft than a support gunship. Both versions are exceedingly nimble, though the Peregrine is significantly faster. Durability is moderate, with both variants carrying lightweight glassene (graphene that automatically increases all-spectrum reflectivity when energized with a sufficiently powerful directed energy weapon) sheathing and shield generators. The glassene, conversely, is almost entirely non-reflective across most of the EM spectrum in a resting state, which provides excellent protection against conventional active sensors such as RADAR or LADAR systems. Combined with sophisticated targeting and sensor systems on both variants of both active and passive natures, the Osprey is an extremely deadly package, able to detect a target (or have target coordinates fed to it by other forces within the same battlefield network), engage the target using a myriad of weapon options, and then disengage using its protective and stealth capabilities.

Black-Gold Limited GSG-10v3 ‘Wyvern III’ Ground Support Gunship
125mm Magnetic Cannon AMC-125v3, 2x 40mm AMC-40/Rv2 ‘Pluto’ Rotary Gun, 60mm Hearthfire Cannon, 4x Recurve Shortbow Missile Tubes (reloadable internally)

The Arkasian Wyvern III varies from its Huerdaen parent on a number of fronts. While remaining a formidable ground support gunship with the armament clustered to the starboard side, a number of changes have been made to the specifics. The most noticeable adjustment is the variation in armament: in place of the original loadout, the 105mm railgun has been substituted for the larger 125mm AMC-125v3 Magnetic Cannon, which boasts a large explosive shell. The 60mm Hesphasteus cannon previously present under the nose has been replaced with a 60mm Hearthfire cannon (an Arkasian magnetic-assist variant of the Hephaestus that mirrors the Huerdaen Forgefire upgrade), which offers significantly improved anti-armor capabilities. The 40mm Hades cannons have been replaced by an Arkasian domestic alternative, the 40mm ‘Pluto’ magnetic cannon. Lastly, two pairs of launching tubes for Recurve Shortbow anti-tank missiles have been added; these tubes can be reloaded internally, and offer additional long-range precision fire support capabilities to the Wyvern III.

Black-Gold Limited LSG-10v3 ‘Pegasus III’ Landing Support Gunship

The Pegasus is based on the same chassis of the Wyvern, but uses its heavy-lift capabilities very differently. Two underwing-struts are mounted, one per side, to allow the carriage of lightweight vehicles such as the Kodiak-chassis (or equivalent Arkasian hardware, with an appropriate adaptor installed). The Pegasus can carry two Kodiaks (fully loaded for combat) at a time, or a single heavy vehicle such as a Goliath tank at significantly degraded speed and maneuverability characteristics due to the weight imbalance that results. The Pegasus carries a 60mm Hearthfire cannon under the nose as its primary armament.

Notice Regarding Sections II and III: The Arkasian Duelist v3 bid in Section II retains significant over-the-horizon engagement power due to its capability to launch the ‘Guardian’ long-range surface-to-air missile. Likewise, the ‘Python’ bid in Section III retains excellent capabilities for engagement within line-of-sight.

Regarding Section II:

Olympia Fabrication H-11 ‘Fencer II’ - ‘Duelist v3’ Air Defense Variant

The latest in the Duelist line of air defense vehicles for the Arkasian Marine Corps, the v3 is the most sophisticated to date. The primary updates are improvements to VI expert systems, sensors, and fire control which allow the Duelist to be operated by a single MMI’ed individual. In lieu of an MMI connection, a crew of three is recommended (though the system can be operated in traditional mode by a single individual). The armament has also been somewhat overhauled. First, the Guardian-G long-range missile has been adapted for surface-to-air use, providing an over-the-horizon optimized missile with better range characteristics than the Reflex Shortbow. The Guardian-G uses a myriad of stealth features to approach the target without detection, and then uses an approach scramjet to accelerate into immediate contact and launch its anti-aircraft payload. Secondly, the Duelist v3 has been updated to allow it to fire Recurve Shortbow anti-tank missiles in addition to the Reflex Shortbow anti-aircraft missiles. While the Duelist makes an expensive and over-equipped tank destroyer, when so-armed it is remarkably effective in a pinch, able to launch all eight of its missile hardpoints in quick succession against as many as eight different targets. Lastly, the 50mm magnetic gun has been upgraded to the new AMC-50v8GP General Purpose Gun, which is an enormously flexible weapon. Featuring enormous flexible capacitor and loading characteristics, the AMC-50v8GP can dynamically switch between velocity and rate of fire on its projectiles, as well as through various types of ammunition in the advanced autoloading system, to immediately account for changes in battlefield situations. As with most Arkasian air defense vehicles, the Duelist v3 features both passive and active tracking modes. Passive mode relies entirely on passive sensor and acquisition systems, or from feeds from other sources within the battlefield network. In this mode, the Duelist v3 does not emit detectable radiation from its sensor systems. In Active mode, the Duelist v3 actively scans for targets; this provides somewhat better fidelity ‘over the horizon’ or in other cases where passive lines-of-sight are obscured, but at the risk of revealing the system’s position or alerting enemies that air defense is attempting target acquisition.
*The weapon modules for the Duelist v3 are currently limited to the Fencer II chassis at this time. They may be able to be adapted to a domestic Peninsularian platform, but some reengineering may be required of either the weapon systems or the chassis.

Skywolf Industries H-12 ‘Lynx’ - ‘Skywatcher v2’ Air Defense Variant

The Skywatcher Lynx variant is based on the Lynx scout vehicle chassis, which offers exceptional maneuverability and reasonable armor within a compact package. The Skywatcher is the air-defense variant of this smaller, lighter, and less expensive alternative to the Fencer II chassis. It carries a pair of rapid-fire 25mm bore magnetic cannons in a high-traverse configuration, optimized for engaging thin-skinned air targets or as medium point defense. It also has four launch points for Reflex Shortbow anti-aircraft missiles. Due to the constraints of the platform, the Skywatcher is not equipped to launch the Guardian-G long-range anti-atmospheric missile. In total system weight, the Skywatcher Lynx is less than half that of the Duelist Fencer II, which results in a lighter logistics footprint proportionately.

*The weapons modules for the Skywatcher can be purchased independently and mounted to a domestic Peninsularian vehicle.

Regarding Section III:

Almara Industrial H-7 ‘Cobra’ - ‘Python’ Atmospheric Defense Gun Carrier Variant

The Python variant of the Cobra Heavy Chassis carries the Arkasian 90mm Atmospheric Defense Gun (ADG-90). The ADG-90 is a magnetic-propulsion atmospheric defense gun, firing fin-guided 90mm shells that have limited homing abilities when provided with guidance information from the supporting sensors on the ADG’s firing platform. These shells have a variety of payloads; the standard for atmospheric defense is a dozen microfusion bomblets, but against hardened targets the autoloader can switch munition feed to make use of microfusion-HEAT shells, armor-piercing darts, or other types of ammunition. With a rate-of-fire of two shells per second, the ADG-90 has a long range that allows it to engage targets engaged in high-altitude/low-orbit drops. Lowered to the horizon, the ADG makes a reasonably effective direct-fire weapon when using appropriate ammunition, though the outer shell of the gun mount is relatively lightweight in this mobile configuration and so does not necessarily fare well under return fire.

*Note that the weapons modules for the Python can be purchased independently and mounted to a domestic Peninsularian vehicle.

Black-Gold Limited ‘Tonka Refit’ - 'Orion' Variant

The Orion variant of the (in)famous Huerdaen Tonka halftrack carries the Arkasian 90mm Atmospheric Defense Gun (ADG-90) and supporting sensors equipment mounted on the rear of the carriage compartment. Though resulting in a tall and top-heavy vehicle, this mounting provides an unconventional 360 degree turreted view for a gun mounted on a Tonka, and frees up space within the vehicle for extensive ammunition carriage that more closely emulates the entrenched bunkers of an emplaced ADG-90. The ADG-90 is a magnetic-propulsion atmospheric defense gun, firing fin-guided 90mm shells that have limited homing abilities when provided with guidance information from the supporting sensors on the ADG’s firing platform. These shells have a variety of payloads; the standard for atmospheric defense is a dozen microfusion bomblets, but against hardened targets the autoloader can switch munition feed to make use of microfusion-HEAT shells, armor-piercing darts, or other types of ammunition. With a rate-of-fire of two shells per second, the ADG-90 has a long range that allows it to engage targets engaged in high-altitude/low-orbit drops. Lowered to the horizon, the ADG makes a reasonably effective direct-fire weapon when using appropriate ammunition. Unlike the version mounted on the Python, the Orion uses the fully armored emplacement used on the fixed entrenched version of the gun, making it surprisingly resistant to incoming fire. Heavy and lumbering, the Tonka halftrack has earned acclaim across the galactic North as a troop carrier and gun platform, and the latest innovation from Black-Gold Limited uses this renowned chassis as a platform for an equally excellent atmospheric defense gun. Note that the Orion retains a 60mm forward-facing Hearthfire cannon as a secondary weapon.

*Note that the weapons modules for the Orion can be purchased independently and mounted to a domestic Peninsularian vehicle.

Almara Industrial H-7 ‘Cobra’ - ‘Seneschal’ Area Defense Missile Carrier Variant

Sentinel Atmospheric Area Defense MissileThe Seneschal is a Cobra heavy chassis modified to carry a pair of Sentinel Atmospheric Area Defense Missiles on its launch platforms, with more stored internally and in support vehicles. The Sentinel resembles a cruise missile or a drone as much as an anti-atmospheric missile, and is intended for engaging clusters or groups of enemies. Cued by other elements within BattleNet, the Sentinel approaches to within moderate range of enemy atmospheric groups and then fires its carried ordnance, consisting mostly of Reflex Shortbow missiles. This provides a mechanism for delivering surface-to-air defense capabilities at extreme ranges. The Seneschal and its Sentinel missiles are reliant on having a functional theater BattleNet to function well; the Seneschal does not carry its own sensors for independent targeting.

Regarding Section IV:

Olympia Fabrication H-11 ‘Fencer II’ - ‘Bruiser v3’ 125mm Multipurpose Gun Carrier Variant

A variant of the Fencer II vehicle, replacing the turret and associated weapons with a 125mm casemate-mounted anti-tank gun. Originally intended as a tank destroyer and direct-fire artillery platform, the Bruiser is also frequently used by Arkasian light cavalry as light artillery for long-range indirect fire. The 125mm magnetic cannon is lethal in direct-fire, both against armored targets and using explosive or flechette shells. In indirect fire, the 125mm typically uses explosive or cluster-munition shells, which due to the high velocities of the main gun can be lobbed at much longer ranges than would be expected for a light artillery piece.

Almara Industrial H-7 ‘Cobra’ - ‘Mamba v2’ 155mm Howitzer Carrier Variant

A Cobra chassis refitted with a turreted 155mm magnetic howitzer. Optimized for indirect fire, the 155mm howitzer’s shell is massively destructive in both its single-warhead and cluster-munition configurations. While doing much more damage than the Bruiser’s 125mm explosive shells, the 155mm Mambo Howitzer Carrier is a much larger and heavier vehicle than the Bruiser, and is less well-suited to direct-fire roles due to its high profile. As a result, opinions on the vehicle within Starfleet are mixed, and the Mambo is generally used only by specialist units in Arkasian service. In Peninsularian service, however, the Mambo may be a better doctrinal fit.

Skywolf Industries H-12 ‘Lynx’ - ‘Wildcat’ Multiple Missile Launch System Variant

Based on the Lynx chassis, the Wildcat MMLS carries a payload of 4 medium-range surface-to-surface missiles, and is usually used in tandem with a Fencer-Mule, Blazer II, or Lynx-Cheetah support vehicle to carry additional missiles. These “Cat’s Paw” missiles are equipped with a general-purpose microfusion-explosive warhead effective against most surface targets and slow-moving or large atmospheric targets. Generally directed to their targets by other elements in the kill-chain, the Cat’s Paw missile allows an extremely precise kill, and can be ripple fired against different targets from the same vehicle or battery. The main weakness of the Wildcat is its reliance on support vehicles, and the somewhat longer-than-normal reload after all missiles are depleted.

Regarding Section V:

Almara Industrial ‘Huscarl’ Local Umbrella Shield Projector

The Huscarl umbrella shield project is a field-assembled anti-bombardment static energy shielding system. Consisting of a large projector system and a number of portable reactor plants and fuel (type may vary by deployment), the Huscarl is intended to repulse tactical-grade bombardment of a local theater by enemy warships. When connected to a larger power grid, the Huscarl may be uprated to defend against low-to-moderate grade strategic bombardments. As a static ‘umbrella’ shield, the Huscarl’s projected dome provides continuous coverage over a finite ark, and so will not interfere with ground actions or atmospheric vehicles operating at low to moderate altitudes. The Huscarl is primarily intended as a defense against orbital threats. Arkasian forces routinely deploy Huscarl projectors in surface actions as part of their standard operating procedure whenever operating under limited-friendly or contested orbital conditions. The Huscarl can be coordinated with BattleNet to allow friendly bombardment to pass through, though the dome will take several minutes to reconstitute itself, so such maneuvers must be done carefully to prevent the enemy from taking advantage of the gap.

Supporting Technology Integrations:

Starfleet Internal Manufacturing Consortium MD-SM/s-Av2 Military Quasi-Intelligent Drone

The MD-SM/s-Av2 MQD (called “Q.Ds” or “cuties” in Arkasian service) is an advanced quasi-intelligent (sub-sapient) humanoid drone system used extensively by the Arkasian Starfleet. Standing 1.5m tall and weighing only 55kg, the cuties are otherwise calibrated to approximately human capabilities, to ensure backwards compatibility with most military equipment. Cuties can be armed and outfitted like human (or humanoid) soldiers, deriving their equipment from domestic standards. The Arkasian cuties are based on the BUSF MD-Sm/s, a failed MQD project from the Republic of Sunset. Provided to the Arkasians as part of aid against the Static threat, Starfleet immediately ordered the cuties into mass-production despite their known faults. The Av1 (Arkasian Version 1) cuties, which constitute the vast majority of those currently in service, are exact copies of the originals with slight cosmetic tweaks to simultaneously make the cuties less disconcerting (smooth, continuous surfaces and no external glow) but also more clearly synthetic (transparent polymers covering some of the electronic motor drives). The Av2s, conversely, use a revised compute unit based on Arkasian technology and an operating system that has been modified accordingly. It must be emphasized that the cuties are equipment, rather than individuals, and it is imperative that units so-equipped recognize the non-sapiance and also interchangeability of the cuties. However, the cuties on the whole can provide a massive boost to military efficiency by replacing sapient crew or soldiers in basic or less-demanding roles, freeing up personnel for more intensive tasks and allowing for the crewing or staffing of additional ships or ground formations if the number of sapient soldiers is a constraining factor.

Black-Gold Limited WAG-10 ‘Beholder’ Atmospheric Warning and Control Gunship

Durable mid-altitude-optimized AWACs based on the chassis of the Wyvern III and Pegasus III, optimized for active surveillance and sensor range.

Dennis High Technology WAD-4 ‘Skykeeper’ Atmospheric Warning and Control Drone

Large, highly advanced, ultra-high-altitude-optimized flying-wing AWACs, optimized for stealth and passive surveillance.

Olympia Fabrication WAD-3 ‘Quarterback’ Atmospheric Warning and Control Drone

Smaller, advanced, ultra-high-altitude-optimized flying-wing AWACs, optimized for stealth and passive surveillance.

About the Partners:

Almara Industrial - Arkasia’s largest corporation, Almara Industrial got its start in asteroid mining but now has its fingers in almost every industry in the GRA, manufacturing everything from foodstuffs to weaponry. The latter is of more interest here, and the breadth of heavy industry experience in Almara’s resume gives them an edge with heavier designs and specialized technology.

Black-Gold Limited - Black-Gold Limited was founded shortly after the original RFP conducted by the GRA regarding equipment for the NEGL Auxiliary, its name a reference to the enormous quantity of Huerdaen equipment procured. BGL is responsible for production of new units and repair parts for Huerdaen equipment licensed for production by the GRA and their derivatives.

Olympia Fabrication - Olympia Fabrication is a fast-growing industrial firm that has recently mounted challenges to Almara Industrial across a range of fields. In defense circles, they’re best-known for getting Arkasia’s first mass production hovertanks off the ground in the H-6 Fencer, and improving on the tradition in the outstanding H-11 Fencer II. While they specialize in light vehicles, their expertise was also instrumental in the development of the H-9 Paladin heavy chassis prototypes.

Osprey Fabrication - One of the oldest atmospheric aviation firms in Arkasia, Osprey Fabrication has a 124 year claim-to-fame: they exclusively build Ospreys and their derivatives and related systems. Allocated the defunct IP shortly after Arkasia’s refounding, this public-private partnership exists to manufacture, maintain, and improve Arkasia’s atmospheric air arms, and they do so with aplomb.

Skywolf Industries - Skywolf is a relative newcomer, a public-private partnership founded to inherit defunct IPs for Mark VI Light Infantry Armor and the H-12 Lynx Light Chassis once the original IP holder become incapable of fulfilling the defense needs of the Arkasian government. All Arkasian-recognized IPs from the now-defunct Fenvaria Republic have been assigned to Skywolf Industries.

Starfleet Internal Manufacturing Consortium - The manufacturing arm of the Starfleet Weapons Design Partnership’s government component, SIMC specializes in final assembly of projects involving parts from many disparate or multinational manufacturers and in prototyping and experimental development. Equipment fabricated by Arkasian troops in the field is generally marked as being of SIMC manufacture.

by **The Peninsular** » Mon Feb 28, 2022 4:04 pm

Request for Proposals

Constitutional Federal Ground Forces Equipment Acqusition Office

Selection of Advancing Proposals per Section

Section I):
The advancing proposals in Section I), Close Air Support Gunship, will be:
Talon Gunship Chassis (HSE)
Bentnose Gunship (Setulan Republic)
GSG-9v10 Osprey X (GRA)
GSG-10v3 Wyvern III (GRA)

Proposals not advancing:

Section II):
The advancing proposals in Section II), Self-Propelled Anti-Air Vehicle, will be:
Whirlwind Weapon System, independently & on Gorgon, Tonka chassis (HSE) - Section V) proposal included
Zuzi SPAA (Setulan Republic)
Duelist v3 weapon system, independently (GRA)

Proposals not advancing:

Section III):
The advancing proposals in Section III), Self-Propelled Long Range Anti-Air Vehicle, will be:
Gorgon Weapon System, independently & on Gorgon, Tonka chassis (HSE)
Python weapon system, independently & on Orion-variant Tonka chassis (GRA)

Proposals not advancing:

Section IV):
The advancing proposals in Section IV), Self-Propelled Artillery Vehicle, will be:
Wasp Weapon System on Gorgon, Tonka chassis (HSE)
A175 self-proppeled artillery vehicle excluding supply vehicle (Setulan Republic)
Mamba v2 howitzer turret on MIK-8V-A Schützenpanzer (GRA, CFP)

Proposals not advancing:

Section V):
The advancing proposals in Section V), Area Defense Unit, will be:
Aegis Barrier System on Tonka chassis (HSE)
Huscarl local umbrella shield projector (GRA)

Note: Section V) contestants will not be pitted against each other due to differing use cases, but evaluated nonetheless.

by **Alexzonya** » Tue Mar 01, 2022 3:30 pm

Without Prejudice

Request for Proposals, Federal Ground Forces - Notice of Intent to Appeal
06.01.125 ASY

After reviewing the documents furnished by the Constitutional Federal Ground Forces Equipment Acquisition Office (CFGFEAO) pursuant to the Request for Proposals "Request for Proposals, Federal Ground Forces" preliminary tender and first stage finalist selection, the Arkasian Military Arms Consortium (AMAC) has elected to provide a formal Notice of Intent to Appeal to the CFGFEAO based on the elimination of the following bids from consideration:

Duelist v3 weapon system on H11 Duelist v3(GRA)
H7 Python (GRA)
H11 Bruiser v3 (GRA)
H7 Mamba v2 (GRA)

Upon review, AMAC believes that the reasons provided for disqualification of these entries is based on criteria neither included nor implied in the original Request for Proposal Document, and further challenges the validity of those (previously unspecified) criteria in evaluating these entries. AMAC seeks a hold on the Finalist Evaluation stage of "Request for Proposals, Federal Ground Forces" until such time as administrative and/or judicial processes regarding this complaint have been fully exhausted or the complaint has been otherwise amicably settled between AMAC and the CFGFEAO. If the Evaluation stage proceeds prior to the exhaustion of such means or before such settlement has occurred, AMAC may be forced to take further legal action, and so hereby provides this Notice of Intent to CFGFEAO as a courtesy.

by **The Peninsular** » Tue Mar 01, 2022 4:04 pm

EAO Headquarters
Conference room K032

Oberstleutnant Laura Gems inhaled deeply and attempted to calm herself. Of course, something had to come up, didn't it? Her project had been cancelled, resubmitted for reinstatement, rejected, resubmitted again, rejected again, brought before the EAO head herself, rejected and ultimately buried over the course of two years - lack of budgets, what with the introduction of the various autonomous technologies within the ground forces. She and a few of her colleagues had practically prophecized the failures that became apparent in recent operations, and so her satisfaction had been quite great when the project was resurrected, even though the budget available was still... less than ideal.

Everything seemed to have been going fine, until this morning. After a painstaking review of technical specifications by the technical department, the advancing proposals had been published just the day before, and the initial phase of the contest seemed to be done, until a notice from the Arkasians reached her desk. Initially, she had thought it to be just a minor administrative matter, until she had actually read the content. As such, the entire review team had been hastily called into somewhat of an emergency meeting, and it was clear to everyone in the room that Gems was not happy, at all.

"Alright.", the Leftenant-Colonel began, forcing herself to speak calmly even though she could've dressed down all of her subordinates then and there. "We'll sort out the matter of whichever Vollpfosten managed to miss something this obvious in writing the requirements later. Right now, ladies and gentlemen, we have a potential lawsuit on our hands... and I don't need to tell you, we do not have the frakking budget, for lawsuits." The assembled officers didn't make a sound, although several of them gulped inaudibly.

"So, I want some suggestions, people. We're going to need to resolve this without the Navy catching wind or they'll be all over this and then we can say goodbye to the idea of our own gunships. And another chunk of our budget, for that matter.", she continued. A young officer responded. "We could let them have an alternative contract- wait, we don't have the budget for that. Right." "And it's probably illegal, Leftenant.", one of the NCOs chimed in. "Yes, and it's probably illegal. Right... how about... we just revise the decision?"

Gems raised an eyebrow. "What did I just say about this not coming to the attention of the Navy? If I know anything, Leftenant, it's that those shmucks are reading our every bulletin just waiting for us messing up." Another officer perked up. "If Navy asks, we could claim it was a clerical error. Happen all the time, no arguing with that. And if they keep digging, we'll just point to the time they ordered non-stick pans instead of canned food... problem solved."

Gems fixated the officer with a steely glare upon hearing this. The room froze in anticipation. "Captain... you're a frakking genius."

---------

Revised Selection of Advancing Proposals

Section I):
The advancing proposals in Section I), Close Air Support Gunship, will be:
Talon Gunship Chassis (HSE)
Bentnose Gunship (Setulan Republic)
GSG-9v10 Osprey X (GRA)
GSG-10v3 Wyvern III (GRA)

Proposals not advancing:

Section II):
The advancing proposals in Section II), Self-Propelled Anti-Air Vehicle, will be:
Whirlwind Weapon System, independently & on Gorgon, Tonka chassis (HSE) - Section V) proposal included
Zuzi SPAA (Setulan Republic)
Duelist v3 weapon system, independently and on H11 Duelist v3 (GRA)

Proposals not advancing:

Section III):
The advancing proposals in Section III), Self-Propelled Long Range Anti-Air Vehicle, will be:
Gorgon Weapon System, independently & on Gorgon, Tonka chassis (HSE)
Python weapon system, independently & on H7 Python, Orion-variant Tonka chassis (GRA)

Proposals not advancing:

Section IV):
The advancing proposals in Section IV), Self-Propelled Artillery Vehicle, will be:
Wasp Weapon System on Gorgon, Tonka chassis (HSE)
A175 self-proppeled artillery vehicle excluding supply vehicle (Setulan Republic)
Mamba v2 howitzer turret on H7 Mamba v2, MIK-8V-A Schützenpanzer (GRA, CFP)

Proposals not advancing:

Section V):
The advancing proposals in Section V), Area Defense Unit, will be:
Aegis Barrier System on Tonka chassis (HSE)
Huscarl local umbrella shield projector (GRA)

Note: Section V) contestants will not be pitted against each other due to differing use cases, but evaluated nonetheless.

by **The Peninsular** » Fri May 20, 2022 2:19 pm

Section I): Close Air Support Gunship - Advancing Proposals Testing

Oberst Stein and his review team entered the hangar to begin the review of the first section. It was the same hangar as it had been three years earlier, with a number of familiar contestants that had already been run through testing once before the project had been cancelled back then. Stein, even though of higher rank, was technically subordinate to Oberstleutnant Gems in the confines of this project, and thus was only concerned with actual testing, rather than the myriad of administrative matters which he knew were giving the Lieutenant Colonel grey hair at the best of times.

On the leftmost side stood, again, the Huerdaen Talon - once again the smallest entry - had made an impact three years prior, especially in terms of maneuverability. Next to it, through familiar in shape, was not a Huerdaen Griffon, but rather its Arkasian version, the Wyvern III. The choice had mostly been made for the firepower aspect, as the Wyvern, while perhaps a bit more expensive to procure overall than the Griffon, sported a significant upgrade in form of the 125mm Mag Cannon, as well as various other improved weapon systems.

The Arkasian Osprey X, the GRA's own prime gunship, was lined up next to the Wyvern. Unlike the Wyvern III, which was really a modified Huerdaen design and thus sported a large amount of direct-fire weapons, the Osprey X heavily favored missile-based armaments: A single one could carry over thirty anti-tank missiles, which could naturally be switched for many other types of ordnance depending on mission profile. However, the singular 40mm cannon seemed pitifully small compared to the Talon and Wyvern, which were practically bristling with railguns, resulting from the HSE's general preference towards direct-fire weapons.

The unknown in the competition came next. The Setulan BN-16A "Bentnose" Gunship, a design which the Federals had not seen in action much with the exception of Shieldwall, was the only entry that had a fixed troop carrying compartment, although judging by other users of the vehicle, modification seemed to be easy enough. Its railguns also did not seem too impressive, at least compared to the Wyvern III, although the ability to carry a large number of missiles and other munitions on hardpoints was positively noted. It also seemed to be the most well-armored of all the craft, something which the Federals appreciated.

Testing began, as previously, with mobility tests. Unlike the competition held three years prior, however, these were more general trials - while they did include the city course of the last tests, they weighted it less heavily, and also included many more general scenarios.

To exactly none of the Federals' surprise, the Talon once again proved its utter superiority in this segment of testing, easily weaving around obstacles and maintaining its speed while doing so. The Huerdaen pilots, hired to demonstrate the Empire's gunship's capabilities, quickly proved their literal nerves of steel were also figurative, flying extremely close to cover, the ground or other obstacles.

The Wyvern III came next. As a Griffon refit also of Huerdaen design, its maneuverability, in the eyes of the Federals, was best described as 'decent'. Naturally, the design paled in comparison to the Talon, but viewed on its own, bled more speed than perhaps ideal in its turns. Nevertheless, the performance was well received by the Federal testing staff, on account of the good protection and the sheer amount of firepower the design carried.

The Setulan Bentnose came third. With the testing staff not having known what exactly to expect in terms of flight performance, most were pleasantly surprised as the Bentnose ran the courses and performed the required maneuvers, with data showing it held a slight but certainly appreciable advantage over the Wyvern in that category, with two camps quickly forming over what this would mean for its chances against the Wyvern. However, one design was still to complete its demonstration.

The Osprey X - perhaps the best-known to the Federals - was expected to be a strong contender, and it did not disappoint, clearly displaying its Arkasian origin. While not capable of physics-defying feat like the Talon, it still easily outperformed the other entires, handling all courses it was set to with ease, and cementing itself at an undisputed 2nd place, which was much closer to the Huerdaen dart of death than it was to the other two entries.

Next up were the armament tests: Here, opinions were split, almost directly down the middle of the group again, with one side preferring the missile-carrying capacity of the Bentnose and Osprey, the other advocating the sheer railgun-based firepower of the Wyvern, which, as an Arkasian version of a Huerdaen design, barely carried missiles at all in comparison. Both concepts came with different roles, as well; while the missile-armed craft served as a more conventional close air support aircraft, also capable of carrying anti-air missiles, the Wyvern was a true gunship - which, however, required keeping a clear airspace to ensure it could operate. The Talon was a different concept, again, less suited to missions that required staying power, and more adept at simply ravaging whatever specific targets it could find.

Stein sipped a cup of Breu while standing around a small table with his staff, as noon neared and the group took a short break. The Colonel paid attention to the discussions in his group, in particular a dropship pilot and an infantry officer who had gotten into quite an argument about where a gunship would be attached within a force's organizational structure. However, while the pilot was in the middle of explaining his point, a sergeant suddenly stopped sipping from her cup as her eyes caught something behind the group.

"Sir... space accountants, ten o'clock.", she announced to Stein and the group, which immediately silenced all ongoing dicussions. Collectively, eyes were rolled and quiet curses muttered. True to the NCO's observation, three figures were approaching the group. While they were all dressed in navy blue just like Stein and his personnel - the Federal Defense Forces dress uniform did not differ much between the Army and Navy - they most certainly had the air of naval officers, which somehow managed to combine the stiffness of office clerks with the overbearing swagger of fighter pilots.

A collective groan went through the assembled staff as the three figures, identified as two Captains and a Commodore, stepped up and saluted. "Good day, Oberst.", the lead officer greeted Stein. "Commodore Terz. A pleasure as usual.", he replied in a decidedly neutral tone. Neither Stein nor any of the other personnel had any doubts on why the Navy officers were here; as such, they immediately ceased their discussions, and the atmosphere became akin to a wall, looming in front of the new arrivals.

Not that they were impressed by that, or at least, they didn't display any reaction. "Well, I see you're testing quite rigorously.", the Commodore commented with a nod to the table full of Breu cups. Stein knew he had to avoid being provoked, so simply answered, "Yes, it's been quite the day. Armament trials are due to be finished, then we should be through."

Terz nodded. "Yes, I shall be looking forward to seeing what decision you make. Of course, quite the choice you have here, isn't it? It must be difficult picking one, even after three years to think it through." Where most non-Federals would've simply seen a neutral face, the ground forces soldiers could spot a barely hidden amused expression creep onto the faces of the two Captains.

Stein suppressed the urge to tell the Commodore where he could shove his vaunted Navy acquisition processes, and simply shrugged lightly. "We want to make sure the correct choice is made, simply." Terz raised an eyebrow. "Oh, naturally. I'm just here to offer some help."

"Then I suggest you sit back and enjoy the show.", the Ground Forces officer simply responded as the sound of engines in the distance reached his ears. "Oh, and I hope you brough earplugs... they're mandatory from now on."

With the naval personnel left behind frantically attempting to find hearing protection which they did not possess - after all, there was no sound in space - Stein and his team made for the shooting range, a largely simulated arena in which many vritual battles could be set up. For the current test - dozens were flown in vastly different environments, with only a few viewed "live" and hundreds computer-simulated, as it were - the field was littered with obstacles and practice targets: Largely a mix of outmoded tanks and APCs, with some drones representing infantry... and lots of surprises for the pilots.

The Talon came first, electing to bob and weave as usual, its autocannons spewing death at every target it could find, rockets tearing apart simulated soldiers and collapsing virtual buildings. The guns performed very well at this close a range, and it took longer than expected for the gunship to be properly combatted due to the frequent breaks it could achieve in line of sight, never exposing itself long enough to be targeted properly. When, finally, a number of missile streaked towards it, the experienced Huerdaen pilot simply rolled over, as one might do with a kayak, dipping behind a nearby ledge against which the warheads impacted.

However, as quickly as it had appeared and wreaked destruction, the Talon also had to retreat with its rocket pods exhausted and autocannons low on ammunition. The other models showed similar performance, with the Ronin in particular performing well against the armored vehicles. The Kage variant, while lower in combat power, showed off a particular set of capabilities as well. Whereas the other Talon variants were mainly taken out by massed ground fire coming into their predicted flight paths, or missiles fired out of line-of-sight, the Kage's enhanced ECM enabled it to survive much longer - and its target painting array, in combination with the Federal BattleNet, allowed simulated artillery strikes to clean house with surgical precision.

Next went the Wyvern III. In complete contrast, the Arkasian-built Huerdaen machine elected to stay far outside of the effective range of the autocannons that had caused the Talon so much trouble. Instead, it skirted the combat zone, picking off tanks from long range with its massive railcannon and occasional missile shots which arced behind low covers thanks to its link to the BattleNet; infanry and light vehicles were quickly dispatched with its autoguns. Instead of simply relying on insane mobility, the aircraft utilized a full array of countermeasures to defeat incoming fire, with varying degrees of success, although it quickly became clear that it would ideally be employed with other forces to draw fire away from it.

To the satisfaction of the review team, however, it lasted much longer than the Talon did, thanks to its larger ammunition stores and generally sturdier airframe. What it lacked in maneuverability, it did make up for in lift capacity - capable of carrying a Mesre IFV quite handily, given it had been designed to lift Goliath tanks, which generated some more discussion about utility among Stein's team.

Third came the wildcard - the Setulan Bentnose "Gunship" variant. In many ways much more traditional than either of the prior entries, it brought a more balanced mix to the table; while able to carry troops, the bay had been replaced with a missile storage and launch module, carrying a variety of weapons. The hardpoints had been varied over testing, but the loadouts being shown off in the demonstration were a mix of anti-tank, bunker buster, some anti-air missiles as a backup and the REAPER weapon systems, which the Federals generally had mixed feelings about.

Maneuvering better than the preceding Wyvern, but no match for the Talon, the Bentnose began its attack runs, sometimes shooting from very long range, sometimes grabbing an opportunity to strafe with its weapons. While the guns seemed somewhat weak after seeing the roar of the 60mm guns on the Talon and the 125mm railcannon on the Wyvern, they did an acceptable job, though struggling against the Federal tank models' infamous armor. This perceived shortcoming was, however, overshadowed by the REAPERs, showing off their capabilties of precision anti-armor work, though the sentiment remained that bigger railguns would have been a better alternative. Defensively, it also proved quite resilient, with its shield and good armor absorbing most fire that the countermeasures didn't deal with.

"Maybe we could replace them with proper autocannons.", one of the NCOs reasoned regarding the REAPERs. "Seems to be that this thing has a lot of room for modification. Two gunpods with, say, Hearthfires - now, that shouldn't be too hard to do. Besides, it has more than enough room for missiles, and anti-sensor ones too. Neither the Wyvern nor the Talon even have the option, and if Shieldwall has taught us anything, it's that anti-air can be a massive pain to deal with."

Last, but certainly not least, the most familiar sight emerged above the battlefield - the venerable Osprey, arguably the entry that the Federals were most familiar with. Unlike all of its predecessors, it only possessed a singular autocannon, but made up for that with the sheer amount of guided munitions available to it - 32 tank-killing missiles, or any combination of similarly sized Federal makes, with some minor modification.

The Osprey proved a capable combatant, as expected, staying at range and utilizing the linked targeting of the BattleNet with brutal efficiency - nowhere was safe, as missiles fired by it often pivoted and came from nearly every angle imaginable. When targeted, its Arkasian lineage unmistakeably made itself known, as the Marine pilots flying the test aircraft demonstrated a dexterity second only to the Huerdaen death sliver itself, and its integrated EWAR systems paid their dividends as well.

It was also the only entry which demonstrated significant air to air combat abilities; while the Bentnose could fire anti-air missiles from standoff range, the Arkasian design's maneuverability and speed ensured it could better evade return fire, giving it the rather attractive ability to defend itself from harrassment by enemy fighter craft - something which the Shieldwall veterans among the team noted with enthusiatic interest. However, even they were somewhat put off by its comparative lack of direct-fire capability, although its Piranha FFARs did provide some close-up support capability, and there was still the ability to add on gunpods.

As the last battle simulation concluded, Stein called his team members together, going through their notes. There were two favorites - the Osprey, for its missile carrying and self defense capability, and the Bentnose for its more balanced mix and the greater customizability of the airframe. The discussions went back and forth, as both models enjoyed considerable support. Price considerations had also to be taken into account - the Osprey was a very complex machine, though existing structures of the CFP-GRA alliance would likely serve to ease the additional logistical burden; the Bentnose, however, was still cheaper on a per-unit basis. After hours of deliberation and simulation results review, a decision was finally felled - the Ground Forces would be flying Arkasian.

----------

Section I, Winner: Osprey Fabrication GSG-9v10 'Osprey X' Ground Support Gunship

Note: BN-16A may continue to be evaluated as part of Project Parry. ~ Lt. Gen. Menks

by **The Peninsular** » Fri Aug 12, 2022 3:11 am

Section II): Self Propelled Anti Air Vehicle - Advancing Proposals Testing

"So, we're finally getting to what should've been our first category to begin with?", one of the infantry officers inquired rhetorically, with her peers rolling their eyes at the shade thrown. The woman, a veteran of the Shieldwall operation, had been among the first to champion the reinstitution of the project, with the specific purpose of filling this most exposed gap in the Federal infantry's capabilities.

"Yes, we are, Major.", Stein confirmed and scanned the hangar they had just entered. About a dozen test vehicles, several of each type, stood around the hangar, ready to be tested. The closest, the Huerdaen Whirlwind, was quite familiar to the Federals, who had learned to love the design as it had provided them much of the anti-air capabilities they lacked on Adistia. The four-gun monstrosity, of which five were present - two on Gorgon, two on Tonka chassis and one fixed to a Speer APC, courtesy of the FGDF's own cadre of engineers - had the great advantage of utilizing its railguns not only for fire against aircraft, but also to provide a good degree of point defense, which would certainly come in handy in defending against missile strikes.

The Setulan Zuzi, the Federals were not all too familiar with, though it seemed to possess capabilities very similar to its Huerdaen equivalent. However, instead of utilizing two of its cannons for point defense, the vehicle had energy weapons specifically installed for this purpose, once again generating a debate similar to what had been discussed in regards to the REAPER systems mounted on the Bentnose tested previously, with several officers arguing the pros and cons of introducing such a new weapon system. Where the Zuzi was regarded as inferior, however, was its sensor system - its organic tracking was seemingly primarily based on RADAR and magnetics instead of a multisensor approach, which the Whirlwind's MRDR system did provide and the Federals preferred themselves.

"It can accept more data via area uplink, just like the Whirlwind.", one of the officers observed. "So perhaps we could just fit a MS-A on it? The software shouldn't have too many problems receiving the new readings." Others agreed, though many remained skeptical - fitting the CFP's own Mehrfachsensorikaufklärung module to each and every procured Zuzi could potentially prove to be expensive.

Lastly, the Arkasian entry was to be tested - or rather, the multiple variants that it came in. The Duelist weapon system as such wasn't regarded with any less respect than the others - the hover vehicle it was usually mounted on, however, was. This, combined with a mess-up in the procurement process, had resulted in a massive faux-pas by the Federals and forced them to test the entire vehicle anyway. However, the main consideration was really the weapon system itself, as simulated tests had shown that it could be adapted to fit on the recently criticized A variant of the Mesre IFV, the vehicle which had originally been used as a stand-in "anti-air" platform by the Federal ground forces and largely failed in that role. Despite the strict budget restrictions of the project, a cadre of officers had drawn up designs on an "air defense squad", and gained a few influential supporters in the process.

Testing commenced relatively quickly, and the Whirlwind went first. The Huerdaen design was seen favorably, all in all, especially in regards to its flexibility, which was quickly demonstrated. Firing stationary, on the move, and with various sensor systems to acquire targets, the four cannons shredded anything that came within range in short order, and the Spearhead cannons in particular proved adept at engaging multiple incoming projectiles, being able to do so mostly independently from one another. While arguably possessing shorter ranges of engagement than the Duelist due to a lack of missiles, and a lower sheer volume of fire than the Zuzi as the guns had to serve both as point-defense and AA, the Whirldwind came away with expectedly satisfying results, made even more appealing by its low price tag.

The Republic design was second on the list. It too demonstrated similar performance, and with a Federal targeting unit linked into the system, had no issue engaging targets in the same manner as the Whirlwind - its organically included passive tracking mode proved a nice addition for "ambushing" target aircraft. The primary differences observed were twofold. Firstly, while it lacked the range of the 60mm Forgefire cannons of the Whirldwind, the Zuzi compensated with a dramatically increased volume of fire from its four 40mm cannons, practically redefining the term "wall of lead", which made close-by passes a suicidal affair for the drones used to test its abilities. Secondly, its point-defense capabilities did not detract from this, as it used two separate lasers for that purpose, and their effectiveness, similarly to the Whirlwind's Spearhead guns, was undeniable, although discussions about whether physical projectiles or energy weapons were preferable had yet to be settled.

The Duelist was the last weapon system to be tested. It was the "odd one" among the three entries and had its supporters and opponents. It was perhaps the most offensively versatile, being the only system to sport missiles (Arkasian ones at that which, the Federals knew from experience, were quite deadly against aircraft), and a highly accurate and by far the most flexible gun available. On the other hand, it also did not possess any means of shooting down incoming projectile threats, something which both of the previous entries were adept at. This showed in tests, as the Duelist proved the most vulnerable of the three to SEAD, whereas such attacks always had a chance to be swatted away by Whirldwinds' or Zuzis' point defense systems. On the other hand, it also regularly gave enemy flyers major headaches in the form of Reflex Shortbow and Guardian missiles at ranges that neither of its competitors could even hope to match.

"So, to sum it all up...", the junior officer presenting the results to the plenum later that day surmised, "The Zuzi is an excellent piece of ambush AA that can deal with effectively anything at low altitude and, more importantly in my view, with a variety of missile threats fired from longer range. The Duelist has no such defensive capabilities, but can deny by far the largest volume of airspace, even beyond the horizon, and at significantly longer ranges than the other entires using just its cannon. The Whirldwind is in the middle, so to speak. Its low-altitude and defensive capabilities are significant, and the Forgefire cannons can reach out significantly further than the Zuzi - though not nearly as far as the Duelist." She took a sip from a glass of water on the table.

After a minute of quiet discussions, Stein addressed the officer. "Oberleutnant, what would be your recommendation?" The Oberst had naturally already made up his mind, but he wanted to hear some other points of view. The presenting officer rubbed her chin. "Well, on pure effectiveness and doctrinal fit... my money would be on the Zuzi. We are looking for something on company level that'll mainly deal with gunships and other attack aircraft at low altitude. It has arguably the best passive tracking, projects the most dense curtain of fire and still has the ability to deal with missile threats while it does that. The Whirldwind's Spearheads have to switch between AA and anti-missile duty. And the Duelist can't shoot down missiles at all unless we commission the Arkasians to develop some fancy new targeting software."

Another officer frowned. "What about costs? The Whirldwind is still the cheapest, and the Zuzi brings an all-new weapon system to the table, not to mention the addition of an MS-A to every single unit." Stein observed the Lieutenant, who didn't seem too surprised by this question, or at least managed to hide it. "Well, Major, Huerdaen railguns do work differently than ours so there'd be some learning costs involved either way, and the integration of an MS-A unit is a relatively minor cost factor if we simply take them from the A-variant Mesres that this'll be replacing. Estimations show that the overall lifetime costs wouldn't diverge to a degree that would warrant a different decision." A graph appeared on the presentation screen, illustrating the point, and the major who had asked quieted down again.

After the Lieutenant's points had been made, discussion continued on for the rest of the day with some breaks, but time pressure eventually led to a decision - the Setulan AA system's advantages seemed just too appealing.

----------

Section II, Winner: Setulan Republic "Zuzi" Anti-Aircraft Weapon System (Chassis TBD)

by **The Peninsular** » Wed Oct 19, 2022 3:07 pm

Section III): Long Range Self Propelled Anti Air Vehicle - Advancing Proposals Testing

"So, Colonel, we are taking a page from the Arkasians?", one of the sergeants commented the list of vehicles to be considered, with one in particular catching the eyes of the test team - the Duelist weapon system, which technically was already out of the competition... at least in its original category. The sergeant's comment was doubly pertinent given the Arkasians' own RFP some years prior, though the annoyed undertone didn't please Stein in the slightest.

He hit the NCO with a glare that very clearly communicated 'not up for discussion'. "Believe it or not, missiles are useful at long range, and the Duelist can carry them alongside a capable gun. That can't be said for the other entries in this category. Looking at its performance, even if we don't select it, it may prove enlightening for our own anti-air capabilities."

With little further ado, apart from additional pre-test analysis reviews, the group made their way to the testing range. The Firisian cold was particular cutting this morning, at least for the non-Firisian members of the team, who all wore as much clothing as they could pack on, whereas their "local" colleagues stood around in regular uniform.

Due to the long-ranged nature of the weapons testing, this day they would not see the targets with their own eyes. In fact, a large corridor of airspace around the testing site had been closed down to even military traffic this day, and drones were periodically being started to simulate targets at their designated altitudes. Observing from within the same bunker they had used during some of the gunship live-fire tests, the group started with the first of the three vehicles on the list.

The signature 'cracks' of Huerdaen railguns abruptly filled the air, accompanied by projectile trails, as a platoon's worth of Gorgons began their barrage. Tests with singular vehicles were also to be conducted, but the main event in this category would be a firing exercise under more realistic conditions, as target drones began appearing at various speeds and vastly differing altitudes. Fed information by the battlenet, the network of guns began shelling any confirmed hostile which presented itself, at first sitting still, but soon moving between shot sequences to avoid counterfire.

The Huerdaen were arguably the masters of the railgun, using it even to compensate for a lack of missiles, and the heavy Pikeman guns put this mastery on full display. Feats that most would only consider missiles for, the Gorgons accomplished through deft manipulation of ballistic trajectories and use of different types of ammunition, effectively combatting over-the-horizon targets just as easily as picking off (simulated) heavy landers.

As the ranges shortened, the weapon system began to show its primary weakness, however - low-altitude fastmovers could make it near impossible for the comparatively cumbersome AA pieces to target them, though this had been expected. A number of Zuzis were brought in to assist, and the combination proved remarkably effective, especially with the Setulan vehicles' ability to defend their bigger cousins from missile attack.

The second candidate, the Arkasian Python, was quite a similar beast in many respects. While its cannon was inferior to the Pikeman in sheer power, it made up for it through a limited guidance capability, significantly increasing the density of barrages and subsequently decreasing ammunition usage, allowing for longer deployment times. Shells loaded with microfusion payloads made short work of most targets, though its performance began to lag behind the Huerdaen design at increasing altitudes, with the bigger shells of the Pikeman making themselves felt against heavier targets as well.

Its weaknesses were similar to the Gorgon, too - vulnerable to fast targets at low altitude, with the Zuzi solution once again proving effective.

Discussions among the group were already in full swing when the third, and rather spontaneous, competitor entered the field. Eliminated in the previous section, the Duelist weapon system had been selected to make another appearance for a simple fact - it mounted missiles, which neither of the other entries did. Equipped with up to four Guardian-Gs, it quickly became apparent that the Duelist did have significant long-range capability... at the cost of a rather low staying power due to the limited nature of the missile armament.

It was, of course, much more capable of defending itself against low-altitude attack, and exceeded performance of both the Zuzi and both heavy SPAAs at a medium altitude band. A few Duelists mixed into the previously tested combination of Zuzi and Gorgon once against increased effectiveness significantly, but the financial constraints of the project had something to say about that. A brief look at the decidedly disappointing budget ruled out that idea, though several officers declared it could be pursued as a project in the future.

------

"So, to sum it all up -", the Lieutenant standing in front of her presentation explained, "- the Gorgon fires the heaviest projectile and does it the furthest. The Python maintains the best per-round accuracy but can't quite hit as far or as hard. The Duelist can use its missiles to hit targets accurately... but it only has very few of them." After a brief pause, she continued on. "And of course, the Gorgon has a certain... cost advantage."

The assembled team and officers collectively exchanged glances, after which one of the technical staff spoke up. "Quite frankly, I think the Gorgon is the best option here. We may be missing out on the Python's accuracy, but at the end of the day, the Huerdaen are still the masters of cost effectiveness."

A number of officers nodded in agreement. "Seconded.", one of them stated matter-of-factly. "I believe the Arkasian systems have their advantages, but at the end of the day, the Gorgon performs best for what we can get it for, and for how quickly we can get the troops outfitted. The increased potency against heavy targets is a plus."

General agreement sounded from the rest of the assembled staff, though some of it came with reservations. Nevertheless, a decision had to be reached soon, and Stein was therefore quick to issue a final recommendation to the Office later that day.

----------

Section III, Winner: Huerdaen Star Empire "Gorgon" Weapon Sytem (Gorgon chassis)

Request for Proposals, Federal Ground Forces(FT)(Closed)

Request for Proposals, Federal Ground Forces(FT)(Closed)

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