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Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now!

 
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Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 4:20:20 AM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline
Hello Gentlemen,

Please find attached the scenario Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 for testing. Comments and AARs welcome.

Regards,
Feltan

Pertinent Information:

<DESCRIPTION>
Under African Skies (2017)
Scenario Date: January 2017
Scenario Created: September 2014, v1.5; tested on CMANO v1.04, Build 568
Playable Sides: United States/United Kingdom
Scenario Design: Feltan

The date of the event was Sunday, January 22, 2017. The time was 1:03 PM on the East Coast of the United States. The new American President had been sworn into office forty-eight hours ago, and this day he was in the White House with VIP guests, donors, campaign staff, family and friends. This privileged group, like tens of millions of Americans that day, is glued to the big screen television. Today is the highly anticipated American Football Conference Championship; the semi-final before the Super Bowl. The much hyped game was between the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens, and kick-off at Mile High Stadium in Denver just happened to the cheers of these elite party goers. The smart money said Denver would walk away with an easy victory – and since the new President hailed from Colorado, no one at the White House was wearing a Raven’s jersey. No one, that is, except the Senate Minority Leader who was from the opposing political party. It was all great fun. Spirits were high, the beer was flowing and the White House Chief of Staff couldn’t have been happier with the electric atmosphere and upbeat photo ops that could only benefit his new boss. Little did anyone know that before half-time arrived, the country would forever be changed.
The war didn’t start with a Weapon of Mass Destruction. In fact, the attack wasn’t high tech at all; it was decidedly low tech – almost antique. Specifically, what the media would come to refer to as the “weapons package” was a Soviet WWII era M1937 82mm mortar with twelve rounds of ammunition. Later investigation would show that the weapon was a veteran of WWII, and it left the Soviet Union in the 1960’s and made its way to one of the many African conflicts. It sat collecting dust in an African armory for what appears to be decades. Accountability on the mortar was lost years ago. No one cared. It was over 75 years old. The weapon type and ammunition could be purchased on the international weapons market for about $1500 (U.S.). The entire weapons package could easily fit, if disassembled, into the trunk of a mid-size rental car.
The first round plunged into Mile High Stadium in the middle of the second quarter. The round sailed over tens of millions of dollars worth of metal detectors, radiation detectors, explosive detection machines, video cameras, facial recognition software, terrorist data bases, drug and explosive sniffing dogs, and hundreds of security personnel. On live national television it impacted about five meters from the Raven’s offensive huddle. The second round landed in the Bronco’s bench area before stunned broadcasters could stop the live television feed. The mortar attack lasted two minutes with a dozen rounds landing on the field, sidelines and seating areas.
What wasn’t captured on live television made its way to You Tube by evening. Over seventy-five thousand screaming spectators stampeded for the exits. Hundreds were injured and dozens killed in the panicked human exodus. Waiting outside at a secluded distance were a half-dozen terrorists with fifty year old Draganov SVD semi-automatic sniper rifles. Within an hour it was over. All ten terrorists, five men and five women, were killed in gun battles. Civilian fatalities topped 200 with another 1000 injured and hospitalized. The Super Bowl was cancelled.
The investigation proceeded rapidly; the clues and leads were numerous. All ten terrorists were black, and they were all dressed in formal business attire. They had entered the U.S. within the last two weeks on valid tourist visas wearing the same clothes they were killed in. They entered the U.S. as married couples at five different airports. The weapons package and sniper rifles were waiting for them; it was suspected they had come across the southern border a month previous. The people and the equipment all originated from the same country - the country formerly known as Nigeria.
Nigeria no longer existed as a nation-state. The unbelievably corrupt kleptocracy that had governed Nigeria fell like a house of cards in 2015. A reinforced and externally funded Boko Haram rolled over successive government strongholds and garrisons. Moving North to South, the tempo of operations accelerated during the year until Nigerian government forces were in a full route. Key government figures and military leaders fled the nation with their loot; soldiers threw down their weapons, and resistance to Boko Haram collapsed before the end of the calendar year.
Supported by both Al Qaeda and ISIS/ISIL, 2016 would be a year of displacement and unbelievable suffering for the people of Nigeria. The world looked on in horror as Nigerian Christians fled for their lives. Those unable to flee the country were forced to convert to Islam, or hacked to death, or crucified, or beheaded. The lucky ones were simply shot. The political entity of Nigeria was replaced by a new country: the Caliphate of West Africa, or CWA.
The year 2016 would also see another player enter the stage. China would operate the highly lucrative oil fields in the Niger River delta for the CWA. They would also buy, in hard currency, the entire output of these oil fields. This was an uneasy alliance at best. China needed the oil, but was highly distrustful of the CWA. The CWA hated the infidel Chinese, but needed their money, technical expertise, weapons and political cover. It was long suspected by Western Intelligence agencies that the source of external funding for Boko Haram had been the Chinese Yuan, and that this deal was long in the making.
Sunday, 22 January 2017 was not only a horrific day for the United States, but for other Western nations as well. In France, three privately owned corporate jets laden with explosives would attack Paris in what became known as France’s 9/11. The first jet hit the Louvre, and destroyed priceless works of art and treasures of the entire human family. The second jet, for reasons unknown, crashed into a nondescript residential area. The third jet hit the Eiffel Tower, and caused the iconic symbol of France to topple into a heap of tangled steel. The national psyche of France was not broken nor even substantially wounded by this attack; rather, it was deeply and fundamentally outraged. A new and ultra jingoistic France was not out for justice, it was out for revenge.
The British had two strokes of luck that saved them. First, the terrorists delayed attacking until the next morning in order to maximize casualties – thus allowing the now alerted U.K. to bring the full force of its security apparatus to bear. Second, a young member of the terrorist advance team was apprehended for unrelated charges, and he unwittingly compromised the terrorist plot in an attempt to negotiate his way out of prosecution. The ten terrorists in London would all be killed long before the aerosolized VX persistent nerve agent in their backpacks could be released into congested London underground stations. However, scandal is eventually expected to erupt in the U.K. The terrorist who compromised the plot also provided information that suggests the highly toxic and very illegal VX originated from the MoD facility at Porton Down.
That last full week of January 2017 was reserved for mourning, recovery, anger, investigation and diplomatic action. The ineptness and ineffectiveness of the United Nations was, yet again, laid bare for all to see. Islamic nations flooded the agenda with issues meant to distract; however, it was China that bottled things up on the Security Council. By Friday of that week, the most that could be mustered was a watered down and very week U.N. resolution stating that the terrorist acts were a regrettable event. The West was not the least bit amused by China’s stoic intransigence.
On that last weekend of the month, the U.S. Congress was ordered into emergency session. On Monday, 30 January 2017 the President of the United States, who had been in office just over a week, stood before a televised joint session of Congress. In an event that had not been repeated since 8 December 1941, the President asked for, and received, a formal Congressional Declaration of War against the CWA.


<US BRIEFING>
Under African Skies (2017)
It is early Tuesday morning, 31 January 2017. You are the four-star General Officer in command of the joint/combined United States Africa Command (AFRICOM). You left your offices at Kelly Barracks outside of Stuttgart, Germany early yesterday, and have established a forward command post at RAF Ascension Island. You report directly to the Secretary of Defense (SecDef), and your subordinate reporting commands include: HQ, US Army Africa, Vicenza, Italy; HQ, US Navy Africa, Naples, Italy; and HQ, US Air Force Africa at Ramstein AB, Germany.
Some European countries have already joined the American effort. The Brits had ships moving before the U.S. Declaration of War, and have integrated into your command structure. The Dutch, Belgian and Polish forces are not ready at this early stage, and will be assigned to follow-on operations. Germany, Italy and Spain are offering bases and over-flight rights, but are not committing forces at this time. Of moderate concern, the French are already sailing into the area of operations but have indicated they are going it alone. Diplomatic channels state that France is intent on restoring national dignity, and they do not want their effort conducted under the auspices of a coalition.
U.S. forces are assembling and on the move. There are two CVBG’s enroute, but won’t be in the area for three to four days. Land units are being earmarked in CONUS, and will load onto transports within two to three weeks. Some airborne tankers and strike aircraft have already been deployed to your command. The center piece of your current force structure is an Expeditionary Strike Group that was headed to the Mediterranean for training and diverted to your command. Additionally, a Special Operations capable task force of LCS’s and support ships that had been operating in the area is now assigned to you. These are welcome additions. Prior to the events leading to this war, AFRICOM had only a hospital ship providing support for the latest Ebola outbreak and a few patrol craft for security and anti-piracy operations.
About 98% of the personnel in your command are unaware of your greatest asset. Under an operation codenamed TANGENT, the CIA was able to establish an extensive HUMINT intelligence network prior to the collapse of the former Nigerian government. TANGENT is largely staffed with Nigerian personnel, augmented with CIA covert operators and Special Operations personnel. At this juncture, TANGENT is an intelligence gathering network, but will soon expand into a full scale paramilitary organization. A Joint Intelligence Fusion Center, Nigeria (JIFC-N) has been established in Northern Virginia outside of Langley to exploit TANGENT information and integrate it with other sources. JIFC-N is providing a constant stream of actionable intelligence.
The SECDEF has laid out the framework for the war. It is to be conducted in three phases, and you are starting the first phase shortly. Wait for orders before conducting combat operations. The Nigerian War Plan, codename PERFECT STORM, calls for:
• Phase I: Operation OREGON RAIN (1-3 Day Duration)
o Establish Air Superiority over CWA
 Conduct SEAD/DEAD operations
 Degrade CWA airfields
 Destruction of aircraft
o Support TANGENT elements
 Conduct resupply operations
 Provide on-call close air support
 Provide infiltration/exfiltration operations on order
o Degrade CWA C3 capability
o Degrade CWA oil and gas revenue capability
o Avoid contact/conflict with China
• Phase II: Operation FLORIDA THUNDER (+ 2x CVBG) (2 Weeks Duration)
o Shock and awe operations
o Establish Air Dominance over CWA
o Reinforce and expand TANGENT elements
o Eliminate CWA C3 capability
o Destroy CWA oil and gas revenue capability
o Degrade CWA ground forces
o Identify and occupy suitable beach/port facilities
o Negotiate a withdraw of Chinese advisors
• Phase III: Operations HEARTLAND TWISTER (+ ground forces) (6 Month Duration)
o Develop and enhance TANGENT’s military capability
o Destroy CWA ground forces
o Occupy key coastal cities/facilities
o Establish air bases and port facilities
o Reintegrate several million refugees back into Nigerian society
o Capture/kill key CWA personnel
o Form new Nigerian government
It is 0545 and you decide to make a quick inspection of the developing command post. As you walk from your quarters near the air field, the first thing that strikes you is that the southwest corner of Ascension Island looks like a gypsy camp. Mobile communication vans with antenna arrays have set up on what high ground they could find, and a haphazard tent city has popped up overnight. The noise, at this early hour, is deafening. A constant stream of cargo aircraft, passenger airliners and tankers are dumping their loads at this terminal end of the air bridge from the U.S. The hardstand aircraft parking area looks as packed as a car dealership lot before a big sale.
Your destination is the J2/J3 operations office that occupies one of the small warehouse spaces set aside for non-aviation activities. If you wanted to be charitable, you could describe it at a bee hive of activity; however, the sickening feeling in the pit of your stomach knows that currently chaos and anarchy reign – as a young 2LT, you would have called it a complete Charlie Foxtrot. A young airman puts a cup of coffee in your hand. A Captain quietly approaches and says, “Sir, you might want to come take a look at the current operations monitor. We think the French are about to start something.”
Commander, for opening moves of operation OREGON RAIN the following forces are at your disposal:
US/UK Order of Battle:
Major Bases:
RAF Ascension Island
HQ (Forward) AFRICOM (notional)
96th Bomb Squadron (Red Devils) (8 x B-52H Stratofortress)
Det. 13th Bomb Squadron (Grim Reapers) (2 x B-2 Spirit)
77th Air Refueling Squadron (Totin’ Tigers) (8 x KC-135 Stratotanker)
Det. 522nd Special Operations Squadron (Fireballs) (4 x MC-130J Commando II)
Det. 348th Reconnaissance Squadron (Northern Hawks) (4 x RQ-4 Global Hawk)
Det. 5th Patrol Squadron (Mad Foxes) (4 x P-8A Poseidon)
Forces at Sea:
TF 6.24 (Humanitarian Aid) (To Remain At Anchor)
USNS Comfort (T-AH-20) (Flag)
USNS Robert E. Peary (T-AKE-5)
TF 6.26 (Anti-piracy, Security and SAR)
USS Zephyr (PC-8) (Flag)
USS Shamal (PC-13)
USS Tornado (PC-14)
Atlantic Patrol South (Reinforced)
HMS Dragon (D-35) (Flag)
HMS Montrose (F-236)
HMS Kent (F-78)
RFA Wave Ruler (A-390)
TF 6.44 (Special Operations)
USNS Lewis B. Puller (T-MLP-3/T-AFSB-1) (Flag)
Det. HSC-84 (Red Wolves) (2 x HH-60H Rescue Hawk)
Det. HMLA-267 (Stingers) (1 x AH-1Z Viper)
Det. HMH-464 (Condors) (1 x CH-53E Super Stallion)
USNS Choctaw County (JHSV-2)
USNS Patuxent (T-AO-201)
USNS Carl Brashear (T-AKE-7)
USS Fort Worth (LCS-3)
USS Milwaukee (LCS-5)
TF 6.50 (Expeditionary Strike Group)
USS Monterey (CG-61)
USS McFaul (DDG-74)
USS Truxtun (DDG-103)
USS Mount Whitney (LCC-20) (Flag)
USS Bataan (LHD-5)
Det. VMFA-115 (Silver Eagles) (12 x F-35B Lightning II)
Det. HMLA-269 (Gunrunners) (4 x AH-1Z Viper, 4 x UH-1Y Venom)
Det. VMM-264 (Black Knights) (12 x MV-22B Osprey)
Det. HUQ-2 (Shrimps) (4 x MQ-8B Fire Scout)
USS New York (LPD-21)
USS Oak Hill (LSD-51)
USNS John Ericsson (T-AO-194)
Submarines:
USS Helena (SSN-725)
HMS Ambush (S-120)

Designer Notes:
1. Port Harcourt in the southeast portion of Nigeria is actually a port, although about 20 miles inland. The map in CMANO doesn’t allow for river/estuary access to the actual port facilities. I had to fudge locations of some units in that area.
2. DB3000 does not have an entry for the USNS Lewis B. Puller (T-MLP-3/T-AFSB-1), which is due to be completed in 2015. I used the USS Ponce (ASFB(I)-15) to represent this vessel.
3. Be advised that friendly losses are large victory point deductions. Play with the goal of zero US/UK losses.
4. Operation OREGON RAIN is scheduled for 1 to 3 days, but the scenario has variable ending points depending on your performance.
5. During testing, when aircraft parking space was destroyed, a message would sometimes pop up to say there was insufficient aircraft parking at the airfield, and to contact the scenario author. It keeps popping up. Repeatedly. The work around is to save the game and restart. You’ll have to clear the warning one more time, and then you should be good to go.
6. Pay close attention to message traffic and follow orders.
7. It is helpful if in Game Options, you have “Special Messages” selected to “Raise Pop-Up.”
8. Good luck and good hunting Commander!

Cultural Interlude:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85rr5SqrCZI






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Post #: 1
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 9:47:05 AM   
Gunner98

 

Posts: 5508
Joined: 4/29/2005
From: The Great White North!
Status: offline
Looks fantastic - I'm in.

B

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 2
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 9:53:47 AM   
Maromak


Posts: 1030
Joined: 12/26/2007
From: Australia
Status: offline
Downloading....haven't heard that song since it was new :)

Thanks again for your efforts.

_____________________________

Certa Cito

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Post #: 3
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 5:39:21 PM   
VFA41_Lion


Posts: 228
Joined: 1/30/2014
Status: offline
Tried it out a bit. If the French are a totally independent operation, why am I subjected to their operation reports... and penalized for their losses?

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Post #: 4
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 5:46:06 PM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: VFA41_Lion

Tried it out a bit. If the French are a totally independent operation, why am I subjected to their operation reports... and penalized for their losses?


VFA41_Lion,

The relationship to the US/UK is allied, hence you get reports. I could have made the relationship neutral, but it seemed incorrect given the general level of cooperation and closeness among these nations.

The penalty for losses is a bit trickier. I try to view VP as a barometer of Pubic Support and Opinion on current operations. The loss of French ships/planes would have impact on US Public Opinion, but much less so than the loss of their own ships/planes.

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to VFA41_Lion)
Post #: 5
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 5:53:00 PM   
VFA41_Lion


Posts: 228
Joined: 1/30/2014
Status: offline
hmm... fair enough on the points... but for the commander in charge, the way you described what was going on, maybe for the commander's sanity, don't send us french reports? D:

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Post #: 6
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 6:27:09 PM   
Broncepulido

 

Posts: 385
Joined: 9/26/2013
Status: offline
Very good idea and very good planning and strategic set-up, thanks! (only caveat about the F-35B will be or not in service in 2017 ... hehehe)

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 7
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 7:35:16 PM   
Randomizer


Posts: 1473
Joined: 6/28/2008
Status: offline
Wow, what a narrative.

- You have created a pretty compelling global situation and detailed framework for your scenario. Although for the most part I avoid getting drawn into future CMANO scenarios, Under African Skies looks too well crafted and thought out to pass on.

- I rather like the idea of getting regular SITREPs from the French but to each his own. Tried to think of a way of generating consolidated SITREPs as the Theatre Commander would probably not see everything but since the French situation is dynamic and unscripted, could not figure out how to do this. Submit that more info is probably better than less and your approach works fine from my perspective. In reality you would likely have staff to brief on the high points but this an unreasonable demand in the context of the game. This scenario demonstrates that CMANO should have some way to recall messages from past events.

First try I ran the scenario for three seconds and then paused, just to get a sense of what I can see.

- Clicking on the Chinese Navy Command and Staff Training Center contact type button produces a crash in the game. Screenshot below but the autosave is actually at game time zero so has not been uploaded. Not sure if this is scenario or CMANO related. The problem replicates reliably both in the Editor and the Game.

An impressive work of scenario writing with great attention to detail, depth and much Jointness and while I quite enjoy the former, am not really so good at the latter. I think that I need to learn more about CMANO in the modern world to do the tactical problems that you have posed some justice.

-C




Attachment (1)

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 8
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 8:20:27 PM   
hellfish6


Posts: 843
Joined: 6/15/2008
Status: offline
I love African scenarios.

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Post #: 9
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 9:10:07 PM   
mikmykWS

 

Posts: 11524
Joined: 3/22/2005
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Randomizer

- I rather like the idea of getting regular SITREPs from the French but to each his own. Tried to think of a way of generating consolidated SITREPs as the Theatre Commander would probably not see everything but since the French situation is dynamic and unscripted, could not figure out how to do this. Submit that more info is probably better than less and your approach works fine from my perspective. In reality you would likely have staff to brief on the high points but this an unreasonable demand in the context of the game. This scenario demonstrates that CMANO should have some way to recall messages from past events.

First try I ran the scenario for three seconds and then paused, just to get a sense of what I can see.

- Clicking on the Chinese Navy Command and Staff Training Center contact type button produces a crash in the game. Screenshot below but the autosave is actually at game time zero so has not been uploaded. Not sure if this is scenario or CMANO related. The problem replicates reliably both in the Editor and the Game.

An impressive work of scenario writing with great attention to detail, depth and much Jointness and while I quite enjoy the former, am not really so good at the latter. I think that I need to learn more about CMANO in the modern world to do the tactical problems that you have posed some justice.

-C



C

If you use the message log in a separate window feature I'm pretty sure you can scroll back there. Likewise the messages should appear in the AAlog.

I'll log the click bug though that one is on us.

Thanks!

Mike

< Message edited by mikmyk -- 9/19/2014 10:11:53 PM >


_____________________________


(in reply to Randomizer)
Post #: 10
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/19/2014 10:53:21 PM   
CassioM


Posts: 83
Joined: 10/15/2013
From: Brazil
Status: offline
#off topic#

I looked this pic posted by Randomizer.

The game skin is much more beautiful in Windows XP than my Windows Seven.

How we do to personalize it on Win 7?

(in reply to mikmykWS)
Post #: 11
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/20/2014 3:30:59 AM   
VFA41_Lion


Posts: 228
Joined: 1/30/2014
Status: offline
looks like a custom windows display theme rather than CMANO-specific

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Post #: 12
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/20/2014 4:05:35 AM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Randomizer

Wow, what a narrative.

- You have created a pretty compelling global situation and detailed framework for your scenario. Although for the most part I avoid getting drawn into future CMANO scenarios, Under African Skies looks too well crafted and thought out to pass on.

- I rather like the idea of getting regular SITREPs from the French but to each his own. Tried to think of a way of generating consolidated SITREPs as the Theatre Commander would probably not see everything but since the French situation is dynamic and unscripted, could not figure out how to do this. Submit that more info is probably better than less and your approach works fine from my perspective. In reality you would likely have staff to brief on the high points but this an unreasonable demand in the context of the game. This scenario demonstrates that CMANO should have some way to recall messages from past events.

First try I ran the scenario for three seconds and then paused, just to get a sense of what I can see.

- Clicking on the Chinese Navy Command and Staff Training Center contact type button produces a crash in the game. Screenshot below but the autosave is actually at game time zero so has not been uploaded. Not sure if this is scenario or CMANO related. The problem replicates reliably both in the Editor and the Game.

An impressive work of scenario writing with great attention to detail, depth and much Jointness and while I quite enjoy the former, am not really so good at the latter. I think that I need to learn more about CMANO in the modern world to do the tactical problems that you have posed some justice.

-C



Randomizer,

Thank you for your comments.

You are quite correct about staff procedures and the French reporting. CMANO has limitations, but in this case I don't think the compromises are onerous. If it is any consolation, you won't be interrupted by French reports for too long a period.

In a way, we are polar opposites -- I tend to shy away from historical scenarios and enjoy near future ones. If you would like some tips on this scenario, please PM me and I'll walk you through the modern era!

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to Randomizer)
Post #: 13
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/20/2014 11:54:21 AM   
Gunner98

 

Posts: 5508
Joined: 4/29/2005
From: The Great White North!
Status: offline
quote:

If it is any consolation, you won't be interrupted by French reports for too long a period.


I think I know what you mean

I must say that they have accounted themselves quite well, until they started running out of msls - they will be remembered






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(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 14
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/21/2014 11:05:51 PM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Gunner98

quote:

If it is any consolation, you won't be interrupted by French reports for too long a period.


I think I know what you mean

I must say that they have accounted themselves quite well, until they started running out of msls - they will be remembered




Probabilities not certainties. I needed a scenario vehicle to spawn other sub-missions within the scenario, and this situation tied in nicely with the story line.

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to Gunner98)
Post #: 15
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/21/2014 11:38:21 PM   
Gunner98

 

Posts: 5508
Joined: 4/29/2005
From: The Great White North!
Status: offline
Well if the proverbial 11th Principle of war is: Never March on Moscow!
That French TG discovered the 12th - Don't piss of the Chinese

Just past 24 hrs into it, missed the head of the Chinese deligation but got the CW leadership, man there are a lot of targets out there

B

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 16
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/22/2014 10:52:41 PM   
Gunner98

 

Posts: 5508
Joined: 4/29/2005
From: The Great White North!
Status: offline
Wow

Fantastic Scenario - lots of depth. Got a Triumph 751 VP's and I suspect that is what triggered the end scenario message - the second strike of the heavies had just launched (about 32 missiles inbound with another 3 Buffs and the Sprints getting into position), the airdrop was about 1/2 way to the DZs.

This very well put together.

My only suggestion (and it's minor) is a tad more direction on how to handle China. You do indicate in one of the messages that a) no hostilities or b) if hostilities keep them limited or c) if not limited, total destruction. I suspect however that the move from b) to c) would not be left in the Theatre Commander's hands. In reality the player has no choice, he has to conduct the rescue mission but the Chinese TF is steaming down his throat and there are at least 2 hostile subs in the area. I would suggest a quick message from POTUS or perhaps the Pentagon, in reaction to the disaster the French have undergone - I don't think the US would stand buy and let that go un-avenged (Article 5 of the NATO charter etc) even though France stirred up the mess in the first place. Perhaps a short message linked to the French flagship going down but before the situation in the Pacific message. Perhaps with some specific limitations, CNOC for instance or revision of the Port Harcourt airport restriction

The message not to destroy Civilian air liners was timely, I was planning to take out all of the hangers in the Capital, the runway was already closed. So I suspect that would have caused me some problems.

I used too many Tomahawks to shut down all the runways, did not have enough to get through eh SAMs and get the Chinese lead delegate.... grrr

Very well researched, very deep story line, good balance for most of the game. Excellent messages and a really good summary at the end. What's next?

B


SIDE: CWA
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
36x 25mm Type 87
2x A/C Hangar (2x Large Aircraft)
3x A/C Hangar (2x Small Aircraft)
1x A/C Hangar (2x Very Large Aircraft)
1x A/C Hangar (4x Small Aircraft)
5x A/C Tarmac Space (2x Medium Aircraft)
7x A/C Tarmac Space (2x Very Large Aircraft)
1x A/C Tarmac Space (4x Large Aircraft)
11x Alpha Jet C
1x Ammo Revetment
3x Ammo Shelter
3x ATR-42MP Surveyor
1x AvGas (150k Liter Tank)
4x AvGas (40k Liter Tank)
2x Building (Airport Terminal)
19x Building (Barracks)
8x Building (Communication Hub)
3x Building (Control Tower)
11x Building (Medium)
1x Building (Place of Worship)
1x Building (School)
6x Building (Tents)
3x Building (Very Large Leadership Compound)
2x Bunker (Comm Center)
1x Bunker (Large C3M)
1x F 89 Aradu [Meko 360]
2x F 90 Thunder [Hamilton Class]
20x F-7N Airguard
12x HN-5B MANPADS
26x HQ-2a Guideline Single Rail
4x J-7II Fishbed
4x L-39ZA/ART Albatros
4x Platform [Class B, 70000t]
3x Radar (China HQ-64 Search)
8x Roland 2
1x Runway (3200m)
1x Runway (4000m)
1x Runway Access Point (Large Aircraft)
2x Runway-Grade Taxiway (4000m)
1x Structure (Oil Refinery)
24x Structure (Oil Well)
5x Vehicle (Chop Rest)
5x Vehicle (Gin Sling)
1x Vehicle (Truck, Armed Technical)
12x Vehicle (Truck, Unarmed)


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
1x 127mm/54 OTO Melara Compact HECVT
45x 25mm Type 87 Burst [20 rnds]
8x 40mm/70 Twin Breda Compact Burst [32 rnds]
14x Aspide
28x HN-7B [SA-14 Copy]
12x Mk214 Sea Gnat Chaff [Seduction]
1x PL-7 [R.550 Magic 1]
29x Roland 2
2x SCLAR Flare



SIDE: China
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
5x Building (Barracks)
1x Building (Communication Hub)
1x Building (Large Government Building)
1x BZK-00X Wing Loong [Pterodactyl] UAV
12x C-802 Triple
2x Commercial Container Vessel - Feedermax [3,000 TEU, 30,000t DWT]
1x Commercial LNG/LPG Tanker [18,000t DWT]
2x Commercial Supply Vessel [6,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tanker - General Purpose [20,000t DWT]
2x Commercial Tanker - Large Range 1 [75,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tanker - Large Range 2 [150,000t DWT]
3x Commercial Tanker - Medium Range [40,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tugboat
11x J-11 Flanker B [Su-27SK Copy]
12x J-7II Fishbed
1x Ka-28 Helix A
1x Radar (China HQ-64 Search)
8x SA-15b Gauntlet [9A331] TELAR
6x SA-16 Gimlet [9K310 Igla-1] MANPADS
9x SA-20a Gargoyle [5P85SE] TEL
3x Type 039G Song
1x Type 052B Luyang I [168 Guangzhou]
2x Type 054A Jiangkai II [530 Xuzhou]
2x Type 056 Jiangdao [582 Bengbu]
3x Vehicle (China Type 352 Square Tie)
3x Vehicle (Clam Shell [5N66])
3x Vehicle (Tombstone [30N6])
8x Vehicle (Truck, Unarmed)
3x Y-8CA Cub [High New 1]
3x Y-8X Cub
2x Z-9C Dauphin 2


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
7x 100mm/55 H/PJ-87 HECVT
2x 30mm China H/PJ-12 [Type 730, 240 rnds]
2x 30mm China H/PJ-17 [20 rnds]
3x 76mm/60 China H/PJ-26 Frag Burst [2 rnds]
22x AA-10 Alamo C [R-27RE, LR SARH]
5x AA-11 Archer [R-73]
44x C-802 [YJ-82, CSS-N-8 Saccade]
40x C-803 [YJ-83]
6x Generic Acoustic Decoy
10x Generic Chaff Rocket
40x Generic Chaff Salvo [4x Cartridges]
11x HQ-10 [FL-3000N]
40x HQ-16A
12x RGB-75 [Basic Search, Passive Omni]
64x SA-15b Gauntlet [9M331]
5x SA-16 Gimlet [9M313]
46x SA-20a Gargoyle [48N6E]
46x SA-N-12 Grizzly [9M317]
4x Yu-4B
2x Yu-5



SIDE: France
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
1x A 607 Meuse [Durance Class]
1x D 620 Forbin [Horizon]
2x D 640 Georges Leygues [Type F70]
8x EC.665 Tiger HAD/HCP
1x F 710 La Fayette
1x L 9013 Mistral
8x Lynx HAS.4(FN)
1x NH90 TTH
4x SA.365F1 Dauphin 2
1x SA.565MA Panther


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
7x 100mm/55 Model 1968 PFHE Burst [4 rnds]
72x 30mm Giat 30/M781 Burst [50 rnds]
42x 76mm/62 Super Rapido HE Burst [2 rnds]
64x AGM-114K Hellfire II
16x Aster 15 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
32x Aster 30 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
10x DAGAIE Mk2 LEM Chaff
1x Generic Chaff Salvo [4x Cartridges]
1x L5 Mod 4
26x Mistral 1
8x MM.40 Exocet Blk II
8x MM.40 Exocet Blk III
32x R.440N Crotale V3N
17x R.440N Crotale-NG VT1
10x SEALEM Chaff
4x TSM 8050A Active RO



SIDE: United States
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
1266x 114mm/55 Mk8 HE(MP)ER HE
295x 20mm M197 Burst [25 rnds]
5x 20mm/100 Mk15 Phalanx Blk 1B Burst [300 rnds]
88x 25mm GAU-22/A Equalizer Burst [30 rnds]
249x 30mm/75 DS30B Mk1 APDS Burst [20 rnds]
305x 30mm/75 DS30B Mk1 HE Burst [20 rnds]
204x 7.62mm GAU-16 MG Burst [20 rnds]
88x AGM-114K Hellfire II
24x AGM-114M Hellfire II
32x AGM-158A JASSM [Penetrator]
24x AGM-84K SLAMER-ATA
88x AGM-86C Blk IA CALCM
117x AIM-120D AMRAAM P3I.4
5x AN/SSQ-53F DIFAR
2x AN/SSQ-62E DICASS
1x AN/SSQ-77B VLAD
6x Aster 30 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
32x GBU-32(V)2/B JDAM [Mk83]
16x Generic Flare Salvo [3x Cartridges, Dual Spectral]
166x HYDRA 70mm Rocket
2x Mk46 NEARTIP Mod 5A(SW)
27x Mk83 1000lb LDGP
110x RGM-109E Tomahawk Blk IV TACTOM
16x RGM-84D Harpoon IC
16x RGM-84G Harpoon ICR
8x RGM-84L Harpoon II
8x Sea Skua
4x Spearfish Mod 0
6x SSQ-963D CAMBS VI
3x Stingray Mod 1
16x UGM-109C Tomahawk Blk III TLAM
12x UGM-109E Tomahawk Blk IV TACTOM
8x UGM-109E Tomahawk Blk IV TACTOM




(in reply to Gunner98)
Post #: 17
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/23/2014 2:40:22 AM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Gunner98

Wow

Fantastic Scenario - lots of depth. Got a Triumph 751 VP's and I suspect that is what triggered the end scenario message - the second strike of the heavies had just launched (about 32 missiles inbound with another 3 Buffs and the Sprints getting into position), the airdrop was about 1/2 way to the DZs.

This very well put together.

My only suggestion (and it's minor) is a tad more direction on how to handle China. You do indicate in one of the messages that a) no hostilities or b) if hostilities keep them limited or c) if not limited, total destruction. I suspect however that the move from b) to c) would not be left in the Theatre Commander's hands. In reality the player has no choice, he has to conduct the rescue mission but the Chinese TF is steaming down his throat and there are at least 2 hostile subs in the area. I would suggest a quick message from POTUS or perhaps the Pentagon, in reaction to the disaster the French have undergone - I don't think the US would stand buy and let that go un-avenged (Article 5 of the NATO charter etc) even though France stirred up the mess in the first place. Perhaps a short message linked to the French flagship going down but before the situation in the Pacific message. Perhaps with some specific limitations, CNOC for instance or revision of the Port Harcourt airport restriction

The message not to destroy Civilian air liners was timely, I was planning to take out all of the hangers in the Capital, the runway was already closed. So I suspect that would have caused me some problems.

I used too many Tomahawks to shut down all the runways, did not have enough to get through eh SAMs and get the Chinese lead delegate.... grrr

Very well researched, very deep story line, good balance for most of the game. Excellent messages and a really good summary at the end. What's next?

B



Gunner98,

Thank you for your comments. Some responses below:

- The Triumph score does indeed trigger end of scenario; the other way to end is a time limit. As you approach Triumph level, I found the balance and challenge was mostly spent.
- France. My intent, for good or ill, was to add a tad of uncertainty. The ROE at the beginning are clear -- you have them almost verbatim. But at some point I was hoping to introduce a "command" decision -- yep, this is it boys! In testing, China went hostile in 4 out of 5 test runs as soon as France launches its Hellfires. In the other one, I was actually able to keep China neutral until about 1100 when they fired at incoming TLAMs and went hostile. It is difficult to add suspense without also adding a little lack of clarity; or, in this case adding a redundant order. I've made note of this suggestion and see what other testers think. Another message is an easy add.
- For my test games, I didn't get all the airfields closed. Once China went hostile I focused on the three on the coast along with the many buildings, oil wells, SAM/AAA and offshore platforms. That seemed to keep my busy enough!
- Next? I have one in the hopper, and I am doing research. You never know where things will go once you start. I envisioned Under African Skies as almost all special forces when I started, but the more I read the more ideas came to the fore. Hence, I am generally mum until it is ready to go.

Once again, thank you for your thoughtful review.

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to Gunner98)
Post #: 18
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/26/2014 12:55:32 AM   
RoryAndersonCDT

 

Posts: 1830
Joined: 6/16/2009
Status: offline
Hey Feltan, I'm thinking of streaming this scenario on Saturday. Just going to play it for the first time now!

_____________________________

Command Dev Team
Technical Lead

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 19
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/26/2014 1:02:55 AM   
mikmykWS

 

Posts: 11524
Joined: 3/22/2005
Status: offline
Hope you didn't give him an nukes to use

< Message edited by mikmyk -- 9/26/2014 2:03:41 AM >


_____________________________


(in reply to RoryAndersonCDT)
Post #: 20
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/26/2014 4:07:36 AM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Baloogan

Hey Feltan, I'm thinking of streaming this scenario on Saturday. Just going to play it for the first time now!


Baloogan,

That would be great! Let me know what time you are going to start, I'd love to watch and chat along.

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to RoryAndersonCDT)
Post #: 21
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/26/2014 4:09:02 AM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: mikmyk

Hope you didn't give him an nukes to use


Not this time. He has to wait and wonder about future ones -- sooner or later I'll let him pop a mushroom cloud!

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to mikmykWS)
Post #: 22
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/26/2014 4:32:35 PM   
RoryAndersonCDT

 

Posts: 1830
Joined: 6/16/2009
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Feltan


quote:

ORIGINAL: Baloogan

Hey Feltan, I'm thinking of streaming this scenario on Saturday. Just going to play it for the first time now!


Baloogan,

That would be great! Let me know what time you are going to start, I'd love to watch and chat along.

Regards,
Feltan


Will be Saturday, 5pm PDT. Time zone calculator link



_____________________________

Command Dev Team
Technical Lead

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 23
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/28/2014 2:47:26 PM   
tommo8993

 

Posts: 116
Joined: 7/10/2013
Status: offline
Just finished this, wow your scenarios are amazing. Would love to see you do a north korea scenario or a 2nd falkands war.

(in reply to RoryAndersonCDT)
Post #: 24
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/28/2014 11:12:33 PM   
Lawdog1700

 

Posts: 54
Joined: 6/6/2014
Status: offline
Feltan,

Well done. This was an amazing scenario. It ran well, no notable slow downs. The events kept things exciting and the realism and immersion were excellent. Again, that was great fun.

I achieved a Major Victory, 692 points.

SIDE: CWA
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
6x 35mm/90 Twin Type 90 [China Type 902 FC]
3x A/C Hangar (2x Large Aircraft)
1x A/C Hangar (2x Small Aircraft)
6x Alpha Jet C
1x Ammo Revetment
1x Ammo Shelter
3x ATR-42MP Surveyor
20x Building (Barracks)
12x Building (Communication Hub)
2x Building (Control Tower)
3x Building (Medium)
1x Building (Place of Worship)
1x Building (School)
2x Building (Very Large Leadership Compound)
2x Building (Watch Tower)
2x Bunker (Comm Center)
2x Bunker (Large C3M)
1x F 89 Aradu [Meko 360]
2x F 90 Thunder [Hamilton Class]
8x F-7N Airguard
30x HQ-2a Guideline Single Rail
4x J-7II Fishbed
5x L-39ZA/ART Albatros
11x Platform [Class B, 70000t]
3x Radar (China HQ-64 Search)
8x Roland 2
1x Runway Access Point (Large Aircraft)
23x Runway Access Point (Very Large Aircraft)
1x Structure (Oil Refinery)
31x Structure (Oil Well)
3x Vehicle (China Type 902)
5x Vehicle (Chop Rest)
5x Vehicle (Gin Sling)


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
8x Aspide



SIDE: China
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
2x A/C Hangar (4x Large Aircraft)
1x A/C Tarmac Space (4x Large Aircraft)
13x Building (Barracks)
6x Building (Communication Hub)
1x Building (Embassy)
2x Building (Large Government Building)
5x Building (Medium)
2x Building (Very Large Leadership Compound)
2x Building (Watch Tower)
1x Bunker (Comm Center)
3x BZK-00X Wing Loong [Pterodactyl] UAV
12x C-802 Triple
2x Commercial Container Vessel - Feedermax [3,000 TEU, 30,000t DWT]
2x Commercial Supply Vessel [6,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tanker - General Purpose [20,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tanker - Large Range 2 [150,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tanker - Medium Range [40,000t DWT]
1x Commercial Tugboat
12x J-11 Flanker B [Su-27SK Copy]
12x J-7II Fishbed
1x Ka-28 Helix A
1x Radar (China HQ-64 Search)
1x Radar (Generic Air Traffic Control)
4x SA-15b Gauntlet [9A331] TELAR
3x SA-16 Gimlet [9K310 Igla-1] MANPADS
4x SA-20a Gargoyle [5P85SE] TEL
2x Type 039G Song
1x Type 052B Luyang I [168 Guangzhou]
2x Type 054A Jiangkai II [530 Xuzhou]
2x Type 056 Jiangdao [582 Bengbu]
3x Vehicle (China Type 352 Square Tie)
1x Vehicle (Clam Shell [5N66])
1x Vehicle (Tombstone [30N6])
3x Y-8CA Cub [High New 1]
3x Y-8X Cub
2x Z-9C Dauphin 2


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
97x 100mm/55 H/PJ-87 HE
145x 100mm/55 H/PJ-87 HECVT
5x 30mm China H/PJ-17 [20 rnds]
269x 76mm/60 China H/PJ-26 Frag Burst [2 rnds]
705x 76mm/60 China H/PJ-26 HE Burst [2 rnds]
39x AA-10 Alamo C [R-27RE, LR SARH]
7x AA-11 Archer [R-73]
48x C-802 [YJ-82, CSS-N-8 Saccade]
40x C-803 [YJ-83]
8x Generic Acoustic Decoy
4x Generic Chaff Rocket
35x Generic Chaff Salvo [4x Cartridges]
8x HQ-10 [FL-3000N]
28x HQ-16A
15x RGB-75 [Basic Search, Passive Omni]
55x SA-15b Gauntlet [9M331]
65x SA-20a Gargoyle [48N6E]
46x SA-N-12 Grizzly [9M317]
2x Yu-4B



SIDE: France
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
1x A 607 Meuse [Durance Class]
1x D 620 Forbin [Horizon]
2x D 640 Georges Leygues [Type F70]
8x EC.665 Tiger HAD/HCP
1x F 710 La Fayette
1x L 9013 Mistral
8x Lynx HAS.4(FN)
1x NH90 TTH
4x SA.365F1 Dauphin 2
1x SA.565MA Panther


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
75x 100mm/55 Model 1968 HE Burst [4 rnds]
95x 100mm/55 Model 1968 PFHE Burst [4 rnds]
72x 30mm Giat 30/M781 Burst [50 rnds]
24x 76mm/62 Super Rapido HE Burst [2 rnds]
64x AGM-114K Hellfire II
16x Aster 15 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
32x Aster 30 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
6x DAGAIE Mk2 LEM Chaff
1x L5 Mod 4
30x Mistral 1
8x MM.40 Exocet Blk II
8x MM.40 Exocet Blk III
2x MU-90 Impact
18x R.440N Crotale V3N
16x R.440N Crotale-NG VT1
5x SEALEM Chaff
6x TSM 8050A Active RO



SIDE: United States
===========================================================

LOSSES:
-------------------------------
1x RQ-4B Global Hawk Blk 40 UAV


EXPENDITURES:
------------------
948x 114mm/55 Mk8 HE(MP)ER HE
199x 20mm M197 Burst [25 rnds]
5x 20mm/100 Mk15 Phalanx Blk 1B Burst [300 rnds]
14x 25mm GAU-22/A Equalizer Burst [30 rnds]
24x 30mm/75 DS30B Mk1 APDS Burst [20 rnds]
70x 30mm/75 DS30B Mk1 HE Burst [20 rnds]
88x AGM-114K Hellfire II
32x AGM-158A JASSM [Penetrator]
24x AGM-84K SLAMER-ATA
112x AGM-86C Blk IA CALCM
124x AIM-120D AMRAAM P3I.4
90x AN/SSQ-53F DIFAR
28x AN/SSQ-62E DICASS
8x Aster 15 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
6x Aster 30 PAAMS [GWS.45 Sea Viper]
32x GBU-32(V)2/B JDAM [Mk83]
5x Generic Chaff Salvo [5x Cartridges]
2x Generic Flare Salvo [3x Cartridges, Dual Spectral]
154x HYDRA 70mm Rocket
14x Mk48 Mod 7 ADCAP CBASS
112x RGM-109E Tomahawk Blk IV TACTOM
16x RGM-84D Harpoon IC
15x RGM-84G Harpoon ICR
8x RGM-84L Harpoon II
2x RIM-174A ERAM SM-6MR Blk I
14x Spearfish Mod 0
1x SSQ-963D CAMBS VI
3x Stingray Mod 1
16x UGM-109C Tomahawk Blk III TLAM
12x UGM-109E Tomahawk Blk IV TACTOM
8x UGM-109E Tomahawk Blk IV TACTOM


As a post script, wow...the poor French...


< Message edited by Lawdog1700 -- 9/29/2014 12:13:06 AM >

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 25
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/29/2014 6:06:32 AM   
Korvar


Posts: 813
Joined: 9/3/2014
Status: offline
Fantastic work on this scenario Feltan!

Let me preface the following question with an admission that I have only skimmed this thread for fear of reading spoilers (I have yet to finish the scenario, and the immersion is too good to spoil). If the question has already been answered, my apologies!

I have one question in regards to the French: the French are set as an ally in the scenario, so of course French hostilities with the Chinese flags all Chinese units as hostile for the US/UK forces. This is understandable given the NATO alliance.... BUT in the first tasking pop-up, this appears: "In the context of relative Chinese neutrality or belligerence, the Chinese relationship with France has no bearing on us. France is conducting a wholly independent operation and separate diplomatic effort."

Is this clarified in further tasking orders? (I'm only two TOs deep so far in the first hour or so of game time). If not, what was your intent with regards to the French - should their status as an ally or the specific tasking orders take precedence?

So far I have been proceeding as follows: until I see an overt act of aggression against my forces, I'm still treating the Chinese as neutral, but I have to manually reclassify Chinese units as neutral for S/A and target sorting purposes. Should any hostilities occur, I will try to localize them as per the TOs.

(in reply to Lawdog1700)
Post #: 26
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/29/2014 11:10:07 AM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Korvar

Fantastic work on this scenario Feltan!

Let me preface the following question with an admission that I have only skimmed this thread for fear of reading spoilers (I have yet to finish the scenario, and the immersion is too good to spoil). If the question has already been answered, my apologies!

I have one question in regards to the French: the French are set as an ally in the scenario, so of course French hostilities with the Chinese flags all Chinese units as hostile for the US/UK forces. This is understandable given the NATO alliance.... BUT in the first tasking pop-up, this appears: "In the context of relative Chinese neutrality or belligerence, the Chinese relationship with France has no bearing on us. France is conducting a wholly independent operation and separate diplomatic effort."

Is this clarified in further tasking orders? (I'm only two TOs deep so far in the first hour or so of game time). If not, what was your intent with regards to the French - should their status as an ally or the specific tasking orders take precedence?

So far I have been proceeding as follows: until I see an overt act of aggression against my forces, I'm still treating the Chinese as neutral, but I have to manually reclassify Chinese units as neutral for S/A and target sorting purposes. Should any hostilities occur, I will try to localize them as per the TOs.


Korvar,

Thank you for feedback.

With regard to China. So, the trick here is that the situation is supposed to cause you to think and force you into the position of the commander.

You have some detailed ROE. Unfortunately, the French take the initiative and spoil the plans a bit. What would you do in the position of commander?

An old saying in the military is that "No plan survives first contact with the enemy." As the US/UK commander, once the Chinese turn hostile toward you (presumably through no fault of your own), your "best efforts" to keep them neutral have failed.

The ambiguity is on purpose. The French will learn a lesson about not operating as part of a coalition. And, your grand orders to ease the Chinese out during the next phase of the operation go into the crapper.

I am glad this situations is causing "problems" for players .... it is intended to produce that "fog of war," that situation where a commander has to make decisions in the absence of genuine clarity -- a situation all too frequent, in my experience, when you are in charge of an organization.

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to Korvar)
Post #: 27
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/29/2014 3:55:18 PM   
tommo8993

 

Posts: 116
Joined: 7/10/2013
Status: offline
china always goes hostile when they attack France. Would it not be an idea to have the french neutral to the US/UK rather than allied.

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 28
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/29/2014 4:42:52 PM   
Korvar


Posts: 813
Joined: 9/3/2014
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Feltan
An old saying in the military is that "No plan survives first contact with the enemy." As the US/UK commander, once the Chinese turn hostile toward you (presumably through no fault of your own), your "best efforts" to keep them neutral have failed.

The ambiguity is on purpose. The French will learn a lesson about not operating as part of a coalition. And, your grand orders to ease the Chinese out during the next phase of the operation go into the crapper.

I am glad this situations is causing "problems" for players .... it is intended to produce that "fog of war," that situation where a commander has to make decisions in the absence of genuine clarity -- a situation all too frequent, in my experience, when you are in charge of an organization.

Regards,
Feltan




I figured this was intentional, so I've been proceeding as fragged despite the ambiguity. The ambiguity actually has been reproducing the uncertain posturing which occurs during US and Chinese operations in close proximity, so I think you've achieved your goal there!

Some highlights from my playthrough...

The French Eurocopters had their own "fog of war" when I re-classified the merchant ships they were about to attack as neutral. It delayed the opening of hostilities, but the inevitable missile exchange still happened (just when I thought I had found a loophole!):




I've been carefully sorting targets and manually reclassifying anything Chinese (and the city markers) as neutral. It has allowed me to (so far) give the Chinese forces a wide berth and minimize the likelihood of overt aggression. I can see that the scenario is pushing for a conflict, but I'm still holding out for the favored negotiating position per the TO. Notice the recently detected Chinese J-11s north of Port Harcourt are classified as hostile by default:




In other news, I think my deck officer is drunk:

(in reply to Feltan)
Post #: 29
RE: Under African Skies (2017) v1.5 -- Testing Now! - 9/29/2014 5:09:27 PM   
Feltan


Posts: 1160
Joined: 12/5/2006
From: Kansas
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: tommo8993

china always goes hostile when they attack France. Would it not be an idea to have the french neutral to the US/UK rather than allied.


tommo8993,

I tried that. In fact, that was the initial set-up in my first version. The results were disappointing, and I though quite unrealistic given the relationship that exists between France, the UK and the US. I ended up changing them to Allied, but not under player control. Currently, the scenario plays the way it was intended.

Regards,
Feltan

(in reply to tommo8993)
Post #: 30
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