tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48325077785864049632024-03-05T05:46:57.712-05:00Arcadia PrimeBlog of author, wargamer and miniature painter, Dan Eldredge.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.comBlogger475125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-10407385271870618762017-08-31T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-31T08:15:07.878-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 15: Fail Safe Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROuDDjQXZLlkXtq4GjflXFK3b7AaLfsf57Mmod_P-c4qfxJIkh7hjXiuMRl6msebcSG4mK37pwWXhxpy70oYZp5WcHyLuFcPgMU77YGQkTGMMIQqY28rXS1T1c9CTDYhIfvjnzVEHkyUD/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROuDDjQXZLlkXtq4GjflXFK3b7AaLfsf57Mmod_P-c4qfxJIkh7hjXiuMRl6msebcSG4mK37pwWXhxpy70oYZp5WcHyLuFcPgMU77YGQkTGMMIQqY28rXS1T1c9CTDYhIfvjnzVEHkyUD/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
World War III continues to escalate out of control. Boston and New York have been devastated by nuclear weapons. Retaliatory Strikes have been ordered by the National Military Command Center, targeting several Soviet power stations, shipyards, naval bases, and one major population center, the city of Arkhangelsk.<br />
<br />
In Parts <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-15.html">One</a> and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-15_30.html">Two</a> of this nightmare scenario a pair of B-52s went rogue and had to be shot down by US interceptors. The remainder proceed on their mission. The B-52s used dozens of AGM-69A SRAMs, 200kT nuclear missiles, to "suppress" Soviet air defenses, including SAM sites and interceptor bases. One of these strikes takes out the naval administrative city of Severomorsk, a primary target. But the majority of targets still exist and must be destroyed.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 20, 1975, 034054Z</b><br />
An AGM-69A SRAM takes out an SAM site near to Polyarnyi Naval Base, and the 200kT warhead is sufficient to take out the naval base. Caveman 6 is left without primary or secondary targets. I redirect the flight back out to sea to head for home, and hopefully to lure some interceptors along with it.<br />
<br />
Caveman 2 reaches 5nm from its target, the Upper Tuloma Hydro-electric Power Plant. Interceptors are close behind, but are unable to fire their missiles due to limitations of their radars. Radar issues do not affect the tail gunners of the B-52s however, and they shoot down a Yak-28P Firebar and a Su-15MF Flagon D. Caveman 2 climbs to 2000ft to begin its attack run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMb69AdkdmSEmnYsFedK45jkyg4x7vT1qiAz_XWyDR5dFD4MkKI7RcOlZGWmbBOhVCK64WSpw41-YwIKWRrp767VEC1L_I1ltrS6LPct6HN-I62S9TbmTPTDAwKzjBQ9U08_avwVIyt8Hg/s1600/Fail+Safe+034159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="609" data-original-width="845" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMb69AdkdmSEmnYsFedK45jkyg4x7vT1qiAz_XWyDR5dFD4MkKI7RcOlZGWmbBOhVCK64WSpw41-YwIKWRrp767VEC1L_I1ltrS6LPct6HN-I62S9TbmTPTDAwKzjBQ9U08_avwVIyt8Hg/s320/Fail+Safe+034159.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caveman 2 approaches its target</td></tr>
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Less than a mile from the drop point, an Su-15 Flagon gets into missile launch position and fires.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBB9oisnLuJcxoeRT0rLiFHCSyUSMQDhKgyaW-WzhUfPdlaYkoeTeOvTN4q2Xp5cwKvJ3JgqvavzBfJb3_Zp_HFQqCD366XNTfdRzx9l58zpMQKkvjoHdPL2dDi1pUI3cuajnZLkJ_zdBf/s1600/Fail+Safe+034224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="449" data-original-width="570" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBB9oisnLuJcxoeRT0rLiFHCSyUSMQDhKgyaW-WzhUfPdlaYkoeTeOvTN4q2Xp5cwKvJ3JgqvavzBfJb3_Zp_HFQqCD366XNTfdRzx9l58zpMQKkvjoHdPL2dDi1pUI3cuajnZLkJ_zdBf/s320/Fail+Safe+034224.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Soviet interceptors makes a last ditch effort to prevent the drop.</td></tr>
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One of the B-52s is shot down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFB0svaEYP80RwU0iqFXlHW7yNP-6P0exdnnfMilWiPSLXj5L-XIyHA7b6RDLnHdkjsoyjY2wp33TBbYO9nnZ-NS5Dn0iEsDEHs59P5T0eyJm-ZSH56XDxmU2vObdyntauphAzBmJDCUI/s1600/Fail+Safe+034230.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="413" data-original-width="490" height="269" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFB0svaEYP80RwU0iqFXlHW7yNP-6P0exdnnfMilWiPSLXj5L-XIyHA7b6RDLnHdkjsoyjY2wp33TBbYO9nnZ-NS5Dn0iEsDEHs59P5T0eyJm-ZSH56XDxmU2vObdyntauphAzBmJDCUI/s320/Fail+Safe+034230.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the B-52s is shot down.</td></tr>
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The lead B-52 is shot down seconds later as well, leaving a single B-52. The survivor is too low to drop the bombs, so it is forced to make another pass.<br />
<br />
Three more Yak-28P Firebars are shot down by the ever-busy B-52 tail-gunners.<br />
<br />
<b>034451Z </b>Bombs away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEier6QixwYN4ggqIs_1CHvZlOLZFth9D-uXOCOWQzELlDanfHaM8q4Afizs5wPxCNKYaNAnc0GVQ3cifCwHYF4HenVmoDoykwDjctiXugdcabIrpL2X5qwEp9SY74sjYVM_3BlsWZFw9uvz/s1600/Fail+Safe+034451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="356" data-original-width="644" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEier6QixwYN4ggqIs_1CHvZlOLZFth9D-uXOCOWQzELlDanfHaM8q4Afizs5wPxCNKYaNAnc0GVQ3cifCwHYF4HenVmoDoykwDjctiXugdcabIrpL2X5qwEp9SY74sjYVM_3BlsWZFw9uvz/s320/Fail+Safe+034451.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away on Upper Tuloma Hydro-electric Power Plant.</td></tr>
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When the B-52 gets 8nm away from the power station, the 1.45MT nuclear bombs detonate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdGgdUbwHDdaxz9PypCut4cvNeP1f7usA1Qc9-s5V4Nzl7cHhufBglbMMYGLuNieOJpiPxY9qkpRj3W9VbLwtt6aTep1cKwSrTuIay5of_yzv5wW0qV9Vqpjd3jMTUalzozyW76obTx64/s1600/Fail+Safe+034654.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="876" data-original-width="1394" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcdGgdUbwHDdaxz9PypCut4cvNeP1f7usA1Qc9-s5V4Nzl7cHhufBglbMMYGLuNieOJpiPxY9qkpRj3W9VbLwtt6aTep1cKwSrTuIay5of_yzv5wW0qV9Vqpjd3jMTUalzozyW76obTx64/s320/Fail+Safe+034654.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper Tuloma Hydro-electric Power Station is destroyed.</td></tr>
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<b>040059Z </b>Caveman 3 approaches to within 10nm of its target, Iova Hydro-Electric Power Station. There are no SAMs in the area, and for the moment there does not appear to be any interceptors in pursuit. Caveman 3 climbs to 2000ft in preparation for its attack run.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH4P_-BVUzGq7z9dt9cMPAPSBaUoKCzI_2jVIrBkdFq8kn_KmuJQ83g5HgOgltgH5j8qFOKHvliklaOX_256G5IKQlRDXKgDk6RNS47dprUszpm07nyMF6lqyieATrvojr-v3-1NdvKVHQ/s1600/Fail+Safe+040228.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="387" data-original-width="750" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH4P_-BVUzGq7z9dt9cMPAPSBaUoKCzI_2jVIrBkdFq8kn_KmuJQ83g5HgOgltgH5j8qFOKHvliklaOX_256G5IKQlRDXKgDk6RNS47dprUszpm07nyMF6lqyieATrvojr-v3-1NdvKVHQ/s320/Fail+Safe+040228.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away.</td></tr>
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<b>040228Z </b>Bombs away.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, Caveman 1 kills a Tu-128 Fiddler A with its tailgunners.<br />
<br />
<b>040351Z</b> Iova Hydro-Electric Power Station is destroyed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaeYlOZoygaMBElvcMS43QBP328SfiAtKq7juAjpcZRizA_ZQi44NCLImov5_kiK7Xun7clq5p1l4jfBIZcVwq9_GmQt9YtkPDGhYfq7QLOe9KPPqMkwQu_jv2pxLgRtURJL5hD-fMGXi/s1600/Fail+Safe+040426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="681" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUaeYlOZoygaMBElvcMS43QBP328SfiAtKq7juAjpcZRizA_ZQi44NCLImov5_kiK7Xun7clq5p1l4jfBIZcVwq9_GmQt9YtkPDGhYfq7QLOe9KPPqMkwQu_jv2pxLgRtURJL5hD-fMGXi/s320/Fail+Safe+040426.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Iova Hydro-Electric Power Station is destroyed.</td></tr>
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After passing beyond Iova Hydro-Electric Power Station, Caveman 3 launches six AGM-69A SRAMs against Poduzheme [PVO Interceptor Base], before dropping altitude and turning north to get out of there.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, one of the Stratofortresses is shot down by a trailing Soviet interceptor.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXG_nfsuMgU_FUC7NorWEbrKc8SXPWDnhsmiqW96gb5LWvpZntLcLBPVzdb8N8lIsnMTqi57RJF96cJWyG7WCJV2FBW_8E43LKQcyhPRm2LjbW67DNbJLUDgBQemsU-ogvl_FkEC2hxlws/s1600/Fail+Safe+040642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="887" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXG_nfsuMgU_FUC7NorWEbrKc8SXPWDnhsmiqW96gb5LWvpZntLcLBPVzdb8N8lIsnMTqi57RJF96cJWyG7WCJV2FBW_8E43LKQcyhPRm2LjbW67DNbJLUDgBQemsU-ogvl_FkEC2hxlws/s320/Fail+Safe+040642.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another B-52 is lost.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>040928Z </b>Poduzheme is hit and destroyed.<br />
<br />
<b>041501Z </b>Caveman 1 is within 20nm of its target, Kola Nuclear Power Station, but it is being pursued by two Tu-128 Fiddler As. It is possible that by the time they gets into range of its bombs, they might get shot down. However, Caveman 3 is returning from its own target, and is some 26nm from Kola Nuclear Power Station. If Caveman 1 fails, Caveman 3 will pick up the slack.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd65saFvHD32HDMdj64JWGJVHHywo7L38syYxzIcLDiWvMvB-fwxlIaH36jevswK_HRphS_Bwz2lC-2xyme9bWjwQQnaomhykhZyF-EG6DYVkWTD9bzbjifOVKxaUaSCiQKvKyimHNsUQ/s1600/Fail+Safe+041657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1040" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrd65saFvHD32HDMdj64JWGJVHHywo7L38syYxzIcLDiWvMvB-fwxlIaH36jevswK_HRphS_Bwz2lC-2xyme9bWjwQQnaomhykhZyF-EG6DYVkWTD9bzbjifOVKxaUaSCiQKvKyimHNsUQ/s320/Fail+Safe+041657.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caveman 1 on its bombing run with Caveman 3 in support.</td></tr>
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<b>041800Z </b>Bombs away.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpJcTuzhwCMkbNbxsVm__Q_G0UVFt-UJsGVnKh2qQPN4dljq8jJTcMo-sHyd_py-EYnYTw8xiOwl7j4MMCY4ryJxewKoH4-ImtSiHqvU02AcJAGonLis2vYeC2aKlpZRHofkpfbkUQhqB/s1600/Fail+Safe+041800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="843" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEpJcTuzhwCMkbNbxsVm__Q_G0UVFt-UJsGVnKh2qQPN4dljq8jJTcMo-sHyd_py-EYnYTw8xiOwl7j4MMCY4ryJxewKoH4-ImtSiHqvU02AcJAGonLis2vYeC2aKlpZRHofkpfbkUQhqB/s320/Fail+Safe+041800.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away on Kola Nuclear Power Station.</td></tr>
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Caveman 1 and 3 immediately maneuver to get out of there. Caveman 1 detects a pair of SAMs launched after it--probably nuclear SAMs, and immediately the group splits up into individual bombers and scatters.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMDWdvKwdJF8RcoZWuPINzrIBlSnVwzbr1oZNLnSNH-9gsxmHmQiGsFel_MWFcKTaxOF11qMcGT_2mxBIPaP0ltNXxj3VtxP74vdTgda1C29svbiylcEK2qPebGh3liTHqY3UMwbMBgHV/s1600/Fail+Safe+041915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="841" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfMDWdvKwdJF8RcoZWuPINzrIBlSnVwzbr1oZNLnSNH-9gsxmHmQiGsFel_MWFcKTaxOF11qMcGT_2mxBIPaP0ltNXxj3VtxP74vdTgda1C29svbiylcEK2qPebGh3liTHqY3UMwbMBgHV/s320/Fail+Safe+041915.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SAMs inbound!</td></tr>
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The SAMs fall short. Then the nuke goes off, and Kola Nuclear Power Station is destroyed. A pursuing Tu-128 Fiddler A is destroyed in the blast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlxiD8CBEt8Xe1NsBykQtgwbWkAcLifOGLyZZYMXTh0vGnO7FkWdhu5YakgjC9b_DD1YbOFl27JeP6sX8Kdk0-0GXbVwdGVerbHGGgz2DL-itLd0PjuO0oBBmPkOf31V_8rw0DOQEcd_q/s1600/Fail+Safe+042007.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="571" data-original-width="693" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvlxiD8CBEt8Xe1NsBykQtgwbWkAcLifOGLyZZYMXTh0vGnO7FkWdhu5YakgjC9b_DD1YbOFl27JeP6sX8Kdk0-0GXbVwdGVerbHGGgz2DL-itLd0PjuO0oBBmPkOf31V_8rw0DOQEcd_q/s320/Fail+Safe+042007.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kola Nuclear Power Station is destroyed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Caveman 1 and Caveman 3 both turn for home.<br />
<br />
Caveman 4, meanwhile, has the most difficult mission of all, taking out Severodvinsk and Arkangelsk. They are protected by no less than 15 SA-5b Gammon battalions, each with 12 25kT nuclear SAMs, for a total of 180 nuclear SAMs. In addition to that are four SA-2f Guideline battalions, totaling 24 more SAMs. As such, Caveman 4 launches all of its 24 SRAMs at the SAM batteries in an attempt to punch through. Climbing to launch altitude is risky, but it has to be done.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY9swU2ovjVztVGjJuufxAoqKZoaI5GJCgVNgwxifxXRtx7_fyZ5pfMtblSO5mgnzLQ_AZ8h7wZqdLMLjFHMWysVPirUQ0F31tHIWzhxOPkbqIwGpl6YdI51ZbEB6Yg-hBo1rv04_lNZc3/s1600/Fail+Safe+042007a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="802" data-original-width="530" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY9swU2ovjVztVGjJuufxAoqKZoaI5GJCgVNgwxifxXRtx7_fyZ5pfMtblSO5mgnzLQ_AZ8h7wZqdLMLjFHMWysVPirUQ0F31tHIWzhxOPkbqIwGpl6YdI51ZbEB6Yg-hBo1rv04_lNZc3/s320/Fail+Safe+042007a.jpg" width="211" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missiles away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After they all have launched, I realize that I should have fired a few at Talagi [PVO Interceptor Base], but it is too late now. There are three SRAMs launched towards the SA-2 battalion next to it, so there's a small chance I'll get it.<br />
<br />
Nuclear SAMs fill the sky--I cannot see them, but I can see their effects as they detonate to take out my SRAMs.<br />
<br />
<b>042039Z</b> One of the SA-2f Guideline sites is hit. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4P16B6tjSbzrxBOILi9ECENnyoBJYRYm43t_38xDrOXWeZ8maLXTWrz_C3ai6KPiMgETOqWbGXTfGdTLYMiCnNQ88HxjWQhx5rU8P99BkCm8fBJC901w9xSfRRNez8wwEucMwacyyzm7p/s1600/Fail+Safe+042044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="448" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4P16B6tjSbzrxBOILi9ECENnyoBJYRYm43t_38xDrOXWeZ8maLXTWrz_C3ai6KPiMgETOqWbGXTfGdTLYMiCnNQ88HxjWQhx5rU8P99BkCm8fBJC901w9xSfRRNez8wwEucMwacyyzm7p/s320/Fail+Safe+042044.jpg" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nuclear explosions fill the dawn sky north of Arkhangelsk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The SA-2f Guideline site next to Talagi is hit.<br />
<br />
When it's all over, two SA-2f sites are taken out, and one SA-5b site. Arkhangelsk still has plenty of defenses left. Caveman 4 splits into three individual aircraft, two headed for the primary target Severodvinsk, and one for the secondary target Arkhangelsk.<br />
<br />
Interceptors are launched from Talagi.<br />
<br />
Over the Kola Peninsula, Caveman 1 and 3 continue their egress, shooting down three Su-9B Fishpots, four Su-15MF Flagon Ds, and one Yak-28P Firebar.<br />
<br />
An Su-15 Flagon then proceeds to shoot down both B-52s remaining in Caveman 3.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9zYxOXSKHCIsjaEfmutMsMjUuVEqRkHsti0afrAq99RrBBnSj3cVP9ZVBqwHG-6i_Pk2kryADNZ6cdmMiugG4O_6apJZocXh80_bWor7CB4M_UMiJQgSmeTRSu6DTRzZt7dnYn6P2Yl05/s1600/Fail+Safe+073015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="673" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9zYxOXSKHCIsjaEfmutMsMjUuVEqRkHsti0afrAq99RrBBnSj3cVP9ZVBqwHG-6i_Pk2kryADNZ6cdmMiugG4O_6apJZocXh80_bWor7CB4M_UMiJQgSmeTRSu6DTRzZt7dnYn6P2Yl05/s320/Fail+Safe+073015.jpg" width="276" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caveman 4 closes to within 40nm of its targets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>043438Z</b> Caveman 4 approaches to within 15nm of Arkhangelsk.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyqFTqL-e09NigtQ_2gdu9YGEZBI-IYlAp5kbXv1X_q_n2jgnQtFYuVNkxErnEvZ-MV7sUKTZpnVNn_Q3ZaBDBT_q8-XE_aRiQX1JBw1KWgEx9weXmbEaGmXOzH1lbGjoAIEg4_pBnZPs/s1600/Fail+Safe+043524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1025" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFyqFTqL-e09NigtQ_2gdu9YGEZBI-IYlAp5kbXv1X_q_n2jgnQtFYuVNkxErnEvZ-MV7sUKTZpnVNn_Q3ZaBDBT_q8-XE_aRiQX1JBw1KWgEx9weXmbEaGmXOzH1lbGjoAIEg4_pBnZPs/s320/Fail+Safe+043524.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The endgame.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Caveman 1 loses a Stratofortress to a missile from an Su-15 Flagon.<br />
<br />
<b>043719Z</b> Bombs away over Arkhangelsk. Two 1.45MT nuclear bombs fall upon the city. The half-million citizens of Arkhangelsk, although they don't realize it, are already dead.<br />
<br />
A nuclear SAM is launched at the B-52 that just dropped on Arkhangelsk, but it's already too late. The B-52 dives to the deck, fleeing the city at 350kts.<br />
<br />
The second B-52 approaches Severodvinsk, but due to a misjudgment, fails to climb to the release altitude in time to drop the bomb. Which is why I have the backup.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwULq4inMrROoTyrYxD4_6bn_7s-32kPlE0tUVeomnPcjPEWzwnPdG7bb5b1SRsXwXSicXc0lz2F5Ca9fUKFId5y1F_iG8Hg-UoBrX1UGykaIeqKGnDhSPmAAiUy04geJGKi8nuZl3BRrY/s1600/Fail+Safe+043856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="728" data-original-width="1069" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwULq4inMrROoTyrYxD4_6bn_7s-32kPlE0tUVeomnPcjPEWzwnPdG7bb5b1SRsXwXSicXc0lz2F5Ca9fUKFId5y1F_iG8Hg-UoBrX1UGykaIeqKGnDhSPmAAiUy04geJGKi8nuZl3BRrY/s320/Fail+Safe+043856.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arkhangelsk is destroyed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<b>043851Z </b>Arkhangelsk is destroyed.<br />
<br />
I screw up again with the "backup" bomber going after Severodvinsk, so I have to send them in for another pass.<br />
<br />
<b>044254Z </b>Bombs away over Severodvinsk.<br />
<br />
<b>044320Z </b>A nuclear SAM is launched at the B-52 that dropped over Severodvinsk, which dives to 100ft ASL. The SAM tracks and just as it hits, the shockwave sets off the 1.45MT bombs over Severodvinsk. They got the bomber, but didn't save the city.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOul_rQTlNnS_-kEjTNpqljXXdVmBDrJBAVVW9P9X4_mv46QMDe69fPfeyjxd_h6p87He0-MArqT_cVUxjgQeUmASTIBQ-C926XaEM3OsETPGvs27CwUc0556nw6MSdjm-xmEnBuwjjIq/s1600/Fail+Safe+044320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="1076" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCOul_rQTlNnS_-kEjTNpqljXXdVmBDrJBAVVW9P9X4_mv46QMDe69fPfeyjxd_h6p87He0-MArqT_cVUxjgQeUmASTIBQ-C926XaEM3OsETPGvs27CwUc0556nw6MSdjm-xmEnBuwjjIq/s320/Fail+Safe+044320.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bomb detonates over Severodvinsk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4Yf8shfGF_Z2U-UMbJ4s7q75LAUXZjfg4QEXS4IrL5JEtqfGFG8dGS5xtHfnTJ2S0NIbITTr3jPh6TtchdwsapQUe5G4cRUv1TP5JjqNfAjO63fQL990pbSqOJaoxpLA8c5kRprE85LG/s1600/Fail+Safe+044351.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="1205" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji4Yf8shfGF_Z2U-UMbJ4s7q75LAUXZjfg4QEXS4IrL5JEtqfGFG8dGS5xtHfnTJ2S0NIbITTr3jPh6TtchdwsapQUe5G4cRUv1TP5JjqNfAjO63fQL990pbSqOJaoxpLA8c5kRprE85LG/s320/Fail+Safe+044351.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Severodvinsk is destroyed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
All surviving B-52s attempt to get home, but for Caveman 4, fuel is running low. Tu-128 Fiddlers show up on their tails as they attempt to get out.<br />
<br />
<b>060259Z</b> Bingo fuel, one of the B-52s from Caveman 4 is forced to increase altitude. Tu-128 Fiddlers pounce. The B-52 makes a great effort, and evades 11 air-to-air missiles before it is finally shot down.<br />
<br />
<b>123515Z </b>After multiple refuelings, the last B-52 returns home to Thule. 7 out 15 survived. The mission is over.<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion</b><br />
<i>And then...</i><br />
<i>Soviet forces have now hit West Germany hard in a vicious exchange of nuclear-tipped SRBMs on both sides, and they are still pouring through the Fulda Gap and the North German Plain. West Berlin falls to the Russian Army. World War III is now fully engaged as Soviet nuclear warheads hit European cities and industrial areas. Bombers attacking London are stopped by the RAF, but the city is destroyed by a firestorm caused by Soviet MRBMs raining down on it.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>President Ford orders all America's nuclear forces into action, utilizing preliminary plans laid out in the National Security Council's NSC 162/2 directive. US B-52 and FB-111 bombers are launched towards their targets in the Soviet Union. Russian Tu-95 and 3M bombers are launched simultaneously and swarm over the Canadian frontier.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Over 200 warheads are detonated in Russia; 27 reach their targets in the United States, specifically Washington D.C., New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Seattle, Spokane, and eighteen military bases including ICBM Sites (most in the North, but including the Norfolk shipyards and bases in Virginia). In Russia, over two dozen Soviet cities are blasted, and nearly as many major military sites.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Top leaders like Yuri Andropov (Chariman of the KGB) and Mikhail Gorbachev (First Secretary to the Supreme Soviet) are killed at military bunkers in Western Russia; Soviet Premier Leonid Brezhnev survived. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Some 80% of American and 90% of Soviet strategic forces are destroyed in the initial days of the war. By November it is estimated that the Soviets have less than a dozen nuclear-capable bombers and very few operational ICBMs and SLBMs remaining. At the same time, some forty American B-52s are operational. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Nuclear exchange has so far been limited to the United States, the Soviet Union and Europe. Surviving NATO forces and WESTPAC units are deploying to counter the remaining Soviet threat. The world stands on the brink of extinction...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>"Beware the beast Man, for he is the Devil's pawn. Alone among God's primates, he kills for sport or lust or greed, he will murder his brother to possess his brother's land. Let him not breed in great numbers, for he will make a desert of his home and yours. Shun him; drive him back into his jungle lair, for he is the harbinger of death..."</i><br />
<i> -The Lawgiver (as spoken by Cornelius in </i>Planet of the Apes<i>)</i><br />
<br />
<br />
Trimuph (<i>that's ironic</i>...)<br />
Score: 7000<br />
<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
1x Runway (2000m)<br />
1x Single-Unit Airfield (1x 1401-2000m Runway)<br />
16x SA-3b Goa Quad Rail<br />
36x SA-7a Grail [9K32 Strela-2] MANPADS<br />
4x Vehicle (Flat Face B [P-19])<br />
4x Vehicle (Low Blow [SNR-125])<br />
60x Yak-28P Firebar<br />
2x Radar (Thin Skin A HF [PRV-9])<br />
48x SA-2f Guideline Mod 1/2 Single Rail<br />
8x Vehicle (Fan Song F [RSNA-75M])<br />
8x Vehicle (Spoon Rest C [P-12])<br />
2x Radar (Bar Lock A [P-37])<br />
5x Runway (4000m)<br />
5x Single-Unit Airfield (1x 3201-4000m Runway)<br />
99x Su-15MF Flagon D<br />
29x Su-9B Fishpot<br />
2x Radar (Spoon Rest C [P-12])<br />
1x Radar (Back Net [P-80])<br />
1x Radar (Tall King A [P-14])<br />
4x Marker (City)<br />
30x 23mm ZU-23-2<br />
5x Building (Odd Pair HF [PRV-13])<br />
15x Building (Square Pair [5N62])<br />
90x SA-5b Gammon Single Rail<br />
5x Building (Tall King C [P-14])<br />
2x Structure (Power Station - Hydro-Electric)<br />
9x Tu-128 Fiddler A<br />
1x Structure (Power Station - Nuclear)<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
2x AA-1a Alkali Mod 2 [RS-2US]<br />
4x AA-3 Anab C [R-98R, SARH]<br />
74x SA-5b Gammon [5V28, 25kT Nuclear]<br />
24x SA-3b Goa [5V27, V-601P]<br />
28x SA-2f Guideline Mod 1 [S-75M2 Volkhov, 5YA23 / V-759]<br />
1x AA-3 Advanced Anab E [R-98MR, SARH]<br />
9x AA-5 Ash A [R-4R, SARH]<br />
8x AA-8 Aphid [R-60T]<br />
4x AA-5 Ash B [R-4T, IR]<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
1x F-101B Voodoo<br />
8x B-52G Stratofortress<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
4x AIR-2A Genie [1.5kT Nuclear]<br />
2x AIM-4G Falcon [IR]<br />
74x AGM-69A SRAM [200kT Nuclear]<br />
10x Generic Chaff Salvo [8x Cartridges]<br />
51x 12.7mm/50 MG Burst [160 rnds]<br />
12x Generic Flare Salvo [4x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
10x B28 Strategic Bomb [1.45mT Nuclear]<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO Non Compliant<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
3x B-52G Stratofortress<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
1x Generic Flare Salvo [4x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
1x Generic Chaff Salvo [8x Cartridges]<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO Capital Cities<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO First Strike MRBM Forces<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO Air Defence<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-30096890226194918812017-08-30T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-31T08:01:40.899-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 15: Fail Safe Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROuDDjQXZLlkXtq4GjflXFK3b7AaLfsf57Mmod_P-c4qfxJIkh7hjXiuMRl6msebcSG4mK37pwWXhxpy70oYZp5WcHyLuFcPgMU77YGQkTGMMIQqY28rXS1T1c9CTDYhIfvjnzVEHkyUD/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROuDDjQXZLlkXtq4GjflXFK3b7AaLfsf57Mmod_P-c4qfxJIkh7hjXiuMRl6msebcSG4mK37pwWXhxpy70oYZp5WcHyLuFcPgMU77YGQkTGMMIQqY28rXS1T1c9CTDYhIfvjnzVEHkyUD/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-15.html">Part One</a> of this nightmare scenario, the war continues to escalate out of control. Boston and New York have been devastated by nuclear weapons. Retaliatory Strikes have been ordered by the National Military Command Center, targeting several Soviet power stations, shipyards, naval bases, and one major population center, the city of Arkhangelsk.<br />
<br />
This is disconcerting news at best. The alert B-52s move towards their targets, but then one B-52 flight is found to be non-compliant with orders. The US Air Defense fighters are ordered to seek out the non-compliant B-52s and destroy them. Two of the three non-compliant B-52s are found apparently returning to base and are reluctantly shot down, with the loss of one F-101B Voodoo interceptor that got caught in the blast of his own weapon. The last B-52 is apparently continuing onto his target. Whichever way he <i>is</i> going, I can't stop him because I have no fighters with enough fuel to reach him. In the meantime, the remaining B-52s proceed to their targets.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 20, 1975 015648Z</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6crMRq-CKQT5eoEoJOmwB6ZBIHOKFiu0k3NDjPdWXZfpSgrJlxUGcZv70m9hIcm6wWpDcShIeH6SS6TdFL0QGkdjjA3_WvD9K8wfvvpdTvusJ-bTAfGLlYHmSW5IjA0PeEZr7_97l67f/s1600/Fail+Safe+015648.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="790" data-original-width="563" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgj6crMRq-CKQT5eoEoJOmwB6ZBIHOKFiu0k3NDjPdWXZfpSgrJlxUGcZv70m9hIcm6wWpDcShIeH6SS6TdFL0QGkdjjA3_WvD9K8wfvvpdTvusJ-bTAfGLlYHmSW5IjA0PeEZr7_97l67f/s320/Fail+Safe+015648.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The strike continues</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As the Cavemen approach the limits of Soviet Air Search Radar coverage, I drop them down to minimum altitude, a mere 100ft ASL. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-O6dPxKw6coFZzpNMfHJKA-PUFGWZdHN_GIOIrkISfB43cJ9T0LqSrnB823CMVUm1awr0BlWm0rulO8_zC5sdK_zCmepbDn7zqpWJguQTIuAK8jO84dfI44ttizQR9mkdyactshkwmtUt/s1600/Fail+Safe+023630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="839" data-original-width="878" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-O6dPxKw6coFZzpNMfHJKA-PUFGWZdHN_GIOIrkISfB43cJ9T0LqSrnB823CMVUm1awr0BlWm0rulO8_zC5sdK_zCmepbDn7zqpWJguQTIuAK8jO84dfI44ttizQR9mkdyactshkwmtUt/s320/Fail+Safe+023630.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The B-52s enter Soviet Radar coverage.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>024500Z</b> Still no response from any Soviet air defenses, although I suspect I will detect Soviet interceptors only once they begin shooting down my bombers.<br />
<br />
<b>030000Z</b> Still no <i>visible</i> response from the Soviet air defenses, although I see in the message log that Buff 3, the third B-52 from the non-compliant Caveman 5 flight, is hit by an AA-1a Alkali.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyVQ9ASY2f9TUE6OHCO1a_6pGS474KEIH5YbykMcqi8sbIOlSmGGTPxTrmFqzX9YD7xifRj4zN5SQNDxnkeKlSVmnesEG2MCbJRj-HNuU9I6bBkmRfAkMrkgfCy8JhESlvfvzpQXzse2-/s1600/Fail+Safe+030000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="833" data-original-width="860" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUyVQ9ASY2f9TUE6OHCO1a_6pGS474KEIH5YbykMcqi8sbIOlSmGGTPxTrmFqzX9YD7xifRj4zN5SQNDxnkeKlSVmnesEG2MCbJRj-HNuU9I6bBkmRfAkMrkgfCy8JhESlvfvzpQXzse2-/s320/Fail+Safe+030000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still closing in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>030840Z</b> Caveman 2 and 3 go feet dry over northern Norway.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B-52s go feet dry.</td></tr>
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<b>031747Z </b>The Radar warning receivers of the B-52s light off due to Soviet aircraft.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bogeys detected</td></tr>
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I doubt they have detected the B-52s yet, considering how low they are flying. But decision time is approaching. While my B-52s fly at 100ft AGL, they can get closer without being detected. However, if I am to fire my AGM-69A SRAMs to suppress SAM sites and interceptor airfields, I need to climb to 1000ft, practically guaranteeing their detection. For now I'll try to get closer before launching any SRAMs.<br />
<br />
There are now six interceptors detected, and I suspect they might be closing in. I decide to have Caveman 2 climb and launch SRAMs at a few targets.<br />
<br />
Just as I begin to get off missiles, I detect bogeys on my tail at close range.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bandits on our tail!</td></tr>
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I launch SRAMs as fast as I can, but eventually the trailing bandits, identified as Su-15MF Flagon Ds, launch missiles. Fortunately the missiles miss, and the B-52s in Caveman 2 dive low again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYe_c0YuYJyGoxW0WKOofYOFW_0n6wBh_6TYB56d3adH1fL9o-THqe_43YiG7EyqtPngMhy8Fl25mCIKsRyGiBr32vDj2lgneGPZ_GxxXxlbEXB92h6rkCfg5IJoNjOkXj1XOwsV0S5Psq/s1600/Fail+Safe+032457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="992" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYe_c0YuYJyGoxW0WKOofYOFW_0n6wBh_6TYB56d3adH1fL9o-THqe_43YiG7EyqtPngMhy8Fl25mCIKsRyGiBr32vDj2lgneGPZ_GxxXxlbEXB92h6rkCfg5IJoNjOkXj1XOwsV0S5Psq/s320/Fail+Safe+032457.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fifteen SRAMs are in the air.</td></tr>
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Fifteen SRAMs are in the air, aimed at seven targets: 5 at a SA-5b Gammon battalion (with nuclear SAMs), 4 at SA-2f Guideline batteries, 3 at Kilpyarv [PVO interceptor Base], 1 at Koskha Yar [Diversionary Base, Tactical], and 2 at Luostari [Helicopter / Diversionary Base].<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioxXbbTRWzKQCKDxIY2BaUn8YyJXgaqK50OJ5XAQPTbXJyFzC2YePKlK0HH8kv0Gcz9aqEZoy4lugKPcSuP8mh3HTM3brdHsK-dys613PPsw_9u4wbR8-rJ1wkrcKEW0Vu6T71VNoY5JJL/s1600/B52SRAM_240x180.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="180" data-original-width="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioxXbbTRWzKQCKDxIY2BaUn8YyJXgaqK50OJ5XAQPTbXJyFzC2YePKlK0HH8kv0Gcz9aqEZoy4lugKPcSuP8mh3HTM3brdHsK-dys613PPsw_9u4wbR8-rJ1wkrcKEW0Vu6T71VNoY5JJL/s1600/B52SRAM_240x180.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">B-52 with SRAMs on the wings</td></tr>
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The SRAMs climb to 65000ft and accelerate to 2650kts. I doubt that much can intercept them except perhaps the nuclear SAMs of the SA-5b Gammon battalions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWO8qD9r39nu1oNmnAx4DPTpsoegKCSPopd50w_qHgFKn2CMj887RWjpLoIOK5aPO-YD4BQdQ9RnUtggV03SqvGJf8ci5lrkNBzYs-QNk71_Gfz_LcSMVXRaemRCsSKXkR7QI93yXA34T/s1600/5V28-Vega-Dobris-Site-1S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1035" data-original-width="768" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyWO8qD9r39nu1oNmnAx4DPTpsoegKCSPopd50w_qHgFKn2CMj887RWjpLoIOK5aPO-YD4BQdQ9RnUtggV03SqvGJf8ci5lrkNBzYs-QNk71_Gfz_LcSMVXRaemRCsSKXkR7QI93yXA34T/s320/5V28-Vega-Dobris-Site-1S.jpg" width="237" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SA-5 Gammon</td></tr>
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<b>032542Z </b>The first nuclear SAM intercepts its target, and the first nuclear fireball of the night detonates 65000 feet over the Kola Peninsula.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubFXnf7GT8uv_0yvU15hWaqfjawcB37zB0EoGtcfC1BGzO8DMc6dZWk1fPxi2p0QAotYfWxjwbb6bC4gBwdGWgs6q9IoC0i-yyDBphZbr2HcGtuodTS1nodU0fhrLfDNQnTf9pnCeuyzQ/s1600/Fail+Safe+032542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="824" data-original-width="1243" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhubFXnf7GT8uv_0yvU15hWaqfjawcB37zB0EoGtcfC1BGzO8DMc6dZWk1fPxi2p0QAotYfWxjwbb6bC4gBwdGWgs6q9IoC0i-yyDBphZbr2HcGtuodTS1nodU0fhrLfDNQnTf9pnCeuyzQ/s320/Fail+Safe+032542.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first SA-5f connects with its SRAM target</td></tr>
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A few seconds later, another SRAM is taken out by a nuclear SAM, very close to the first impact. The other missiles continue to close into their targets.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFPRypnib8i54JcESdCaJjTOtSmSGQ39KBNzwJphOg6c_VvZSqOnVqEdZkaiCBE1e4SxVhV_pIUZlymYDc7qHrrWB4Kl5bnvkt5M4MxCiSRvHs1rvxKqhV2KkTddzWDgtlzHsdyQHRjsQ/s1600/Fail+Safe+032553.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1587" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWFPRypnib8i54JcESdCaJjTOtSmSGQ39KBNzwJphOg6c_VvZSqOnVqEdZkaiCBE1e4SxVhV_pIUZlymYDc7qHrrWB4Kl5bnvkt5M4MxCiSRvHs1rvxKqhV2KkTddzWDgtlzHsdyQHRjsQ/s320/Fail+Safe+032553.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The second SRAM is taken out</td></tr>
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SA-3s attempt to take out diving SRAMs, but have almost no chance to hit them. Luostari [Helicopter / Diversionary Base] is hit first, and vanishes into a nuclear fireball. At nearly the same time, one of the B-52s in Caveman 3 shoots down a pursuing Yak-28P Firebar with its tail gun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQfxpuRr0r3XuQUu_lZ0WlvS7eWY3SEkG9d5FoOutgjfBf9tOy2Lj55JoyuSox5rr_9RTAXHeo-0VtgxFRv5NUP46TIXLMAmnE7xGnh8zq5u_NfjBn0EIwWZdNB9BhFzJ8L-jmh8QUjFl1/s1600/Fail+Safe+032611.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="1315" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQfxpuRr0r3XuQUu_lZ0WlvS7eWY3SEkG9d5FoOutgjfBf9tOy2Lj55JoyuSox5rr_9RTAXHeo-0VtgxFRv5NUP46TIXLMAmnE7xGnh8zq5u_NfjBn0EIwWZdNB9BhFzJ8L-jmh8QUjFl1/s320/Fail+Safe+032611.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another SRAM is destroyed, as is Luostari air field.</td></tr>
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The sole SRAM targeted on Koshka Yar misses the runway by about 3000ft, and apparently fails to detonate. The first of three SRAMs targeted on Kilpyarv [PVO Interceptor Base] misses by a similar amount and also fails to detonate. The second SRAM targeted on Kilpyarv is shot down by an SA-3b Goa less than a mile from the base in a one-in-a-million shot (well, one in a hundred, anyway). <br />
<br />
A second Firebar is shot down by the B-52s in Caveman 3.<br />
<br />
As the three remaining SRAMs targeted on the SA-5b Gammon nuclear SAM site close in, one 25kT Nuclear SAM misses, detonating harmlessly, while another malfunctions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihW-bSlsRTtVkV38KkDKYEbXMByT6awFmlNK9iAtHROia49BWIkHUWat1u16ZGKUEvbjXboueia3AqUTLGku6Lm2Qqp4UdCha_VRVgQQVMHegSx77ttZKyfovl3gfizdy2x-8L73fzyEFS/s1600/Fail+Safe+032652.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="911" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihW-bSlsRTtVkV38KkDKYEbXMByT6awFmlNK9iAtHROia49BWIkHUWat1u16ZGKUEvbjXboueia3AqUTLGku6Lm2Qqp4UdCha_VRVgQQVMHegSx77ttZKyfovl3gfizdy2x-8L73fzyEFS/s320/Fail+Safe+032652.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last SRAMs close in on their targets.</td></tr>
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The third (and final) SRAM targetted on Kilpyarv misses by half a mile...and fails to detonate. One of the SRAMs targeted at a SA-2f Guideline battery hits its target. More nuclear SAMs are launched, and manage to take out the three remaining SRAMs targeted on the SA-5 battalions. At the very least, they've reduced the nuclear SAM magazines somewhat.<br />
<br />
Another Firebar is shot down, and seconds later the last SRAM detonates and destroys a SA-2 site.<br />
<br />
<b>032849Z </b>Caveman 2 climbs again and launches six more SRAMs, and a Firebar launches more missiles at them. In the meantime, the B-52s from Caveman 3 shoot down yet another Firebar, and again, fortunately, the Firebar's missile misses its target.<br />
<br />
A nuclear SAM misses an SRAM, detonating behind it, but another nuclear SAM takes out the one SRAM targeting the SAM battalions. One of the SRAMs scores a hit on Koshka Yar, destroying it.<br />
<br />
Four SRAMs are left, two targeting Kilpyarv, which has been launching every fighter available, and one each targeting SA-2 SAM sites. Finally, after <i>another</i> SRAM misses Kilpyarv far enough that it doesn't detonate, the last SRAM targeted against it hits (well, misses by <i>only</i> 1550ft), which is enough to detonate and destroy the air base.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhokFjVCfQoUN69VO-dbZJChfb1PE2Lsqob2arJsgA0pk7YZrhsn9b1A21U9PVJ-XkEK0lj_nbjrI7ZpwK486GpLBztuZpdXeml9MuFOYW1m0SXz6ABWCeFclmSbXqKds_eKPZD3Et0asot/s1600/Fail+Safe+033103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="852" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhokFjVCfQoUN69VO-dbZJChfb1PE2Lsqob2arJsgA0pk7YZrhsn9b1A21U9PVJ-XkEK0lj_nbjrI7ZpwK486GpLBztuZpdXeml9MuFOYW1m0SXz6ABWCeFclmSbXqKds_eKPZD3Et0asot/s320/Fail+Safe+033103.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A SAM site (right) and Kilpyarv (left) are finally hit</td></tr>
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Three more Firebars are shot down. The fact that the Soviet interceptors cannot engage the B-52s when they are flying this low is what's keeping them alive. An Su-15 Flagon and an Su-9B Fishpot are shot down. The tailgunners are truly raking in the kills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhspg-cYXGZPXUt_BWDMtQb4UtvvyCAoxhpzgV_mTxnHAop9fahAXDg6jMheqwdTE8B-g5b6OYUr-W5ylLhp17PSg-HEeIhWajZ6qkHGHqdHDmu0xVJafYyL4qwkFcwUKZfnSWuLR3bI4ur/s1600/Fail+Safe+033621.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="838" data-original-width="1129" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhspg-cYXGZPXUt_BWDMtQb4UtvvyCAoxhpzgV_mTxnHAop9fahAXDg6jMheqwdTE8B-g5b6OYUr-W5ylLhp17PSg-HEeIhWajZ6qkHGHqdHDmu0xVJafYyL4qwkFcwUKZfnSWuLR3bI4ur/s320/Fail+Safe+033621.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting closer.</td></tr>
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<b>033621Z</b> Caveman 2 is 33nm from its target, the Upper Tuloma Hydro-Electric Power Station. The flight briefly popped up to launch two SRAMs at Monchegorsk [PVO Interceptor Base], which had recently launched multiple fighters. The first SRAM hits and Monchegorsk is destroyed.<br />
<br />
Caveman 3 climbs to launch altitude to fire three SRAMs at Afrikanda [PVO Interceptor Base], before diving down low again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWg3fTy4249YIdrf3pfy4Oz7XvO9FvuSQQReMefyHJgEKFSOGvnAEdSCE0jC8PbqK_IzxFpmn7kC7NZmbxEcnhWL5d9Zag6CchvgZOyIst8dhbblvASwY1VvyVB9vbDUbMJ-M-_kQqIxE/s1600/Fail+Safe+033655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="914" data-original-width="949" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHWg3fTy4249YIdrf3pfy4Oz7XvO9FvuSQQReMefyHJgEKFSOGvnAEdSCE0jC8PbqK_IzxFpmn7kC7NZmbxEcnhWL5d9Zag6CchvgZOyIst8dhbblvASwY1VvyVB9vbDUbMJ-M-_kQqIxE/s320/Fail+Safe+033655.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caveman 3 launches SRAMs against Afrikanda</td></tr>
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Three more Flagons are shot down.<br />
<br />
<b>033837Z</b> Caveman 6 launches a massive salvo of SRAMs against SAM sites around Severomorsk and Polyarnyi.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVQ3b9mZ5LZzuSk4k5OU8TokjdFsR7vN0jD37XH0xrVA33Frqj8M5L4f5brprJIGA1rNZEryURUxxFHfFdFUeigJk-43fTOjB04R2YODzb1ZYB-v_C4w4E60ThAp9wQlLmtr2a2CYYk3X/s1600/Fail+Safe+033837.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="602" data-original-width="1276" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVQ3b9mZ5LZzuSk4k5OU8TokjdFsR7vN0jD37XH0xrVA33Frqj8M5L4f5brprJIGA1rNZEryURUxxFHfFdFUeigJk-43fTOjB04R2YODzb1ZYB-v_C4w4E60ThAp9wQlLmtr2a2CYYk3X/s320/Fail+Safe+033837.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caveman 6 launches SRAMs</td></tr>
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I detect a SAM headed for Caveman 6. I had hoped that the SA-5 nuclear SAM batteries would be distracted by all the SRAMs I'm throwing at them, but apparently they managed to send one at the B-52s. I immediate split the flight of three into individual planes and have them scatter and dive. Hopefully I won't lose them all.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMaqLh-2hrjZ3uqvItxoP6SPwy3UkvWR1uN0laLYAD0yw0Ih94QuhqOMqVaaESmsIzQI1dpgpKRXKbXII-I2uShzPV26iDCcfyNBcvlXss5OGF5j54b0uDyykAxoaBub3vX8zrWz85Hlyi/s1600/Fail+Safe+033858.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="883" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMaqLh-2hrjZ3uqvItxoP6SPwy3UkvWR1uN0laLYAD0yw0Ih94QuhqOMqVaaESmsIzQI1dpgpKRXKbXII-I2uShzPV26iDCcfyNBcvlXss5OGF5j54b0uDyykAxoaBub3vX8zrWz85Hlyi/s320/Fail+Safe+033858.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The B-52s scatter as the SAMs close in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I lose contact with one of the SAMs, but the other two close in. My B-52s are two miles apart and continue to separate, hopefully they will have separation enough to survive.<br />
<br />
The tactic works. All three B-52s manage to survive. Meanwhile, the SRAMs close in relentlessly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Olr0sWFdcSdIgeGh9HuQQvoL6jeor0GYQ1UfbPF5bqPbXFDceyvaiEHFAz9csSqFVHKAReNZDJlELwnI3R4C2t1CUlxXDgzEYzMAdZAMu6CzNq6A-dz7uhSZmMtsypRC6-C1afXWGhyX/s1600/Fail+Safe+033931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="1334" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Olr0sWFdcSdIgeGh9HuQQvoL6jeor0GYQ1UfbPF5bqPbXFDceyvaiEHFAz9csSqFVHKAReNZDJlELwnI3R4C2t1CUlxXDgzEYzMAdZAMu6CzNq6A-dz7uhSZmMtsypRC6-C1afXWGhyX/s320/Fail+Safe+033931.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The B-52s survive and the SRAMs appear to be about to overwhelm their targets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The SA-3 battery next to Severomorsk is hit by the first SRAM, despite desperate salvos of SA-3s to bring it down. Four more are inbound to that target.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOEemsQND9PcmRbKt2wOFlxjGMgR-yLG0ROsWPx_etcEuJ6tguTg42HdDlwR5rOWGvfEgMn1Mfpq44swKBEpcyvwXyhHnbYDtmxDjFz_244Wdjgqh-Wjgjf-hIaAbudFGzhtQ92MvaXqWU/s1600/Fail+Safe+033947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="1516" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOEemsQND9PcmRbKt2wOFlxjGMgR-yLG0ROsWPx_etcEuJ6tguTg42HdDlwR5rOWGvfEgMn1Mfpq44swKBEpcyvwXyhHnbYDtmxDjFz_244Wdjgqh-Wjgjf-hIaAbudFGzhtQ92MvaXqWU/s320/Fail+Safe+033947.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multiple nuclear SAMs destroy inbound SRAMs, but also Severomorsk is destroyed in the 200kT nuclear fireball.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The SRAM that hit the SA-3 site next to Severomorsk, being a 200kT weapon, is sufficient to completely destroy Severomorsk. The B-52 go after their secondary target of Polyarnyi instead.<br />
<br />
To the south, the SRAMs impact Afrikanda [PVO Interceptor Base], wiping it out.<br />
<br />
<b>034050Z</b> The last SRAMs launched by Caveman 6 impact, wiping out multiple SAMs site. The area around Murmansk and Severomorsk is swamped by mushroom clouds and burning buildings and trees. The way is clear for Caveman 6 to move in and bomb Polyarny.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Caveman 2 has closed to within 10nm of its target, Upper Tuloma Hydro-electric Power Plant.<br />
<br />
Continued in Part <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-15_31.html">Three</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-44714241644734432672017-08-29T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-30T08:16:13.416-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 15: Fail Safe Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROuDDjQXZLlkXtq4GjflXFK3b7AaLfsf57Mmod_P-c4qfxJIkh7hjXiuMRl6msebcSG4mK37pwWXhxpy70oYZp5WcHyLuFcPgMU77YGQkTGMMIQqY28rXS1T1c9CTDYhIfvjnzVEHkyUD/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiROuDDjQXZLlkXtq4GjflXFK3b7AaLfsf57Mmod_P-c4qfxJIkh7hjXiuMRl6msebcSG4mK37pwWXhxpy70oYZp5WcHyLuFcPgMU77YGQkTGMMIQqY28rXS1T1c9CTDYhIfvjnzVEHkyUD/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
<strong>Introduction</strong><br />
The line has been crossed: Soviet
submarine-launched ballistic missiles have detonated in the heart of New York
and downtown Boston Mass, incinerating over 40,000 residents in just 15 seconds.
More than 50 percent of the population living within a 1-mile radius of the
explosions is either dead or gravely injured.<br />
<br />
NATO officials were
horrified. But they were also confused: Once the launched missiles were
detected, an all-out Soviet nuclear strike was expected. Instead, only 6 SLBMs
were launched and no other launches were detected. What is going
on?<br />
<br />
Premier Leonid Brezhnev has been on the hot line to Air Force One
and the US President, the Soviet Premier pleading it was a rogue SSBN which had
disobeyed orders and the launch was not authorised.<br />
<br />
The whole world is
on a knife edge. Is the Cold War suddenly going to get a whole lot warmer?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<strong>Situation</strong><br />
The unauthorised launch of a limited Soviet
SLBM strike on the United States has surprised NATO.<br />
<br />
Pershing 1A
ballistic missiles have now deployed to pre-assigned positions in West Germany;
Likewise Soviet MRBMs and SRBMs have also deployed along the borders. NATO
forces continue to hold the line in the Central Front but are falling back due
to the onslaught of Soviet armoured divisions. The only thing able to stem the
tide is limited nuclear strikes against them.<br />
<br />
The 325th Bombardment
Squadron with B-52G Stratofortresses have been flying Chrome Dome (airborne
alert) race-tracks over the last few days with associated support tankers, and
are now awaiting their EAMs (Emergency Action Message) with orders to
strike.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKShZYuQA1CRBqvcbHsdZJjyq-eNWPtLqf8uBPh07QBIY3fiMQ3Pb5n1vvMdoGEoDa6CjhRARsA2ctP2qblSjN9BnOssWlS98ZtHES-qrhdHREj445QoNvTgENGqHffqZbcOz2Vses6kxL/s1600/KH-7+Image+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="544" data-original-width="677" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKShZYuQA1CRBqvcbHsdZJjyq-eNWPtLqf8uBPh07QBIY3fiMQ3Pb5n1vvMdoGEoDa6CjhRARsA2ctP2qblSjN9BnOssWlS98ZtHES-qrhdHREj445QoNvTgENGqHffqZbcOz2Vses6kxL/s320/KH-7+Image+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Polyarnyi, Severomorsk, and Upper Tuloma power station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Enemy Forces</strong><br />
SAM Systems : SA-2F Guideline, SA-3B
Goa, SA-5B Gammon, SA-7 Grail.<br />
AAA systems : 100mm KS-19, 23mm ZSU.<br />
Air : Tu-128 Fiddler, Su-15TM Flagon, Su-9 Fishpot B, Yak-28P
Firebar<br />
Surface : unknown.<br />
Subsurface : unknown<br />
<div class="auto-style1">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoJMCPvGeDfUSpk3GNlv7n-UuRSVSuwTr3w7Ho4Sl7jUjRRRJS8IBo3n4LHym1IaRDp5P4EmdEyZHVhOvNVpyyiIjDRQMxu9mTgeCHdvKQjRwNN0ir7rzEwoT5rZ8WwSGwD2Vh_NV-Shb/s1600/KH-7+Image+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="444" data-original-width="762" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoJMCPvGeDfUSpk3GNlv7n-UuRSVSuwTr3w7Ho4Sl7jUjRRRJS8IBo3n4LHym1IaRDp5P4EmdEyZHVhOvNVpyyiIjDRQMxu9mTgeCHdvKQjRwNN0ir7rzEwoT5rZ8WwSGwD2Vh_NV-Shb/s320/KH-7+Image+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Kola power station and Afrikanda PVO airbase</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Friendly Forces</strong><br />
Thule Air Base:<br />
<ul>
<li>43rd ARS (KC-135A Stratotanker)
</li>
<li>960th AEWCS (EC-121H Warning Star)
</li>
<li>179th FIS-ANG (F-101B Voodoo) </li>
</ul>
Strategic Air Command (airborne) : 325th BS (B-52G Stratofortress)<br />
<div class="auto-style1">
<em><br /></em></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73WoPw8USLs9u8daEFCz8BN7sHSsQhfs-3IS7gCg_KYTP-9gI6bR2SqTtn_jRT9HignXyzFLJMKKyi0mCMu6wvVZXXM9FpjmM6barpwR2OLcTvi9L6lVHXaYcvuYvdqeno1j0pE-B4cWh/s1600/KH-7+Image+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="800" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh73WoPw8USLs9u8daEFCz8BN7sHSsQhfs-3IS7gCg_KYTP-9gI6bR2SqTtn_jRT9HignXyzFLJMKKyi0mCMu6wvVZXXM9FpjmM6barpwR2OLcTvi9L6lVHXaYcvuYvdqeno1j0pE-B4cWh/s320/KH-7+Image+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Iova power station</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="auto-style1">
<strong>Mission</strong></div>
Conduct nuclear strikes as directed by
NMCC.<br />
<br />
<strong>Execution</strong><br />
On receipt of EAMs, carry out assigned
strikes as ordered. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6601EafGCcEMPycnksQNg97zAYoNFpUhcgYGObclvLf5evDXMNTB_18A1fM0FbYV51X3YwJgksORpYhxczvZ8ato64XQzI4-p1abOcfzLJvw9dH1pRlMrIExS3GNxu7JyjO0FhtOvArKH/s1600/KH-7+Image+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="697" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6601EafGCcEMPycnksQNg97zAYoNFpUhcgYGObclvLf5evDXMNTB_18A1fM0FbYV51X3YwJgksORpYhxczvZ8ato64XQzI4-p1abOcfzLJvw9dH1pRlMrIExS3GNxu7JyjO0FhtOvArKH/s320/KH-7+Image+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Severodvisk and Arkhangelsk target area</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Command and EMCON</strong><br />
Command: NMCC<br />
EMCON: ALPHA-Limited Emissions<br />
<br />
<b>October 20, 1975 0100Z </b><br />
Last scenario I said I took it personally that the Soviets were targeting Boston (and New York). Now they've actually nuked them. This is beyond the pale.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix85lgNHrNFv-PqVIgQZfRGZCtuVLeYaQ_w62VdT2Zff5q8SiVsmBQQ7zrRL-TMe9cH1IQh2li3s-l7hopfGhqZv8JUwWWPddGct3moFBxr8zQPXJkvJROYwK5gM2DrFo3WeTG09x9Cjwd/s1600/Fail+Safe+010000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="915" data-original-width="1236" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix85lgNHrNFv-PqVIgQZfRGZCtuVLeYaQ_w62VdT2Zff5q8SiVsmBQQ7zrRL-TMe9cH1IQh2li3s-l7hopfGhqZv8JUwWWPddGct3moFBxr8zQPXJkvJROYwK5gM2DrFo3WeTG09x9Cjwd/s320/Fail+Safe+010000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Operation Chrome Dome is in effect.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then I scan the map a little bit.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOShDuhZjHYeg95cY2kjKwJV24LmY0TmJb97bb-45npGkoBI_ROL9rxsF8Urb2HokFLsr8_HIzbG1b6zgRDfRraKbo4HdzFXoAIjbNMZZ5wtP6h6yMsA_fuFYqYnVxDA9MAuwXSxOS9vDB/s1600/Fail+Safe+010002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="823" data-original-width="907" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOShDuhZjHYeg95cY2kjKwJV24LmY0TmJb97bb-45npGkoBI_ROL9rxsF8Urb2HokFLsr8_HIzbG1b6zgRDfRraKbo4HdzFXoAIjbNMZZ5wtP6h6yMsA_fuFYqYnVxDA9MAuwXSxOS9vDB/s320/Fail+Safe+010002.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Cold War has gone hot</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I have the impression that things are going to get a bit sticky on the Central Front.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiK0aINUQIcr0pJLeS9MzuPesCwoSvSD8C25k94mnPjOi-eOf2CUmGVA-Yx9c_q8lWuQ_us_AtNI04lPTM-e3D31Ql5DnjJ8kLt3GNbZXSqIwOP6EVTTt2RmfUHkA6ZDeJcMrySypUL6kV/s1600/Fail+Safe+010003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="1033" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiK0aINUQIcr0pJLeS9MzuPesCwoSvSD8C25k94mnPjOi-eOf2CUmGVA-Yx9c_q8lWuQ_us_AtNI04lPTM-e3D31Ql5DnjJ8kLt3GNbZXSqIwOP6EVTTt2RmfUHkA6ZDeJcMrySypUL6kV/s320/Fail+Safe+010003.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Armed and Ready</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>013000Z</b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM
FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #1</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/001/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/67 32N 032
30E/KOLA NUCLEAR POWER STATION/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO
B-28 1.45MT/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
2/AGM-69A SRAM TO BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/NIL/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
1/NIL/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
2/NIL/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN #1/MIKE
ALPHA BRAVO ONE ZULU/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM
FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9a97b5uamTUj59_ytvRxVk4Au6ORnuxXEazlmS6yrGt1E54HetbBtQ-mjCO1kRNHiXZK7W9JlPSazuC70Yj4St76Vfg-FhUfspBzLo9Yng59Gcerol0YnuqG8moEf6lJomRv6BXeoUeM/s1600/RIAN_archive_146342_Kola_nuclear_power_plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx9a97b5uamTUj59_ytvRxVk4Au6ORnuxXEazlmS6yrGt1E54HetbBtQ-mjCO1kRNHiXZK7W9JlPSazuC70Yj4St76Vfg-FhUfspBzLo9Yng59Gcerol0YnuqG8moEf6lJomRv6BXeoUeM/s320/RIAN_archive_146342_Kola_nuclear_power_plant.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kola Nuclear Power Plant</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first orders...Caveman 1, consisting of a trio of B-52Gs, immediately changes course for the Kola peninsula.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>013100Z</b></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #2</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/002/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/68 35.27N 031
42.40E/UPPER TULOMA HYDRO ELECTRIC POWER STATION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM TO
BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/ECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
2/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN#2/NOVEMBER BRAVO CHARLIE TWO
ALPHA/</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM</span><span style="font-family: "teletype";"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I suspect that at 1 minute intervals, each of my B-52G flights will be receiving orders. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">"AGM-69A SRAM TO BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION." At 200kT a pop, and eight AGM-69As per B-52, this means we're talking about 144 200kT nukes...as mere suppression. The Kola peninsula is going to be glowing...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>013200Z</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #3</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/003/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/66 39.10N 031
21.21E//IOVA HYDRO ELECTRIC POWER STATION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM TO
BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
1/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/NIL</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN
#3/OSCAR CHARLIE DELTA THREE BRAVO/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>013300Z</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #4</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/004/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/64 35.23N 039
45.49E/SEVERODVINSK/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM TO
BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
1/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/NIL</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN
#4/PAPA DELTA ECHO FOUR CHARLIE/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Severodvinsk is not a power plant but rather a naval shipyard. Unfortunately it's also a city of over 200,000 people. Getting orders like this is sobering to say the least.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_TJfIbrTC7ZiKxab8Mmn1rXcjMyj_Jr9sDIfLbkdpvv7oscxAVP4mK18pWd63Oc5Hh11eRDA71Al9JgpE7Oahb8Cm1ttcuZI2xvYGqeyriEVha0DlbiKjpotcOZaQE5pOOueWjNeQWvt/s1600/Severodvinsk-long.severodvi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="650" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW_TJfIbrTC7ZiKxab8Mmn1rXcjMyj_Jr9sDIfLbkdpvv7oscxAVP4mK18pWd63Oc5Hh11eRDA71Al9JgpE7Oahb8Cm1ttcuZI2xvYGqeyriEVha0DlbiKjpotcOZaQE5pOOueWjNeQWvt/s320/Severodvinsk-long.severodvi.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Severdvinsk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b style="font-family: inherit;">013400Z</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #5</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/005/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/64 31.44N 040
32.23E/ARKHANGELSK/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM TO
BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION
1/NIL/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/NIL</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN
#5/QUEBEC ECHO ZULU SEVEN VICTOR/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Arkhangelsk. Nearly half a million people.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eu9_0PI8BvPqC5BFRnlWxdBBLcHE035DdyHPucLXQ188W0lnTwTLEKRR1WL3WnZe1NUjzxnV04itLqc_mkEusiV9fVFGRG3GDlBkbTrEF7u0KDguq9TBhyphenhyphenqeoB8tU8k_1uXj2S5OAjYt/s1600/Arkhangelsk_view_from_Vysotka.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="390" data-original-width="586" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7eu9_0PI8BvPqC5BFRnlWxdBBLcHE035DdyHPucLXQ188W0lnTwTLEKRR1WL3WnZe1NUjzxnV04itLqc_mkEusiV9fVFGRG3GDlBkbTrEF7u0KDguq9TBhyphenhyphenqeoB8tU8k_1uXj2S5OAjYt/s320/Arkhangelsk_view_from_Vysotka.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arkhangelsk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>013500Z</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #6</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/006/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/69 04.06N 033
24.42E/SEVEROMORSK/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM TO
BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/POSN/69 11.56N 033
28.01E/POLYARNYI NAVAL BASE/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM
TO BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN
#6/TANGO GOLF SIERRA TWO XRAY/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/07/command-northern-inferno-scenario-10.html">Already devastated by a nuclear bomb when it was attacked by British bombers</a>, Severomorsk, the main administrative base of the Northern Fleet, is going to be hit again. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUjflg3NBpMqS_z7xCDOV-CjBwVN-s6NDYNCynF2WuWo5Dd7aUrzWkAIzS3KjLCiQaQJUZwQ1KBnbt2wenN9PAIgHzi52GGOtjTCL-hIb96cRd9WS68HHroKimph_vyKfz-kEZno64-goT/s1600/11_big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUjflg3NBpMqS_z7xCDOV-CjBwVN-s6NDYNCynF2WuWo5Dd7aUrzWkAIzS3KjLCiQaQJUZwQ1KBnbt2wenN9PAIgHzi52GGOtjTCL-hIb96cRd9WS68HHroKimph_vyKfz-kEZno64-goT/s320/11_big.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Severomorsk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nearby Murmansk will undoubtedly be devastated as well. Nearly another half-million people between the two of them.</span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdKf_RyqPEpvtafioAzNS3lcNvEbDFiQDURtOrY3HyYtsUrh2jvr2TixMwZEWKvONNKCSBLFtUoVtwEUkWRICDzmLFDGaUP-bUqlRV9BUcba0EZXvMUJRWMz4JFYETHal0sQDFg1EeH8g/s1600/Fail+Safe+013800.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="834" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJdKf_RyqPEpvtafioAzNS3lcNvEbDFiQDURtOrY3HyYtsUrh2jvr2TixMwZEWKvONNKCSBLFtUoVtwEUkWRICDzmLFDGaUP-bUqlRV9BUcba0EZXvMUJRWMz4JFYETHal0sQDFg1EeH8g/s320/Fail+Safe+013800.jpg" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Given their targets, the 18 B-52G begin their flights towards their targets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>014000Z</b></span><br />
Caveman 5, the B-52G group that was just tasked to target Arkhangelsk, disappears off my scope. What the hell just happened?<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>014500Z</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO 179TH FIS </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/NON COMPLIANT CAVEMAN #5 /001/ </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/179TH FIS TO DETECT LOCATE DESTROY CAVEMAN #5
FLT/ /AUTHENTICATION/179TH FIS/BRAVO XRAY CHARLIE FOUR DELTA/ </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Oh, shit.</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span>
A dozen possibilities flash through my mind, going from bad to worse. Just a communications problem? A refusal to carry out the orders? All three B-52s destroyed? A rogue crew intent on bombing an unauthorized target? A rogue crew intent on bombing a <i>friendly</i> target? A compromised crew controlled by the Soviets?<br />
<br />
More worrisome is that it is not a single B-52 that vanished, but rather <i>all three in a flight. </i>They could be working together, working independently...they could all be going in different directions...<br />
<br />
I direct my airborne fighters to the last known position of Caveman 5, but the nearest one is 100nm away. I also instruct my EC-121 H Warning Star to light off its radar. Caveman 5 should be within radar range.<br />
<br />
<b>014525Z</b> Contact!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5Rsy1xLbPRTzNyrCaS_fQxjTA1cZMuralliKLW_sc-j3zOfV0RA_5WeXY0m0bsc9YHzWF15oGxg0Vehs_8hR5GvskbYU9Yem7ubSTnvYr6uQJD-uyfSifIa32cmQg3agJ_ZoaPdO_7qq/s1600/Fail+Safe+014530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="738" data-original-width="1125" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX5Rsy1xLbPRTzNyrCaS_fQxjTA1cZMuralliKLW_sc-j3zOfV0RA_5WeXY0m0bsc9YHzWF15oGxg0Vehs_8hR5GvskbYU9Yem7ubSTnvYr6uQJD-uyfSifIa32cmQg3agJ_ZoaPdO_7qq/s320/Fail+Safe+014530.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact! I have all three B-52s on radar</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the B-52s appears to be heading toward its target as ordered, while the other two appear to be headed back towards Thule.<br />
<br />
This leaves me with a conundrum. Do I still have to kill all three? For all I know, one received the order and is continuing on the mission, while the other two had to abort for some reason.<br />
<br />
<b>014659Z </b>I send one of my F-101B Voodoo fighters to afterburner to go after the B-52 that still appears to be on the mission...and almost immediately it goes Bingo and turns around for home. I have plenty of tankers in the air, so this isn't a disaster...but then I find out that Voodoos are not mid-air refueling capable! It looks like there's no way I can intercept the B-52 that's continuing on. I might not even be able to intercept the two B-52s that appear to be heading home.<br />
<br />
So I cut the throttles of all my fighters, and make an intercept course to hopefully loiter and lie in wait for the returning B-52s. I also launch two more fighters from Thule for good measure.<br />
<br />
<b>015003Z </b><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FM NMCC</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">TO CAVEMAN #4</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/GIANT LANCE TARGET
ALLOCATION/004/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY TARGET/POSN/64 35.23N 039
45.49E/SEVERODVINSK/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/PRIMARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM TO
BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY TARGET/64 31.44N 040
32.23E/ARKHANGELSK/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 1/TWO B-28
1.45MT/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/SECONDARY WEAPON ALLOCATION 2/AGM-69A SRAM
TO BE USED FOR SEAD AND AIRFIELD SURPRESSION/</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">/AUTHENTICATION/CAVEMAN
#4/ZULU CHARLIE FOXTROT EIGHT MIKE/</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH EAM FLASH
EAM FLASH EAM </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><br /></span>
With Caveman 5 non-compliant, Caveman 4 is tasked to take on its target as a secondary target.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsCRY__Dawhg69q2Cul6V8fRnP0l_8BNp8Th1SKM8_-BNQ7rcyEvN53mUfrAXFDfRfMfarg8FFCN9PEnY28yuPZS81uZAeqifGw8VmQLfqC2sgO2IQybugTiE0G4TJvuhbk9ngW8w94s9i/s1600/McDonnell_F-101_Voodoo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="138" data-original-width="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsCRY__Dawhg69q2Cul6V8fRnP0l_8BNp8Th1SKM8_-BNQ7rcyEvN53mUfrAXFDfRfMfarg8FFCN9PEnY28yuPZS81uZAeqifGw8VmQLfqC2sgO2IQybugTiE0G4TJvuhbk9ngW8w94s9i/s1600/McDonnell_F-101_Voodoo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">F-101B Voodoo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>015536Z</b> One of the F-101B Voodoos gets close enough to positively ID the aircraft as B-52Gs. Still uneasy about his orders, he takes a deep breath and pulls the trigger, launching an AIR-2A Genie nuclear missile.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2SkF2blPDkErB_oa4uS02t9vCdULKRZeyoVbMx_N82ow-kguko5hAiFWuLWdCaQWUkltW1J1QmLeb_5buSjJ9rtHIX6R5vq5EjAOoUg1vqQZWxSpQuQBgBBNeeVEdx28Ab2ETPHK9vAa/s1600/Fail+Safe+015536.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="446" data-original-width="611" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ2SkF2blPDkErB_oa4uS02t9vCdULKRZeyoVbMx_N82ow-kguko5hAiFWuLWdCaQWUkltW1J1QmLeb_5buSjJ9rtHIX6R5vq5EjAOoUg1vqQZWxSpQuQBgBBNeeVEdx28Ab2ETPHK9vAa/s320/Fail+Safe+015536.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Genie away.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the event, the Voodoo is far too close to the target when he fires the missile, and is destroyed by the blast. The remaining Voodoos close in and destroy the second B-52G as well. All three remaining Voodoos are nearly out of fuel, and have no chance of catching up to the last B-52, which apparently is continuing onto its target anyway. Hopefully I'll be able to figure out what is going on before it's too late. In the meantime, I need to shepherd my other flights to their targets.<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-15_30.html">Part Two</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-57714170212917990812017-08-23T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-23T08:00:16.272-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 14: Needle in a Haystack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
<strong>Introduction</strong><br />
With Iceland back under NATO control, the remnants of the Soviet forces are
slowly been mopped up or have surrendered to USMC forces.<br />
The Soviet Premier Brezhnev has now ordered Soviet strategic nuclear forces
to a high state of readiness, likewise NATO has followed suit with the United
States now at DEFCON 2, the highest alert state since the Cuban Missile
Crisis.<br />
<br />
Peace talks are at a stalemate after an attempted assassination on the US
Ambassador in Geneva, with the Soviets blaming a right wing faction of the
European Alliance for this.<br />
<br />
Over the last 12 hours, there has been a number of unconfirmed reports by
fishing boats off the east coast of Nova Scotia of periscope sightings of
submarines, and one sighting of a submarine diving. In the latter case the
fishing boat's skipper, an ex-Canadian Navy submariner, recognised it as a
Hotel-class SSBN.<br />
<br />
If such a submarine is allowed to roam in these waters, the US will be under
constant threat of a sudden decapitation nuclear strike. Accordingly, Canadian
and US forces have rapidly deployed to the area to close the net on this latest
sighting.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<strong>Situation</strong><br />
Last known position of possible Hotel SSBN
is 6 hrs old. All available NATO units have deployed to the general location to
search and sink the submarine. Intelligence from a trusted source in the Kremlin
has indicated that the Hotel is on a first strike mission with possible targets
of Boston and New York.<br />
<br />
President Gerald Ford is now airborne in Air
Force One with destination unknown. NORAD is now at DEFCON 2 with B-52s flying
Chrome Dome (airborne alert) race-tracks over Greenland, awaiting strike
orders.<br />
<br />
Soviet strategic forces are also at their highest alert level,
with increased deployments of mobile MRBMs and SRBMs in East
Germany.<br />
<br />
<strong>Enemy Forces</strong><br />
Subsurface : Hotel
Class SSBN<br />
<br />
<strong>Friendly Forces</strong><br />
NAS Argentia : VP-30 Pro's Nest
(P-3C Orion)<br />
CFB Greenwood : 415 Sqn (CP-107 Argus Mk.1)<br />
CFB
Shearwater : 423 Sqn (CH-124A Heltas SeaKing)<br />
Naval forces : HMCS Annapolis DDH, HMCS Assiniboine DDH, HMCS Iroquois DDH,
HMCS Margaree DDH, HMCS Terra Nova
DDE.<br />
<br />
<strong>Mission</strong><br />
Locate, classify and destroy any
Soviet submarine in your area.<br />
<br />
<strong>Execution</strong><br />
1. Investigate Datum 1327 0 Position 045
00N 054 57.23W - Error 1nm, Speed 5 kts, Time 190200ZOCT75.<br />
2. Use Argus
and Orion LR MPA to sanitize the area of operations.<br />
3. DDHs and DDEs and
associated helicopters to localise and classify subsurface contacts. Any
contacts free to be attacked, including unknowns.<br />
<br />
<strong>Command and EMCON</strong><br />
Command: CFB Greenwood<br />
EMCON: Alpha-limited
emissions<br />
<br />
<b>October 19, 1975 0800Z</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBXS_iHI_m5fhDrRMV1-Lpg8SpIfoqnkAuRkB29Z88mEc7xyY_G4mYBQU-PZursg5ee_HEvAjjMrnoURYXyarZoPVUVBl4IiYdI3Wr_MqTxOfpbBidQ0y35AEJyc0VaZtKfzNe2oh4PK_/s1600/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+080000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="693" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBXS_iHI_m5fhDrRMV1-Lpg8SpIfoqnkAuRkB29Z88mEc7xyY_G4mYBQU-PZursg5ee_HEvAjjMrnoURYXyarZoPVUVBl4IiYdI3Wr_MqTxOfpbBidQ0y35AEJyc0VaZtKfzNe2oh4PK_/s320/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+080000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial Positions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"The Hotel is on a first first strike mission with possible targets of Boston and New York." As a Massachusetts boy, that makes it personal to me. I see that "Mikes Pad" is a location on the map near Boston...hell, I could put Dan's Pad near to Boston as well. I don't want my home state to get nuked, so I'm going to find that Hotel and send it to the bottom.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPhKNx-QoVVJbidKKc9WaZjVxXBrFJ49qAjEmZ1z4YYYM9MtLQKHft3DhoL6jM0iE9xreNHhGiiH1zKBmOwGE7NBq_0mEBqr94wK8Ik5AbIG8BhjIZoEub05MheYqRF4e4PUHNRScDsOp/s1600/1280px-Submarine_Hotel_II_class.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="981" data-original-width="1280" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPhKNx-QoVVJbidKKc9WaZjVxXBrFJ49qAjEmZ1z4YYYM9MtLQKHft3DhoL6jM0iE9xreNHhGiiH1zKBmOwGE7NBq_0mEBqr94wK8Ik5AbIG8BhjIZoEub05MheYqRF4e4PUHNRScDsOp/s320/1280px-Submarine_Hotel_II_class.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Hotel</i>-class submarine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The last known position of the Hotel is at Datum 1327, six hours ago, speed 5kts. In six hours, the Hotel could travel 30nm, and I assume it is heading southwest, so I will concentrate my search in that area.<br />
<br />
I set up my patrols of Sea Kings, P-3B Orions, and CP-107 Arguses, and the waiting begins.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_P4hbO3bv2OSTv5RsUAk2z861wFitnOot8A98He1NSjWyTodvnuX5dgiHO3W0vYuIh-3qBGcPusAG4Wr24NsA7VtyzRqjeCG0yQunKcNGFq0Ifw9h9BaQykmRul6tF8GCBP9MLGp2z0X/s1600/P-3B_Orion_VP-17_off_Oahu_1976.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1268" data-original-width="1600" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0_P4hbO3bv2OSTv5RsUAk2z861wFitnOot8A98He1NSjWyTodvnuX5dgiHO3W0vYuIh-3qBGcPusAG4Wr24NsA7VtyzRqjeCG0yQunKcNGFq0Ifw9h9BaQykmRul6tF8GCBP9MLGp2z0X/s320/P-3B_Orion_VP-17_off_Oahu_1976.JPEG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">P-3B Orion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>082958Z</b> Contact! A P-3B Orion out of Argentia detects a submarine contact. I immediately declare it hostile and begin prosecution.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwISLdnfHhbnt1Pi23vRfIFYRWJ98yPjwgqQHIlfivIJ42jzptKN0ASYDcGgtbHq6tKg9Vn7R2JznQ8Aj6c9e0_UE4gv5kkT8oRZ2B32heOJx054gWM3tn4AL5gfUpFcRMDjo0JYcUGS2M/s1600/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+083010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="732" data-original-width="1072" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwISLdnfHhbnt1Pi23vRfIFYRWJ98yPjwgqQHIlfivIJ42jzptKN0ASYDcGgtbHq6tKg9Vn7R2JznQ8Aj6c9e0_UE4gv5kkT8oRZ2B32heOJx054gWM3tn4AL5gfUpFcRMDjo0JYcUGS2M/s320/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+083010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My P-3B drops a torpedo, which misses the target.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40DoM3GwU2s1zxqkyfSx6xln9S2BaYjlLUEZPBii0qyoFu9s_-V33ncpEfZcm8KBDk2nnkjlhlk13wbXtCx7NaySja2IJGFAdxkZNbCocd3Q75viykv4XJv31Gn010K7cKrGvZvl6Lhyu/s1600/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+083448.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="440" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh40DoM3GwU2s1zxqkyfSx6xln9S2BaYjlLUEZPBii0qyoFu9s_-V33ncpEfZcm8KBDk2nnkjlhlk13wbXtCx7NaySja2IJGFAdxkZNbCocd3Q75viykv4XJv31Gn010K7cKrGvZvl6Lhyu/s320/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+083448.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First torpedo drop.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Not messing around, a second P-3B shows up and drops a B57 Multipurpose Sub Bomb [20kT Nuclear].<br />
<br />
And just like that, it's over.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TCUgsfZS4k6TO8Od2PRIDNKMyVoynGLnuVzRJE-zUHaCQHwA8zy2bfenQjlKRXpYIjbxaSuKeg1lZEpVLJayZSyBOlHIBuM1ZRuuj8EYS6RLYwwJ3iu9iHB8g2QZBTj6I42fh-bPUdbL/s1600/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+083448a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="851" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TCUgsfZS4k6TO8Od2PRIDNKMyVoynGLnuVzRJE-zUHaCQHwA8zy2bfenQjlKRXpYIjbxaSuKeg1lZEpVLJayZSyBOlHIBuM1ZRuuj8EYS6RLYwwJ3iu9iHB8g2QZBTj6I42fh-bPUdbL/s320/Needle+in+a+Haystack+19+083448a.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And it's over...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br /></b>
See? You threaten Boston, you die.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Major Victory</b><br />
<b>Score: 500</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
1x PLARB-701 Hotel III<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
<b></b><br />
<b>------------------</b><br />
------------------<br />
2x Generic Acoustic Decoy<br />
<br />
SIDE: Nato<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
1x AN/SSQ-41B Jezebel LOFAR<br />
1x AN/SSQ-41A Jezebel LOFAR<br />
1x Mk46 LWT Mod 2<br />
1x AN/SSQ-50B CASS<br />
1x B57 Multipurpose Sub Bomb [20kT Nuclear]<br />
<br />
<br />
SIDE: Biological<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
SIDE: Neutral Fishing Boats<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-563830475840000712017-08-18T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-18T08:36:05.031-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 13: Deliverance Part 5<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In Parts <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_14.html">One</a>, <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_15.html">Two</a>, <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_16.html">Three</a> and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_17.html">Four</a> of this scenario, the NATO surface groups tasked with retaking Iceland from the Soviets have undergone some severe trials. They have been sustaining incessant air attacks from Keflavik and also cruise missile attacks from Soviet submarines. The damage has been extensive, including the loss of one ship and several others heavily damaged. But the USS <i>Oriskany</i> and the FS <i>Clemenceau</i> managed to launch counterstrikes.<br />
<br />
The strikes hit Keflavik hard, and is sufficient to severely curtail flight operations. In fact, the Soviets manage to get a few MiG-23 Floggers airborne as a CAP, but that's it. Follow-up strikes on Keflavik suppresses its air defenses and manages to destroy many more aircraft on the ground. The way is clear now for the amphibious assault.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 16, 1975 005057Z </b><br />
<div>
It is the middle of the night, and my AEW aircraft is currently refueling. I launch some Shrike-armed A-7s in an attempt to go after Soviet Radar stations in the hopes of eliminating them to aid in the invasion.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oeJbtE2n7kV9171coGaZAYWkVUhyphenhyphenOWgOyIxdEwKL2nojs9GPRnZ92iYEj7rqNsm_bbcIMuOjm06M44tYNy5UID5zuECbOqq3yEBjozkihrbMduqNfbUMdUAd_HjmJlF8yrpm5tBJUCZ8/s1600/Deliverance+16+005225.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="1263" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4oeJbtE2n7kV9171coGaZAYWkVUhyphenhyphenOWgOyIxdEwKL2nojs9GPRnZ92iYEj7rqNsm_bbcIMuOjm06M44tYNy5UID5zuECbOqq3yEBjozkihrbMduqNfbUMdUAd_HjmJlF8yrpm5tBJUCZ8/s320/Deliverance+16+005225.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Amphibious Assault Group closes to within 100nm of the objective</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<b>011532Z</b> My A-7s launch their Shrikes, and the radar site attempts to defend itself by firing SA-8b Geckos.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKN38ainTdKkTP3hhCVlJtFeT4n3f-0qBqo0gTmzOHNZouUpJyj9Zu23JH8ifIGw_bMK55xunuMzopzvajPRSaF5s-riJmuRXBdLn6D5d9IzOEhiXNIo1KnsfkFxzrs_mDofuQKaUUM0W/s1600/Deliverance+16+011532.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="971" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyKN38ainTdKkTP3hhCVlJtFeT4n3f-0qBqo0gTmzOHNZouUpJyj9Zu23JH8ifIGw_bMK55xunuMzopzvajPRSaF5s-riJmuRXBdLn6D5d9IzOEhiXNIo1KnsfkFxzrs_mDofuQKaUUM0W/s320/Deliverance+16+011532.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magnum!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The Shrikes take out a Long Track [P-40] Radar set, and also an SA-8b Gecko Mod-0 [9A33BM2] TELAR. The A-7s proceed to southern Iceland, where another Long Track radar is set up. This Radar apparently does not have any SAMs to protect it, so it is an easy kill.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>014703Z </b>On the way back home, I detect a fighter launching from Keflavik, undoubtedly to intercept my returning A-7s. My A-7s soon find themselves in a dogfight northwest of Keflavik.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZptIGdamexG1Ti3-xKDQSVfukpN_i3i-EKJinVuaLKxlk8ZogA7r1aHHps7_PisCTTuvPXNcxIx6heL8kyIkVfteF8oA9Hhwgue3IuJMhUx-XB97UDTxL0xYJyYIMJs4ifFNc6ktkRVD/s1600/Deliverance+16+015026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="708" data-original-width="1107" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZptIGdamexG1Ti3-xKDQSVfukpN_i3i-EKJinVuaLKxlk8ZogA7r1aHHps7_PisCTTuvPXNcxIx6heL8kyIkVfteF8oA9Hhwgue3IuJMhUx-XB97UDTxL0xYJyYIMJs4ifFNc6ktkRVD/s320/Deliverance+16+015026.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dogfighting MiG-23s</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The MiGs engage in a turning fight with my A-7s at low altitude, and unfortunately I lose one A-7 to an AA-8 Aphid. Annoyed with this, USS <i>Farragut</i> launches a SAM at one of the MiGs. The shot down A-7's wingman kills a MiG-23 with a Sidewinder. The second MiG shoots down another A-7, but is in turn shot down by a head-on gun pass by one of the two remaining A-7s.</div>
<div>
<b><br /></b></div>
<div>
<b>015400Z</b> There are three Surface Search/Navigation Radars active, so I launch an Etendard against each one from <i>Clemenceau</i>. Little by little I will roll back Soviet assets in preparation for the assault.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimn7bKSxC8DNh7TvPeFZJm7iAJFDivjY3djMTKDDKe24hyphenhyphenCKZVV71F5jV4UNIWVyQJs6vfiXrJ0iSS4r3fQU9aCpHUlJ7MPRyI5nGLEmWCro4StiVUwFKoLP2PUIIoCQefbySh7G0pJFVM/s1600/Deliverance+16+021153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="935" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimn7bKSxC8DNh7TvPeFZJm7iAJFDivjY3djMTKDDKe24hyphenhyphenCKZVV71F5jV4UNIWVyQJs6vfiXrJ0iSS4r3fQU9aCpHUlJ7MPRyI5nGLEmWCro4StiVUwFKoLP2PUIIoCQefbySh7G0pJFVM/s320/Deliverance+16+021153.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Etendards close in on their targets.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
One by one the radars are all destroyed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>024500Z </b>I detect a submarine uncomfortably close to the <i>Iowa</i> amphibious group.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvqieb35Mz5bEOdyA0lpFg7k1cDR1A9xgTXQiYWwdKsa3LXhXjx3ZAJhdxkXhyphenhyphen2Ld_YXrY8FfdBN4FgzS-poIZtPsFCyyk0eBCzfhFszmo7UKOwyUyPcGILTfK4yCJo6YXjf0lp6YYLl9/s1600/Deliverance+16+024804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="1113" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpvqieb35Mz5bEOdyA0lpFg7k1cDR1A9xgTXQiYWwdKsa3LXhXjx3ZAJhdxkXhyphenhyphen2Ld_YXrY8FfdBN4FgzS-poIZtPsFCyyk0eBCzfhFszmo7UKOwyUyPcGILTfK4yCJo6YXjf0lp6YYLl9/s320/Deliverance+16+024804.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Submarine contact!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I slow down the <i>Iowa</i> group from Cruise to Creep until I deal with this threat. My Sea Sprite from USS <i>Spruance</i> drops a Mk46 on the submarine, which turns out to be a Foxtrot, and damages it. USS <i>Farragut</i> finishes it off with an ASROC.<br />
<br />
<b>013337Z </b>I detect a bogey airborne over Keflavik, and from its radar signature, it's clear that its a Su-24 Fencer B. I immediately direct <i>Oriskany</i> to launch a pair of F-8s. The Fencer is almost in range of <i>Farragut</i>'s SAMs. Then I detect another bogey being launched.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmljfbGxAfgykr5gHxzewU70u9VVsUYT1F1CDE-8eo9rKJQsEyYOZDulMJBItrLyPpB5g7FG882HMNYADug2TApoHrxjX-yoi6owIvbdZQKB0EhISwUPbKN_boJCTPRlFXBXGCUQNmL3IA/s1600/Deliverance+16+033643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1070" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmljfbGxAfgykr5gHxzewU70u9VVsUYT1F1CDE-8eo9rKJQsEyYOZDulMJBItrLyPpB5g7FG882HMNYADug2TApoHrxjX-yoi6owIvbdZQKB0EhISwUPbKN_boJCTPRlFXBXGCUQNmL3IA/s320/Deliverance+16+033643.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two Su-24s launch from Keflavik.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Farragut</i> lights off its radars.<br />
<br />
And then I detect another contact launching at Keflavik, yet another Fencer, followed a short time later by another.<br />
<br />
<i>Farragut </i>launches SAMs.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpROWcrYGeWbKIX96H6x-t7bSwL8-NPLq_m8CRy8ubPD-J8CckqGwBMF5tjsDWA32A-S96SW8M3COAS1tDHI-ppFy0a2fDKi9hQAyFC3QcHdVU8jffyJcrwBTJkE8Kq0UXXcweBAEqCdN/s1600/Deliverance+16+033834.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="715" data-original-width="1077" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTpROWcrYGeWbKIX96H6x-t7bSwL8-NPLq_m8CRy8ubPD-J8CckqGwBMF5tjsDWA32A-S96SW8M3COAS1tDHI-ppFy0a2fDKi9hQAyFC3QcHdVU8jffyJcrwBTJkE8Kq0UXXcweBAEqCdN/s320/Deliverance+16+033834.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Birds away.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It takes four SAMs, but the first two Fencers are killed. <i>Farragut</i> then engages the second pair of Fencers. Five SAMs later, and they are downed. <i>Farragut</i> has 11 RIM-67As left. USS <i>Sellers</i> has 24 RIM-66As in case any get by <i>Farragut</i>.<br />
<br />
Two more Fencers take off from Keflavik, and they are shot down, one by a SAM, one by a Sidewinder.<br />
<br />
Two more Fencers take off (#7 and #8, if you're counting). The F-8s are loitering right next to Keflavik now, so one is shot down by a Sidewinder almost immediately. The second is shot down by a SAM.<br />
<br />
No new launches are detected, so perhaps that's it for now.<br />
<br />
<b>063937Z </b>The sky lightens over Iceland, and the <i>Iowa</i> group is less than five miles from entering the Amphib Zone. Time to begin the strikes. I launch a pair of recon Etendards from <i>Clemenceau</i>. Once they are well on their way, I launch six more Etendards to attack any targets that the Etendards discover.<br />
<br />
<b>070327Z </b>As the Amphibious Group enters the Amphib Zone, <i>Pensacola</i> and <i>Shreveport </i>begin landing troops ashore.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGXhvb7hQJSmiGEAQvl4Dn8WSd7HBQxnGMPgd0IpWQNB0t8AUtVgcv4pVzF0ecNYZ5-9LdgoaahSQUaKrHU9RyHwFNVrX41HalGRfyK61CcTEsFYwGveAU199g1V7ZnTqOuTP7annrgjX/s1600/Deliverance+16+070327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="1151" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkGXhvb7hQJSmiGEAQvl4Dn8WSd7HBQxnGMPgd0IpWQNB0t8AUtVgcv4pVzF0ecNYZ5-9LdgoaahSQUaKrHU9RyHwFNVrX41HalGRfyK61CcTEsFYwGveAU199g1V7ZnTqOuTP7annrgjX/s320/Deliverance+16+070327.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Amphibious Assault has begun</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The HQ AAV Plt A Coy attacks the SA-6 Gainful Battery northwest of Reykjavik. USMC armored units maneuver to engage targets around Reykjavik as well. The SAM battery is quickly taken out.<br />
<br />
<b>070403Z </b>USS <i>Iowa</i> opens fire with its 16" guns on an artillery position north of Keflavik, causing some light damage to to the guns but more importantly causing the Soviet gun crews to wet themselves.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyL44NCMK-R99KsIZVHnOB513Wo5B8IvEBU5Lby5LR9VKox-2QlxovRMH4jFc2YH6ZFW_psRN1ubzxJsHGaBf-Gj6frclwUZkXlhTxNXg2_2RjA47X9eYHt2TzrKByE8YUWnXp44Qko_aN/s1600/Deliverance+16+070541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="686" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyL44NCMK-R99KsIZVHnOB513Wo5B8IvEBU5Lby5LR9VKox-2QlxovRMH4jFc2YH6ZFW_psRN1ubzxJsHGaBf-Gj6frclwUZkXlhTxNXg2_2RjA47X9eYHt2TzrKByE8YUWnXp44Qko_aN/s320/Deliverance+16+070541.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The battles rages around Reykjavik</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At Reykjavik the US Marines devastate the Soviet Naval Infantry, rolling over them.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PDtBAOQaGgmmDnUi22uhYbg9QSfmv119OM2iQDNFeVfKbPg4tri6VPXk-3HVcLlG0Y0nstHeZ7DiMxEF-aFAzcHe681uBlkuuyJVjIAW2y4Je2AaW6PvM2CcephD9HXp_MaQl5GGSdi5/s1600/Deliverance+16+071437.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="1411" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9PDtBAOQaGgmmDnUi22uhYbg9QSfmv119OM2iQDNFeVfKbPg4tri6VPXk-3HVcLlG0Y0nstHeZ7DiMxEF-aFAzcHe681uBlkuuyJVjIAW2y4Je2AaW6PvM2CcephD9HXp_MaQl5GGSdi5/s320/Deliverance+16+071437.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Airstrikes underway at Keflavik</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At Keflavik, I lose a Recon Etendard and a strike Etendard to a ZSU-23-4 that has plagued me from my first strikes on Iceland twelve hours ago, but a second Etendard finally takes it out.</div>
<div>
<br />
<b>071928Z </b>The initial airstrikes over, I decide to begin the air assault. I launch Sea Cobras from USS <i>Iowa</i> and send them to Keflavik. Other helos begin to take off and I direct them to Landing Zone One (Reykjavik)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorE5zLJ2qbQ2ubaDzHz5Ba9cZfc2wph6MWM7Ionh08e6ocnIx4uhSGjqpJWW2289tgfntlrahdjLKrIN8K1RP2RWGRJqSkpURJ-E6a2oGk0BQK8Vi4hiRlsv05SsdSjuuRbMp4THzgQPr/s1600/Deliverance+16+072801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="717" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgorE5zLJ2qbQ2ubaDzHz5Ba9cZfc2wph6MWM7Ionh08e6ocnIx4uhSGjqpJWW2289tgfntlrahdjLKrIN8K1RP2RWGRJqSkpURJ-E6a2oGk0BQK8Vi4hiRlsv05SsdSjuuRbMp4THzgQPr/s320/Deliverance+16+072801.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Cobras arrive on the scene, bringing death</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Cobras devastate the remaining ground forces around Keflavik, clearing the way for unopposed landings. Iceland is now in NATO hands.<br />
<br />
<b>Minor Victory</b><br />
<b>Score: 750</b><br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion</b><br />
This was a harrowing scenario. After taking the beating that I did from Soviet aircraft, I was very concerned about being able to complete the mission. While my own strike was inbound to Keflavik, I looked on the forum and saw a thread about this scenario where the poster was having difficulties and a commenter said that the "trick" was to simply not get detected by the Soviets. If only. I was dreading another scenario like Scenario 8: Damn the torpedoes! where if you get detected you have essentially no chance to win...but you don't realize it until hours of playing later when your fleet gets pounded. In Damn the Torpedoes I had to replay the mission seven times before I identified everything I had to do to ensure a win--and I <i>still</i> had to get lucky. "Winning" that way feels like cheating to me.<br />
<br />
This leads to a philosophy I have about games/simulations--I tend to dislike games where I have to do everything perfectly in order to win. That is to say, games where I have to repeat things over and over until I know what's going to happen in a scenario ahead of time so I can preempt everything on a subsequent attempt...and only once all those things are known is it possible to win.<br />
<br />
I much prefer games where if I make a mistake, I can play <i>through</i> the difficulties those mistakes cause and potentially recover from them. <i>Deliverance</i> was one such scenario. I <i>did</i> get detected by the Soviets early on, and paid for it by sustaining massive airstrikes causing multiple ship losses. Although bloodied, I still managed to complete the mission. This was much more satisfying, and honestly, I feel it is more realistic. There are players who talk about plowing through scenarios without suffering a single casualty, and that's great for them. For myself, I play COMMAND not to "crush" scenarios to see if I can achieve the maximum possible score, but rather to see if I can get through the scenario at all on the first attempt. In war, bad stuff happens, and the winner is the one who recovers from setbacks and keeps on fighting.<br />
<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
12x 152mm/34 2S3 M1973 Akatsiya<br />
4x 23mm ZSU-23-4 Shilka<br />
40x 7.62mm MG/Unguided Infantry Anti Tank Weapon<br />
1x A/C Hangar (2x Large Aircraft)<br />
26x MiG-23M Flogger B<br />
30x MiG-27 Flogger D<br />
3x PL-641 Foxtrot<br />
2x PLARK-670M Charlie II [Skat-M]<br />
20x PT-76B Amphibious Tank<br />
3x Radar (Generic Surface Search Radar)<br />
2x Radar (Long Track [P-40])<br />
8x SA-6a Gainful [2P25] TEL<br />
15x SA-7b Grail [9K32M Strela-2M] MANPADS<br />
1x SA-8b Gecko Mod-0 [9A33BM2] TELAR<br />
4x SA-9b Gaskin [BRDM-2] TEL 2<br />
29x Su-24 Fencer B<br />
4x Tu-95RT Bear D<br />
2x Vehicle (Straight Flush [1S91])<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
5x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
3x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
27x 23mm Gsh-23L Burst [40 rnds]<br />
1x 23mm Gsh-6-23 [50 rnds]<br />
67x 23mm ZSU-23-4 Shilka Burst [50 rnds]<br />
3x 30mm Gsh-6-30 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
48x AA-7 Apex A [R-23R, SARH]<br />
12x AA-8 Aphid [R-60T]<br />
29x AS-12 Kegler [Kh-25MP, ARM]<br />
60x AS-9 Kyle [Kh-28]<br />
11x Generic Acoustic Decoy<br />
20x Generic Chaff Salvo [4x Cartridges]<br />
10x Generic Flare Salvo [2x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
8x Generic Flare Salvo [4x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
15x SA-6a Gainful [9M336]<br />
43x SA-7b Grail [9M32M]<br />
20x SA-8b Gecko Mod-0 [9M33M2]<br />
22x SA-9b Gaskin [9M31M]<br />
16x SS-N-9 Siren [P-120 Malakhit, 200kT Nuclear]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
11x A-7B Corsair II<br />
2x CG 16 Leahy<br />
1x DDG 2 Charles F. Adams<br />
1x E-1B Tracer<br />
5x Etendard IVM<br />
1x Etendard IVP<br />
4x F-8E(FN) Crusader [Le Crouze]<br />
3x F-8J Crusader<br />
1x RF-8G Crusader<br />
2x SH-2D Seasprite<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
4x 100mm/55 Model 1968 PFHE<br />
116x 105mm L7A3 APFSDS-T<br />
116x 105mm L7A3 HE<br />
112x 105mm L7A3 HEAT<br />
56x 12.7mm/50 MG Burst [10 rnds]<br />
8x 127mm/54 HE-CVT [HiFrag]<br />
8x 20mm M197 Burst [25 rnds]<br />
3x 20mm Mk12 x 2 [50 rnds]<br />
20x 20mm Mk12 x 4 [100 rnds]<br />
3x 406mm/50 Triple AP Salvo [3 rnds]<br />
3x 406mm/50 Triple HiCap Salvo [3 rnds]<br />
173x 40mm Mk19 Grenade<br />
24x 76mm/50 Twin Frag Burst [2 rnds]<br />
20x AGM-45B Shrike [ARM]<br />
8x AGM-62B Walleye II ER/DL<br />
16x AIM-9G Sidewinder<br />
26x AIM-9H Sidewinder<br />
280x AN/SSQ-47 Julie Active Range-Only<br />
8x AS.30<br />
16x BGM-71B TOW<br />
8x CBU-59/B APAM [717 x BLU-77/B Dual-Purpose Bomblets]<br />
108x DSTV 4L LOFAR [TSM 8010]<br />
17x Generic Chaff Salvo [5x Cartridges]<br />
12x Generic Flare Salvo [3x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
208x HYDRA 70mm Rocket<br />
10x Masurca Mk2 Mod 3<br />
12x Mk20 Rockeye II CB [247 x Mk118 Dual Purpose Bomblets]<br />
16x Mk46 LWT Mod 2<br />
54x Mk82 500lb Snakeeye<br />
24x Mk83 1000lb LDGP<br />
6x R.550 Magic 1<br />
40x RIM-66A SM-1MR Blk IV<br />
158x RIM-67A SM-1ER<br />
1x RUR-5A Mod 4 ASROC RTT [Mk46 Mod 2]<br />
792x SNEB 68mm Rocket<br />
20x T.200 400kg GPB<br />
72x T.25 250kg GPB<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
SIDE: Biological<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-80935766212480686912017-08-17T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-18T08:30:15.939-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 13: Deliverance Part 4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In Parts <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_14.html">One</a>, <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_15.html">Two</a>, and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_16.html">Three</a> of this scenario, the NATO surface groups tasked with retaking Iceland from the Soviets have undergone some severe trials. They have been sustaining incessant air attacks from Keflavik and also cruise missile attacks from Soviet submarines. The damage has been extensive, including the loss of one ship and several others heavily damaged. But the USS <i>Oriskany</i> and the FS <i>Clemenceau</i> managed to launch a counterstrike.<br />
<br />
The strike hits Keflavik hard, destroying several aircraft on the ground and damaging all of the Runway Access Points in hopes of putting the airfield out of action. Every Runway Access Point is damaged, but it remains to be seen if they are damaged enough to curtail flight operations. If the Soviets manage to get off another strike against my surface groups, I'm in serious trouble.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 15, 1975, 110000Z</b><br />
I have launched an F-8J Crusader from <i>Oriskany</i> to attempt to take out a Tu-95 Bear that has been spying on my surface groups. I also launch a RF-8G Crusader to do recon over Keflavik to see if it can do more BDA.<br />
<br />
<b>111809Z </b>First there's some good news as my ASW helos from <i>Oriskany</i> finally close in and kill a Foxtrot that has been shadowing me. <br />
<br />
<b>112503Z </b>More good news is that my F-8J Crusader successfully takes out the Tu-95RT Bear D. The Crusader still has three Sidewinders left, so I decide to keep him in airborne in case the Soviets decide to launch another Bear.<br />
<br />
<b>113508Z </b>My RF-8G Crusader recons Keflavik, detecting many ground units defending the base, and after wandering a little too close to some SAM launchers, has to dodge eight SAMs. But fortunately it survives, and continues at a more respectful distance.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Many ground units detected.</td></tr>
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After another circle of the area, I send it towards Reykjavik, and it immediately comes under fire from an SA-6 Gainful. Fortunately it dodges the pair of SAMs launched at it. After another quick flyby, I send the Crusader home.<br />
<br />
<b>120249Z </b>Crap. My E-1B Tracer detects a pair of aircraft launching from Keflavik, which is very bad news. It means that my attempt to disable the airfield was unsuccessful. It also means that it's only a matter of time before the Soviets launch another strike at me.<br />
<br />
<b>120708Z </b>One of my Sea Kings sinks a Charlie II submarine that was getting uncomfortably close to the <i>Iowa</i> group.<br />
<br />
<b>124348Z </b>For a while now I have detected a submarine contact by its radar emissions. It has been too far away to post a threat, but I sent a RF-8G Crusader to investigate, and it turns out it's an SSR. SSR? A recon sub? I scan the database and determine that it is probably a Whiskey Canvas Bag, a radar picket submarine.<br />
<br />
<b>130000Z </b>I've been watching my damaged ships for a while. The major fire on USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i> is now severe, which does not bode well for it. The USS <i>Oriskany</i>, on the other hand, had a severe fire which is now only major, which implies that the fire fighters on board are starting to get it under control, which is very good news.<br />
<br />
<b>131500Z</b> USS <i>Lang</i> has sealed all leaks, and its severe fire is reduced to major, which is also good news. USS <i>Semmes</i> on the other hand, sealed its leaks as well, but its fire has increased from minor to major.<br />
<br />
<b>140724Z </b>A Sea King from <i>Oriskany</i> sinks another Charlie II submarine. By this time <i>Oriskany</i> has also managed to reduce its fire from major to minor.<br />
<br />
It is not all good news, however. Minutes later I get a message from <i>Yarnell</i>. While it has sealed the leaks, the fires rage out of control, and the captain is forced to order Abandon Ship.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i> sinks.</td></tr>
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<br />
<b>142749Z </b>My E-1B Tracer detects another pair of aircraft launching from Keflavik. I hope it's more CAP aircraft and not the beginning of a strike. After a few minutes, it does appear to be a CAP. Whew. Over an hour until the first of my strike aircraft will be ready again, and more than two hours until the majority of my strike aircraft will be ready.<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>150401Z </b>USS <i>Oriskany</i> has extinguished all fires, which is a big relief. USS <i>Semmes</i> however, still has a major fire, which is soon upgraded to severe, and I anticipate that the ship will soon be abandoned. USS <i>Lang</i> successfully extinguishes all fires, and sets a course for <i>Semmes</i> in an attempt to assist with fire fighting or rescue operations. It is still damaged, however, so it can only make five knots, which means it will be two hours before it can reach <i>Semmes</i>. <br />
<br />
<b>152116Z</b> One of my F-8J Crusaders shoots down another Tu-95RT Bear D.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Semmes </i>sinks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>154059Z </b>As expected, USS <i>Semmes</i> is forced to abandon ship.<br />
<br />
<b>171819Z</b> Early on in this mission, the Soviet CAP consisted of three flights of two aircraft, all patrolling a sector around Keflavik. Counting the shootdowns and strikes upon Keflavik, I've taken out sixteen MiG-23s. After the strikes, they have only managed two-ship CAPs, and the last one is a single-ship. This would imply that they only have seven MiG-23s left and are following the 1/3 rule. It's also consistent with them starting the battle with a regiment of some 24 aircraft.<br />
<br />
Many of my aircraft are now ready for a second strike, and also with the Soviets only having one aircraft airborne, this is the ideal time to strike.<br />
<br />
I have a little breathing space since the airfield is already damaged, so I can plan a little more methodically and also worry a little more about force protection.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
In southern Iceland the Soviets have emplaced a Long Track [P-40] air search radar that is serving as their primary early warning radar and also a mobile air search radar near Hvammsfjordur that I will take out. I will use my Shrike armed A-7 in an attempt to take them out. <br />
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<br /></div>
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Following that I will launch an RF-8G Crusader to do recon and BDA. Then my strikes will consist of launching my Walleye-armed A-7s to go after the Runway Access Points again. After the last strike they were in the following condition:<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Runway Access Point 1: Heavy Damage and Major Fire (and a destroyed MiG-23 blocking it)<br />
Runway Access Point 2: Light Damage<br />
Runway Access Point 3: Heavy Damage and a Minor Fire<br />
Runway Access Point 4: Light Damage<br />
Runway Access Point 5: Heavy Damage and a Major Fire<br />
Runway Access Point 6: Heavy Damage and a Severe Fire<br />
<br />
However, I am sure the Soviets are attempting to repair them, and also they have managed to get a CAP up, so the airfield is still partially operational. I have to keep hitting it to make sure it stays only partially operational, if at all.<br />
<br />
After that, I will launch my strikers in an attempt to reduce the number of SAMs and AAA in the area. The losses I took during the first strike were too much, and if I am to keep striking, I need to perform some SEAD.<br />
<br />
<b>172500Z </b>I begin launching aircraft for the strike.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbBTT3IP9_VI1XLiiAiLFXVsiVgfyOcLF1rKZH35EpxK22pEdWisZ-pXW9LPNUlcnvH68aE14c0h2GO1YBM_IJ2PXlbUP824DnT11bX4o5LOKH4viWmAMt9IH8M8o5xOjJfge8j8kMaDX/s1600/Deliverance+15+174405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="734" data-original-width="1448" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlbBTT3IP9_VI1XLiiAiLFXVsiVgfyOcLF1rKZH35EpxK22pEdWisZ-pXW9LPNUlcnvH68aE14c0h2GO1YBM_IJ2PXlbUP824DnT11bX4o5LOKH4viWmAMt9IH8M8o5xOjJfge8j8kMaDX/s320/Deliverance+15+174405.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The strike is inbound</td></tr>
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<b>174432Z </b>The single MiG-23 Flogger flying CAP detects and launches missiles against my two F-8E Crusaders detailed to take him out.<br />
<br />
Two more bogies are detected at Keflavik. I guess the Soviets have detected the raid and are now sending up what they can to stop it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9R5OfYRGWha-eBuTfhzGaOBfKlFs7WQWY7tCR8BSlv-WwnScSYE5V9Isz3y0IW9gT7GB5zwZNSVwH0H86szEQrKQodDxUZdylApjDupTUxU0XKzVwzNRucSFN3O5nes6_t2B1lEMhZzrY/s1600/Deliverance+15+174449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="1397" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9R5OfYRGWha-eBuTfhzGaOBfKlFs7WQWY7tCR8BSlv-WwnScSYE5V9Isz3y0IW9gT7GB5zwZNSVwH0H86szEQrKQodDxUZdylApjDupTUxU0XKzVwzNRucSFN3O5nes6_t2B1lEMhZzrY/s320/Deliverance+15+174449.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Soviets respond to the strike</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The two new MiG-23s join the dogfight and begin firing radar-guided missiles. One of the Floggers is shot down by a R.550 Magic.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH22r9v1h1sBBEjSPOHo-1LYvNWRGj3LbfeMTV-bJPH5UtvE6qBgaSd_oGGgCf25wHqE8a0Zh_Dc0xyOX5Wg-6dM0F0P8etskL3Cm9zKjU9IJfJ1dZ3XN_Ssus_9lNEFpVn6wsTQRJwR6/s1600/Deliverance+15+174822.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="329" data-original-width="414" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipH22r9v1h1sBBEjSPOHo-1LYvNWRGj3LbfeMTV-bJPH5UtvE6qBgaSd_oGGgCf25wHqE8a0Zh_Dc0xyOX5Wg-6dM0F0P8etskL3Cm9zKjU9IJfJ1dZ3XN_Ssus_9lNEFpVn6wsTQRJwR6/s320/Deliverance+15+174822.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A second Flogger is shot down</td></tr>
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Seconds later, the same F-8E shoots down the last MiG in a head on pass with his guns. The skies are clear...for the moment.<br />
<br />
My Shrike-armed A-7 launches a pair of Shrikes at the 2D Long-Range Air Search Radar at Hvammsfjordur, but they are both shot down by SA-8 Geckos. The A-7 launches its second pair of Shrikes, but they are also shot down. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHf7w13Nd_hvHXoca-4fiMb1716mA9NWhI-O8xvNq9ynxBLOvCdc3NlKBy1U5pUxY4n3zhknJU3lNPB3dMK6dqA40MukEeVBKvhioKlU-s96T7JDCe-fymJg2UBelsmAipJwqRQwOsjLk0/s1600/Deliverance+15+175702.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="568" data-original-width="1123" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHf7w13Nd_hvHXoca-4fiMb1716mA9NWhI-O8xvNq9ynxBLOvCdc3NlKBy1U5pUxY4n3zhknJU3lNPB3dMK6dqA40MukEeVBKvhioKlU-s96T7JDCe-fymJg2UBelsmAipJwqRQwOsjLk0/s320/Deliverance+15+175702.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walleyes away!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8wtQrERpQdMrIpAH59Q4Zrf3aqoCdSJdeI70kNtNhErS_QlSavNQZDwn_q9KCcbsojunOLaLbJxvXFjBymvA74vpp2mObbM5OHfYsT83UCgM6leZh1qHtMBH8tEnre3OdwK-u8qDGfyGM/s1600/Deliverance+15+175752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="768" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8wtQrERpQdMrIpAH59Q4Zrf3aqoCdSJdeI70kNtNhErS_QlSavNQZDwn_q9KCcbsojunOLaLbJxvXFjBymvA74vpp2mObbM5OHfYsT83UCgM6leZh1qHtMBH8tEnre3OdwK-u8qDGfyGM/s320/Deliverance+15+175752.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first Walleye is a direct hit</td></tr>
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One of the Walleyes is shot down and another misses, but there are other hits. My RF-8G Crusader flies over the area to spot targets, and comes under wave after wave of SAMs, and every time it evades, it seems to evade right into the path of several other SAM sites. Eventually, it is shot down by a ZSU-23-4. Fortunately, it locates many of these targets for the strike aircraft to attack.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5B1RYpy4Ze9ti6cKALrjuQdWjBZhkDpTvvqiLRXaJk8_Im82tNh2SsiF8eItFt73d66JjCTwXPtGrAVu-IP-hWTuicNDttO1ekt5aKjbKGA1JJtZtbvUegpCYcd3zDWpVmOa8a0cukmZ/s1600/Deliverance+15+180353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1154" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP5B1RYpy4Ze9ti6cKALrjuQdWjBZhkDpTvvqiLRXaJk8_Im82tNh2SsiF8eItFt73d66JjCTwXPtGrAVu-IP-hWTuicNDttO1ekt5aKjbKGA1JJtZtbvUegpCYcd3zDWpVmOa8a0cukmZ/s320/Deliverance+15+180353.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strikers converge on Keflavik from multiple directions</td></tr>
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The first A-7 to arrive attempts to drop some cluster bombs on a SA-7b Grail site, but can't locate it, and is promptly shot down by it.<br />
<br />
The second A-7 manages to spot his SA-7b target and takes it out with Mk20 Rockeyes. The third takes out an SA-9 Gaskin, but is shot down as well.<br />
<br />
Two Etendards arrive, and each one takes out its intended targets of an SA-7b Grail and a SA-9b Gaskin, and miraculously both live to tell about it.<br />
<br />
Two more Etendards are next, and go after another SA-7b Grail and a ZSU-23-4, and both are successful.<br />
<br />
Next is two A-7s with Mk83 1000lb bombs, and they go after Runway Access Points, one of them scoring a direct hit, the other a near miss.<br />
<br />
Another A-7 arrives, does BDA on the two Runway Access Points his fellow pilots hit (Heavy Damage, Severe Fire and Heavy Damage, Major Fire), and then drops his Mk82 Snakeeyes 500lb bombs on a Tarmac Space and takes out a MiG-23 and a pair of Su-24 Fencers.<br />
<br />
The next Etendard takes out a pair of Su-24s and a MiG-27 with its 400kg bombs.<br />
<br />
The next pair of Etendards launch their AS.30 missiles against hangars, taking out two MiG-23s, two MiG-27s, and one Su-24.<br />
<br />
Three more Etendards arrive, shooting their SNEB 68mm rockets at more aircraft on the ground, killing ten Su-24 Fencers, two MiG-23 Floggers, and two MiG-27 Floggers.<br />
<br />
All in all, not a bad strike.<br />
<br />
The later waves in the strike did not run into any anti-air fire to speak of, so it looks like Keflavik is suppressed. All in all, my aircraft killed tally is:<br />
<br />
24x MiG-23M Flogger B<br />
30x MiG-27 Flogger D<br />
21x Su-24 Fencer B<br />
<br />
A significant chunk of aircraft. My next strikes will scan for any surviving aircraft on the ground, take out any remaining hangars, go after radars, and starting pounding the Soviet ground forces in preparation for the amphibious assault.<br />
<br />
<b>185025Z</b> My amphibious fleet is 174nm from its zone by Iceland, and moving at 14kts, I should get there in just under 13 hours, or around 0530 local time, so it will be an assault at dawn.<br />
<br />
<b>191506Z </b>I detect another Recon Bear to the north, and I send an F-8J Crusader to take it out, killing it with a Sidewinder. That's three Bears down.<br />
<br />
<b>200849Z </b>My E-1B Tracer detects a bogey over Keflavik. So despite all my efforts, the airfield isn't completely neutralized. Two minutes later I detect a second bogey. They begin circling Keflavik, so they are clearly an attempt at a CAP again. <br />
<br />
<b>230907Z </b>I shoot down <i>another</i> Recon Bear to the north. My E-1B Tracer--my only E-1B Tracer, finally goes Bingo and heads for home. This means I have some three hours without any AEW support. But it is the dead of the night, and since I keep shooting down their Recon planes, I'm counting on the fact that they can't really do anything to hurt me now.<br />
<br />
Come morning will come the amphibious assault, assuming all goes well...<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13.html">Part Five</a>.<br />
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Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-54965579063739421542017-08-16T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-17T08:05:16.504-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 13: Deliverance Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7_kjp1Ujrmq_i5AN6fdsB-eZ_PYwZO8jUOJr0gFJQa7xsmfE6CnxiFehIxMnbNWaWL10g9n5YfZvLTZmmRReP7F0nGDm6tJMqsl18dxXCqfPiX59T4JCaO7BOAgJ5a7xLWIFUEvbEeRQ/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In Parts <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_14.html">One</a> and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_15.html">Two</a> of this scenario, the NATO surface groups tasked with retaking Iceland from the Soviets have undergone some severe trials. They have been sustaining incessant air attacks from Keflavik and also cruise missile attacks from Soviet submarines. The damage has been extensive, including the loss of one ship and several others heavily damaged. But the USS <i>Oriskany</i> and the FS <i>Clemenceau</i> have managed to launch a counterstrike, which is due to attack soon.<br />
<br />
The NATO F-8 Crusaders have proven to be no match for Soviet MiG-23 Floggers with their radar guided missiles, and so the air battle has been difficult. The current strike against Keflavik was launched without air cover as none of the fighters are available to escort it, but it could not be helped. The airfield simply has to be taken out of action immediately.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 15, 1975, 101308Z</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftEPBCOBWMHQ0izVLd5vUFchPZCeD77QRbR9L-GPGNQB84ztUFATx9bIFfyA03kIZOB38LH-5R2hFz3zmXGXiU8DuzZNydY5_0Yxp_taUdFo4If0xGxvFcuLe5AuN8E5V94t_5r8MYKMS/s1600/Deliverance+15+101308.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="1251" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftEPBCOBWMHQ0izVLd5vUFchPZCeD77QRbR9L-GPGNQB84ztUFATx9bIFfyA03kIZOB38LH-5R2hFz3zmXGXiU8DuzZNydY5_0Yxp_taUdFo4If0xGxvFcuLe5AuN8E5V94t_5r8MYKMS/s320/Deliverance+15+101308.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The NATO strikes are inbound for Keflavik</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The strike continues to close in on Keflavik. The Etendards begin topping off their fuel from their tankers before continuing their strike. <br />
<br />
<b>102100Z</b> In a rare bit of good news, a Sea Sprite from USS <i>Spruance</i> sinks a Foxtrot submarine that has been threatening my surface groups. Earlier a Sea King from <i>Oriskany</i> damaged it, and finally the Sea Sprite finishes it off.<br />
<br />
<b>102310Z </b>Closer to Keflavik, the Soviet CAP has become aware of the presence of my strike, and move to intercept.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmewfh8nV7oy8ie5tcoBKG7WZxoNof-WN_ns421wyYfgrz6hHhePmHv1F2z0Lhcnt5w9jJAN3_Xg5CC1WXcdkqH9Lr9m_AaQFVprCayunykbA2vm-qO03GkEA1-B4dEyVWV5w9sWYn6UNC/s1600/Deliverance+15+102310.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="751" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmewfh8nV7oy8ie5tcoBKG7WZxoNof-WN_ns421wyYfgrz6hHhePmHv1F2z0Lhcnt5w9jJAN3_Xg5CC1WXcdkqH9Lr9m_AaQFVprCayunykbA2vm-qO03GkEA1-B4dEyVWV5w9sWYn6UNC/s320/Deliverance+15+102310.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Soviet CAP responds</td></tr>
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This was not unexpected, I just hope that my strikes are able to get through.<br />
<br />
The first four missiles miss. My first strikers are seven miles out flying 550kts at 200ft. They are armed with cluster bombs, and their target is aircraft on the ground.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VZfQi3MWBtq-pL6nzGw1KWn_ukVrO3Pr1pAb7sHTx0e35NuGqtgIsXet9QZN5H1tfSWCDkCUfrYvmWcUbTdBBK-Srju6YH-Snf7Gcz-e4wfph-NgZY8G9tU-Mb-jtx0zmplZPlIIqxMc/s1600/Deliverance+15+102414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="776" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8VZfQi3MWBtq-pL6nzGw1KWn_ukVrO3Pr1pAb7sHTx0e35NuGqtgIsXet9QZN5H1tfSWCDkCUfrYvmWcUbTdBBK-Srju6YH-Snf7Gcz-e4wfph-NgZY8G9tU-Mb-jtx0zmplZPlIIqxMc/s320/Deliverance+15+102414.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first A-7s go feet dry.</td></tr>
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Multiple SAM launches are detected.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMGmDurjuZVJUIhujwwaeOHVjk_PUoG1eVtHds0HkPtzOyb8fIxbbcPK6ivq6HqHeTxgia9K1jxOpXC03YISzaGPkwQpOPwVKqHRx1agMDYtOI6VgZmwFq9MwF_A9n4-EvBbIpd1CrKWX/s1600/Deliverance+15+102430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="725" data-original-width="1318" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYMGmDurjuZVJUIhujwwaeOHVjk_PUoG1eVtHds0HkPtzOyb8fIxbbcPK6ivq6HqHeTxgia9K1jxOpXC03YISzaGPkwQpOPwVKqHRx1agMDYtOI6VgZmwFq9MwF_A9n4-EvBbIpd1CrKWX/s320/Deliverance+15+102430.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away!</td></tr>
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Multiple tarmac spaces have aircraft on them. Moving at 450kts, its difficult to redirect the A-7s to go after ones occupied by aircraft as opposed to ones that are not.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFxrjDjBPlVfBMTk4WsDk6ALl-uvOfj0PfF4VULV922NWrs8nZKIbtBDgCU9YaCai7qo1GGc-h2EWV7X60tOFEcKnLyTiqeQeo5zkIkx09QdPvT1-oYsY2iBAU_JXnlR3RKXbTrfw3crJ/s1600/Deliverance+15+102433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="1318" height="189" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFxrjDjBPlVfBMTk4WsDk6ALl-uvOfj0PfF4VULV922NWrs8nZKIbtBDgCU9YaCai7qo1GGc-h2EWV7X60tOFEcKnLyTiqeQeo5zkIkx09QdPvT1-oYsY2iBAU_JXnlR3RKXbTrfw3crJ/s320/Deliverance+15+102433.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">That's a hit!</td></tr>
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On target.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44SVWxeT_2rqmOSRs0V3eB3EpuZACiPBu1h9oR7Jnmfxyw5lX86Q6eYQLrTPb8Z7oo1KlQOxgPVG5b15-2U_BT0J1f8jzbEHCOwdl9gjDtGPJG_DdlikW6MCV45Dg9RE32fdqNvpXp-Vc/s1600/Deliverance+15+102435.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="710" data-original-width="946" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44SVWxeT_2rqmOSRs0V3eB3EpuZACiPBu1h9oR7Jnmfxyw5lX86Q6eYQLrTPb8Z7oo1KlQOxgPVG5b15-2U_BT0J1f8jzbEHCOwdl9gjDtGPJG_DdlikW6MCV45Dg9RE32fdqNvpXp-Vc/s320/Deliverance+15+102435.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And more hits. Beautiful.</td></tr>
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The trailing A-7 is shot down by a short range missile from a Flogger. My second A-7 drops its cluster bombs as it comes under fire from a ZSU-23.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63aOSm319Y_yVmSXV2xKtpgqMQau6bIP-2Z0XNm3GVgYOY9xjNC6K2s2GWnXXpvrxHVbRhT9FDnKwUyFII49ypr0VABqsf4GcyP8uJsj1P_njwHEV8pxl8CgWmIK1xJOc9ehrqq6pcatu/s1600/Deliverance+15+102438.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="776" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj63aOSm319Y_yVmSXV2xKtpgqMQau6bIP-2Z0XNm3GVgYOY9xjNC6K2s2GWnXXpvrxHVbRhT9FDnKwUyFII49ypr0VABqsf4GcyP8uJsj1P_njwHEV8pxl8CgWmIK1xJOc9ehrqq6pcatu/s320/Deliverance+15+102438.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBqWNQ-rPVD_mxbre66J2Eewtqmij9sbK_muS2uoDYqhsnmvdWlrQbPrtRgZshDQsqqlPQCv2nCe5091oiK9oz7NgzuY94aSdjwlJftLVoht7FUOtDFKAo4kc1JU-wnDekTaV11LNafoP/s1600/Deliverance+15+102445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="737" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBqWNQ-rPVD_mxbre66J2Eewtqmij9sbK_muS2uoDYqhsnmvdWlrQbPrtRgZshDQsqqlPQCv2nCe5091oiK9oz7NgzuY94aSdjwlJftLVoht7FUOtDFKAo4kc1JU-wnDekTaV11LNafoP/s320/Deliverance+15+102445.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More hits!</td></tr>
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Multiple MiG-23s are destroyed. Fantastic. Another of the A-7s is destroyed by an SA-6a Gainful, and the third is shot down by an SA-7b Grail.<br />
<br />
My next A-7s begin firing Shrikes at SAMs in the area.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGDrC8WdLr396JmaWg2gm_qOLRg82xsfzkx9Z3azkN7eyAE3awq35xeDH1UuIMmDMFHr8YNWeItTTRq-rPo84AGuLCYB91Osu3Xz9xWbfD2R-Z9ZF46vpsS8uhCEsdCLW8ZzSDcejjdyD/s1600/Deliverance+15+102528.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="526" data-original-width="1015" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyGDrC8WdLr396JmaWg2gm_qOLRg82xsfzkx9Z3azkN7eyAE3awq35xeDH1UuIMmDMFHr8YNWeItTTRq-rPo84AGuLCYB91Osu3Xz9xWbfD2R-Z9ZF46vpsS8uhCEsdCLW8ZzSDcejjdyD/s320/Deliverance+15+102528.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Magnum!</td></tr>
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The first two Shrikes misses by a mile. (well, 503ft and 895ft).<br />
<br />
As my other strikers move in, more MiG-23s from the CAP respond, launching missiles. One of the A-7s is shot down. An SA-6 battery turns on its radar, and shoots down one of my Shrike-armed A-7s, but not before the A-7 gets off a pair of Shrikes in return. One malfunctions (of course), but the other hits a Straight Flush and destroys it.<br />
<br />
The MiGs launch missile after missile against the A-7s. Two more A-7s are shot down. Soon after, the MiGs stop firing missiles, which makes me think that they might all be Winchester...they certainly fire enough missiles...<br />
<br />
<b>103056Z </b>An A-7 drops his load of 18 Mk82 500lb Snakeeyes. Several of them hit the intended Runway Access point, and do heavy damage to it. An SA-7 and an SA-9 chase after him as he egresses, but he successfully dodges them.<br />
<br />
Another pair of A-7s is next, each carrying 6 Mk83 1000lb bombs. Just as they get into position to attack, a MiG fires a pair of missiles at them, and they are forced to turn away. They dodge those two missiles, but again, SAMs begin launching all over the place. The A-7s successfully dodge them, and drop their bombs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYiJMcMs1pv-FBBRi1TfGYvjnIQJYVVezU_SGmyziq-uv9rGTxwQG5bHlyTfNk6GZIAiTXQ7HTfYBXCF5kclu_YtaM61bxaZPD8m6py-XiawKiC1TndFvGLE6y2c1KoVTnLN4EmKi_ZfB/s1600/Deliverance+15+103341.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="858" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYiJMcMs1pv-FBBRi1TfGYvjnIQJYVVezU_SGmyziq-uv9rGTxwQG5bHlyTfNk6GZIAiTXQ7HTfYBXCF5kclu_YtaM61bxaZPD8m6py-XiawKiC1TndFvGLE6y2c1KoVTnLN4EmKi_ZfB/s320/Deliverance+15+103341.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They take some anti-aircraft fire, but manage to get their bombs off. It's uncertain how good of a job they did.<br />
<br />
My Shrike armed A-7 manages to take out two Floggers as they are turning on their final approach to the runway at Keflavik.<br />
<br />
Now that my A-7s are out of bombs, I direct those that have Sidewinders to cover the Etendards as they make their attack runs. There are a pair of MiGs that have just launched from Keflavik, and I send my A-7s in pursuit. They manage to shoot down two more MiGs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjnvr5ogzEucx4bqnBT0PRUyYBgffRK2z9qnIU9qxxLlS0riaeS5aqgHiNpZGlsvNmN75cSPCLLFs2IfoevvsoI-iolnsWKSaHm2TQfAu1zbQgjQAxCdbmtk_arEvl3Bv8OKqaeXe8d83/s1600/Deliverance+15+103522.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="707" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZjnvr5ogzEucx4bqnBT0PRUyYBgffRK2z9qnIU9qxxLlS0riaeS5aqgHiNpZGlsvNmN75cSPCLLFs2IfoevvsoI-iolnsWKSaHm2TQfAu1zbQgjQAxCdbmtk_arEvl3Bv8OKqaeXe8d83/s320/Deliverance+15+103522.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Targets hit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first four Etendards attack. Two are armed with rockets. One of them is shot down just as it launches rockets, but it succeeds in destroying a pair of Su-24 Fencers on the ground. The other is destroyed by AA fire.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQ8BsS2itPpn3TeAQks6qTVDt7DaYdiOj_9FjioSck1jm9FQz5E8rrBc_ujVD4b9O4Sqhwed_KB2_iJgXlSZg9xz7bz45p7qTplxcdblKbPjhOcOLJ5Tf0InEPTJUjEafNPS47q-5a5ap/s1600/etendard-022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="154" data-original-width="350" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQ8BsS2itPpn3TeAQks6qTVDt7DaYdiOj_9FjioSck1jm9FQz5E8rrBc_ujVD4b9O4Sqhwed_KB2_iJgXlSZg9xz7bz45p7qTplxcdblKbPjhOcOLJ5Tf0InEPTJUjEafNPS47q-5a5ap/s320/etendard-022.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dassault Etendard</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The second pair drop their 400kg bombs on a runway access point, damaging it.<br />
<br />
The next pair drop their bombs on a runway access point, followed by another pair who do the same thing, also managing to catch a hapless MiG-23 on the access point at the time.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmkIk1N3Kh0YxzABFTd2bxDAsNoxG_dQEGFDQPq3UKW1Z_bSrrElBRGrLfW7iB1PgMHzsH_uQKO2aWmnuguRZK8526o2U4gkGbtlYoxR3q0ta7LMTpiZTuOjO6-cV9T4OTP4W5XhoBV0g/s1600/Deliverance+15+103642.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="692" data-original-width="936" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjmkIk1N3Kh0YxzABFTd2bxDAsNoxG_dQEGFDQPq3UKW1Z_bSrrElBRGrLfW7iB1PgMHzsH_uQKO2aWmnuguRZK8526o2U4gkGbtlYoxR3q0ta7LMTpiZTuOjO6-cV9T4OTP4W5XhoBV0g/s320/Deliverance+15+103642.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More targets hit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next are a pair of Etendards with rockets, which launch at a pair of tarmac spaces with several aircraft each on them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7-NRYNyZeB5by-5Kmyo7MRSXLpqZTZFTyikX6zZG8UgMKEGWfqqepgHPqVFZmETPw275FVP7i9lni3oRPg16KgkxjA8YJARzkS2qTo9qhcZz6MDRqbIL_MabpN-ZlUVZthnpYjSAVq1M/s1600/Deliverance+15+103713.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="1007" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz7-NRYNyZeB5by-5Kmyo7MRSXLpqZTZFTyikX6zZG8UgMKEGWfqqepgHPqVFZmETPw275FVP7i9lni3oRPg16KgkxjA8YJARzkS2qTo9qhcZz6MDRqbIL_MabpN-ZlUVZthnpYjSAVq1M/s320/Deliverance+15+103713.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockets away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Direct hit. Two Su-24 Fencers are hit, two MiG-23s are hit, and three MiG-27s are hit.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXV7_r8b1_SqZY0yQ6gm7lARRdRmbX_NizkejcUz6VCmAFalm-y6oetKSdU9nCrFU3QYHrXMNX2lNcRlEJPuZ44QigjxZ3kOxzP_X1dRuwnlqy0GmtaOsFwE8KR6SEL9OZ0lkIq5apA98n/s1600/Deliverance+15+103722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="992" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXV7_r8b1_SqZY0yQ6gm7lARRdRmbX_NizkejcUz6VCmAFalm-y6oetKSdU9nCrFU3QYHrXMNX2lNcRlEJPuZ44QigjxZ3kOxzP_X1dRuwnlqy0GmtaOsFwE8KR6SEL9OZ0lkIq5apA98n/s320/Deliverance+15+103722.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rockets impact the grounded Soviet aircraft</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next up is an A-7 which drops a pair of Walleyes, one for Runway Access Point 3, and one on Runway Access Point 4, the only two access points that haven't been hit yet. I originally had three A-7s with Walleyes, but inexplicably they all aborted the mission right after takeoff, and I only noticed it once two of them had already landed--the last one was on final approach to <i>Oriskany</i> so I quickly ordered him to get back on the job and attack. Good thing I did, too.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKMhdULnBWMHI52CetSX8oOTmUJQC4EKW4Gvb9YPfGnUR55TPqaN30YJviyYVP6VkL6r72kwlkG4RJft_w6SgzZqCwNu7W6c76RwvVbfK7IYeidEIok2NLinXENoImLdtJprr9pniUqc3/s1600/Deliverance+15+103914.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="1250" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuKMhdULnBWMHI52CetSX8oOTmUJQC4EKW4Gvb9YPfGnUR55TPqaN30YJviyYVP6VkL6r72kwlkG4RJft_w6SgzZqCwNu7W6c76RwvVbfK7IYeidEIok2NLinXENoImLdtJprr9pniUqc3/s320/Deliverance+15+103914.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walleyes away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the Walleyes is shot down by a ZSU-23-4 Shilka, while the others impact Runway Access Point 3, causing a severe fire.<br />
<br />
That leaves just Runway Access Point 4, at which I direct my last two Etendards. They are armed with 400kg bombs, which I hope are enough to put it out of action.<br />
<br />
The first Etendard gets his bombs off, which come close but miss the target, and then it is promptly shot down by an SA-9b Gaskin. The second Etendard gets his bombs off.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAvugE1D0MgqOXGZajyRi53Ac4JPuFDz-rqCI4eLwzGPUxCKdvk4Lo5KHbVdIxN4KCUA3BMPqC6HyjjoHodm_EUHzp4PGA_YmTOjdD_RQZ9Fy-n60X3tLwLN3GAj7KJI5H2_2WrIPwIsS/s1600/Deliverance+15+104206.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="529" data-original-width="702" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlAvugE1D0MgqOXGZajyRi53Ac4JPuFDz-rqCI4eLwzGPUxCKdvk4Lo5KHbVdIxN4KCUA3BMPqC6HyjjoHodm_EUHzp4PGA_YmTOjdD_RQZ9Fy-n60X3tLwLN3GAj7KJI5H2_2WrIPwIsS/s320/Deliverance+15+104206.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More near misses</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Again there are no direct hits, but they land close enough to do some minor damage. The Etendard is promptly shot down by a ZSU-23-4.<br />
<br />
The strikes are over. All surviving aircraft return to their carriers. In the strike I lost 7 A-7Bs and 4 Etendard IVMs, which is more than I wanted to lose. However, I destroyed 6 Su-24 Fencer Bs on the ground, 3 additional MiG-27 Flogger Ds on the ground, and a dozen or so MiG-23s. This is all good news, but the real question is did I put the airfield out of commission? From the latest BDA I have, here's the damage:<br />
<br />
Runway Access Point 1: Heavy Damage and Major Fire (and a destroyed MiG-23 blocking it)<br />
Runway Access Point 2: Light Damage<br />
Runway Access Point 3: Heavy Damage and a Minor Fire<br />
Runway Access Point 4: Light Damage<br />
Runway Access Point 5: Heavy Damage and a Major Fire<br />
Runway Access Point 6: Heavy Damage and a Severe Fire<br />
<br />
Whether or not that's sufficient to put Keflavik out of action remains to be seen. If it's not and the Soviets manage to launch another strike against the <i>Oriskany</i> or <i>Iowa</i> groups, I'm in trouble.<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_17.html">Part Four</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-44575610550705912372017-08-15T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-16T08:56:01.592-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 13: Deliverance Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZP7eoP8g8X6u4022_Hd9kIAf4f_K8ehBd8JygF99sEjRyzf2UqB8VD2uSh4Or6hVotlG_Ldh2sC-n0iBiMLnjnA_9SqTPwbHI-ITaxM7N3M6jNq5gPceNLArF1RYfKcxDwZzPzVTGMRX/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZP7eoP8g8X6u4022_Hd9kIAf4f_K8ehBd8JygF99sEjRyzf2UqB8VD2uSh4Or6hVotlG_Ldh2sC-n0iBiMLnjnA_9SqTPwbHI-ITaxM7N3M6jNq5gPceNLArF1RYfKcxDwZzPzVTGMRX/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_14.html">Part One</a> of this scenario, my surface groups set a course for Keflavik to retake Iceland from the Soviet occupation. The Soviets want to keep it, however, so immediately I had to start fending off air attacks. The first raid cost me some F-8 Crusaders, but I wiped it out before it could launch any missiles. The second raid was nearly wiped out, but managed to get off some missiles and damage the USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i>, a <i>Leahy</i>-class cruiser defending the <i>Iowa</i> group, significantly reducing the air defense capability of that group.<br />
<br />
And now, with all of my fighters refueling and rearming, a third raid is inbound, the largest of them all. If I can take out the raiding aircraft, I will have severely reduced the striking power of the Soviets, leaving Iceland open for my own strikes. But first, I have to survive...<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 15, 1975, 092113Z</b><br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkfghXlhEartAo-pCl8TaGsbUJZZAwopkMBrXwp5QEoQc_UMRV-zvvu0NbHWvDSHLEIQt_l0-TLTquuK28r4ByjXetB84r_JaSL9dwdHHgEOgqiVzWb5oXlJXJR7JjKE99PWz_4vdk2gQ/s1600/Deliverance+15+092113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="929" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqkfghXlhEartAo-pCl8TaGsbUJZZAwopkMBrXwp5QEoQc_UMRV-zvvu0NbHWvDSHLEIQt_l0-TLTquuK28r4ByjXetB84r_JaSL9dwdHHgEOgqiVzWb5oXlJXJR7JjKE99PWz_4vdk2gQ/s320/Deliverance+15+092113.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A large raid is inbound to attack the NATO fleets</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A massive raid is inbound to my fleets, and I have essentially no fighters available to stop it. I light off <i>Clemenceau</i> group's radars, in the hopes of distracting some of the raiders away from the other two groups.<br />
<br />
It appears that my E-1B Tracer is being targeted by some MiG-23 escorts, so I shut off its radar and have it dive to the deck in hopes of preserving it, but it is painfully slow. I launch another Tracer from <i>Oriskany</i> but will keep it closer to home.<br />
<br />
<b>092243Z </b>My two French F-8E Crusaders approach the MiG-23s in the hopes of protecting the E-1B Tracer, and the MiGs launch missiles at them. One of the Crusaders is shot down, and again I am reminded at how much the Crusaders are outmatched by the MiG-23s. With the MiGs having radar guided missiles, the Crusaders don't stand a chance against them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuyc-uS-rMKgb4C5w_hJbvii_2sGwA2MzrkzfEu3Vfbyrdjfn8ok0o6oEfuDTg0DbwkkQt133KJs13-DYZpEY4TlFKvWeMwC_l47twn7BuJ7mmqDAlKeqOwaVxMbZnHw-5bhsS3bDd22M/s1600/Deliverance+15+092427.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="675" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQuyc-uS-rMKgb4C5w_hJbvii_2sGwA2MzrkzfEu3Vfbyrdjfn8ok0o6oEfuDTg0DbwkkQt133KJs13-DYZpEY4TlFKvWeMwC_l47twn7BuJ7mmqDAlKeqOwaVxMbZnHw-5bhsS3bDd22M/s320/Deliverance+15+092427.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The MiG-23s go after my E-1B Tracer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Crusader's sacrifice is in vain, as a pair of MiGs turn back and go after the E-1B Tracer, now flying low and at top speed, but it has no chance of outrunning the MiGs.<br />
<br />
Dropping below 100ft ASL, the Tracer succeeds in evading the first two AA-7 Apex As. The second Crusader, on the other hand, is engaged in a desperate dogfight with four MiG-23s. After dodging several missiles, the Crusader is shot down.<br />
<br />
The Tracer, on the other hand, is giving its Flogger pursuers a run for their money as they have difficulty engaging it when it is flying at a mere 80 feet altitude.<br />
<br />
The relief Tracer, staying over the <i>Oriskany</i> group, climbs steadily and lights off its radar early in hopes of picking up the raid. It does, and also detects multiple missile launches. The Vampires appear to be heading towards the <i>Oriskany</i> group, which is preferable to them heading towards the <i>Iowa</i> group.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9SN202JfuLnLGRYzUfrtOs8RLW98VxaKaD4x7Ui_eNXf34jGS0CV38yz0vtK1AFCnegihhmaZ_Zass-7tDN9W7VVjaCKWuafdZAiTK9shyphenhyphenOdhvhtcymS6YKbd7BUmjEobcretUGyaxbEZ/s1600/Deliverance+15+092911.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1031" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9SN202JfuLnLGRYzUfrtOs8RLW98VxaKaD4x7Ui_eNXf34jGS0CV38yz0vtK1AFCnegihhmaZ_Zass-7tDN9W7VVjaCKWuafdZAiTK9shyphenhyphenOdhvhtcymS6YKbd7BUmjEobcretUGyaxbEZ/s320/Deliverance+15+092911.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lot more raiders than I want to deal with.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Some of the earliest launched Vampires, a quartet of AS-9 Kyles, run out of energy and self-destruct. The launching aircraft must have launched them far too early, which is some welcome news. The fact that they are Kyles means the launching aircraft are Su-24 Fencers, since MiG-27s don't carry them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUpwsS1QrfbiMM-XVZv-umke5aAKRyQS8F2nVZn_hxIcMN85rtwaeKUw8H5LV3-TbmwjzLh_25TUspoKh9281ZxXhp51ZSb4-DeW_YVvoTuv4XFGRzKEvEYMqKkF1EYF_1uG5XYDoXkV0/s1600/Sukhoi_Su-24_inflight_Mishin-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="1024" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQUpwsS1QrfbiMM-XVZv-umke5aAKRyQS8F2nVZn_hxIcMN85rtwaeKUw8H5LV3-TbmwjzLh_25TUspoKh9281ZxXhp51ZSb4-DeW_YVvoTuv4XFGRzKEvEYMqKkF1EYF_1uG5XYDoXkV0/s320/Sukhoi_Su-24_inflight_Mishin-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Su-24 Fencer</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>093031Z </b>By now some of the MiG-23s are turning for home. My French F-8Es are attempting to engage some of the Fencers headed towards <i>Clemenceau</i>, but their R.550 Magics are incapable of engaging targets flying at 200ft ASL. Great.<br />
<br />
The good news is that for the moment, my Tracer looks like it might survive, and I hope I didn't speak too soon.<br />
<br />
Four more AS-9 Kyles run out of energy and self-destruct.<br />
<br />
USS <i>Dale </i>begins launching SAMs at more approaching Kyles. <br />
<br />
I sent my my French F-8Es in pursuit of some retreating MiG-23s because they couldn't engage the very low flying Fencers. Fortunately, they catch up and manage to shoot down two before they run out of Magics.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNIqG8WyXIxPQjMghkC6ZnLVpbN7N6-t3oOHEcMbMPFDPKQRwcilOj8zaJ0kZQZL0thE8S0CHEVyvQ0B-yOqZszHvQD3Mx8kcMHwjcEuOe5H3PbHI0tz-iSDHTAt-8WEpOGNKnx0b22-r/s1600/Deliverance+15+093808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1096" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVNIqG8WyXIxPQjMghkC6ZnLVpbN7N6-t3oOHEcMbMPFDPKQRwcilOj8zaJ0kZQZL0thE8S0CHEVyvQ0B-yOqZszHvQD3Mx8kcMHwjcEuOe5H3PbHI0tz-iSDHTAt-8WEpOGNKnx0b22-r/s320/Deliverance+15+093808.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Dale</i> is in trouble</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
USS <i>Dale </i>launches SAMs left and right, shooting down many AS-9s, but it is getting low in SAMs. USS <i>Semmes</i> assists by launching its own, but one is getting uncomfortably close.<br />
<br />
At a range of under 3 miles, <i>Dale</i> succeeds in shooting down a Kyle, but it is down to ten RIM-67A SM-1ERs. The next one comes in, and <i>Dale</i> is hit. The damage appears to be restricted to <i>Dale</i>'s helo pad, as its radars are still active. But there are still six Vampires inbound, and more strike aircraft on the way from the southeast. USS <i>Dewey</i> begins launching SAMs. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbW1k1o6r-_Jo9hcGcRehvzL8YOAjlO7SILFjqeqyf5FTO9vBkRlVCzh_3trOcUg3GEw7UKfMuEPKmGthGTOB79GtI8UxFUoDpdD1T7zFXfEQBukLB7hgSJT1c91jvPx6fujT3ARRZ5ihO/s1600/Deliverance+15+093925.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="977" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbW1k1o6r-_Jo9hcGcRehvzL8YOAjlO7SILFjqeqyf5FTO9vBkRlVCzh_3trOcUg3GEw7UKfMuEPKmGthGTOB79GtI8UxFUoDpdD1T7zFXfEQBukLB7hgSJT1c91jvPx6fujT3ARRZ5ihO/s320/Deliverance+15+093925.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missiles all over the place...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As it stands, it looks like one Kyle is headed towards <i>Dale</i>, possibly three towards <i>Semmes</i>, and two more headed for <i>Oriskany</i> and her close escorts.<br />
<br />
A Kyle misses USS <i>Semmes</i> by 298ft, lightly damaging her AN/SPG-53F [Mk68 GFCS, Radar]. Two more Kyles are inbound. <br />
<br />
Another Kyle misses USS <i>Dale</i> by 46ft, giving her some blast damage, but she's still in the fight.<br />
<br />
Three Vampires are left in the first wave, two inbound for <i>Semmes</i> and one headed for either USS <i>Robert A. Owens</i> or USS <i>Voge</i>.<br />
<br />
Of the two Vampires targetting <i>Semmes</i>, one malfunctions and the other misses by 32ft, damaging her. Her 324mm Mk32 TT Triple is heavily damaged, and her AN/SPG-53F [Mk68 GFCS, Radar] is destroyed. Fortunately that's just the fire control radar for her gun systems, so her SAMs are still able to fire.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDvyccTEpGG1BXW6yr5DaNsMaMMXFpc6hZIqtOCrT5bB3RorZ4C80dQANIPDEAeF2s2_ehZbyetU1RCre5jMnFGD9oeaFBfQcHAQp7e_uz89o97-PUVCcE9wJj4Q-WJhz_mTlOM4sp5KB/s1600/uss_semmes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="742" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbDvyccTEpGG1BXW6yr5DaNsMaMMXFpc6hZIqtOCrT5bB3RorZ4C80dQANIPDEAeF2s2_ehZbyetU1RCre5jMnFGD9oeaFBfQcHAQp7e_uz89o97-PUVCcE9wJj4Q-WJhz_mTlOM4sp5KB/s320/uss_semmes.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Semmes</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The bad news is that another wave of eleven Kyles are inbound, and worse, my Tracer has detected <i>another</i> air raid from Keflavik, consisting of at least ten aircraft. I'm starting to think that the Soviets have stationed their entire air force at Keflavik. By my estimates, they must have a regiment of MiG-23s, and maybe three regiments of attack aircraft (Fencers and Floggers), for a total of some 84 aircraft. I'm beginning to think NATO was by no means ready to take back Iceland...<br />
<br />
My fighters won't be ready to launch for over an hour, but when they are, I need to do a massive Alpha Strike against Keflavik. <i>If </i> survive these raids, I need to take out Keflavik's ability to launch more raids, because I certainly won't survive them. The way things are going, I'm far from certain I'll survive this one.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTWFtkKf8urIW3Wyra4Z9_h2x9Dp9NjNCCsJyItSaGhri2oDemAn2_u6aUpJMeT5RB8Gq7Sr8VEXFoGrVrefaB7DWrNaBCsLi2IMftdWYndHmRrbeYbUjsayQHstoOXls74Cc0CWwrBFZ/s1600/Deliverance+15+094005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1194" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkTWFtkKf8urIW3Wyra4Z9_h2x9Dp9NjNCCsJyItSaGhri2oDemAn2_u6aUpJMeT5RB8Gq7Sr8VEXFoGrVrefaB7DWrNaBCsLi2IMftdWYndHmRrbeYbUjsayQHstoOXls74Cc0CWwrBFZ/s320/Deliverance+15+094005.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More and more Vampires...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A Kyle misses USS <i>Robert A. Owens</i> by 59ft, delivering blast damage and heavily damaging its AN/SPG-35 [Mk56 GFCS]. <br />
<br />
<i>Dale</i> shoots her last SAM, but there are still six Kyles inbound. She fires his 76mm gun, to no effect.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMmOmBKlaejsNSmAl5cF248YIuGFMQMXrb6Z1RLEiAjeVSg6CViRN2LCHZlBOIme4IlF-UaUq7vKWQuPLlqAWd56rMLsLX_JECl1dRSBGIqe3s1WqetK5d6Vthtp2AIgA6_s1tqXJQPED/s1600/Deliverance+15+094107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="1130" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMmOmBKlaejsNSmAl5cF248YIuGFMQMXrb6Z1RLEiAjeVSg6CViRN2LCHZlBOIme4IlF-UaUq7vKWQuPLlqAWd56rMLsLX_JECl1dRSBGIqe3s1WqetK5d6Vthtp2AIgA6_s1tqXJQPED/s320/Deliverance+15+094107.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Dale</i> sinks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first Kyle hits <i>Dale</i>, heavily damaging her, and the second blows the ship apart.<br />
<br />
Then a<i> </i>Kyle impacts USS <i>Oriskany</i>, damaging her and lightly damaging her AN/SPS-37. Kyles intended for the sinking USS <i>Dale</i> change course and search for other targets, among them the <i>Oriskany</i>. USS <i>Dewey</i> and USS <i>Semmes</i>, rapidly running out of SAMs, continue to fire at the inbounds.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4LEB_x5xmunFmEdgCR4DSwySy_ZbeXCErHg0eePSHmPBMr6yKGj8CngjylyNpzudZZXoBrAYDSEeln1895QUAfMlVTKblSX3YAXNbPC4uM1OUmcezEYkioBr6f9yyDiC0Ph7vpS7NKsH/s1600/USS_Dewey_%2528DDG-45%2529_underway_in_1979.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1055" data-original-width="1600" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG4LEB_x5xmunFmEdgCR4DSwySy_ZbeXCErHg0eePSHmPBMr6yKGj8CngjylyNpzudZZXoBrAYDSEeln1895QUAfMlVTKblSX3YAXNbPC4uM1OUmcezEYkioBr6f9yyDiC0Ph7vpS7NKsH/s320/USS_Dewey_%2528DDG-45%2529_underway_in_1979.JPEG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Dewey</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
USS <i>Semmes</i> is hit by another Kyle, delivering more blast damage and damaging its AN/SPS-39. A Kyle hits USS <i>Lang</i>, severely damaging her, and another Kyle hits <i>Oriskany</i>, causing a severe fire.<br />
<br />
<i>Lang</i> suffers a near miss, <i>Dewey</i> shoots down a Kyle at a range of under three miles, and the final Kyle in this wave, headed for <i>Oriskany</i>, runs out of energy and self-destructs two miles from the carrier.<br />
<br />
I decide I can't wait any longer. If the next strike (now numbering sixteen aircraft) launches its missiles (and there's no reason to think it won't), I won't be able to strike Keflavik at all. I launch everything I have available at Keflavik. There will be no fighter escort...but it can't be helped.<br />
<br />
The majority of my strike will go for the Runway Access Points at Keflavik, while the remainder, armed with cluster munitions and rockets, will go for Tarmac spaces in the hopes of hitting aircraft on the ground.<br />
<br />
The last pair of Su-24 Fencers gets off their missiles, and <i>Dewey</i> and <i>Semmes</i> launch SAMs. One gets through and hits <i>Semmes</i>, dealing severe damage, including fire and flooding. <i>Semmes</i> is likely doomed. Another Kyle hits USS <i>William R. Rush</i>, dealing light damage. <i>Dewey</i> is the sole remaining SAM armed ship in the group, and it has only 8 SAMs left.<br />
<br />
Despite a severe fire, <i>Oriskany</i> manages to launch its A-7 strike aircraft, and <i>Clemenceau</i> launches its Etendards. (I was surprised that <i>Oriskany</i> had no problems with flight operations (both launch and recovery) of aircraft despite the fire. Perhaps the fire was below decks and downwind? In any event, I'm not complaining)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrCEb2Y8qkuZ17rzaufuSCz1UbtI2Uia0gLWXPtyRobvFSblVL1vL3UpNvarTWWVe4W5LOY6DgYvdTnkRpoudW4R0KpBCpMVuPZhwLXPzAkN9xFAgrzujyN5SuiHneHvQIiON5I1rrahd/s1600/Deliverance+15+095211.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="931" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIrCEb2Y8qkuZ17rzaufuSCz1UbtI2Uia0gLWXPtyRobvFSblVL1vL3UpNvarTWWVe4W5LOY6DgYvdTnkRpoudW4R0KpBCpMVuPZhwLXPzAkN9xFAgrzujyN5SuiHneHvQIiON5I1rrahd/s320/Deliverance+15+095211.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dozens of Soviet aircraft fill the sky</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of my E-1B Tracers, without any F-8 Crusaders to sacrifice themselves in its stead, is chased down by MiG-23s and shot down.<br />
<br />
<i>Clemenceau</i> detects several Vampires headed its way. Hopefully the <i>Suffren</i> can handle them. As the Vampires approach, I wonder why <i>Suffren</i> isn't firing at them as they are well within range, and then I find to my dismay that the <i>Suffren</i>'s Masurca Mk2 Mod3's can't engage them when they are below 100ft. Fortunately, to my immense relief, several of the Vampires, AS-9 Kyles, run out of energy and self-destruct well short of the targets. Unfortunately, more Kyles are on the way. My only consolation at this point is that I'm relieved that they aren't going after the <i>Oriskany</i> or <i>Iowa</i> groups.<br />
<br />
<i>Suffren </i>is able to engage a few of the Vampires, but unfortunately keeps losing contact as the Vampires descend below 100ft, and <i>Suffren</i>'s SAMs lose track and cannot engage. The Vampires continue in, unperturbed. Several AS-12 Keglers close in on FS <i>Tourville</i>, but fortunately they self-destruct just short of her.<br />
<br />
<b>101308Z</b> My strikes are well on the way to Keflavik, shadowing the returning Soviet strike. My surface fleets have taken some serious punches. In the <i>Iowa</i> group, USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i> has a major fire and major flooding. In the <i>Oriskany</i> group, USS <i>Semmes</i> has a minor fire and minor flooding. USS <i>Lang</i> has a severe fire and minor flooding. USS <i>Robert A. Owens </i>is lightly damaged. USS <i>Dale</i> is sunk. And USS <i>Oriskany</i> herself has a severe fire, but has been able to conduct air operations.<br />
<br />
Whether my Keflavik strike will deal sufficient damage to allow the mission to continue remains to be seen...<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_16.html">Part Three</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-39487301380807006432017-08-14T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-15T08:01:53.780-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 13: Deliverance Part 1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
<strong>Introduction</strong><br />
Over the last few weeks intense
fighting has broken out along all fronts in Europe. NATO forces in Germany are
fighting a delaying action in the Fulda Gap area, halting Soviet armour and
mechanized units but with heavy loss in men and equipment.<br />
<br />
Massive naval
engagements, including US and UK carrier groups, have resulted in the loss of
HMS Ark Royal and US carriers. On the other hand the Soviet Red Banner Northern
Fleet has been practically decimated in the Norwegian Sea and North Cape area.
Both sides are reaching the end of their reserves.<br />
<br />
Soviet-occupied Iceland over the recent few months has been under constant
attack by NATO Forces. Even after these attacks the airfields are still
operational, but restricted in their ability to launch or recover anything
larger than a Su-24 Fencer or MiG-23 Flogger. The remains of the 61st
Kirkinesskaya Red Banner Marine Brigade are dug in around Reykjavik and
Reykjanesbaer near Keflavik.<br />
<br />
Iceland still remains a thorn in NATO's
side. The Oriskany CVBG, Clemenceau CVBG and the Iowa MEU have been ordered to
retake Iceland. All forces are now in position to the west of Iceland to conduct
an air- and sea-borne assault to retake the island.<br />
<br />
Whoever prevails, the rocky western shores are sure to turn bloody red...<br />
<br />
<em>NOTE: This scenario includes the USS Iowa configured as a "Heavy Assault
Amphibious Battleship", from a conversion proposed in 1966.</em><br />
<em></em><br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<strong>Situation</strong><br />
Iceland over the last few weeks has been
under constant attack by NATO forces. Even after these attacks the airfields are
still operational, but restricted in their ability to launch or recover anything
larger than an Su-24 Fencer or MiG-23 Flogger. The remains of the 61st
Kirkinesskaya Red Banner Marine Brigade are dug in around Reykjavik and
Reykjanesbaer near Keflavik.<br />
<br />
NATO task groups have been ordered to retake
Iceland at all costs.<br />
<br />
<strong>Enemy Forces</strong><br />
Air :
MiG-23 Flogger, Su-24 Fencer.<br />
SAM / AAA : SA-6 Gainful, SA-7 Grail, SA-9
Gaskin, ZSU-23.<br />
<br />
Surface : Unknown.<br />
<br />
Subsurface :
Unknown.<br />
<br />
Land Forces : 61st Kirkinesskaya Red Banner Marine Brigade<br />
<ul>
<li>874th Marine Battalion
</li>
<li>1611th Self-propelled Artillery Battalion
</li>
<li>1617th Anti-aircraft Missile and Artillery Battalion </li>
</ul>
<strong>Friendly Forces</strong><br />
Task Group 20.01 : USS Oriskany CV,
USS Dale CG, USS Dewey DDG, USS Semmes DDG, USS William R. Rush DD, USS Robert
A. Owens DD, USS Voge FFH, USS Lang FFH, USS Truckee AO, USS Butte
AE.<br />
<br />
Task Group 20.02 : USS Iowa BB, USS Harry E. Yarnell CG, USS Farragut
DDG, USS Sellers DDG, USS Spruance DD, USS Pensacola LSD, USS Plymouth Rock,
LSD, USS Shreveport LPD.<br />
<br />
Task Group 20.03 : FS Clemenceau CV, FS Du
Chayla DDG, FS Suffren DDG, FS Maille-Breze DD, FS Torville FFH, FS Le Bearnais
FFL, FS Le Savoyard FFL.<br />
<br />
26th Marine Amphibious Unit Embarked in Task
Group 20.02<br />
<ul>
<li>3rd Battalion 2nd Marines
</li>
<li>2nd Tank Battalion
</li>
<li>2nd Assault Amphibian Battalion </li>
</ul>
<strong>Mission</strong><br />
Remove Soviet presence on Iceland and
establish NATO control over the
island.<br />
<br />
<strong>Execution</strong><br />
1. Safe transit of Task
Group 20.02 to area marked "Amphib Zone". <br />
2. Task Group 20.01 and Task
Group 20.03 to support Task Group 20.02 against air, surface and subsurface
threats and engage as required.<br />
3. Neutralize Soviet presence on Iceland
with destruction of land forces and air assets.<br />
<div class="auto-style1">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-NtWwrmdDrIgDPh4VyYWN4EHUfp7-6a5qX1B0BF3A5By332OTkOas7QroKxhCWDEffQnXd_CAtYQYnfqZ7iAJwx2DXwsF2FUSO5ghFPeqbUxZYTFBVc0iWcTBgyTmtx9tpn76JbWjwQ/s1600/Keflavik+Recon+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="926" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG-NtWwrmdDrIgDPh4VyYWN4EHUfp7-6a5qX1B0BF3A5By332OTkOas7QroKxhCWDEffQnXd_CAtYQYnfqZ7iAJwx2DXwsF2FUSO5ghFPeqbUxZYTFBVc0iWcTBgyTmtx9tpn76JbWjwQ/s320/Keflavik+Recon+Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Keflavik airbase</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
Landing Zone One Force Allocation:<br />
1. USS Shreveport once in Amphib Zone will deploy LVT-7 A Company.<br />
2. Alpha and Bravo Company with 1st, Second Mortar and Redeye Sections will
be landed by:<br />
<ul>
<li>UH-1N Huey HML-367 #1
</li>
<li>UH-1N Huey HML-367 #2
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #1
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #2
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #3
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #4
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #5
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #6
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #7
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #8
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #9
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #10
</li>
<li>CH-53D Sea Stallion HMH-361 #1
</li>
<li>CH-53D Sea Stallion HMH-361 #2 </li>
</ul>
Landing Zone Two Force Allocation:<br />
1. USS Pensacola once in Amphib
Zone will deploy M60A1 Tank Platoons.<br />
2. Charlie Company with 1st, Second
Mortar and Redeye Sections will be landed by:<br />
<ul>
<li>UH-1N Huey HML-367 #3
</li>
<li>UH-1N Huey HML-367 #4
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #11
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #12
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #13
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #14
</li>
<li>CH-46F Sea Knight HMM-764 #15
</li>
<li>CH-53D Sea Stallion HMH-361 #3
</li>
<li>CH-53D Sea Stallion HMH-361 #4 </li>
</ul>
<strong>Command and EMCON</strong><br />
Command: USS <i>Iowa</i>.<br />
EMCON:
Alpha-limited emissions.<br />
<br />
<b>October 15, 1975, 0600Z</b><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9i_NsF7eYPVKILHJQmHhNMJuTqAt0TJK70t9TOn5a908E1lxXAG0HUs_aK8Ifk383AYxssXItJ3BS-bU6DD_CMRc7kSO2SS6E7nvd66ZvgtS68bWucdFEAxBmnC5UY4nHz03esL0bNJI/s1600/Deliverance+15+060000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="1208" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9i_NsF7eYPVKILHJQmHhNMJuTqAt0TJK70t9TOn5a908E1lxXAG0HUs_aK8Ifk383AYxssXItJ3BS-bU6DD_CMRc7kSO2SS6E7nvd66ZvgtS68bWucdFEAxBmnC5UY4nHz03esL0bNJI/s320/Deliverance+15+060000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial positions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
First thing I have to do is get the Task Groups sorted. I quickly find out that the Task Groups on the map aren't the same as the ones in the briefing. The briefing states the that the <i>Oriskany</i> Task Group is 20.01, while on the map it's 20.03. Same for the other two, the briefing says that the <i>Iowa</i> group is 20.02, while it's really 20.04, and <i>Clemenceau's</i> 20.03 is really 20.05.<br />
<br />
Now that that's figured out, I can start planning stuff. The <i>Iowa</i> group will make a beeline to the Amphib Zone. The other two groups will maneuver on parallel courses. All three will commence ASW operations immediately, and I will begin to plan my strikes on Keflavik and Reykjavik, starting with fighter sweeps to eliminate any air assets.<br />
<br />
<b>063222Z </b>I detect a Tu-95RT Bear D to the northeast. I launch a pair of F-8s from the <i>Oriskany</i> to go after it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHBQBSfBHypy2AUZOiXGgbqXeNcdk1qo3_3JFBM2VFEhmUoLiqIxFGB6tvb9PVrzEaDl8eIbCMmdeo8wmzVMug2ddpdW-Na-TxZ98l0oSlPp_mOKIWovvpKuSFoyAKs8fcnA33KaahcM/s1600/Deliverance+15+063223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="777" data-original-width="833" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUHBQBSfBHypy2AUZOiXGgbqXeNcdk1qo3_3JFBM2VFEhmUoLiqIxFGB6tvb9PVrzEaDl8eIbCMmdeo8wmzVMug2ddpdW-Na-TxZ98l0oSlPp_mOKIWovvpKuSFoyAKs8fcnA33KaahcM/s320/Deliverance+15+063223.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>064749Z</b> My E-1B Tracer, still on its way to its station, detects a pair of bogeys over northwest Iceland.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93DA1aGhu-nRxXmQRQwQo_BSdcXsh190T-9C6u_IyZL69kJHY6CrL0WJHoPE_Z2eClDse0nzcLNY8ZxE-P5X49hmyd32lg3kRqzgSOIWrR_vmJHCFxrNF7ZULholY-hVuRBH7RzyLZ6I/s1600/Deliverance+15+064749.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="1088" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh93DA1aGhu-nRxXmQRQwQo_BSdcXsh190T-9C6u_IyZL69kJHY6CrL0WJHoPE_Z2eClDse0nzcLNY8ZxE-P5X49hmyd32lg3kRqzgSOIWrR_vmJHCFxrNF7ZULholY-hVuRBH7RzyLZ6I/s320/Deliverance+15+064749.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two more contacts.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>065329Z </b>Two more bogeys are detected, just north of Keflavik; I wonder if this is the beginning of a strike against my surface groups, or if it just fighters.<br />
<br />
The two groups of fighters appear to be circling, so perhaps they are just a CAP. <br />
<br />
<b>070226Z </b>My E-1B Tracer detects a submarine contact with its AN/APR-9, which is a passive sensor, it perhaps the submarine is using its radar on the surface?<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZV-3c_7fS7WnlD80aKXbI4bg0Mfk9LXl09uq3FysTdF6zxvDkOEGVHh7UZ4-3GQBdva5mGS87W60V2YFSsOVIWm9VjM4PMsiyQzespV-Oj68IS6eL0w4BWWwuez2mKI43sEwj4LVDV8/s1600/Deliverance+15+070226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="852" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZV-3c_7fS7WnlD80aKXbI4bg0Mfk9LXl09uq3FysTdF6zxvDkOEGVHh7UZ4-3GQBdva5mGS87W60V2YFSsOVIWm9VjM4PMsiyQzespV-Oj68IS6eL0w4BWWwuez2mKI43sEwj4LVDV8/s320/Deliverance+15+070226.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A submarine using its surface search radar?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I spot two more aircraft over Iceland, so there are now six, and they appear to be flying a patrol over western Iceland. I'm still waiting for most of my aircraft to be readied, and my task groups have a long way to go, so going after them isn't urgent.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSH02wzL9MnU6azASNARpT1h0ZwOQliijiFAgKrS0rjqrb6lTU8bbKu3F6czNqEcf62ESr7RoOhyphenhyphenEvQZ18IAIYZx-yQi-oRKvxC8YqX7UiINebqRsHf1hvsI96abHtY1YRCAP7s-V068s/s1600/crusaders-cats.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="365" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigSH02wzL9MnU6azASNARpT1h0ZwOQliijiFAgKrS0rjqrb6lTU8bbKu3F6czNqEcf62ESr7RoOhyphenhyphenEvQZ18IAIYZx-yQi-oRKvxC8YqX7UiINebqRsHf1hvsI96abHtY1YRCAP7s-V068s/s320/crusaders-cats.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">F-8 Crusader launching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>075000Z </b>A large raid appears to be forming at Keflavik. Most of my fighters aren't ready yet, and it will be over an hour until they are, which will probably be too late. I can launch what I have, however, and hope that I can at least thin it out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZOteeWUYs7W-PaYWSFJBIhS2ze0c2KvFT1nefZGEHkj26WKGntwSBygWyQEOFKPRx3w9Ha3JLnPWaAjcoa8hToPPWByHZslbSK8QpVZZYT4cftKYxfv_VAIwEKXXhT0TihAxdUMyE9w/s1600/Deliverance+15+075009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="1506" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkZOteeWUYs7W-PaYWSFJBIhS2ze0c2KvFT1nefZGEHkj26WKGntwSBygWyQEOFKPRx3w9Ha3JLnPWaAjcoa8hToPPWByHZslbSK8QpVZZYT4cftKYxfv_VAIwEKXXhT0TihAxdUMyE9w/s320/Deliverance+15+075009.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A large raid launches from Keflavik</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>075131Z </b>To the north one of my F-8 Crusaders intercepts the Tu-95RT Bear D on its patrol. (the first pair I sent ran out of fuel early, so I sent them home, and this one is a subsequent one I send alone)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnbHYrPSyHSc1rvAP3aVkUgGQ52KgLiAyUYOjGousfGVlV7m7oYsM_VOY4pPsmjyqgH2V7ZneyNoCqOvu0DkK5X1As28oiwaa1Ugqq7sy0DdXFoUFywNPgfJ_SR63IkFyNLptKOSESIE/s1600/Deliverance+15+075205.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="463" data-original-width="649" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihnbHYrPSyHSc1rvAP3aVkUgGQ52KgLiAyUYOjGousfGVlV7m7oYsM_VOY4pPsmjyqgH2V7ZneyNoCqOvu0DkK5X1As28oiwaa1Ugqq7sy0DdXFoUFywNPgfJ_SR63IkFyNLptKOSESIE/s320/Deliverance+15+075205.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fox Two!</td></tr>
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Unbelievably, the Crusader misses with all four of its Sidewinders. After two guns passes that are also failures, the Crusader returns home, its tail between its legs.<br />
<br />
To the south, my CAP begins to engage the approaching raid.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WIJA2IQhCtKv5X7C2Sj-SSC0kEZwqOKhIZSb9RADX0Hned9o_zZm3MkPVGgG72N2Ei98jCFjkjuhB1SeAuZvsZGBGxfqak0dQAqFXOEUIh-o8AUgSw-b7IR7HZrr2ToXk9a7TkvAOb8/s1600/Deliverance+15+075504.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="1037" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4WIJA2IQhCtKv5X7C2Sj-SSC0kEZwqOKhIZSb9RADX0Hned9o_zZm3MkPVGgG72N2Ei98jCFjkjuhB1SeAuZvsZGBGxfqak0dQAqFXOEUIh-o8AUgSw-b7IR7HZrr2ToXk9a7TkvAOb8/s320/Deliverance+15+075504.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The CAP runs into the raid's MiG-23 escorts</td></tr>
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Unfortunately the MiG-23 Flogger escorts have longer ranged missiles than the F-8 Crusaders, so my fighters are at a disadvantage. The first two missiles miss. The second pair of missiles take out one of the Crusaders.<br />
<br />
Two French Crusaders from <i>Clemenceau</i><b style="font-style: italic;"> </b>arrive on the scene. The American Crusader is bingo fuel, and so has to RTB, not a very pleasant situation with a half a dozen MiGs on your tail. The MiGs open fire on the French Crusaders, which dodge the first pair of missiles. Then the second American Crusader's luck runs out and it is shot down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RBtiMWsqyWQf9bM8t984sreUrauYcTF_LsAYQThgyN9_Zu0EZ-8VteTTr8G_ISaJPLBpPr4ePsjFR11juwj81UUonRtiE1f49iiLqQSnpNfRADxgZRos9XdLkyqsJMl4fNZqkmcZaaU/s1600/Deliverance+15+075736.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="860" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3RBtiMWsqyWQf9bM8t984sreUrauYcTF_LsAYQThgyN9_Zu0EZ-8VteTTr8G_ISaJPLBpPr4ePsjFR11juwj81UUonRtiE1f49iiLqQSnpNfRADxgZRos9XdLkyqsJMl4fNZqkmcZaaU/s320/Deliverance+15+075736.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The second F-8 Crusader is shot down</td></tr>
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Right now I'm thinking that some F-4s or better yet, F-14s would be very welcome...<br />
<br />
The French Crusaders dodge a second pair of missiles, and the third, and then a seventh missile.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB7LDQCHROGfgy1HFC6TlWESYBuVB84iVw1pi647gQPO15tONVBCjrqAxyBEuWCB_8a1ODbC42Q14EuuL7NS4ArQo-RZIZCR68aJsLFTyj17DeNfEPvRhO0lwfJvJEtO0ZGaBMcdG_gc/s1600/Deliverance+15+075850.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="732" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipB7LDQCHROGfgy1HFC6TlWESYBuVB84iVw1pi647gQPO15tONVBCjrqAxyBEuWCB_8a1ODbC42Q14EuuL7NS4ArQo-RZIZCR68aJsLFTyj17DeNfEPvRhO0lwfJvJEtO0ZGaBMcdG_gc/s320/Deliverance+15+075850.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The French Crusaders are caught in a furball</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the French Crusaders is shot down, but then seconds later its wingman shoots down a Flogger. Seconds after that, the second French Crusader is shot down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxgZGqymoZVamuRH-BMghwmgteI3hyphenhyphen5n2KqcySfJiNKa6S-JgEiEC95fAuvRIt3QO4j2dtgabhT23vj1ljJk3an0QdUWuEuAP3j9INvat7ampA1Xh56Ye3WKAetuhe0DcMQOThrHXClXi/s1600/image391.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="800" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLxgZGqymoZVamuRH-BMghwmgteI3hyphenhyphen5n2KqcySfJiNKa6S-JgEiEC95fAuvRIt3QO4j2dtgabhT23vj1ljJk3an0QdUWuEuAP3j9INvat7ampA1Xh56Ye3WKAetuhe0DcMQOThrHXClXi/s320/image391.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">French aircraft carrier <i>Clemenceau</i></td></tr>
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In the meantime, <i>Clemenceau</i> launches the all of its Crusaders that are ready (2), and <i>Oriskany</i> launches all of its Crusaders that are ready (3). The E-1B Tracer, with no air cover, turns tail and goes to full military power, a mere 210kts. Fortunately, it looks like the MiG-23 escorts are all RTB, leaving the strike package unprotected. Hopefully my next wave of fighters will do better.<br />
<br />
The <i>Oriskany </i>Crusaders intercept the strike package and shoot down a MiG-27 Flogger.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8GVwcDPtLyhwac3hAyMtwuDjYUcv6hQSatuf0CoY2_34Ryik_BbTXvW9N_kfKrSggneH4C8LSGFO_OFZv8iiW1EfEMi67CJ5ZE2RoC2QgNB9rW6XZ7-NE9-D7qoK2vVMbh3H6PoCL74/s1600/Deliverance+15+081131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1202" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8GVwcDPtLyhwac3hAyMtwuDjYUcv6hQSatuf0CoY2_34Ryik_BbTXvW9N_kfKrSggneH4C8LSGFO_OFZv8iiW1EfEMi67CJ5ZE2RoC2QgNB9rW6XZ7-NE9-D7qoK2vVMbh3H6PoCL74/s320/Deliverance+15+081131.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splash One</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In rapid succession the Crusaders gut the strike package, shooting down ten more MiG-27s. That leaves one single Flogger left for the pair of French Crusaders that arrive on the scene. The French Crusaders have difficulty locating the Flogger with their inferior radar, which closes uncomfortably close to the <i>Iowa</i> group. The <i>Iowa </i>group lights off its radar. USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i> fires a RIM-67A at the Flogger, bringing it down. <br />
<br />
However, lighting off the group's radars might have had an unintended consequence, as multiple vampires are detected. Possibly from a submarine that has been lying in wait, and the radar emissions from the surface group tipped it off.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzl2YycJoNsqYpfxCd3noaMkitgmNdKd8kYYxM-28-EzpqqbkNfZ8IcZ0kftd9BkgjLJVhkoHH8keML-XIQvqu3t8-0sXyWLbROZt2lo-iQubSCkY6mng-ULZqdqwrETzT7rp-1lOCEUk/s1600/Deliverance+15+082220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1135" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzl2YycJoNsqYpfxCd3noaMkitgmNdKd8kYYxM-28-EzpqqbkNfZ8IcZ0kftd9BkgjLJVhkoHH8keML-XIQvqu3t8-0sXyWLbROZt2lo-iQubSCkY6mng-ULZqdqwrETzT7rp-1lOCEUk/s320/Deliverance+15+082220.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vampire! Vampire!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eight vampires are inbound. Once they get in range, USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i> and USS <i>Farragut </i>begin firing SAMs. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Z-gQVDgTCd5V2ZgqtR80_Y_vPojfbJgQr7za_GGgEn0SZogp69h8QVEd1znrptfA10WQmPinsQ5e7drnZlOjEtD0tIHEvYKttStTeAnikJ16mk9ajM5zS4niyXkHcF8cdMzbtFsLB0Q/s1600/Deliverance+15+082626.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="650" data-original-width="1026" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Z-gQVDgTCd5V2ZgqtR80_Y_vPojfbJgQr7za_GGgEn0SZogp69h8QVEd1znrptfA10WQmPinsQ5e7drnZlOjEtD0tIHEvYKttStTeAnikJ16mk9ajM5zS4niyXkHcF8cdMzbtFsLB0Q/s320/Deliverance+15+082626.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eight Vampires inbound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Soon after, USS <i>Sellers</i> also fires its SAMs. Most of the SAMs are shot down, but one gets relatively close to <i>Sellers</i>, and a volley from both <i>Sellers</i> and <i>Yarnell</i> bring it down.<br />
<br />
If the Soviets just launched a strike, their MiG-23 escorts will be out of action for several hours, so it behooves me to launch my own strike on Keflavik as soon as possible. But...<br />
<br />
<b>083445Z</b> My E-1B Tracer detects multiple aircraft taking off from Keflavik. I wonder if this is relief for the CAP, or if another strike is forming up. If it's a strike, my ships will be on their own, as all the fighter aircraft are still being readied.<br />
<br />
The <i>Iowa</i> group's radars have already been lit off, so I know that the Soviets know where it is. I decide to do the same to the <i>Oriskany</i> group, in the hopes that additional targets will make it more difficult for the Soviets to decide which target is more high-value.<br />
<br />
Over the next several minutes my Tracer detects many more aircraft launching from Keflavik, so this is definitely looking like another strike.<br />
<br />
In the meantime, I detect a pair of cruise missiles heading north west in the general direction of the <i>Iowa</i> group. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSQLyg-eZTYhx8gTnb50jYHFdedHtnfSgt6H9xgcJ2IorhZ2cw0rz8fq-gIAXFo1vDFzY8gi1U6w35V3P7NTqzdUsIsBgnZCmcviuy08AscamoQHPfC16qGLS0lj4iXUE-dVFq10R4TI/s1600/Deliverance+15+083836.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="1531" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVSQLyg-eZTYhx8gTnb50jYHFdedHtnfSgt6H9xgcJ2IorhZ2cw0rz8fq-gIAXFo1vDFzY8gi1U6w35V3P7NTqzdUsIsBgnZCmcviuy08AscamoQHPfC16qGLS0lj4iXUE-dVFq10R4TI/s320/Deliverance+15+083836.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another strike forms up near Keflavik</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The strike package appears to be twelve aircraft, and based on their speeds, I think it might consist of ten MiG-27 Flogger D attack aircraft with two MiG-23 escorts.<br />
<br />
The strike is closing at 480kts, and it is still ten minutes or so until I can launch any fighters...<br />
<br />
<b>090000Z</b> The strike is closing in, and based on its course, it's unclear that it knows which target its going after. Six F-8 Crusaders on <i>Oriskany</i> are ready, so I scramble them and send them after the strike.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgH4J9UXRDR_PBHVkqN_Fy5JTEq-t_xr5E-ifkTOjPT8pRy4UkQ-hI1W0-QXRVb6fFstTRWCZvHlLrv-KPgh1K6Od1gtGLHo3vpE2jdKapII0KqrrxrCDpeLorWybJHZH0c74Kwbh3u0/s1600/Deliverance+15+090000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="988" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMgH4J9UXRDR_PBHVkqN_Fy5JTEq-t_xr5E-ifkTOjPT8pRy4UkQ-hI1W0-QXRVb6fFstTRWCZvHlLrv-KPgh1K6Od1gtGLHo3vpE2jdKapII0KqrrxrCDpeLorWybJHZH0c74Kwbh3u0/s320/Deliverance+15+090000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The strike is closing in</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then something comes to me. The first strike package consisted of twelve MiG-27s with half a dozen MiG-23 escorts. The second is twelve aircraft, with a group of ten moving at 480kts at 200 feet, its target uncertain, and a pair of aircraft moving at 580kts at 200 feet towards the <i>Iowa</i> group. At first I thought they were more MiG-23 escorts, but they aren't acting like escorts. If they were, they'd be closer to the strike group, and higher in altitude... I begin to suspect they are more MiG-27s... I quickly scan the database, and discover what I feared. MiG-27s are nuclear capable. They can carry the RN-40 30kT tactical nuclear bomb. Given how profligate the Soviets have been with nuclear weapons in this war, I would be foolish to discount the possibility that they are trying again.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPE_uxeqz6VEwf_rYYykzPzNAJHr06_LjYaFqcjQuNEhOf11Fo_Hi335PjaHDR6qtQRGIFfABL1ziZua1BYFoJRnuABm2RbCROUT2RR3Lt88JYSMZ4MZlKG4wfIAh-TkntOldYfwNShBdH/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="768" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPE_uxeqz6VEwf_rYYykzPzNAJHr06_LjYaFqcjQuNEhOf11Fo_Hi335PjaHDR6qtQRGIFfABL1ziZua1BYFoJRnuABm2RbCROUT2RR3Lt88JYSMZ4MZlKG4wfIAh-TkntOldYfwNShBdH/s320/11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">MiG-27 Flogger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Still, I can't help but think that attacking the <i>Iowa</i> group, with its three SAM ships, is something of a suicide mission. That doesn't mean I won't take the threat seriously, however.<br />
<br />
<b>090333Z </b>The first pair of F-8 Crusaders is airborne, and they immediately go to afterburner. USS <i>Harry E. Yarnell</i> begins launching SAMs. The main group of Soviet strike fighters changes course northwest, apparently going after the <i>Iowa</i> group. To top if off, my E-1B Tracer picks up what is looking to be <i>another</i> strike launching from Keflavik.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu4EEarug_9JTivVIrKkNhyphenhyphen7kZDTfOWZuF9tT7fvDF9Phm1GYaFcqLdndDAPyxTaBvkKaXgHpfKGeiKT9_SqjtJKQRKHKxWKn0R9AssUlcghIWJgEu3OZudIp6miosuvnqCpjhP9Yt7c/s1600/Deliverance+15+090358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="1487" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlu4EEarug_9JTivVIrKkNhyphenhyphen7kZDTfOWZuF9tT7fvDF9Phm1GYaFcqLdndDAPyxTaBvkKaXgHpfKGeiKT9_SqjtJKQRKHKxWKn0R9AssUlcghIWJgEu3OZudIp6miosuvnqCpjhP9Yt7c/s320/Deliverance+15+090358.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Yarnell</i> launches SAMs at the first two strike aircraft, while the second package approaches from the southeast. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The two strike aircraft break right and left as the SAMs approach, successfully evading them. <i>Yarnell</i> immediately launches two more SAMs. The second pair of SAMs miss as well, and both aircraft turn away. Did they launch missiles? Looking at the database again, it's possible they launched AS-12 Kegler anti-radiation missiles, which have a 20nm range, and they just barely got that close to <i>Yarnell</i> before turning away.<br />
<br />
The new strike that my Tracer has detected is shaping up to be pretty scary--I detect no less than 28 aircraft headed my way. But right now I have to deal with the first raid.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKBTEStxjj5H8oH7oYAh5cJ-eLPE8gAJORNXzeQtDN4lgN3d9Z-s-AxyFEhAoCjRJCZv-cnWt_zFrNcq0zVKrq_8kYwq5cje1I6JaMsv3ozrRk9ys6ZPPAtkc0VC-Suh9ToN99QhmyeHt/s1600/USS_Harry_E._Yarnell_%2528DLG-17%2529_underway_at_sea_in_1967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="199" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaKBTEStxjj5H8oH7oYAh5cJ-eLPE8gAJORNXzeQtDN4lgN3d9Z-s-AxyFEhAoCjRJCZv-cnWt_zFrNcq0zVKrq_8kYwq5cje1I6JaMsv3ozrRk9ys6ZPPAtkc0VC-Suh9ToN99QhmyeHt/s1600/USS_Harry_E._Yarnell_%2528DLG-17%2529_underway_at_sea_in_1967.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Henry E. Yarnell</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By now I would have expected that if the first two fighters launched missiles, I would have detected them by now. However, The MiG-27 Flogger has a 270nm strike radius loadout with the AS-12 Kegler. I quickly measure the distance from where they turned around back to Keflavik...it's almost exactly 270nm. So perhaps they didn't launch, but rather they're bingo!<br />
<br />
I ID the first of the strikers now closing in as MiG-27s. My first F-8s are getting into firing position, and <i>Yarnell</i> begins firing SAMs. <i>Yarnell</i> shoots down one, but as one Flogger reaches 14nm away, it launches a Vampire.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoEpsKIphKhKNuqnqXglt7NtOr5iZzzHJNAYDsibsKHWb3DN0Ffi8bJJqcVzEFx7l-DOfNPBL7Q_Z3o0s0qqjVp5KU6iM2VT92EtOD1cFt4TlSkVrzI5Dj-kmQJ18-SrVqFw_ANcAIevY/s1600/Deliverance+15+091017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="705" data-original-width="992" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoEpsKIphKhKNuqnqXglt7NtOr5iZzzHJNAYDsibsKHWb3DN0Ffi8bJJqcVzEFx7l-DOfNPBL7Q_Z3o0s0qqjVp5KU6iM2VT92EtOD1cFt4TlSkVrzI5Dj-kmQJ18-SrVqFw_ANcAIevY/s320/Deliverance+15+091017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missiles are filling the sky.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The SAMs are succeeding in shooting down MiGs, but unfortunately, they're getting their missiles off. <i>Farragut</i> and <i>Sellers</i> add their SAMs to the fray, going after the Vampires while <i>Yarnell</i> continues firing on the MiGs.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqRThUvcOFnJ74P5qgtyppPBFjX4ZoJc2AZcykBen_kfi6DdkQX5u5x7qdDXXXyaCV97vO-EDrVhD9G1-x_p4gxby8FPOXVtld1B1vVb-yIfQKK83cw2W5KK4NkPEvEKDP3xyGot9ge0/s1600/Deliverance+15+091101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="935" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSqRThUvcOFnJ74P5qgtyppPBFjX4ZoJc2AZcykBen_kfi6DdkQX5u5x7qdDXXXyaCV97vO-EDrVhD9G1-x_p4gxby8FPOXVtld1B1vVb-yIfQKK83cw2W5KK4NkPEvEKDP3xyGot9ge0/s320/Deliverance+15+091101.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires close in...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My Crusaders launch Sidewinders at the Floggers, but have very poor luck in hitting anything. Two Vampires close in on <i>Yarnell</i>, which resorts to firing its guns, while two SAMs from <i>Farragut</i> come to help.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTvQxzTtvHKd4UOEn51Ag8aKHhWinIiOcUMfr_cnutUCrlGAlSKxU0-CMHBcPfewOeEe0ouViyymbeEW1vpEmlhBXUkozA_McYTQpFHHYmIhvQgJInG8COatrPAiPw7SveOQQ0aklf74/s1600/Deliverance+15+091131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="422" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtTvQxzTtvHKd4UOEn51Ag8aKHhWinIiOcUMfr_cnutUCrlGAlSKxU0-CMHBcPfewOeEe0ouViyymbeEW1vpEmlhBXUkozA_McYTQpFHHYmIhvQgJInG8COatrPAiPw7SveOQQ0aklf74/s320/Deliverance+15+091131.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Yarnell</i> is in serious danger...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The SAMs miss, and <i>Yarnell</i> is hit by two Keglers. At the same instant, one of the F-8 Crusaders is shot down by a Flogger. So far, the fighters have been utterly useless in breaking up the attack.<br />
<br />
<i>Yarnell</i> is set ablaze and suffers damage to its UHF radios and some of its radar systems.<br />
Damage Report:<br />
<i>324mm Mk32 TT Triple: Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Destroyed</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Destroyed</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/SPS-43: Damaged</i><br />
<i>UHF Radio [Secure]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>UHF Radio [Unsecure]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>Open Parking (1x Medium Aircraft(12.1-18m Long)): Operation, Reduced Capacity</i><br />
<i>Pad (1x Medium Aircraft (12.1-18m Long)): Operational, Reduced Capacity</i><br />
<br />
<i>Yarnell</i> still has one AN/SPG-55B still operational, so she can still fire SAMs, which she proceeds to do. But two more missiles are inbound to <i>Yarnell</i>, and her capacity to protect herself is greatly reduced. <i>Yarnell</i> is hit again. Both of the Sea Sprites are destroyed, and <i>Yarnell</i> suffers a major fire and minor flooding.<br />
<br />
Damage Report:<br />
<i>324mm Mk32 TT Triple: Damaged</i><br />
<i>324mm Mk32 TT Triple: Damaged</i><br />
<i>Redeye MANPADS</i>: <i>Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Destroyed</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Destroyed</i><br />
<i>AN/SPG-55B [Mk76 Mod 8 FCS]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/SPS-43: Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/WLR-1: Damaged</i><br />
<i>AN/SQD-23: Damaged</i><br />
<i>HF Radio [Secure]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>UHF Radio [Secure]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>VHF Radio [Secure]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>UHF Radio [Unsecure]: Damaged</i><br />
<i>Open Parking (1x Medium Aircraft(12.1-18m Long)): Operation, Reduced Capacity</i><br />
<i>Pad (1x Medium Aircraft (12.1-18m Long)): Operational, Reduced Capacity</i><br />
<br />
Finally the Crusaders start shooting down MiGs, with the help of <i>Farragut</i> and <i>Sellers</i>. Ten Floggers are shot down in total, bringing the total to 22 MiG-27 Flogger Ds shot down so far. At least those ones won't be striking again. <i>Yarnell</i> slows down and detachs from the group, as now it has its own problems and can no longer fight. The <i>Iowa</i> group slows to 5 kts so it can reform, with <i>Farragut</i> accelerating to moving to position along the primary air defense axis. I direct the <i>Oriskany </i>group to change course to converge with <i>Iowa</i> to provide some more protection.<br />
<br />
But I have a new raid to worry about, which looks to be thirty aircraft. And not only that. During the fight to defend <i>Iowa</i>, several cruise missiles, probably submarine launched, are sent after the <i>Oriskany </i>group.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7lSbbtpeEjUUJUgNKBQd3xbtt_-d0OuYSQKimThrhJF0QSR-bc-oWtthE4BcGvadD3bPMojL7PgS-Au6EOfgfa4lbHXGQG8jFTB4rT0J8mOcJvCXn01QFO26JGkKcM1eOuATVl1mgn4/s1600/Deliverance+15+091433.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="1358" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7lSbbtpeEjUUJUgNKBQd3xbtt_-d0OuYSQKimThrhJF0QSR-bc-oWtthE4BcGvadD3bPMojL7PgS-Au6EOfgfa4lbHXGQG8jFTB4rT0J8mOcJvCXn01QFO26JGkKcM1eOuATVl1mgn4/s320/Deliverance+15+091433.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cruise missiles close in on the <i>Oriskany</i> group, while a massive new raid approaches from the east</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The leading two cruise missiles veer off course and go into search mode, fortunately their course is nowhere near the <i>Oriskany</i>. SAMs launched from USS <i>Dale</i> shoot down one, and the second apparently self-destructs...in a 200kT nuclear fireball!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8yyKpYzUNk7tt8xz7riwDZcqIs6qqBZauh0qUgm7TmK_tEgrZ4IYo4d8OJvx87O8QngKyg-gGMw7goyMf6CaSJasDWuXdQ3wrMJuV9E2B6LSrrNRYBQYytyiOV9E1cVCLeZ8NC4NSSRc/s1600/Deliverance+15+091701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="895" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8yyKpYzUNk7tt8xz7riwDZcqIs6qqBZauh0qUgm7TmK_tEgrZ4IYo4d8OJvx87O8QngKyg-gGMw7goyMf6CaSJasDWuXdQ3wrMJuV9E2B6LSrrNRYBQYytyiOV9E1cVCLeZ8NC4NSSRc/s320/Deliverance+15+091701.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The cruise missile, an SS-N-9 Siren [P-120 Malakhit, 200kT Nuclear] detonates over the open ocean.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the F-8 Crusaders, RTB Winchester, is barely far enough away to survive the blast. This development makes it critical that I shoot down the two cruise missiles still inbound. Both cruise missiles turn northwest again, and <i>Dale</i> shoots down one. If the second continues on its present course, it will not be a danger and will likely self-destruct like the other one did. Then another SAM from <i>Dale</i> takes it out.<br />
<br />
This raid is over, but an even bigger one is on the way...<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-13_15.html">Part Two</a>.<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-9691025569452060602017-08-09T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-09T14:24:41.285-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 12: Hunter or Hunted<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<strong>Introduction</strong><br />
With the continuing war heading towards a
stalemate, peace talks are now underway in Geneva.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile the Red
Banner Fleet has deployed its flagship, the STOVL carrier Kiev, with heavy
escort into the Norwegian Sea.<br />
<br />
Soviet forces have now fallen back to
within 40nm of the border in Norway, after suffering continuous strikes by NATO
carrier battle groups.<br />
<br />
The NATO carriers themselves have also pulled
back to Jan Mayen island, to lick their wounds after murderous strikes by Soviet
bombers using nuclear-tipped AS-4 missiles. With the Kiev on the prowl, the only
units available to tackle her are a small force of UK and US nuclear submarines
which now stand in their path.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
The Silent Service is now tasked
to silence the pride of the Northern Fleet.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
</div>
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<strong>Situation</strong><br />
Remaining NATO surface forces have
withdrawn to the safety of Jan Mayen Island after continuous strikes against
them by SNA Badger and Backfire bombers.<br />
<br />
With the Kiev group's position
only 12 hours old in the vicinity of southern Spitsbergen, the only units in her
path, HMS Courageous, USS Narwhal and USS Tinosa have been ordered to intercept
and sink the Kiev battle group.<br />
<br />
<strong>Enemy
Forces</strong><br />
Surface : Kiev CVHG, Kynda CG, Kresta II CG, Kanin DDG,
Krivak I FFG, Poti Mod FFL, Petya II FFL.<br />
<br />
Air : Ka-25 Hormone,Yak-38
Forger.<br />
Subsurface : Possible SSN escorts with Kiev group.
<br />
<br />
<strong>Friendly Forces</strong><br />
HMS Courageous
SSN<br />
USS Narwhal SSN<br />
USS Tinosa SSN<br />
Sondrestrom Air Base :
343rd Recon Sqn (RC-135W Rivet
Joint)<br />
<br />
<strong>Mission</strong><br />
1. Proceed to the last known
reported position of the Kiev group; locate, classify and sink the Kiev and her
escorts. The Kiev is the primary target.<br />
<br />
2. Use of Nuclear ASW/ASuW
weapons is authorised.<br />
<br />
<strong>Execution</strong><br />
1. All SSNs
are to close to the last known position of the Kiev group and form a trip-wire
line, then locate and engage.<br />
2. Kiev group last known course 235; speed
15 knots.<br />
3. Use RC-135W Rivet Joint to locate and classify Soviet
units.<br />
<br />
<strong>Command and EMCON</strong><br />
Command:
COMSUBLANT<br />
EMCON: Alpha-limited emissions.<br />
<br />
<b>October 8, 1975 0500Z </b><br />
Compared to the last scenario, this one is relatively straightforward. All I have to do is find the <i>Kiev</i> Battle group and sink the <i>Kiev</i>. Straightforward does not mean easy, however.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_ZLHdiuHCw152WqADNjKi-E5P3it-pZN9VVHVMRLBMZFWprTMc7fcfQoaaPNMjt19jwbOV4SUxEaGqTYUxw95iCwNhK6yiqef0gEWPPnGDK3P2u_1jsh3eIEUPkJONVYht5lmAFssQo/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+050001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="698" data-original-width="1149" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_ZLHdiuHCw152WqADNjKi-E5P3it-pZN9VVHVMRLBMZFWprTMc7fcfQoaaPNMjt19jwbOV4SUxEaGqTYUxw95iCwNhK6yiqef0gEWPPnGDK3P2u_1jsh3eIEUPkJONVYht5lmAFssQo/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+050001.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial positions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
From northwest to southeast my submarines are USS <i>Narwhal</i>, HMS <i>Courageous</i>, and USS <i>Tinosa.</i> Almost immediately <i>Narwhal</i> detects a contact to the north. I set all three subarmines to 5kts, creeping towards where I can hopefully detect the <i>Kiev</i>. I may end up needing to increase speed, but at least at the beginning, caution is warranted. My RC-135W Rivet Joint will be listening for any emissions from the <i>Kiev</i> group.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPpAU_htRVOD3twejK2GOqcY9VF9E-4wQz8uhaCb07xn8LJXFlr0wr1pjvSEc5UX8EBpAqjsTAQ0ARESR0UL93bIMtvl7sjj-PCN7k8uyEGpj_iw0saqtPdsmzagQcmbDLclV9mPSBX0/s1600/USS_Narwhal_SSN-671.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="233" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmPpAU_htRVOD3twejK2GOqcY9VF9E-4wQz8uhaCb07xn8LJXFlr0wr1pjvSEc5UX8EBpAqjsTAQ0ARESR0UL93bIMtvl7sjj-PCN7k8uyEGpj_iw0saqtPdsmzagQcmbDLclV9mPSBX0/s1600/USS_Narwhal_SSN-671.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Narwhal</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Narwhal</i>'s contact quickly resolves into Biologics, so at least I don't have to worry about engaging a Soviet SSN so quickly.<br />
<br />
<b>053229Z </b>Far sooner than I anticipated, my Rivet Joint detects surface contacts south of Spitzbergen.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmrhKPA3DTF9zcm1uGMPMXERcSMRK9Jk1C1nac45x3lcW0KN5Tl8ONh3C6xDAlEtAWbWHNK8wVR5edpTrmPiA7vtoAan3hmx28HURyjQCggN2QZJrTNnrXS5tHcwrkJLoGd82Jt9UDZg/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+053327.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="800" height="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpmrhKPA3DTF9zcm1uGMPMXERcSMRK9Jk1C1nac45x3lcW0KN5Tl8ONh3C6xDAlEtAWbWHNK8wVR5edpTrmPiA7vtoAan3hmx28HURyjQCggN2QZJrTNnrXS5tHcwrkJLoGd82Jt9UDZg/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+053327.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the contacts is quickly identified as a Krivak I frigate. It's possible that these ships are just pickets, so the <i>Kiev</i> group could be much farther off.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2A7xuik1JNgBWefkIkB6fEnM_8a1Ag003zjs2RngwtmUX9K6GGMiJm8TQj1Gg5r2PGns0cjcgaH5iOG9aeXbOqjkWfB3H2XziAuX5BDYmgn26kDNXZzSB4am3E1EDLvmnYtEBa9-lWCg/s1600/Minsk_aircraft_carrier.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="711" data-original-width="1600" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2A7xuik1JNgBWefkIkB6fEnM_8a1Ag003zjs2RngwtmUX9K6GGMiJm8TQj1Gg5r2PGns0cjcgaH5iOG9aeXbOqjkWfB3H2XziAuX5BDYmgn26kDNXZzSB4am3E1EDLvmnYtEBa9-lWCg/s320/Minsk_aircraft_carrier.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Kiev</i>-class Aircraft Carrier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>053629Z </b>The contacts are localized and two more are found. One of them is a MPK Poti Mod, a fast patrol-craft.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EhGI5geIG-5aH6gS2yF7toNGEkdaQ4JW8D2hgcG2yQFoLEgncMV7IpRgI-iuHEeViMuep-EwaOsNK2LCsSIupRi0RRrdlD-cX790auxmBcuJCz7CIn6aUy2FykmEaWnUYhs-fYxxJQo/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+053929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="807" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EhGI5geIG-5aH6gS2yF7toNGEkdaQ4JW8D2hgcG2yQFoLEgncMV7IpRgI-iuHEeViMuep-EwaOsNK2LCsSIupRi0RRrdlD-cX790auxmBcuJCz7CIn6aUy2FykmEaWnUYhs-fYxxJQo/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+053929.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More contacts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another contact is made, and another MPK Poti Mod is identified. Now I have three MPK Poti Mods and one Krivak I, and <i>Narwhal</i> is headed right in the middle of them. I then detect a DDG.<br />
<br />
<b>054500Z</b><br />
<span style="font-family: "teletype";">FLASH / FLASH / FLASH/ FLASH</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "teletype";">FM COMSUBLANT</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "teletype";">TO ALL UNITS</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "teletype";">//DFOR 003 UPDATE 001//</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "teletype";">//DFOR 003/POSN/77 52N 030 24E/235T/15
KTS/080500Z//</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "teletype";">BT</span><br />
<br />
<br />
I mark the updated position on my map. It looks like the Soviet Fleet is coming right for me.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiny7UqoQpgg3A_IovSb37fAO-XFjmentn95sIIQafktxcgvhrrl80P6mZvAhUX8B7hlx3EYt0dGHfSB3vzMixbKd-jzv4ToxfQOQ_q7lg_s401B3bh0EwufR_htExXLbqjUrLYffBtoNg/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+054500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="749" data-original-width="966" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiny7UqoQpgg3A_IovSb37fAO-XFjmentn95sIIQafktxcgvhrrl80P6mZvAhUX8B7hlx3EYt0dGHfSB3vzMixbKd-jzv4ToxfQOQ_q7lg_s401B3bh0EwufR_htExXLbqjUrLYffBtoNg/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+054500.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Position updated</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As my Rivet Joint gets closer, it picks up more contacts. Several are identified as SKR Petya II corvettes. <br />
<br />
<b>055149Z </b>Contact! My Rivet Joint picks up two airborne bogeys--probably Yak-38 Forgers from the <i>Kiev</i>. Hopefully they haven't picked up my Rivet Joint.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-stG2AR39W7c6m4Vb1P1A6JLKhflCxzRiDygRm9fM5iyUC2XAEAo6RBExt_wWIkZ-H4A5erSOhudUplRS3YQkmMizbYhiibDa7j_pRjdhRf2Ftj9lzE8naEgahN6PfEvtUrSB8gtuCM/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+055149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="916" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin-stG2AR39W7c6m4Vb1P1A6JLKhflCxzRiDygRm9fM5iyUC2XAEAo6RBExt_wWIkZ-H4A5erSOhudUplRS3YQkmMizbYhiibDa7j_pRjdhRf2Ftj9lzE8naEgahN6PfEvtUrSB8gtuCM/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+055149.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots and lots of contacts</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The airborne contacts are classified as Yak-38 Forger As, as I suspected. I adjust the course of my Rivet Joint to get a better bearing on them.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gwwi2tkVfXyq4P7KfNMzj9kMRoJ35MnrjOeOsX6QhWYQM3z_GWlJx2j2owYuCwZePFLYInbFwD3GapQSUQCZEgZRzYwOuW-sM66MdSzfNyK-QV00sCIA1-9iMWjtjKMatCVfhViu1sY/s1600/yakovlev-yak-38-vto.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="600" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gwwi2tkVfXyq4P7KfNMzj9kMRoJ35MnrjOeOsX6QhWYQM3z_GWlJx2j2owYuCwZePFLYInbFwD3GapQSUQCZEgZRzYwOuW-sM66MdSzfNyK-QV00sCIA1-9iMWjtjKMatCVfhViu1sY/s320/yakovlev-yak-38-vto.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yak-38 Forger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>060000Z </b>The Forgers are definitely coming after my Rivet Joint, so I start maneuvering away. I know the Forgers do not have long legs, but I should keep my distance. Once I get out of the radar range of the Soviet DDG, I lose contact with the Forgers, who I hope have decided to RTB.<br />
<br />
As things stand, I have identified four groups of ships. To the north is BPK Kanin DDG and a SKR Krivak I. Just south of them are three MPK Poti Mods. Southeast of them are another BPK Kanin and SKR Krivak I, and southeast of them are three SKR Petya IIs. I suspect that this is just a screening force. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3akyFsHJa4GxsrzRUeLs353W-6qQF4x9zQpHpkq6ekeWg-90uFbOsJiF14xFl7_WKmJ7zXaBaS2OtskdKcdsgFxogzSK7KjmyBWE84LEmyeu0BCUbWtnNPB2o7ErfqiMiTjMt_k5aX0/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+064420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="476" data-original-width="791" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3akyFsHJa4GxsrzRUeLs353W-6qQF4x9zQpHpkq6ekeWg-90uFbOsJiF14xFl7_WKmJ7zXaBaS2OtskdKcdsgFxogzSK7KjmyBWE84LEmyeu0BCUbWtnNPB2o7ErfqiMiTjMt_k5aX0/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+064420.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four surface groups, but no <i>Kiev</i>...yet.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For the next two hours, my Rivet Joint circles the surface groups, attempting to keep its distance, but there's no sign of the <i>Kiev</i>. I do detect more Yaks in the air. Again I keep my distance, and the Yaks, although they pursue me, eventually give up. An hour after that, more Yaks. I am beginning to suspect that the <i>Kiev</i> is in fact here, but keeping emissions silent, hoping to slip by.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47WA57CxRi2bF5gb6eTO1-oarOoP5JV5hTB-UyRuauTNzEuiNopB8GwI4LVzGnrTFnTu9f4cYxCFNZQnVt7a363wBDWJVgZtMn0GYriVs6m_8PQYqol29SYXXUtPmNwICXSlJTmnH5V8/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="186" data-original-width="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj47WA57CxRi2bF5gb6eTO1-oarOoP5JV5hTB-UyRuauTNzEuiNopB8GwI4LVzGnrTFnTu9f4cYxCFNZQnVt7a363wBDWJVgZtMn0GYriVs6m_8PQYqol29SYXXUtPmNwICXSlJTmnH5V8/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RC-135 Rivet Joint</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>100000Z </b>I decide to send my submarines above the layer to see if they can detect anything. They are all moving at 5kts, so hopefully they will be able to detect something.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzozRPpo0gYPDcb-L5XuX6r2PVgjw6Ih7D1VCyr0x7LsFHm24J-otkhpzkBJvYUvdP_n5_q4QXZHcgvWL7krrDZ45-vF07WsBRvkztq2MSfx9dCnbZxUtWtT5lpiCtUfp-czYINdEveQ/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+100120.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1217" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzozRPpo0gYPDcb-L5XuX6r2PVgjw6Ih7D1VCyr0x7LsFHm24J-otkhpzkBJvYUvdP_n5_q4QXZHcgvWL7krrDZ45-vF07WsBRvkztq2MSfx9dCnbZxUtWtT5lpiCtUfp-czYINdEveQ/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+100120.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The submarines go shallow and listen.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>114200Z </b><i>Narwhal</i><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>hears explosions--its being depth charged! I immediately cut throttle to 5kts (I temporarily set it to ten), and go deep from where I was, which was just under the layer. I head south to evade. Several minutes later, two more depth charges are dropped. In all the depth charges are close, missing only by hundreds of feet (239 and 332ft). At -640ft, I go to 15kts, hoping to get out of the area. And then I detect a bogey overhead, using its high frequency sonar. I go to full speed and turn east to evade. More depth charges are dropped, and I turn southwest.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqK-doTZikLG0opmElp07Xit9zIuJo-VTpwO99bhcpYWz7HlchlKcp7Sq7BN6DpdxESjpywH7NzU00sh37a07HopecmEysUj1a3pZrWLzLOLnBJC3-TT8xkrxeZo4JHXfywRSh4elprg/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+114630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="388" data-original-width="620" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqK-doTZikLG0opmElp07Xit9zIuJo-VTpwO99bhcpYWz7HlchlKcp7Sq7BN6DpdxESjpywH7NzU00sh37a07HopecmEysUj1a3pZrWLzLOLnBJC3-TT8xkrxeZo4JHXfywRSh4elprg/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+114630.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Narwhal</i> is under attack</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
USS <i>Narwhal</i> is the most silent submarine in the US fleet, so I am confused as to how she was detected. But nevertheless, she has been, and so I have no choice but to run.<br />
<br />
I don't run long.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMqHRbQTIP3KBzVSgiYAo2akRuNhkSqpul1vOvEODBJnZ_oJYawcjhSgMAWkkU7UxGPd9tTQCTJ0ON7XkL9yhPeHXlMm7evdGU2wySODSNA1HD9OI6YE2zixqrKTe3qIqfI-P2TwpKbg/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+114634.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="437" data-original-width="634" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMqHRbQTIP3KBzVSgiYAo2akRuNhkSqpul1vOvEODBJnZ_oJYawcjhSgMAWkkU7UxGPd9tTQCTJ0ON7XkL9yhPeHXlMm7evdGU2wySODSNA1HD9OI6YE2zixqrKTe3qIqfI-P2TwpKbg/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+114634.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Narwhal</i>, pride of the US fleet, is sunk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The third barrage of depth charges sinks the <i>Narwhal</i>, and 107 crewmen go down with her. From detection to her sinking took less than five minutes.<br />
<br />
<b>120809Z </b>The next time I detect a Yak it is northwest of the rest of the Soviet ships, so I suspect that the <i>Kiev</i> is trying to slip by. I send <i>Courageous</i> and <i>Tinosa</i> headed in that direction, hoping that I'm not going on a wild goose chase. With <i>Narwhal</i> sunk there by a helo, it furthers my suspicion that there's something important over there.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwf_bdMSOUHcJvC8jrliUgHf6IgeljFf2MFrnK8-YKyE24G9eZXBWK7t0TqXuwbup02eya_FqISmJbYNRiyrnszfbF51FHBJ2Mqc00SJT9Ki5X9MEGsh-ABfYheWS-BwTIxS9RwM_pqYc/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+121124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="704" data-original-width="857" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwf_bdMSOUHcJvC8jrliUgHf6IgeljFf2MFrnK8-YKyE24G9eZXBWK7t0TqXuwbup02eya_FqISmJbYNRiyrnszfbF51FHBJ2Mqc00SJT9Ki5X9MEGsh-ABfYheWS-BwTIxS9RwM_pqYc/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+121124.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another Yak-38 Forger is detected</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My Rivet Joint has to run for its life, all the way north of Spitzbergen, but eventually outdistances the Forgers.<br />
<br />
<b>132149Z</b> My second Rivet Joint arrives on station, and I detect two more Yaks. I'm hoping that with two Rivet joints in the area, I can pinpoint their origin better, and lock down where the <i>Kiev</i> is.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lQYr2VV6x7aUZgUyFcpgfRea-4c7_mlPcT0zCPJRLaMZ_0M_Mgr7W_dcR6C-EyUg7-m9o6MzqkAe_k1Nz3N4zFmmBAcQi6NfA_jDBdl3G-NL5xO-ob8xoKWEMXXwtcghg-ex6aAahac/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+142149.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="663" data-original-width="655" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lQYr2VV6x7aUZgUyFcpgfRea-4c7_mlPcT0zCPJRLaMZ_0M_Mgr7W_dcR6C-EyUg7-m9o6MzqkAe_k1Nz3N4zFmmBAcQi6NfA_jDBdl3G-NL5xO-ob8xoKWEMXXwtcghg-ex6aAahac/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+08+142149.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Come on, Rivet Joints, triangulate it...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The location of the Yaks is narrowed down, and I place a reference point and send my two subs right for it. <i>Narwhal</i> would have been in great position to attack...provided that is in fact where the <i>Kiev</i> is. I worry that the <i>Courageous</i> and the <i>Tinosa</i> won't be able to catch up.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXDb5vHZCzmq782owWUF0MsOHKhrhQwLVqrgjhBk-u3veoZ7Ga8cAuSC3v222ToN3QtVBBuZzCaulB_lm-LGrxI5lZ59LelVInGtxHt_8n6kSpTOzN12bzXArEjCxUZzHiyNKSBMJHSq4/s1600/courageous.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="750" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXDb5vHZCzmq782owWUF0MsOHKhrhQwLVqrgjhBk-u3veoZ7Ga8cAuSC3v222ToN3QtVBBuZzCaulB_lm-LGrxI5lZ59LelVInGtxHt_8n6kSpTOzN12bzXArEjCxUZzHiyNKSBMJHSq4/s320/courageous.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Courageous</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I search for hours, and every so often I lure Yaks to take off and go after my Rivet Joints, which then evade, but it gives me updates on the position of the <i>Kiev</i>. Finally, it appears that the <i>Kiev</i> is so far ahead, I am forced to send the <i>Courageous </i>deep and to flank speed (thankfully deep enough so it doesn't cavitate) in an attempt to catch up. <i>Tinosa</i> is caught in shallower water so I can't risk it going fast, and thus lags far behind.<br />
<br />
<b>031941Z </b><i>Courageous</i> must be getting close...and it could be the end. It detects a high frequency sonar. I immediately slow down and change course, hoping to lose the contact. I suspect, however, that since I have been detected, <i>Courageous</i> is probably doomed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjoVjXETeoOM-I8cfiYoO_AMoPtzzQVkZHdOSIrypFLwjL2a2HvVdQ1Sg9KtonguPt9gZNu9_RrR_yFX8RTtv-MGvUJUYR3KsY143l1yVVJH_AAbqp9BEWjChLIxjF74Wfez4zUP1cng/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+031941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="416" data-original-width="564" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmjoVjXETeoOM-I8cfiYoO_AMoPtzzQVkZHdOSIrypFLwjL2a2HvVdQ1Sg9KtonguPt9gZNu9_RrR_yFX8RTtv-MGvUJUYR3KsY143l1yVVJH_AAbqp9BEWjChLIxjF74Wfez4zUP1cng/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+031941.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Courageous</i> is detected.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I lose contact with the helo, and I hope I have evaded it. I ascend to just above the layer to listen. I decide to risk going up to periscope depth. I scan the horizon...and nothing.<br />
<br />
After a long time of detecting absolutely nothing on sonar, I decide to stir the pot and have my Rivet Joint light off its radar. It's only useful for ground mapping, but maybe it's enough to lure more Yaks into the air.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_yLUv-a2bv3Gc-E0D5d_Ju7zT6mwLaMrLuRuJmGtl1eUQwtUfLk2P0-I2mmSHLMBIJEgf7rdzPdnofssozYqmJ59XqJEsCsf8sDXIroGNsxlgej1tIOSo7lBkr2E721SV-bsxJNZhEY/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+042449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="938" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM_yLUv-a2bv3Gc-E0D5d_Ju7zT6mwLaMrLuRuJmGtl1eUQwtUfLk2P0-I2mmSHLMBIJEgf7rdzPdnofssozYqmJ59XqJEsCsf8sDXIroGNsxlgej1tIOSo7lBkr2E721SV-bsxJNZhEY/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+042449.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bingo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It works, and soon I detect Yaks in the air to the southeast. The <i>Kiev</i> group must have changed course to the south somewhat. My Rivet Joint goes to full military power to evade, while <i>Courageous</i> and <i>Tinosa</i> alter course.<br />
<br />
<b>051026Z </b>Torpedo in the water! <i>Courageous</i> detects a torpedo, and initiates a radical turn and change of depth to evade. I do not have high hopes about this...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGEjoofgRpzDjfAjGeLa_RDRWNGpM1dRHQ3fO-cPNSxONPj8k_oiMXULCxY1tscslTLR7ok6Z2iINrjx0WPtcoqXIedZecm5HmuMtROgfT98lVgYbTgwW7W8xaUPHa8ixMtt0JxE1XcE/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+051026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="656" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGEjoofgRpzDjfAjGeLa_RDRWNGpM1dRHQ3fO-cPNSxONPj8k_oiMXULCxY1tscslTLR7ok6Z2iINrjx0WPtcoqXIedZecm5HmuMtROgfT98lVgYbTgwW7W8xaUPHa8ixMtt0JxE1XcE/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+051026.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Torpedo in the water!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Amazingly, the torpedo misses. I immediately cut speed and change course again, hoping to disappear in the water.<br />
<br />
It doesn't work. A depth charge explodes nearby, and then another torpedo is detected. I go to flank speed and dive.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oBjivTpBczTRnwDnPK_6zQsvBaI56fXKhrNzb_2Krd8m6_qmFtAOQW0jFuOc0Q5PoGAoN6z8laDLWZ7F_gngYdPbn5TO0fGuWFQdzOBhhERL4ERIKN_r7anYyrwcGASfKxrsqROGa1A/s1600/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+051904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="473" data-original-width="764" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oBjivTpBczTRnwDnPK_6zQsvBaI56fXKhrNzb_2Krd8m6_qmFtAOQW0jFuOc0Q5PoGAoN6z8laDLWZ7F_gngYdPbn5TO0fGuWFQdzOBhhERL4ERIKN_r7anYyrwcGASfKxrsqROGa1A/s320/Hunter+or+Hunted+09+051904.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Courageous</i> sinks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
That doesn't work either. The depth charge sinks <i>Courageous. </i>And with her went my best hopes of even <i>finding</i> the <i>Kiev.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<b>Conclusion</b><br />
This was a frustrating scenario. Clearly what happened was that the <i>Kiev</i> group steamed right towards the <i>Narwhal</i>, detected her, sank her, and kept right on going. As soon as <i>Narwhal</i> was sunk, so were my chances of winning the scenario. The flash message sent early in the scenario gave me a warning that the <i>Kiev</i> was heading my way (you could draw a straight line through the initial position, to the updated position, and it would lead you directly on top of <i>Narwhal</i>. But with the loads of contacts I had made further south, I assumed that all those Soviet vessels were a screen to <i>Kiev</i>, when in truth they were nothing but a distraction. While I was focused on identifying those ships, the <i>Kiev</i> slipped by to the north, very close to Spitzbergen. In the end, my best method of detecting <i>Kiev</i> turned out to be the fire control radars of <i>Kiev</i>'s Yak-38 Forgers. I would send in my Rivet Joint as a lure, the Soviets would take the bait and launch Forgers to intercept it, and that would update me on <i>Kiev</i>'s position. My Rivet Joint would flee, and when the Forgers broke off pursuit, I'd send the Rivet Joint back in. <br />
<br />
I was hoping to have a miraculous comeback and have <i>Courageous</i> sink the <i>Kiev</i>, but it was not to be. Like the <i>Narwhal</i>, it was sunk far from <i>Kiev</i>, not getting the slightest indication that the <i>Kiev</i> group was anywhere nearby, and was destroyed quickly. So much for NATO submarines being "quiet." <br />
<br />
I replayed the scenario five times with the foreknowledge of what was going to happen. Each time I rigged <i>Narwhal</i> for ultraquiet and just sat in ambush, waiting and listening (sometimes above the layer, sometimes below). Four times in a row <i>Narwhal</i>, despite being moving at 5 kts or less, was sunk without detecting anything at all. Itjust sat there, the most silent submarine in the US inventory...and then "Torpedo in the water!" and within seconds she was dead.<br />
<br />
On my fifth attempt at the scenario, incredibly I actually detected some Soviet ships. I stayed quiet as the Soviets were at the edge of range of <i>Narwhal</i>'s torpedoes. I knew that if I fired a torpedo too early the Soviet ships would flee and the torpedo would run out of fuel. So I waited for them to get a ilttle closer. And then...<i>torpedo in the water!</i> <i>Narwhal</i> was being attacked again. I snapshotted a torpedo at the largest Soviet contact and then went full evasion. The evasion didn't help, and <i>Narwhal</i> was hit and sunk...again. But my torpedo ran on...and at the extreme end of its range, hit its target, which by pure luck was the <i>Kiev</i>. The hit caused flooding, and eventually <i>Kiev</i> sank...and I won the scenario.<br />
<br />
Obviously driving a real nuclear submarine takes skill, but in this scenario it sure didn't feel like it. I had looked forward to the scenario playing out somewhat differently: My submarines would creep along until I detected the <i>Kiev</i> group (with some help from the Rivet Joint), skillfully maneuver to lie in wait, approach in stealth, the tension building, positively identify the <i>Kiev</i>, and then execute a torpedo attack and run in the hopes of evading their retaliation. Instead I really felt like I was just playing it over and over again, sitting at the keyboard doing nothing but waiting around, hoping that this time I would get lucky.<br />
<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
8x Ka-25BSh Hormone A<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
555x RGB-1 [NATO BM-1, Search, Passive Omni]<br />
12x PLAB-250 Depth Charge<br />
2x AT-1M [NATO E45-75A]<br />
1x Depth Charge [Aerial, 80kT Nuclear]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
1x SSN 671 Narwhal<br />
1x HMS Courageous<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
SIDE: Biological<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-17457172507667620012017-08-07T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-07T08:00:06.214-04:00Krazy Kids Inflatable Fun Run 2017<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7PnaHllNRZlbYga0NQu0ZHbNSZtjSx8_3d67Vh45Fkqvbq5D3rJzZeYZQAGBli6NVFeGExL78eFxu9WIuMmRCYPZdC3WaEhOTAsvIymDZqsYdJYVKn_7pLr7Ui0cpScMSyX27maNRZ0/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="140" data-original-width="360" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ7PnaHllNRZlbYga0NQu0ZHbNSZtjSx8_3d67Vh45Fkqvbq5D3rJzZeYZQAGBli6NVFeGExL78eFxu9WIuMmRCYPZdC3WaEhOTAsvIymDZqsYdJYVKn_7pLr7Ui0cpScMSyX27maNRZ0/s320/logo.png" width="320" /></a><b>June 10, 2017</b><br />
<div>
Last year I took my daughter to the <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/07/insane-inflatable-5k-2016.html">Insane Inflatable 5k</a>, which was fun, although the distance was a bit long for her. It was a good decision at the time to leave my 5-year-old son home, as he certainly wouldn't have been able to handle the distance.<br />
<br />
But the Krazy Kids Inflatable Fun Run was the kids version of the same race. Half the distance, and kids only, so it was much more their speed. The price was also a lot easier on my wallet.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhZph_Qts8aTWrSvfb3hh-h_wOy7bsNMd8F6e_pC2SyYthY4x-FolqrGkwR3EPxcePBXXAPaeDBSryyFC-fjBwasFGB6Js9r1DgKSGQaXyD3dMBcm81p0KF-e8B4PmLnyCtIE4ZzY1EY/s1600/19029244_10213534614899339_2387806961074100025_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="675" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihhZph_Qts8aTWrSvfb3hh-h_wOy7bsNMd8F6e_pC2SyYthY4x-FolqrGkwR3EPxcePBXXAPaeDBSryyFC-fjBwasFGB6Js9r1DgKSGQaXyD3dMBcm81p0KF-e8B4PmLnyCtIE4ZzY1EY/s320/19029244_10213534614899339_2387806961074100025_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pre-race faces</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The Insane Inflatable 5k was family-friendly, and it had a small bouncy house to keep kids occupied when they weren't racing. The Krazy Kids Inflatable Fun Run, however, was all about the kids, so they had several bouncy houses available, and the kids certainly made use of them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTw194DXHbNIQSIHtcOjh5nqHGCA941MZWVdzuN8H6pFOh5x5S8u7LFUgUAUT3j4luhGN4LF7OTVDhWwJkqh3oIHrlxbO80lgox60BjEog-WAvF9hIb8SobmbCb-cN_nbboXPIDoaKR90/s1600/18813638_10213537051600255_11958103451209238_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="895" data-original-width="960" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTw194DXHbNIQSIHtcOjh5nqHGCA941MZWVdzuN8H6pFOh5x5S8u7LFUgUAUT3j4luhGN4LF7OTVDhWwJkqh3oIHrlxbO80lgox60BjEog-WAvF9hIb8SobmbCb-cN_nbboXPIDoaKR90/s320/18813638_10213537051600255_11958103451209238_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running to the next obstacle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The check in was organized and quick, and it wasn't long before our wave time. Adults were not allowed on the obstacles, but I would be allowed to run alongside the kids and take pictures while they went on them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY4-sYNYdkN-iQgOm9g4S5IoYf6Q3Usu7oF0qiotZ_v_IlFzVGZfEU53St7FAvHJVBD3GCFRW7E-jGrb3QVak-FWmH9-BlB998he330-mTLcbNkxMPRO7nwg5NeBv8i_uBzje2z6DtbNY/s1600/18950937_10213537053600305_3845955827069700509_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="835" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY4-sYNYdkN-iQgOm9g4S5IoYf6Q3Usu7oF0qiotZ_v_IlFzVGZfEU53St7FAvHJVBD3GCFRW7E-jGrb3QVak-FWmH9-BlB998he330-mTLcbNkxMPRO7nwg5NeBv8i_uBzje2z6DtbNY/s320/18950937_10213537053600305_3845955827069700509_n.jpg" width="278" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Negotiating the obstacles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I would be running alongside, but I gave orders that they should stick together so I could keep a better eye on them. This led to my son taking off, my daughter grabbing him to hold him back, him hitting her...and a fight ensued. After a few threats to take them off the course if they continued to fight, they continued on and had fun.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpjoQp7G44qREFW-Kx8RcRzi2hoJF_rPJHC28piXGRQ_AuEwjempCOZEjjjhZhXp6IEDfN8PSE4GjIjdpEneb_QgJ9-y5FHeIdWKYHXGApTWVQ_MThyafzne4qsmK0d64cjpwnAX6wHc/s1600/18950970_10213537051800260_7850211800406662942_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="448" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMpjoQp7G44qREFW-Kx8RcRzi2hoJF_rPJHC28piXGRQ_AuEwjempCOZEjjjhZhXp6IEDfN8PSE4GjIjdpEneb_QgJ9-y5FHeIdWKYHXGApTWVQ_MThyafzne4qsmK0d64cjpwnAX6wHc/s320/18950970_10213537051800260_7850211800406662942_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going down one of the many slides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In one obstacle my daughter went through a tunnel and hurt her neck, so I ended up carrying her for a ways, but her desire to have fun overwhelmed her pain, so she continued on.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9gcn8_detlb3G7ky59FgRuJAAyYHzP80kSAtl3uekDoEc7-vJMYfNdZcsOj7NM7p_FuUxhlS5EhBo3ysuPzGFAzLCdWB7U4k0d-8S_q8RrJl0ep8lJQd1W4A-6-TIGhFe9lHaYCjARc/s1600/18951505_10213537052120268_6214475952859849642_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="866" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn9gcn8_detlb3G7ky59FgRuJAAyYHzP80kSAtl3uekDoEc7-vJMYfNdZcsOj7NM7p_FuUxhlS5EhBo3ysuPzGFAzLCdWB7U4k0d-8S_q8RrJl0ep8lJQd1W4A-6-TIGhFe9lHaYCjARc/s320/18951505_10213537052120268_6214475952859849642_n.jpg" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casually strolling through an obstacle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As with all such events involving large amounts of kids, there were collisions, stepping on each other, tears, etc. but for the most part the little troopers kept going and having fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnPtkjr3SfBDCbIHiv1-OelCnQELYIbaA6nFnF-7Dmp1kD-Wy5yO7Li-b-AfjFs5JqEbXHLCcbHw5_vi6L5eFS-ovC9auuUMV2vuZ5mWVwkclTL4SF3tZ2p-zHR3RCHHUere_b3fZ_m8/s1600/18952546_10213537054000315_4914982936529520911_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="772" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnPtkjr3SfBDCbIHiv1-OelCnQELYIbaA6nFnF-7Dmp1kD-Wy5yO7Li-b-AfjFs5JqEbXHLCcbHw5_vi6L5eFS-ovC9auuUMV2vuZ5mWVwkclTL4SF3tZ2p-zHR3RCHHUere_b3fZ_m8/s320/18952546_10213537054000315_4914982936529520911_n.jpg" width="257" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing the hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62yslFCzqMWB_IoZOR-QL4xolqz6b2ex4Pe1aQ0j5z2pl4pi424l8ISFmNo7s9-BcsowGv8Zku7oKw70r_k8mdqvi3WU-Pk8OLcqurykkp4c_oNxsSB_OkwhJxoTOUD0DFG6ZcpdiZiQ/s1600/19030716_10213537052600280_4819559601595926777_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="881" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg62yslFCzqMWB_IoZOR-QL4xolqz6b2ex4Pe1aQ0j5z2pl4pi424l8ISFmNo7s9-BcsowGv8Zku7oKw70r_k8mdqvi3WU-Pk8OLcqurykkp4c_oNxsSB_OkwhJxoTOUD0DFG6ZcpdiZiQ/s320/19030716_10213537052600280_4819559601595926777_n.jpg" width="293" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another slide</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKTrZD_57eS4NnkuIHffRGXYocCw9FYWVL6IxKcEpIuFksPL_a3dICYCexJRYK6HbfTD9jE5H-F71vpoToUvGHUSqFymqpogNy29a6oaTf90VvdwIwRN7kybCwG_TxZzeN4kvpciS54g/s1600/19029594_10213537052960289_5095923849235358003_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="952" data-original-width="960" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFKTrZD_57eS4NnkuIHffRGXYocCw9FYWVL6IxKcEpIuFksPL_a3dICYCexJRYK6HbfTD9jE5H-F71vpoToUvGHUSqFymqpogNy29a6oaTf90VvdwIwRN7kybCwG_TxZzeN4kvpciS54g/s320/19029594_10213537052960289_5095923849235358003_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More slides</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjw5gab_mWPdEEvlpMqcapMKwts-PnpqYFeEBcaAz4YfTSQad1wXPY0xDvNbC9rP8VImMQnVlM2ak4NR63oiXUMEYnEm2K_N4YnYqXyeEhd6xD-EGpRMyFCJqJpdrfuPFlj6y9pD4BMdk/s1600/19030266_10213537053800310_6556550103523010468_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="960" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjw5gab_mWPdEEvlpMqcapMKwts-PnpqYFeEBcaAz4YfTSQad1wXPY0xDvNbC9rP8VImMQnVlM2ak4NR63oiXUMEYnEm2K_N4YnYqXyeEhd6xD-EGpRMyFCJqJpdrfuPFlj6y9pD4BMdk/s320/19030266_10213537053800310_6556550103523010468_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heading for the hill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tzUUWxFxBA9SJgv6gTZPnSfu-9UjE8JYzxZvMzefw0fesq9B9Ow2B-KDaf8jBx9z8DJ76hg_ET2NHW7ZZOr0q0R2RZvCqvZDk23xYoeZIT70hVPPE5Z7pnFdlSIHDzbVqmha4t6a9Es/s1600/19059310_10213537052320273_439640021070908003_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="938" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tzUUWxFxBA9SJgv6gTZPnSfu-9UjE8JYzxZvMzefw0fesq9B9Ow2B-KDaf8jBx9z8DJ76hg_ET2NHW7ZZOr0q0R2RZvCqvZDk23xYoeZIT70hVPPE5Z7pnFdlSIHDzbVqmha4t6a9Es/s320/19059310_10213537052320273_439640021070908003_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over the top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0TEgpk5v0DH_6Enco-evLzQQ_DLAz1sVh0NN2ILlF8NAudP0aG_KHR3mfui2aTsns1TBoa2ELUBTKpsiS6fV3wKSzpxI5KuztO2IbsicO1IErLCnggWQrvvX1u3ey5zkMCgx_auFm54/s1600/19059573_10213537053240296_3539695640513666193_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="927" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX0TEgpk5v0DH_6Enco-evLzQQ_DLAz1sVh0NN2ILlF8NAudP0aG_KHR3mfui2aTsns1TBoa2ELUBTKpsiS6fV3wKSzpxI5KuztO2IbsicO1IErLCnggWQrvvX1u3ey5zkMCgx_auFm54/s320/19059573_10213537053240296_3539695640513666193_n.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down one more slide</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
We completed the 1.5 mile course in only a half hour, and both kids were tired, sweaty, and happy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-n7oocuSj-iTwx5q3VySTiBLK0fhsapm5jdSxZWI-C-Kq0bGW1ibzxNL5Hh_nZHsgegIymsdKWh7SDhiC-Zh4AzsVsY469E2gQXOrRtzBys5tOapkegymzGrR24Zd2Ut1bOdQtHRqtiM/s1600/19029199_10213537050200220_6172520350492283979_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-n7oocuSj-iTwx5q3VySTiBLK0fhsapm5jdSxZWI-C-Kq0bGW1ibzxNL5Hh_nZHsgegIymsdKWh7SDhiC-Zh4AzsVsY469E2gQXOrRtzBys5tOapkegymzGrR24Zd2Ut1bOdQtHRqtiM/s320/19029199_10213537050200220_6172520350492283979_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Showing off their medals</td></tr>
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<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdWP1AB9mGlsarqtfVaPesMGNYIJKKhX7I-HEWDuIjiClnArSnCDvkbsIWucz9KqLABk8S2OhSVpRlpbrc6wiyXmPYUYJ-owfxeBvAG8lfZxNxojjDs25pnH-_BdTzp-P-NlKr5tdAME/s1600/19059374_10213535957852912_4132839698110294604_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="848" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUdWP1AB9mGlsarqtfVaPesMGNYIJKKhX7I-HEWDuIjiClnArSnCDvkbsIWucz9KqLABk8S2OhSVpRlpbrc6wiyXmPYUYJ-owfxeBvAG8lfZxNxojjDs25pnH-_BdTzp-P-NlKr5tdAME/s320/19059374_10213535957852912_4132839698110294604_n.jpg" width="282" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ninja Pose!</td></tr>
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Looking forward to next year!<br />
<br /></div>
Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-40372490670787665852017-08-03T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-03T09:51:40.678-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 11: Fire and Brimstone Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In Parts <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-11.html">One</a> and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-11_2.html">Two</a> of this scenario, The USS <i>John F. Kennedy</i> and the USS <i>Saratoga</i> CVBGs advanced on northern Norway, their mission to destroy Soviet forces in the vicinity of Bardufoss and Banak, supporting the hard pressed NATO ground forces attempting to keep the Soviets from taking Narvik. I've been diligent in wiping out Soviet recon planes, and thus far have succeeded in keeping the locations of my CVBGs unknown. <br />
<br />
I have been striking Bardufoss constantly, but so far it remains in operation. My ground forces north of Narvik have been sustaining both air and ground attacks.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 2, 1975, 1200Z</b><br />
There is apparently a major attack going on north of Narvik, and I lose an AA section, two armored platoons of M48A5s, and a Mechanized Infantry Platoon in M113s. I've sent units to respond to this attack, but for some reason I cannot locate the Soviets to fire back!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQYyIsvt9_iJtBG3HDSkEiz_c5KgOaXkOJ1KCDagrV9x6a3JUUj_Yw4pIkfAX17sl287C0-q6nO1-NKTpV1Qm7Jh4JA4cVK1WftJSAhjxK5YUuKy7dZsaLbd3y6mXWROUcUxwCp7mH48/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+115240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="652" data-original-width="752" height="277" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaQYyIsvt9_iJtBG3HDSkEiz_c5KgOaXkOJ1KCDagrV9x6a3JUUj_Yw4pIkfAX17sl287C0-q6nO1-NKTpV1Qm7Jh4JA4cVK1WftJSAhjxK5YUuKy7dZsaLbd3y6mXWROUcUxwCp7mH48/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+115240.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My armored platoon is under attack by an invisible enemy.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My armor platoon is soon wiped out--I've lost twelve tanks now to an enemy I cannot see.<br />
<br />
Finally, an infantry platoon spots the enemy tanks at a range of one mile, and subsequently identify them as T-64s.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Uqtl-wM9C3grO9-wKYWlji54rn2khvbmrDkTNuPN-5JHkUHXHZ8D6mOIrWeUZt2BGfWZs7RisGHCKItBG4TdX6bb5bkViLZn421rKQ083psRCXTpA7zKea1KouhBHAqmVYPDhhzTKSg/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+115432.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="429" data-original-width="556" height="246" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Uqtl-wM9C3grO9-wKYWlji54rn2khvbmrDkTNuPN-5JHkUHXHZ8D6mOIrWeUZt2BGfWZs7RisGHCKItBG4TdX6bb5bkViLZn421rKQ083psRCXTpA7zKea1KouhBHAqmVYPDhhzTKSg/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+115432.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finally I spot the enemy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The T-64s plow right over my Infantry Platoon. Having wiped out so many units, this enemy platoon has achieved a breakthough. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAUVP2wRPxCaJku7lmCYN7AlEHoueZ93GhMEAfOnzg-GhhiCzFLCxqXg94wx0s9ceC6ac6v2jbKyKOSSB9x1ytDJ-qaa41fQaUy6TQh3HAHw37cLSxA1gk8rrTIuLqmYWQY4G9GJAPXE/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1080" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfAUVP2wRPxCaJku7lmCYN7AlEHoueZ93GhMEAfOnzg-GhhiCzFLCxqXg94wx0s9ceC6ac6v2jbKyKOSSB9x1ytDJ-qaa41fQaUy6TQh3HAHw37cLSxA1gk8rrTIuLqmYWQY4G9GJAPXE/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120500.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Artillery battery damages the tanks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
For a while, my 155mm Self-Propelled Artillery Battery has been firing on the tanks, mostly ineffectively, and the tanks completely ignore it, heading directly towards the NATO infantry. Finally, my battery scores a hit, and destroys two of the tanks, halving their firepower. The survivors continue towards the nearest infantry platoon, made up of Netherlands Marines, which fires a round from its Carl Gustav Recoilless Rifle, which promptly misses, but then another artillery barrage finishes off the platoon. My ground troops breathe a sigh of relief, as that was close. My line is ragged and not much is left. I reform them into a new line of defense closer to the Command Brigade.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynOqZZIQleChJJUUeper6uotwsd2hFvdyjwua9ps5oEyrMPvGG4wjux3VfCAhgNVpXg2EN-EUo8InvBeesHE7zaqehS4wtd1lgvpN2ORxSqk3eSq_1SVQFoHqSegDFDVyXN_8qpXsehU/s1600/%25D0%25A2-64BM_Bulat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="683" height="139" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjynOqZZIQleChJJUUeper6uotwsd2hFvdyjwua9ps5oEyrMPvGG4wjux3VfCAhgNVpXg2EN-EUo8InvBeesHE7zaqehS4wtd1lgvpN2ORxSqk3eSq_1SVQFoHqSegDFDVyXN_8qpXsehU/s320/%25D0%25A2-64BM_Bulat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">T-64s</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>120639Z</b> Meanwhile to the north, my anti-surface strike is well underway, and my A-7s drop their Walleyes on the Kresta I and Kresta II cruisers. I also have a pair of A-7s armed with Shrikes waiting in the wings in case the Krestas decide to light off their radars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1wgTDydEc-KagfjjnnBZsSjQN6q4OhLj4kWIa-pwmv5zTcLPTuX1h0IMNwx1M26KV3aYlUqGcu_ohfUP4D2lT7b8B5TpeNOxRZP7AGAPSBkyeygLt8SLR1boqz-S2WpdC-TsJir3axo/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120639.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="836" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1wgTDydEc-KagfjjnnBZsSjQN6q4OhLj4kWIa-pwmv5zTcLPTuX1h0IMNwx1M26KV3aYlUqGcu_ohfUP4D2lT7b8B5TpeNOxRZP7AGAPSBkyeygLt8SLR1boqz-S2WpdC-TsJir3axo/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120639.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walleyes away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Six Walleyes are targeted on the Kresta II, the <i>Admiral Nakhimov, </i>and two are targeted on the Kresta I, the <i>Vice Admiral Drozd. </i>The bombs close in without the ships taking any action to defend themselves. The first Walleye impacts <i>Admiral Nakhimov</i> and sinks it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9w96FIk6TKssfwVt16gIlF6OYRvKOUCh41v4lh_0uMc97VP5_ujvJDcsPQ-b5hjHuupW1NiK1_IXxgiyvjEsaWjmTZHxf2r580kqiurDGZKZH2e7uLAMGbpGGy-tHEkIzahTilhhpsk/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120820.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="967" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy9w96FIk6TKssfwVt16gIlF6OYRvKOUCh41v4lh_0uMc97VP5_ujvJDcsPQ-b5hjHuupW1NiK1_IXxgiyvjEsaWjmTZHxf2r580kqiurDGZKZH2e7uLAMGbpGGy-tHEkIzahTilhhpsk/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120820.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Admiral Nakhimov</i> is hit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Then the <i>Vice Admiral Drozd</i> wakes up and launches SAMs at the Walleyes, and my A-7s immediately respond, launching their Shrikes. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzdpBs6atGQjZKB1r9psFIrrpYbJ10FtYDSi2jZb5eRqnbArODcW8B5LZc0ojLhArePYGEHtvQQu1k73HJ4lWQLC9N0RtQlvdQTy_fNi0wJg8ILaRtjsWKW9MD-sU98KSMlybM9oW0fo/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120901.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="713" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdzdpBs6atGQjZKB1r9psFIrrpYbJ10FtYDSi2jZb5eRqnbArODcW8B5LZc0ojLhArePYGEHtvQQu1k73HJ4lWQLC9N0RtQlvdQTy_fNi0wJg8ILaRtjsWKW9MD-sU98KSMlybM9oW0fo/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120901.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Vice Admiral Drozd</i> wakes up and tries to defend itself.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They needn't have bothered. The <i>Drozd</i>'s SAMs miss the Walleyes, and the first one impacts and annihilates the ship.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Stm6_ahcXCtsDiHxJ3pQ1GncIj3PM5tNslEOL4TYmEcgylWSK66tNu6Ce2hPcdTG41K9bBwmg5cJceaN1JitxLBBP4lz7p1aEGZ292wFyjqtQ9LGDPh45jgiRMmARq7hRN6Jhywp0Vo/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120938.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="995" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Stm6_ahcXCtsDiHxJ3pQ1GncIj3PM5tNslEOL4TYmEcgylWSK66tNu6Ce2hPcdTG41K9bBwmg5cJceaN1JitxLBBP4lz7p1aEGZ292wFyjqtQ9LGDPh45jgiRMmARq7hRN6Jhywp0Vo/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+120938.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Vice Admiral Drozd</i> is hit.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To the north, my Vigilante identifies the second Soviet surface group, which consists of two BPK Kanins, the <i>Derzky</i> and the <i>Zhguchy</i>, along with a RKR Kynda, the <i>Grozny.</i> Currently all of my strike aircraft are readying, so a strike on this group will not be able to happen for a few hours. <br />
<br />
<b>121847Z </b>One of my Norwegian infantry platoons detects a Soviet armor formation. If this is similar to the previous one, this could hurt my forces badly...but this time, I have Harriers nearby. I immediately order them to attack.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmHaL_IRLgHC7JbvF1B4BwQLCjtmlu6Th8jw3KD6Qs8YfkdzZQna7EbRPRT6tiW0-JmOEwKBvUdklFL9y7CiLPgJBn4Ai9D835jsCOWeyoiJitJtEpTE5dTUEVxlzhZ0EwBPpX-NqoVY/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+121916.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="739" data-original-width="1052" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmHaL_IRLgHC7JbvF1B4BwQLCjtmlu6Th8jw3KD6Qs8YfkdzZQna7EbRPRT6tiW0-JmOEwKBvUdklFL9y7CiLPgJBn4Ai9D835jsCOWeyoiJitJtEpTE5dTUEVxlzhZ0EwBPpX-NqoVY/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+121916.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A new armor platoon is sighted, but this time I have air support.</td></tr>
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<b>122101Z</b> Just over two minutes after the CAS is called in, a Harrier drops its bombs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdxKy1Qshj-4ED4Z5456Gxjr6NV7OLWGdJomRKxMv8nZenMwstjCn2UstAAUTvUt7m3qag5NHsWVzOEUulqpbbn8POQViUoNfrA0TgIiJNkN-Zd09nQ-EY6t4GEszPko3ef0ORyHyzfg/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+122101.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="580" data-original-width="621" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipdxKy1Qshj-4ED4Z5456Gxjr6NV7OLWGdJomRKxMv8nZenMwstjCn2UstAAUTvUt7m3qag5NHsWVzOEUulqpbbn8POQViUoNfrA0TgIiJNkN-Zd09nQ-EY6t4GEszPko3ef0ORyHyzfg/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+122101.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away!</td></tr>
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Direct hit. The cluster bombs hit the target and annihilate the tank platoon. After what the last Soviet tank platoon did to my forces, that was satisfying.<br />
<br />
More of my Harriers are ready at Evenes, so I launch of pair of Harriers armed with Mk13 1000lb bombs and send them to bomb Bardufoss. The strike does little damage, so I follow it up with a pair of Jaguars from Bodo. The Jaguars can't hit the broadside of a barn (or runway...) so I'm going to have to follow up with more strikes.<br />
<br />
I have a pair of F-4s on patrol between Banak and Bardufoss, and they pick up several fighters and launch a BVR attack.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinK9Lt834NWUO61X0emV-OVoJtq9128y9G5cr3_hKMQGEWPAdG4teiGYfNaeTtThDBlVeZQb3a3K3TkdVhbsjfdSBGxVz576wWYH1cr9r5ym3UujQgMKL_nmUKT1xluj1qvVDkF-weaIo/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+124805.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="754" data-original-width="1208" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinK9Lt834NWUO61X0emV-OVoJtq9128y9G5cr3_hKMQGEWPAdG4teiGYfNaeTtThDBlVeZQb3a3K3TkdVhbsjfdSBGxVz576wWYH1cr9r5ym3UujQgMKL_nmUKT1xluj1qvVDkF-weaIo/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+124805.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My F-4s launch Sparrows at the Soviet fighters</td></tr>
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I wonder, are they MiG-21s evacuating Bardufoss? I shoot down two quickly, and confirm that they are MiG-21s. I launch Sparrows at the second pair, and promptly destroy them. Shotgun and close to Bingo, the F-4s head home.<br />
<br />
<b>155621Z </b>Several hours of routine operations pass, in which my fighters have shot down number Su-15 Flagons, MiG-21 Fishbeds, a Tu-95 Bear Tanker aircraft, and my Harriers and Jaguars have done some CAS to help out the ground forces, killing some tanks. Some of my strike aircraft are have rearmed so I send them against the second Soviet surface fleet, and also send some more bombers to attack Bardufoss. My Walleyes target and destroy the DDG <i>Derzky</i> without any problems. It's as if the Soviet surface vessels are sitting ducks. A few minutes later I sink a Charlie I SSGN.<br />
<br />
<b>173132Z</b> A pair of A-6s armed with HYDRA 70mm Rockets, Mk77 Incendiary Bombs, and Mk81 250lb LDGP bombs attacks the <i>Grozny</i> and the <i>Zhguchy</i>. The 70mm rockets take out the <i>Grozny</i>. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjei5IgCUQxP8R00se5mbKLhkv2G79DhUsN9DGWs0E5AEGNPxC4ztkfERf0czmAgXMSfHB0thOQ3UhaGnWH5ccWSbiAsC_DLllUWZYZ3bM0Q94lNXqrDhP5AKdt_7Zz-UZCCcbQ-NzdoLc/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+173132.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="770" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjei5IgCUQxP8R00se5mbKLhkv2G79DhUsN9DGWs0E5AEGNPxC4ztkfERf0czmAgXMSfHB0thOQ3UhaGnWH5ccWSbiAsC_DLllUWZYZ3bM0Q94lNXqrDhP5AKdt_7Zz-UZCCcbQ-NzdoLc/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+173132.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The A-6s attack the Soviet surface group</td></tr>
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Just after the A-6s drop their Incendiary bombs on the <i>Zhguchy, </i>the Soviet destroyer fights back, shooting its 57mm gun and launching a SAM.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIcblXksKmnm-6yfCpqUuo2MhXFi6WPcy7nI1RXsaSQQHXYD_Rpy73WQxTTQLgi-7DIKbnHOfgyqXynQ0Nc8KxHffCmvKpW_QDBACFuGxQ4g5Gw1jifti7B3RR9EdfN_t3yl0r95wqeg/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+173331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="506" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSIcblXksKmnm-6yfCpqUuo2MhXFi6WPcy7nI1RXsaSQQHXYD_Rpy73WQxTTQLgi-7DIKbnHOfgyqXynQ0Nc8KxHffCmvKpW_QDBACFuGxQ4g5Gw1jifti7B3RR9EdfN_t3yl0r95wqeg/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+173331.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The A-6s come under fire.</td></tr>
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Both A-6s are shot down, but they damage the <i>Zhguchy </i>with a single bomb hit. A followup strike several hours later finishes off the <i>Zhguchy</i>. <br />
<br />
<b>200000Z</b> By this time, I'm striking Bardufoss with impunity. I never quite managed to put the runways out of commission, but seeing as I destroyed 24 MiG-21s operating out of Bardufoss, I'm guessing they might just be out of aircraft...so I'll call that a win. No more Tu-95 Bear Recons have been launched for hours, so I might have wiped those out too. They keep sending up Tu-95 tanker aircraft, and every time they do, I shoot them down. My planes are in range of Banak, and I've launched several strikes on it already, but they have been of limited effectiveness because my strike aircraft keep dropping their bombs from high level (which is my own fault for not paying enough attention and sending them in low). There has been no sign of the feared Tu-22M strikes on my carriers, probably because the Soviets never localized my position. I think I can chalk this one up as a victory.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCO3axhVZIa_qI4prZ-pBAmMpizT83pKHte4ZUdqltgJDdgEx3o_xPW17XW3-NM4edDZiPqLvSLrUSwySG4YILtAyhgPFCg8tShJi_Q8r3ZOanwI-_wlHfCzHg7ypDoxaLXIXL0S3Tfhc/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+200000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="820" data-original-width="1061" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCO3axhVZIa_qI4prZ-pBAmMpizT83pKHte4ZUdqltgJDdgEx3o_xPW17XW3-NM4edDZiPqLvSLrUSwySG4YILtAyhgPFCg8tShJi_Q8r3ZOanwI-_wlHfCzHg7ypDoxaLXIXL0S3Tfhc/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+200000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The CVBGs enter their patrol areas.</td></tr>
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Triumph<br />
Score: 2200<br />
<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
4x Tu-95RT Bear D<br />
1x PL-611 Zulu IV<br />
4x Tu-95MR Bear E<br />
1x Ka-25Ts Hormone B<br />
24x MiG-21SM Fishbed J<br />
3x Vehicle (Straight Flush [1S91])<br />
10x SA-6a Gainful [2P25] TEL<br />
4x 85mm M1939<br />
1x Vehicle (Fire Can [SON-9])<br />
1x AvGas (400k Liter Underground Tank)<br />
16x T-55 Main Battle Tank<br />
13x MiG-23BN Flogger H<br />
26x Su-15MF Flagon D<br />
18x BMP-1 [AT-3 Sagger B] IFV<br />
12x 152mm/34 2S3 M1973 Akatsiya<br />
1x PLA-627A November [Kit]<br />
4x 57mm ZSU-57-2<br />
2x SA-9b Gaskin [BRDM-2] TEL 2<br />
16x T-64 Main Battle Tank<br />
1x BPK Kresta II [Pr.1134A Berkut A]<br />
1x RKR Kresta I [Pr.1134 Berkut]<br />
3x Tu-16Z Badger A<br />
2x BPK Kanin [Pr.57A Gnevny]<br />
1x PLARK-670 Charlie I [Skat]<br />
1x RKR Kynda [Pr.58]<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
27x Generic Chaff Salvo [4x Cartridges]<br />
40x SA-6a Gainful [9M336]<br />
4x FROG-7b [9M21]<br />
21x SA-9b Gaskin [9M31M]<br />
200x 57mm ZSU-57 HE<br />
3x AA-2b Atoll [R-3R]<br />
2x Generic Flare Salvo [4x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
44x 85mm M1939<br />
20x BetAB-500SP CB [12 x Anti-Runway Penetrator Bomblets]<br />
19x 23mm Gsh-23L Burst [40 rnds]<br />
3x AA-3 Anab C [R-98R, SARH]<br />
1x AA-3 Anab D [R-98T, IR]<br />
99x 73mm 2A28 Grom HE<br />
2x AT-3 Sagger B [9M14M Malyutka]<br />
2x 7.62mm MG Burst [20 rnds]<br />
24x FAB-250M-54 GPB<br />
10x Generic Acoustic Decoy<br />
16x FAB-100M-62 GPB<br />
10x AA-3 Advanced Anab E [R-98MR, SARH]<br />
2x AA-3 Advanced Anab F [R-98MT, IR]<br />
512x S-5K 57mm Rocket<br />
8x RBK-250-PTAB CB [30 x PTAB-2.5 Anti-Tank Bomblets]<br />
11x SA-N-1b Goa [M-1M/P Volna-M/P, 4K91 / V-601]<br />
2x SA-N-3a Goblet [4K60]<br />
2x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
48x 125mm APFSDS-T<br />
88x 125mm HE<br />
57x 12.7mm/50 MG Burst [10 rnds]<br />
24x 125mm HEAT<br />
2x AA-2a Atoll [R-3S]<br />
18x 57mm/81 ZIF-75 Quad DP Burst [6 rnds]<br />
14x AK-230 30mm/65 Twin Burst [50 rnds]<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
1x Harrier Gr.1<br />
1x Jaguar GR.1<br />
1x A-7E Corsair II<br />
2x F-14A Tomcat<br />
8x NM135 APC [M113A1]<br />
8x 12.7mm/50 Quad M55<br />
2x A-7B Corsair II<br />
12x M-48A5 Main Battle Tank<br />
5x 7.62mm MG/Unguided Infantry Anti Tank Weapon<br />
2x A-6C Intruder<br />
1x AvGas (400k Liter Underground Tank)<br />
1x A-6E Intruder<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
227x AN/SSQ-47 Julie Active Range-Only<br />
108x AN/SSQ-50B CASS<br />
371x AN/SSQ-41B Jezebel LOFAR<br />
49x AIM-7F Sparrow III<br />
54x AIM-54A Phoenix<br />
10x Mk46 LWT Mod 2<br />
1x B57 Multipurpose Sub Bomb [20kT Nuclear]<br />
32x AIM-7E4 Sparrow III<br />
9x AIM-9H Sidewinder<br />
80x Mk83 1000lb LDGP<br />
60x Mk84 2000lb LDGP<br />
16x AGM-45B Shrike [ARM]<br />
22x BL.755 No.1 CB [147 x GP Anti-Armor Bomblets]<br />
46x Mk13 1000lb GPB<br />
28x AGM-62B Walleye II ER/DL<br />
62x 127mm/54 HE-CVT [HiFrag]<br />
10x 127mm/54 HE-PD [HiCap]<br />
4x 127mm/54 WP<br />
21x Rapier Mk1<br />
44x 40mm/60 Single Bofors Burst [2 rnds]<br />
76x 12.7mm/50 M2 MG Burst<br />
119x 20mm/80 Rhinemetall Mk20 Rh202 Burst [20 rnds]<br />
4x Blowpipe<br />
2x 20mm/85 M61A1 Vulcan Burst [100 rnds]<br />
20x CBU-78/B GATOR [45 x BLU-91/B Bomblets + 15 x BLU-92/B Mines]<br />
9x Generic Chaff Salvo [5x Cartridges]<br />
124x 105mm L7A3 APFSDS-T<br />
124x 105mm L7A3 HE<br />
120x 105mm L7A3 HEAT<br />
86x 155mm/23 HE<br />
200x 12.7mm/50 Quad M55 Burst [20 rnds]<br />
5x Generic Flare Salvo [3x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
16x CBU-59/B APAM [717 x BLU-77/B Dual-Purpose Bomblets]<br />
8x Mk20 Rockeye II CB [247 x Mk118 Dual Purpose Bomblets]<br />
18x Generic Unguided Anti Tank Weapon<br />
1x Carl Gustav recoilless rifle (84mm)<br />
5x AGM-78D Standard [ARM]<br />
15x 7.62mm MG Burst [20 rnds]<br />
152x HYDRA 70mm Rocket<br />
4x Mk77 Incendiary Bomb<br />
1x Generic Chaff Salvo [8x Cartridges]<br />
12x Mk82 500lb Snakeeye<br />
<br />
SIDE: Biological<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />
SIDE: Cuba<br />
===========================================================<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
1x Commercial Supply Vessel [6,000t DWT]<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-72324494608497234492017-08-02T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-03T09:47:19.795-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 11: Fire and Brimstone Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In Part <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-11.html">One</a> of this scenario, The USS <i>John F. Kennedy</i> and the USS <i>Saratoga</i> CVBGs advanced on northern Norway, their mission to destroy Soviet forces in the vicinity of Bardufoss and Banak, supporting the hard pressed NATO ground forces attempting to keep the Soviets from taking Narvik. <br />
<br />
I wiped out a bunch of MiG-21s which foolishly came out to fight, and took out multiple Tu-95 Bear aircraft searching for me, and I think that so far the exact location of my CVBGs remains unknown. <br />
<br />
I managed a strike upon Bardufoss, causing limited damage, and I sank a Soviet submarine that got too close for comfort. I need to keep up the pressure and prevent the Soviets from locating my CVBGs, because if I'm found, then they'll send in the Backfires and Badgers against me, and that's something I want to try very hard to avoid.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>October 2, 1975, 080958Z</b><br />
A merchant ship was discovered a while ago near the <i>John F. Kennedy</i> CVBG, and USS <i>California</i> now identifies it as the <i>Castro, </i>an unfriendly Commercial Supply Vessel. If it was friendly or neutral I would have left it alone, but not if it was unfriendly. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuRfYjxFZKk3LU0QbGdJucZPw9WYl3oVXqDfKvd96txEx5PelTvCt8FNEb47xJJTd7ntkQeEVLplKPx4wtlF3vBAGFdBTOHA-X5ArzwKp2LBndWX7-NmzPkqriA-x6wxeXEMT1oCFJ4s/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+080958.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="872" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtuRfYjxFZKk3LU0QbGdJucZPw9WYl3oVXqDfKvd96txEx5PelTvCt8FNEb47xJJTd7ntkQeEVLplKPx4wtlF3vBAGFdBTOHA-X5ArzwKp2LBndWX7-NmzPkqriA-x6wxeXEMT1oCFJ4s/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+080958.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The <i>Castro</i> is wandering in the wrong neighborhood</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Castro</i> is declared hostile and <i>California</i> opens up with its 5" guns.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEunyaWJ6iTGV2QUkJe7SxoxQMqP55ODo_K0deViF0KRNp7WwB6g-c0MpaHTlBRaOpHv6lv-NXNia3DOfvpTfVtiOFXc3LdpbtxYKXQdPDMDjCuoUwOMUdNPqYpmq2ml1HQU53TwFZ97c/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+081010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="689" data-original-width="590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEunyaWJ6iTGV2QUkJe7SxoxQMqP55ODo_K0deViF0KRNp7WwB6g-c0MpaHTlBRaOpHv6lv-NXNia3DOfvpTfVtiOFXc3LdpbtxYKXQdPDMDjCuoUwOMUdNPqYpmq2ml1HQU53TwFZ97c/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+081010.jpg" width="274" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>California</i> opens fire</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It takes approximately a hundred shells, but the <i>Castro</i>, burning and flooding, eventually sinks.<br />
<br />
<b>082535Z </b>Soviet attack aircraft are detected over the 15th Infantry Brigade.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVsT6L59ikHsl-sXDtgqskZeb_xf0bNW9t6jecnCCW3MIZrZAlNSl9IIDjTJvOJOEkajzasHAhFVPNdYMUvDd0kv74Jfiv0vPucNyX-hU5mL-za7WNaD_1_U9_i32cbgR0hJ4XhnNM8M/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+082535.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="592" data-original-width="690" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVsT6L59ikHsl-sXDtgqskZeb_xf0bNW9t6jecnCCW3MIZrZAlNSl9IIDjTJvOJOEkajzasHAhFVPNdYMUvDd0kv74Jfiv0vPucNyX-hU5mL-za7WNaD_1_U9_i32cbgR0hJ4XhnNM8M/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+082535.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soviet raid inbound</td></tr>
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The aircraft are soon identified as MiG-23BN Flogger Hs, and they head for Evenes. The air defenses include a Rapier SAM Platoon and some 40mm Bofors AA guns. I lose contact with the bogeys momentarily, but then the Floggers pops up within SAM range, and the Rapier Platoon opens fire.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLsJBj9BSNrcn1N-n3P6ClO8ewIlVcVw8apmXtyvQBhM4wdSjFsC4N1F2xqC0b8t5YYHk8GACL3QAB2_pDhoZbcVUC9PkbBxbfRF_p78J2HULvsB7i6LC73BZxyCourizIRsD416hTlc/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+082813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="960" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCLsJBj9BSNrcn1N-n3P6ClO8ewIlVcVw8apmXtyvQBhM4wdSjFsC4N1F2xqC0b8t5YYHk8GACL3QAB2_pDhoZbcVUC9PkbBxbfRF_p78J2HULvsB7i6LC73BZxyCourizIRsD416hTlc/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+082813.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SAMs fire on the MiG-23s</td></tr>
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One Flogger is shot down. The other continues its attack run, and drops bombs, damaging a Runway Access Point. Multiple SAMs go after it but miss. A second pair of Floggers appear, and the Rapier has its hands full launching SAMs. Both Floggers drop their anti-runway bomblets, starting a small fire and causing some light damage to the Runway Access Point and a Taxiway.<br />
<br />
<b>090000Z</b> More aircraft are now ready on <i>Saratoga</i>, so I prepare and launch another strike on Bardufoss. To scout out targets at Bardufoss targets, I launch my Recon Harrier from Evenes. <br />
<br />
<b>091149Z</b> The Harrier locates an armor platoon, but also spots multiple aircraft. They are likely too far away to be of assistance, but I divert some of my CAP to investigate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmfCmEIWLye0ViMEQGx3hYYjjzcdf0cJ5DRCcOA8cCUN-IiY9cayd4ra_-tZaXtH2HO_qUAhE4LFzjFz2DFZBm6CBSkJmJtuNyTasxYKaknvj4Fe87AsTPQ0KjRDm940CK6NOKHEYlgA/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+091246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="1027" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghmfCmEIWLye0ViMEQGx3hYYjjzcdf0cJ5DRCcOA8cCUN-IiY9cayd4ra_-tZaXtH2HO_qUAhE4LFzjFz2DFZBm6CBSkJmJtuNyTasxYKaknvj4Fe87AsTPQ0KjRDm940CK6NOKHEYlgA/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+091246.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Harrier spots multiple aircraft north of Bardufoss</td></tr>
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Their radar emissions make me think they are more MiG-21s.<br />
<br />
<b>091346Z </b>My suspicions are confirmed. My Harrier identifies one of the aircraft as a Fishbed, and goes low to evade. I send it back towards friendly lines in the hopes of keeping it alive. Four Fishbeds are in pursuit. My Harrier increases speed to full military power in the hopes of outrunning them.<br />
<br />
Now there are six Fishbeds in pursuit.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My Recon Harrier is in deep trouble.</td></tr>
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I now detect <i>eight</i> Fishbeds in pursuit. The MiGs fire streams of bullets at the Harrier, but so far cannot hit it. I find that if I keep my Harrier jinking, the MiGs cannot keep up with the turns, but if I fly straight, the MiGs close the distance quickly. After lots of low-level maneuvering through the Norwegian mountains, my Harrier succeeds in making it over friendly airspace. (this would have looked awesome in a movie...my Harrier was literally flying circles around the pursuing MiGs, at 500+ kts, 300ft AGL, in the mountains...) The MiGs choose not to follow, instead loitering some ten miles north of the 15th Infantry Brigade.<br />
<br />
<b>092712Z</b> The MiGs get impatient, however, and soon they chase the Harrier directly over the NATO ground forces, which open up with ground fire.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoXaT2-0qOIJOCJkRyLHkn9ka9Q6vOFUjLsp4s-3JQ_cNCWXum1Vh0Ky-KHOWznQyYn39n2PUY6GbBPVqTGSKu_YPaPY8BZPiLaVgtgkao4SD3_ylcrqCmN6I2F3y_NUVWz33MgTrUqI/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+092712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="744" data-original-width="905" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZoXaT2-0qOIJOCJkRyLHkn9ka9Q6vOFUjLsp4s-3JQ_cNCWXum1Vh0Ky-KHOWznQyYn39n2PUY6GbBPVqTGSKu_YPaPY8BZPiLaVgtgkao4SD3_ylcrqCmN6I2F3y_NUVWz33MgTrUqI/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+092712.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The MiGs fly over the NATO ground forces</td></tr>
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The Harrier lures them over the 42 Commando Blowpipe sections, and one of the MiGs is shot down.<br />
<br />
As my Harrier duels with the MiGs, Su-15 Flagons approach the area, and, hopefully unnoticed, a pair of A-7Es show up on the scene, ready to search for more Soviet ground units.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hFI2eegnKFhuz_tB7wSt6EnShxmRnKCgT3oFDXmYVaIchaVes122h7q6_V_SxDZdaKt94zwTWWQ3YM4ll5R3ra306zp_aoDj1INbe3XMcocaVI0XNONGZPlqpSfP5pJyc_mwEle3330/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+094558.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="912" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9hFI2eegnKFhuz_tB7wSt6EnShxmRnKCgT3oFDXmYVaIchaVes122h7q6_V_SxDZdaKt94zwTWWQ3YM4ll5R3ra306zp_aoDj1INbe3XMcocaVI0XNONGZPlqpSfP5pJyc_mwEle3330/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+094558.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The A-7s begin their attack run</td></tr>
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The A-7s make several passes over the area, but have difficulty spotting the tanks. The MiGs in the area abandon my Harrier and go for the A-7s, shooting one down. The second A-7 abandons his ground attack and shoots down a MiG with a Sidewinder. He drops his bombs ineffectively, and then heads for home.<br />
<br />
A pair of A-6s make their run on Bardufoss. They drop their 2000lb bombs on an Ammo bunker, doing light damage. Some of my F-14s arrive on the scene and start firing missiles at the Su-15s, which decide to leave the area. One of the Flagons is shot down by a Phoenix. My second pair of A-7s arrive on the scene and completely miss with their cluster bombs.<br />
<br />
My F-14s, nearing the limits of their fuel detect some MiG-23s leaving Banak, and launch barrages of Phoenixes at them, shooting down four. An Su-15 Flagon is shot down as well.<br />
<br />
My last pair of strike aircraft, A-7s, drop their Walleyes at Bardufoss, causing more negligible damage. Instead of attacking Ammo Bunkers, I need to focus on runways from now on.<br />
<br />
To the north, the air battle continues. Many of my F-14s are RTB Bingo, but a few are still in the fight, picking off Soviet planes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOkU7wXoaOgeycPK1EX-QSCAEEyPhgPh6rBDmSRNdXtkJTxo7AtJTmHpT8MZpKAD04d1x2VC6hF3_NLi9WUMtJwOSPa5F1-HRtpXMKCKXXqHqRigcDKt0wCrNUzjPYR9W4MRgSlFzJig/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+101712.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="1080" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbOkU7wXoaOgeycPK1EX-QSCAEEyPhgPh6rBDmSRNdXtkJTxo7AtJTmHpT8MZpKAD04d1x2VC6hF3_NLi9WUMtJwOSPa5F1-HRtpXMKCKXXqHqRigcDKt0wCrNUzjPYR9W4MRgSlFzJig/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+101712.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">F-14s bring the fight to the enemy.</td></tr>
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Another Flagon is shot down. One of my F-14s is shot down by a Flagon--an embarrassment. I shoot down another Flagon and dodge a few SAMs from Banak before my F-14s, all low on fuel, have to head home.<br />
<br />
I launch another strike against Bardufoss, and as my aircraft takeoff and form up, I get reports that Soviet ground forces have engaged the NATO ground forces.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguFH1UoPW3a4ZOai0Ew_72vPDNlAA5pR34HCjTkxoYdnG_a5SUJ_dfoM8UfznauezLg8bZ1Bq4hL8koNj5BjFRMnRVOCyxiPDmrshO-Y090qIXOMltmsJmNeCMBtnSsYDoY6KOSt7p-M/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+103102.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="812" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjguFH1UoPW3a4ZOai0Ew_72vPDNlAA5pR34HCjTkxoYdnG_a5SUJ_dfoM8UfznauezLg8bZ1Bq4hL8koNj5BjFRMnRVOCyxiPDmrshO-Y090qIXOMltmsJmNeCMBtnSsYDoY6KOSt7p-M/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+103102.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Soviet ground attack has begun</td></tr>
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My platoon of M48 tanks annihilates a BMP-1, and a platoon of M113s take out another BMP-1, and then things are happening almost too fast to follow. It is clear a furious land battle rages.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2aDZhUVxa80LvCuCWwNasM5cPFmcfDXek0lX-OthKWvvwEJE28-t3MnLYOjrx9gDQgVzSaivN4q_PtdzesXcehfo7GGiP1vnyyd0yDKU88O1RjJYAmT-9lut7cNMTY0Z3-_BwTFvsxM/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+103250.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="638" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin2aDZhUVxa80LvCuCWwNasM5cPFmcfDXek0lX-OthKWvvwEJE28-t3MnLYOjrx9gDQgVzSaivN4q_PtdzesXcehfo7GGiP1vnyyd0yDKU88O1RjJYAmT-9lut7cNMTY0Z3-_BwTFvsxM/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+103250.jpg" width="306" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The land battle rages as my tanks engage Soviet Motorized Infantry.</td></tr>
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Relatively quickly I eliminate the Soviet attack, and turn my attention to the skies again. My strikes are airborne, as are relief for my CAP. The Soviets have two Tu-95s airborne, however, and I need to eliminate them before they can detect my CVBGs. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxhb60hk_2RQSqPxcBX8aRRiY08I2vjU3uKYomROS0sX53B_GwLNQ86NPOFiY1RMCuWTMMB274EOIEXeJOgPMyWDK6Oz0JQdqUDMW8lU-SZpagGylilLbUfn6MGDxn90voc7eBAFhsW8/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+104526.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="727" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxhb60hk_2RQSqPxcBX8aRRiY08I2vjU3uKYomROS0sX53B_GwLNQ86NPOFiY1RMCuWTMMB274EOIEXeJOgPMyWDK6Oz0JQdqUDMW8lU-SZpagGylilLbUfn6MGDxn90voc7eBAFhsW8/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+104526.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The F-14s engage the Bears.</td></tr>
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The Bears are both shot down, getting nowhere near my CVBGs.<br />
<br />
North of Narvik, the ground battle still rages. Fortunately, Soviet units seem to be arriving piecemeal, allowing my ground forces to pound them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm8fh6lohHccomJLOP-JEaAh7IP4tLGo-gmVu2lMkknErwCly2TrQdq8j9vB5_s3nQFTa3pK33EXghraZNCcov-VMxDF_FsVLhCiV6uwdVZA4o_YeJRhwvbjKsTN7LrFV18JbstrOY2A/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+105128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="777" data-original-width="862" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgm8fh6lohHccomJLOP-JEaAh7IP4tLGo-gmVu2lMkknErwCly2TrQdq8j9vB5_s3nQFTa3pK33EXghraZNCcov-VMxDF_FsVLhCiV6uwdVZA4o_YeJRhwvbjKsTN7LrFV18JbstrOY2A/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+105128.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soviet armored units arrive.</td></tr>
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The tanks are destroyed easily enough, but Soviet aircraft appear over the area. They turn out to be MiG-23s, circling the area but not dropping any bombs. I suspect they can't find any targets. My units shoot some AA fire, and a lucky shot downs one of them. Soon after, the MiG-23s bomb an 12.7mm AAA section, destroying it.<br />
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<b>111107Z </b>My strike on Bardufoss begins their attack runs, focusing solely on the runways, and led by a pair of A-7s with Mk84 2000lb bombs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18Sn31w7mhGTAWRwX7zZcq6I6RNuZVLdLEFcWoQhB234vZ3b8GmpleG09W8Skil1FUoSvelNWmYcD9-8yXXhQumP4QEvU2Ihxw40s-gH5oXMNlJ-oCwRZCORkyEry87_b85-WL67alwY/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+111130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="647" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj18Sn31w7mhGTAWRwX7zZcq6I6RNuZVLdLEFcWoQhB234vZ3b8GmpleG09W8Skil1FUoSvelNWmYcD9-8yXXhQumP4QEvU2Ihxw40s-gH5oXMNlJ-oCwRZCORkyEry87_b85-WL67alwY/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+111130.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Targeting the runways</td></tr>
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Soon after, some F-14s get in range of the MiG-23s that have been harassing my ground troops. The MiGs fly very low, and as such they frequently are masked by the terrain, causing the F-14's Sparrows to lose track and miss. Finally, one tracks and hits, but not before the crew of an M48 Patton shoots another down with its .50-cal machine gun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKE-KnOQQg0UmLNZpZ9HrxgT5NbCl38LxHy2QZhKnZWvRSTQ5IAfjohZW0IkPYF-CSJcjb_ATUPS9ApVEnF23OfWIsVR-_IVUFvHqPrBQjNJAkFeTmKyqvbSXAIwipZNto4w-_jMAhf2U/s1600/kresta1-DNST9100399.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="888" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKE-KnOQQg0UmLNZpZ9HrxgT5NbCl38LxHy2QZhKnZWvRSTQ5IAfjohZW0IkPYF-CSJcjb_ATUPS9ApVEnF23OfWIsVR-_IVUFvHqPrBQjNJAkFeTmKyqvbSXAIwipZNto4w-_jMAhf2U/s320/kresta1-DNST9100399.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kresta II </td></tr>
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A while back I sent a RA-5C Vigilante on a recon mission to identify the surface contacts, and it IDs one as a Kresta I CG, the <i>Vice Admiral Drozd</i>. The second vessel is another CG, and my Vigilante is soon Engaged Defensive as the two Soviet vessels launch SAMs. The second vessel is a Kresta II. The Vigilante dodges the SAMs and quickly maneuvers out of range. I immediately plan a strike against the two vessels.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-1R-rsW3KvoqHgFkF1QLzH3bG8daTe4MhmCFA_knxsyn3VMbxf-j9lB2gn_mw6Zhsk18rfKE1cdviYunDFWMQWZSbLUB0HTeMo3AfHzHwrJZN_IND3skanLcX8ncBgc7QBFrI5ROBOk/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+112512.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="1375" height="143" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-1R-rsW3KvoqHgFkF1QLzH3bG8daTe4MhmCFA_knxsyn3VMbxf-j9lB2gn_mw6Zhsk18rfKE1cdviYunDFWMQWZSbLUB0HTeMo3AfHzHwrJZN_IND3skanLcX8ncBgc7QBFrI5ROBOk/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+112512.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">To the east my Vigilante identifies the Soviet ships</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My F-14s close in to the latest pair of Tu-95 Bears launched for recon, and attacks them down just off the Norwegian coast. There are many Su-15 Flagons in the area, but none are close enough to stop the F-14s.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQl_kKtGH3jtzoMKI6o-1jFkkc2ikdCzf8Jo4J8Ukq2GPP8TLwxZnV0-petagarbaGSd1j5PGM9eUrDklN_DVKI8o4tFoUdp2WEGi1tSAm0NLcm5iwE7fPehJ7IOg2TByNdeDIeU5YUA/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+113107.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="897" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxQl_kKtGH3jtzoMKI6o-1jFkkc2ikdCzf8Jo4J8Ukq2GPP8TLwxZnV0-petagarbaGSd1j5PGM9eUrDklN_DVKI8o4tFoUdp2WEGi1tSAm0NLcm5iwE7fPehJ7IOg2TByNdeDIeU5YUA/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+113107.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Tu-95 is flying seaward with no protection; all of the Soviet fighters as well behind it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My lead Tomcat shoots down one with a Phoenix, misses the second with its Sparrows, and then closes in, and passing the Bear at close range it gets shot down by a very lucky shot by the Bear. Eventually the second Bear is shot down, and another Soviet recon element is wiped out.<br />
<br />
While searching for targets near Bardufoss, my A-7s stumble upon a SA-9b Gaskin platoon, and two of the A-7s are shot down. The second pair of A-7s promptly drop their cluster bombs on the platoon, destroying it.<br />
<br />
North of Narvik, my ground forces come under attack again, and I lose a Mechanized Infantry platoon to Soviet tanks. My armored platoons respond, but so far I cannot locate the attacking forces...<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-11_3.html">Part Three</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-78744365749138080892017-08-01T08:00:00.000-04:002017-08-03T09:39:49.366-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 11: Fire and Brimstone Part 1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvodPaxr8q34usrzRJ7FJ3VAlye6oFncZotqe31NQr-shYKaaVghkNYxUI54Iam2dETYTdKMmfYMNRuOD048I8zmCKBET6iBj0avErnr9nXrpAw6NiDpw6N3LF-A8ZJp3_2B593oUZUY/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirvodPaxr8q34usrzRJ7FJ3VAlye6oFncZotqe31NQr-shYKaaVghkNYxUI54Iam2dETYTdKMmfYMNRuOD048I8zmCKBET6iBj0avErnr9nXrpAw6NiDpw6N3LF-A8ZJp3_2B593oUZUY/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a>
<strong>Introduction</strong><br />
The Buccaneers of the Ark Royal CVBG successfully attacked Soviet airfields with WE.177 nuclear bombs - but the carrier group did not survive the operation. Cornered off Bear Island between multiple Soviet submarines and subjected to a barrage of nuclear-tipped torpedoes and cruise missiles, the Ark Royal group has been eliminated.<br />
<br />
Now on station to the north-east of Jan Mayen Island are the Saratoga and John F. Kennedy carrier groups. Their primary role now is to support NATO land forces to stem and turn back the Soviet units present in the north of Narvik.<br />
<br />
Two airfields are now in Soviet hands, Banak and Bardufoss, providing critical air support to their land operations. <br />
<br />
Norwegian Army units have engaged in fierce delaying actions to slow down every step of the invaders' advance. The defending Norwegian brigades have been decimated by continuous Soviet attacks, and the only remaining viable formation is the hollowed-out 15th Infantry Brigade supported by USMC, Royal Marine and Dutch Marine units.<br />
<br />
This polyglot tactical group and the remains of a few tank units with M48 tanks and M113 APCs are holding the line 20 miles from
Narvik; but they are short on men, equipment and supplies. The next big Soviet push may well dislodge them out of the area altogether. To prevent collapse of the front, the Saratoga and John F. Kennedy CVBG's have been tasked to support these units.<br />
<br />
The two carrier groups, tied down to a finite area by necessity (to support the ground troops) instead of roaming free in the open sea, could hardly go unnoticed by Soviet surveillance. Numerous Tu-16 Badger and Tu-22M Backfire bomber squadrons have been redeployed from the quiet Southern Front to nearby airfields. These fresh and unhurt units, trained and equipped for the task of destroying NATO carrier groups, will now attempt to do just that.<br />
<br />
Can the carrier groups protect themselves while also holding the line in Norway?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<strong>Situation</strong><br />
At present the 15th Infantry Brigade and the remains of 3 Cdo Brigade are holding the line 20 miles from north of Narvik. With the few remaining tank units they are attempting to stop the Soviet horde from taking Narvik.<br />
<br />
The Saratoga and John F. Kennedy CVBGs have been tasked to support the 15th Infantry Brigade by suppression of Soviet mech-infantry and armoured units in the surrounding area.<br />
<br />
Bardufoss with MiG-23 Flogger and Banak with MiG-21 Fishbed aircraft are also in Soviet hands and will need to be neutralized.<br />
<br />
Soviet naval and air units are also on high alert to stop the transit of both CVBGs to the area of operations.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP3vamjbcj4NEeWmG40W0MuUUBQ703qUUEJpMKmvj4i2Co4U2ETXEKQ8fDbl5mlmZfYhysgkYvgJeYI9POFiBWu93wa0_XfYatXr2nA5PddW_vIC4QQkiPFMPNT1XVY1TeVlJxDSCKbc/s1600/Banak+Recon+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="545" data-original-width="873" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP3vamjbcj4NEeWmG40W0MuUUBQ703qUUEJpMKmvj4i2Co4U2ETXEKQ8fDbl5mlmZfYhysgkYvgJeYI9POFiBWu93wa0_XfYatXr2nA5PddW_vIC4QQkiPFMPNT1XVY1TeVlJxDSCKbc/s320/Banak+Recon+Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Banak air base</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<strong>Enemy Forces</strong><br />
<div class="auto-style2">
<br />
Surface : Two surface
groups remain undetected in the area around Spitsbergen.<br />
<br />
Air : SNA and
PVO units known to be on high alert, they are as follows:</div>
<ul>
<li>Tu-16Z Badger A Tanker
</li>
<li>Tu-16P Badger H Chaff Layer
</li>
<li>Tu-16P Badger J Jammer
</li>
<li>Tu-95MR Bear E Photo Recon
</li>
<li>Tu-95RT Bear D MRR
</li>
<li>Tu-22M Backfire B Strike
</li>
<li>Tu-16K-10-26P Badger C Mod Strike
</li>
<li>MiG-23BN Flogger H Attack
</li>
<li>MiG-21SM Fishbed J Fighter </li>
</ul>
Subsurface : SSN, SSGN and SSK remain unlocalized in your area.<br />
<br />
Ground
Forces : 37th Motorised Rifle Division, with supporting armour and
artillery.<br />
<br />
SAM-AAA : SA-6, SA-9 and AAA systems reported around Bardufoss
and Banak airfields, Red Army units with AAA and SA-7
SAMs.<br />
<br />
<strong>Friendly Forces</strong><br />
Carrier Strike Group
One : USS Saratoga CV, USS Albany CG, USS Richmond K. Turner CG, USS Sampson
DDG, USS Lawrence DDG, USS Morton DD,USS Garcia FFH, USS Truett FFH, USS Detroit
AOE, USS San Diego AFS.<br />
<br />
Carrier Strike Group Three : USS John F. Kennedy
CV, USS California CGN, USS Wainwright CG, USS Mitscher DDG, USS Brumby FFH, USS
Francis Hammond FFH, USS Neosho AO, USS Mount Baker AE.<br />
<br />
RAF
Mildenhall<br />
<ul>
<li>55th SRW (RC-135 Rivet Joint)
</li>
<li>117th TRS-ANG (RB-57) </li>
</ul>
Evenes<br />
<ul>
<li>1 Sqn (GR.3 Harrier) </li>
</ul>
Bodo<br />
<ul>
<li>54 Sqn (GR.1 Jaguar) </li>
</ul>
<strong>Mission</strong><br />
1. Conduct strikes against Bardufoss and Banak airfields.<br />
2. Once located, engage and destroy the 37th Motorized Division and
supporting units.<br />
3. Locate and destroy Red Banner Fleet units in your area.<br />
4. Detect
and neutralize Soviet submarines in your area.<br />
<div class="auto-style1">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14EXfwUrR-3qr0CgS1sMbTpB8rIms3Y69p9ogbbRKRoUwTPUZG-xF8AE7Gtik4lsOk61Ps21t2RlzA7YzUZcirbGz7P1PB316GKKWDY5ZsE4q4lgbSAY5hQQf6z9w9HdcYxBe4GfObkM/s1600/Bardufoss+Recon+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="935" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj14EXfwUrR-3qr0CgS1sMbTpB8rIms3Y69p9ogbbRKRoUwTPUZG-xF8AE7Gtik4lsOk61Ps21t2RlzA7YzUZcirbGz7P1PB316GKKWDY5ZsE4q4lgbSAY5hQQf6z9w9HdcYxBe4GfObkM/s320/Bardufoss+Recon+Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Bardufoss air base</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<strong>Execution</strong><br />
1. Saratoga and John F. Kennedy carrier
groups to take up station as per patrol boxes.<br />
2. Nuclear Release
authorised on ASW and AAW weapons, NOT on strike weapons.<br />
3. Conduct
operations as per Mission Briefing.<br />
4. Use Recon and ELINT assets at RAF
Mildenhall to locate Soviet forces.<br />
<br />
<strong>Command and EMCON</strong><br />
Command: USS Saratoga<br />
EMCON: alpha-limited
emissions.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgq6obwprrAzUrmLf7Cxh9TvN4ZoxPZEhmpPo_Or89pDoELPKJB3vSlGv8EMMucfh-3pYOd6TuaeiSJ_a8UQoiH9tbulPPNtn83FgJT9ZCLfkufrhPcoDjp_6suhMxjX8s3pkRgX0kmvY/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+060000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="1169" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgq6obwprrAzUrmLf7Cxh9TvN4ZoxPZEhmpPo_Or89pDoELPKJB3vSlGv8EMMucfh-3pYOd6TuaeiSJ_a8UQoiH9tbulPPNtn83FgJT9ZCLfkufrhPcoDjp_6suhMxjX8s3pkRgX0kmvY/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+060000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial Positions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>October 2, 1975, 0600Z </b><br />
This is a daunting mission. So daunting it's hard to know where to begin. I need to support NATO ground forces by locating and destroying the Soviet 37th Motorized Division. That's easy enough. But I also need to conduct strikes on Bardufoss and Banak airfields. Okay, more strikes is fine. But I also have to worry about Soviet submarines. That goes with the territory. Soviet subs are everywhere, all the time. But I also have to worry about two Soviet surface groups. Which undoubtedly I'll have to destroy if I find them. My attack aircraft are going to be working overtime, and to manage it all, so will I. But then, the icing on the cake are the "Numerous Tu-16 Badger and Tu-22M Backfire bomber squadrons have been redeployed...to nearby airfields." Groan. Normally, defending a CVBG against Backfires would be a scenario in itself, and surviving is a victory. But no, I have to not only survive, but kick butt all over Norway. <br />
<br />
Fortunately I have two CVBGs to do it.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4HG1r6NtIvmgp45KAoHFRDKt3ubipyqnVxzSdKvrlHjLH1m8ELuck22m-uqTdWF1Wc4hLxJC7DZNJShqh02r4vdbgZpwfi3zpFXCcypVu3ENqItE19CYGuA1VkZ_8Xt_yQR8QlcxUOs/s1600/USS_John_F._Kennedy_%2528CV-67%2529_and_USS_Saratoga_%2528CV-60%2529_underway_c1991.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1181" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4HG1r6NtIvmgp45KAoHFRDKt3ubipyqnVxzSdKvrlHjLH1m8ELuck22m-uqTdWF1Wc4hLxJC7DZNJShqh02r4vdbgZpwfi3zpFXCcypVu3ENqItE19CYGuA1VkZ_8Xt_yQR8QlcxUOs/s320/USS_John_F._Kennedy_%2528CV-67%2529_and_USS_Saratoga_%2528CV-60%2529_underway_c1991.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>John F. Kennedy</i> and USS <i>Saratoga</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After looking over my assets for a bit, I start to tackle things methodically. Force protection is always a primary concern, so I set up ASW patrols around my carriers and on their projected course. Next I set up AWACS support missions. After that comes some CAP aircraft--some F-14s from the <i>JFK</i> will handle that. I have 36 hours until the scenario completes, but there is no sense in waiting. I will launch an immediate strike against Bardufoss.<br />
<br />
<b>060019Z </b>Before I even begin to plan out the strike, I detect a surface contact, and then shortly after an airborne contact, which turns out to be a Ka-25Ts Hormone B. Perhaps I will have to deal with the Soviet surface forces first.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnXMpGJmElZ8mcOQVi_a4mWNFZBVNnTv0yToY3g-m8v1mvyaAKYeOCWh_oFXwXs4VErjd3atsvm9TPEZdqquLz9HyBuP9muAhTFliZpVGxykaHQuwSHsEK5nS1N48l3iD5Dsq4sUhBcA/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+060245.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="832" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnXMpGJmElZ8mcOQVi_a4mWNFZBVNnTv0yToY3g-m8v1mvyaAKYeOCWh_oFXwXs4VErjd3atsvm9TPEZdqquLz9HyBuP9muAhTFliZpVGxykaHQuwSHsEK5nS1N48l3iD5Dsq4sUhBcA/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+060245.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enemy contacts appear</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>060453Z</b> More contacts are appearing all over the place. Multiple airborne contacts are detected near Bardufoss, likely MiG-21s which are planning on striking the NATO ground forces. A Tu-95MR Bear E (Photo Recon) is detected south of Spitzbergen, while a Tu-95RT Bear D (Maritime Recon) is detected between the CVBGs and the Greenland coast. I'm going to need to send out some aircraft to take care of those snoopers. I launch a pair of F-4s from the <i>Saratoga</i> to go after them.<br />
<br />
There are nine MiG-21s flying near Bardufoss. I launch a Recon F-8 Crusader from <i>Saratoga</i> to head near Bardufoss in the hopes of detecting their ground forces, and also a Harrier GR.1 from Evenes Air Base to do the same. As soon as I have detected the ground forces, I can launch strikes from Evenes and Bodo.<br />
<br />
I lose contact with the MiG-21s, and it almost looked like they were heading northwest, towards my carriers. I launch some A-7Es with Shrikes to go for Bodo, and then USS <i>Richmond K. Turner</i> detects a subsurface contact, close to the <i>Saratoga</i> battle group. Things are getting busy very quickly.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84r3RJdgmbtPe3VvUeCNC6ID3kaMCOiYNfWX_VhfON20w8ISyLAnWbIpR2hoPNb8_4BXhkBnSgq5g6NwHsj2GjA8eP6pxtG6CWT95i0ht0vj2DLI2-PBeb8zDcvPGMKW7Zh-gX1ugA7c/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+062537.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="821" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi84r3RJdgmbtPe3VvUeCNC6ID3kaMCOiYNfWX_VhfON20w8ISyLAnWbIpR2hoPNb8_4BXhkBnSgq5g6NwHsj2GjA8eP6pxtG6CWT95i0ht0vj2DLI2-PBeb8zDcvPGMKW7Zh-gX1ugA7c/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+062537.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Things are getting busy...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My Phantom tasked to take out the Tu-95RT Bear D closes in to missile range, lights off its radar, and shoots down the snooper.<br />
<br />
<b>063026Z </b>My recon Harrier near Bardufoss picks up some enemy forces, but then is fired upon by SAMs.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFNEq-Wq2N6VRC-DtN6cXtulBnSXLkVmUysFErXreP5V6u6d2R_GjOxdczOsznUbHRbKFuuV36V2wFsa9M4tordPnsNxMJP40wkI0c3kquJfM_vxzyY0JJ6sXXr2jDYnWcSujZ_P2ctA/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="795" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfFNEq-Wq2N6VRC-DtN6cXtulBnSXLkVmUysFErXreP5V6u6d2R_GjOxdczOsznUbHRbKFuuV36V2wFsa9M4tordPnsNxMJP40wkI0c3kquJfM_vxzyY0JJ6sXXr2jDYnWcSujZ_P2ctA/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063026.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SAMs are launched at my Harrier</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Fortunately the two SAMs miss, and the Harrier IDs it as an SA-6a Gainful Battalion.<br />
<br />
Near the <i>Saratoga</i> battle group, one of my Sea Sprites drops on the subsurface contact, which turns out to be a Zulu IV submarine. At nearly the same time, my F-14s launch missiles against a Bear E and a Hormone.<br />
<br />
The second torpedo kills the Zulu IV SSK.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOBdTEigLCVU4JLiWuOVJrkddCweuPSBwTFtL3ZCqnxJoQsmFNKY2Dbg-Sjfh3Pop8B6AsIWEPxMfBkt456bCB6MfnDoVoT-08CoaXrcZVsyJdtkXcYJbsz9RvP4_PvFfZHt8Mh5jDjA/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063420.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1480" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOBdTEigLCVU4JLiWuOVJrkddCweuPSBwTFtL3ZCqnxJoQsmFNKY2Dbg-Sjfh3Pop8B6AsIWEPxMfBkt456bCB6MfnDoVoT-08CoaXrcZVsyJdtkXcYJbsz9RvP4_PvFfZHt8Mh5jDjA/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063420.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Zulu IV is sunk.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Literally less than a second later, 300nm away, the Bear E is shot down.<br />
<br />
My E-2C Hawkeyes get on station, and I light off their radars. My earlier suspicions about the MiG-21s are correct, as I detect large amounts of aircraft to the southeast--apparently they're looking for the carriers. I also detect some surface units near Bear Island.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHbAOdzubV2kyS47zEgAxozDzLKHb1AkOaQsZmNtqMJEm0cWSo4EiMdSCU0c4A0ZYUGxuYaRdE68FVb331tZlNlqBro2jgIPF-_HdPy6y_BflIkj3kpzqZ9g9qboam2ENGm7xAI3VleA/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063636.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="1141" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHbAOdzubV2kyS47zEgAxozDzLKHb1AkOaQsZmNtqMJEm0cWSo4EiMdSCU0c4A0ZYUGxuYaRdE68FVb331tZlNlqBro2jgIPF-_HdPy6y_BflIkj3kpzqZ9g9qboam2ENGm7xAI3VleA/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063636.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I detect three Vampires headed towards my ground forces.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRc6JNs-w3GfBZE6MUReySELnOKtGL7rMJOyarURLT2WMbJY1x_bWe_WHs22Rn8ZK-p2yFYfpl_Z50sIp97Qhv3HbLxit89FEfTrcmo0mDTTwb_l-_3QIBwXUl9ii8nZdgYzYLvNU96Bs/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063807.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1019" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRc6JNs-w3GfBZE6MUReySELnOKtGL7rMJOyarURLT2WMbJY1x_bWe_WHs22Rn8ZK-p2yFYfpl_Z50sIp97Qhv3HbLxit89FEfTrcmo0mDTTwb_l-_3QIBwXUl9ii8nZdgYzYLvNU96Bs/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063807.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vampires inbound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I lose contact with the vampires, but then I detect them again heading towards Evenes Airbase.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsXs1QfaQKooFavd_b4oX_R2oPw5dWvXaMzFpPnJJo63vSAFGSKR8Bolbv5koFpYYyujQaybLp0t9o1axo2TCFyUfhBd-eSj5DO3ts20DNtJ1rRqHKqbRWw6DwW8Wv5idMzbKJHatdc8/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063931.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="870" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKsXs1QfaQKooFavd_b4oX_R2oPw5dWvXaMzFpPnJJo63vSAFGSKR8Bolbv5koFpYYyujQaybLp0t9o1axo2TCFyUfhBd-eSj5DO3ts20DNtJ1rRqHKqbRWw6DwW8Wv5idMzbKJHatdc8/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063931.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vampires inbound!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Based on Soviet actions in the past, I'm worried they might be nukes. They are FROG-7 cruise missiles, which are nuclear capable...fortunately, they are FROG-7bs, which is the conventional version.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGXvuApEWuljdc8itgj7NtLaaZ15cjkWMVrWTS5tbd3l3zmXOkWRshifwIRB4GOHA5qwyR-6aXsgljtrxvBWAwIMEN2vzGh850cHi4gzf4DrVsBRtqBSvIhW9QkBAVe_bbcGgMcBisqCQ/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063947.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="1464" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGXvuApEWuljdc8itgj7NtLaaZ15cjkWMVrWTS5tbd3l3zmXOkWRshifwIRB4GOHA5qwyR-6aXsgljtrxvBWAwIMEN2vzGh850cHi4gzf4DrVsBRtqBSvIhW9QkBAVe_bbcGgMcBisqCQ/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+063947.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The F-14s on CAP attack the inbounds</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The inbound fighters seem to be maneuvering towards whatever they can detect. Meanwhile, my Hawkeyes detect some Su-15MF Flagon Ds north of Banak, perhaps going after my CAP as well.<br />
<br />
<b>064116Z</b> A Phoenix launched from one of my F-15s splashes one MiG-21SM Fishbed J. Soon after another Phoenix downs a Fishbed.<br />
<br />
By this time all of my ready F-14s are already airbone, and it will be some 2 hours and 17 minutes before the next group is ready. I will have to rely on <i>Saratoga</i>'s F-4 Phantoms to supplement the CAP. <br />
<br />
Two more Fishbeds are downed, and the Flagons are moving in from the southeast.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6cY0tacskuyfkynu13IecMNKzlzTmIPzG5o9H-n5w_c4Gvp9XjDwJLO1feX0NFzukAqLnP-tjObHn_J53zBSMxoyUOf_KTROk0oKX71O-Alvf_nMSKxCO6VyK_JW5ESQ2n_o2FfmeW0/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+064511.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="763" data-original-width="1406" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv6cY0tacskuyfkynu13IecMNKzlzTmIPzG5o9H-n5w_c4Gvp9XjDwJLO1feX0NFzukAqLnP-tjObHn_J53zBSMxoyUOf_KTROk0oKX71O-Alvf_nMSKxCO6VyK_JW5ESQ2n_o2FfmeW0/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+064511.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">F-14s deal with the Fishbeds while the Flagons move in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Before my F-14s can get in range of the Flagons, they turn and head for home, possibly low on fuel.<br />
<br />
<b>070212Z </b>While dodging SAMs, my Recon Harrier is shot down over Bardufoss by a ZSU-57 57mm AA gun.<br />
<br />
One of my F-4s from <i>Saratoga</i> shoots down a pair of Fishbeds before heading home.<br />
<br />
<b>071946Z </b>It looks like a raid might be shaping up. A Bear D and a Bear E are closing in on my CVBGs, and many other aircraft are behind, but so far it appears they might be Flagons. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2r6jooH6CD_58qVWIgaRaWkLDtUqOhzCgTj9i8QaZy3dcAGXFeIiZde9PQQwZPkWdB6qNaAzha9PliuHw36aVlRuSq3tMVC77ynFMExM8n0259D5Jm8Mq-O3-nEydVw7_IDacwPdwIM/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+071946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="997" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe2r6jooH6CD_58qVWIgaRaWkLDtUqOhzCgTj9i8QaZy3dcAGXFeIiZde9PQQwZPkWdB6qNaAzha9PliuHw36aVlRuSq3tMVC77ynFMExM8n0259D5Jm8Mq-O3-nEydVw7_IDacwPdwIM/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+071946.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A raid might be shaping up to the east</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I shoot down the Bear D, and my Fighters are going after the Bear E, but my strike is closing in on Bardufoss so I have to check in on that. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGmZdvJ3vdQsQDm_K_lQ2LTxRg1z3ptXt39bVXUglZPW8AjIZV-s76Xt4CmE5A8d5QOgdAvJthSVvbBfiU9xTL8lLjiXhtpb5QEGoVAKPmg4Lw6a8Cgm7nIbQEbvH2MNOJ2wcqmdeOUU/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+073109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="956" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGGmZdvJ3vdQsQDm_K_lQ2LTxRg1z3ptXt39bVXUglZPW8AjIZV-s76Xt4CmE5A8d5QOgdAvJthSVvbBfiU9xTL8lLjiXhtpb5QEGoVAKPmg4Lw6a8Cgm7nIbQEbvH2MNOJ2wcqmdeOUU/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+073109.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My strike moves in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My A-7s damage the SA-6 battery with their Shrikes, and then my Intruders do some minor damage to Bardufoss. A pair Harriers out of Evenes attack next, further damaging the SA-6 battery, and another pair of Harriers take out an M1939 85mm air defense gun.<br />
<br />
Next inbound are a pair of Jaguars out of Bodo, and a pair of A-7s from <i>Saratoga</i> carrying Walleyes.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5Y_Ez8zgeITw7mFZBgp-Tj3OzgTzmKbMrbnJfL5tvqH2x3RyH5qWezC7lUktfvcqWGtqQHp4fJVq52eqq78O3PZdS0djOYP2vn0rQ8u-4CzKDnjkA8BcoLkoiEjP-Sd-wJRyqiHO8tk/s1600/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+074347.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="901" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs5Y_Ez8zgeITw7mFZBgp-Tj3OzgTzmKbMrbnJfL5tvqH2x3RyH5qWezC7lUktfvcqWGtqQHp4fJVq52eqq78O3PZdS0djOYP2vn0rQ8u-4CzKDnjkA8BcoLkoiEjP-Sd-wJRyqiHO8tk/s320/Fire+and+Brimstone+02+074347.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More strikes inbound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My Walleyes hit the underground Ammo dump at Bardufoss, destroying it. The Jaguars have difficulty localizing their target, and maneuver over the area, taking lots of fire as they try to locate it. One of the Jaguars is shot down, so I reassign them. (that is, unassign them from the mission, remove the troublesome target from the target list, and then reassign them to the same mission, and they automatically choose another target) It has difficulties locating this target too, but at least it's not under continuous anti-aircraft fire while it searches.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6OzEF52sAVxZd_SZDfL0_aE8LONraiWWKbScYaPkn2L74TDA_f_LEcSKVZhp107srnPc31arMyZWWLa8fQbO_LBe0pSjV1COsewN-pczqrbyVVXsmQS0JI1-vfxmzvezgBCRIeavIz3k/s1600/Jaguar_GR3_6Sqn_RAF_2000.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6OzEF52sAVxZd_SZDfL0_aE8LONraiWWKbScYaPkn2L74TDA_f_LEcSKVZhp107srnPc31arMyZWWLa8fQbO_LBe0pSjV1COsewN-pczqrbyVVXsmQS0JI1-vfxmzvezgBCRIeavIz3k/s320/Jaguar_GR3_6Sqn_RAF_2000.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RAF Jaguar attack aircraft</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eventually the Jaguars locate and destroy some tanks. Other strike aircraft miss their targets. I've managed to damage the Soviet forces a bit, but the area will definitely need followup strikes. It will be an hour before more strike aircraft are ready on <i>Saratoga</i>, and four hours for the Harriers and Jaguars in Norway. For the moment the skies are quiet. But that may be about to change...<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/08/command-northern-inferno-scenario-11_2.html">Part Two</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-28036192870438599642017-07-31T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-31T08:00:18.384-04:00BoldrDash Winterdash 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1o9qWuSLt-VJKFGnL3NSdBIqz4KBPAV5ffs_KCgAGFUIF9tZ3vOagrEwE-Ns44DqgYLZQgjKc9Lc_mJySCa77BnSj3mmvSLjsx9qzX3-wlSFAeVJubJIcnCilZs7AhaUhyphenhyphen9YLjBmZe8/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="181" data-original-width="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT1o9qWuSLt-VJKFGnL3NSdBIqz4KBPAV5ffs_KCgAGFUIF9tZ3vOagrEwE-Ns44DqgYLZQgjKc9Lc_mJySCa77BnSj3mmvSLjsx9qzX3-wlSFAeVJubJIcnCilZs7AhaUhyphenhyphen9YLjBmZe8/s1600/logo.png" /></a></div>
<b>March 4, 2017</b><br />
I did the <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2016/03/boldrdash-winterdash.html">BoldrDash WinterDash in 2016</a> by myself, and this year I decided to do the family race with my 8-year-old daughter. In the day or so leading up to the event, I wasn't "feeling it," but in the end I'm glad I went because it went fine and my daughter and I had fun.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The weather was cold, but we had dressed for it and knew that we would warm up once we got moving. With each of these races my daughter, while still skipping many obstacles, is trying more and more of them, and it is good to see her confidence grow along with her physical skills.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XGEQskIj_wngMJB-xhRhLUMcbqJo0eXiTItO9lE3FAY1xvzmrc3OnFejHnVtfxn91WKjWhasV7bsU_S8TIwYEg1ImOBtrHPeiixlF7BIAYD5Z-qju-vRe8Sy5BGwcECulqELu3Hours/s1600/17190743_10212596542088105_5639345031608233025_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="641" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XGEQskIj_wngMJB-xhRhLUMcbqJo0eXiTItO9lE3FAY1xvzmrc3OnFejHnVtfxn91WKjWhasV7bsU_S8TIwYEg1ImOBtrHPeiixlF7BIAYD5Z-qju-vRe8Sy5BGwcECulqELu3Hours/s320/17190743_10212596542088105_5639345031608233025_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Conquering the monkey bars</td></tr>
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At times within the race we were just hiking in the woods, so it was more than just a race, it was some quality Daddy-daughter time. We also took the time for a photo-op at the bridge over part of the lake that makes up part of the course.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifeK1aPiIEMQZq7FGWVF7wtpnY1D0OnZqWH82h4hRbIVTFEI2O45gjekMEhDBKvVlFKSUjFCRkS4_ZrRDXyXoBpQ7xBjY67JqErkVseyqPo33CVQJyEULV6fk2GttqzAJgmsL2YI1kTZg/s1600/17098400_10212549462231138_2288715951147826180_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="663" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifeK1aPiIEMQZq7FGWVF7wtpnY1D0OnZqWH82h4hRbIVTFEI2O45gjekMEhDBKvVlFKSUjFCRkS4_ZrRDXyXoBpQ7xBjY67JqErkVseyqPo33CVQJyEULV6fk2GttqzAJgmsL2YI1kTZg/s320/17098400_10212549462231138_2288715951147826180_n.jpg" width="221" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Near a waterfall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NAuJ6ZmZ89TJ-H7atVCCN4Rikk0Cit5kIhGzqxUp_G1X2Gc0ezHZ0Q9jjZfnEYiBubjNfgecp1Jv8Hnoxa9KmLmWMNiz5k0hg3g5ni5ncnrDwL-mWxdE0EqssOr6K3IWOVOtRy8cJNE/s1600/17021986_10212549462911155_4411979563460379316_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="752" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NAuJ6ZmZ89TJ-H7atVCCN4Rikk0Cit5kIhGzqxUp_G1X2Gc0ezHZ0Q9jjZfnEYiBubjNfgecp1Jv8Hnoxa9KmLmWMNiz5k0hg3g5ni5ncnrDwL-mWxdE0EqssOr6K3IWOVOtRy8cJNE/s320/17021986_10212549462911155_4411979563460379316_n.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking out the lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoBODJMqm7aZwQkfaTmXI_dby9Go87kfokLiJhyphenhyphenTaSPB0epGwI89c6QeRUXu3Pz6GWix55TbtOqlqEWsS162WoTsIDGShNCOxsDDGWDP1rD4A-88caq63KZ8QHmngTS4V_IW1LHW8bvaw/s1600/17156150_10212549461871129_8698891647794354454_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="868" data-original-width="960" height="289" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoBODJMqm7aZwQkfaTmXI_dby9Go87kfokLiJhyphenhyphenTaSPB0epGwI89c6QeRUXu3Pz6GWix55TbtOqlqEWsS162WoTsIDGShNCOxsDDGWDP1rD4A-88caq63KZ8QHmngTS4V_IW1LHW8bvaw/s320/17156150_10212549461871129_8698891647794354454_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Towards the end of the race we made it a competition between us, and we raced together through the last few obstacles. <br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV0nWxntQJH5uT0zSZzw-njOoh6PcGaSZjLpsrdyKU5SUbbDeQwWrdhGjREzTeB5nOUCWuiygTVPJuGUqIKHRo8Zw8itdOfR8nDPbHyNeQwIa1_F4885hAVBagQNhq4VxKLWqhNh9K4Y/s1600/17022489_10212549461591122_6747562413489717513_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTV0nWxntQJH5uT0zSZzw-njOoh6PcGaSZjLpsrdyKU5SUbbDeQwWrdhGjREzTeB5nOUCWuiygTVPJuGUqIKHRo8Zw8itdOfR8nDPbHyNeQwIa1_F4885hAVBagQNhq4VxKLWqhNh9K4Y/s320/17022489_10212549461591122_6747562413489717513_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Afterwards, I wanted to get a picture of my daughter with her medal, but she suddenly became self-conscious so I had to sneak a picture to get anything at all.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmMahwpJ6KpAJVvYpJygfn7_GhhLJ3JWBissTFpvhw4wIrwkYG8MMUtuA3ZKZaUf8JTOdC294NemfoTlUnqO3he7Y1cc_PPyGu97oK8QZqEeFSC8g01iPb53zB5mkFDyQt-I9AkPTSBg/s1600/17022499_10212549461231113_7727688235337293303_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="941" data-original-width="960" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWmMahwpJ6KpAJVvYpJygfn7_GhhLJ3JWBissTFpvhw4wIrwkYG8MMUtuA3ZKZaUf8JTOdC294NemfoTlUnqO3he7Y1cc_PPyGu97oK8QZqEeFSC8g01iPb53zB5mkFDyQt-I9AkPTSBg/s320/17022499_10212549461231113_7727688235337293303_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sneaking in a picture</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-80267748242347285542017-07-26T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-26T08:30:57.234-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 10: An Eye for an Eye<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4832507778586404963" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4832507778586404963" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimHgaKuffFKLJM66smVlr4NolsnxRf8rlf8J3B8iqYOdVJ2Wz_3lCWRSaJ_Z6_LwdI5Ou3xvXeuUuYljtgkdv82vf1uHl01SkL_1xHJ1ueLF2-YFdCtq4Eb8FiMewGusnon9iNJrRY4vw/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a>
<b>Introduction</b><br />
<br />
Despite early warning, the Soviet use of nuclear weapons against mainland UK RAF bases came as a rude shock. The Prime
Minister, with consultation with his Defence Staff, have agreed to order a retaliatiory strike against the Kola Peninsula.<br />
<br />
The use of Polaris SLBMs or Vulcan B.2 bombers for a nuclear strike has been ruled out as their employment could escalate the situation into full-scale nuclear war, and these precious assets need to be withheld as the ultimate bargaining chip.<br />
<br />
The majority of RAF bases in Scotland have been wiped out in a second-wave strike conducted by Soviet SSGNs firing nuclear cruise missiles, and RAF's nuclear-capable Buccaneer strikers in the UK midlands do not have the necessary range to conduct a strike, as recent losses have severely limited tanker support.<br />
<br />
This means that the Fleet Air Arm must undertake the mission. 809 Sqn Buccaneer S.2Ds based on HMS Ark Royal have been ordered to conduct nuclear strikes on the Kola Peninsula.<br />
<br />
The Ark Royal group now enters the Soviet backyard, to deliver the Queen's
vengeance.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
<b>
Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b>
<br />
<strong>Situation</strong><br />
809 Sqn Buccaneers on HMS Ark Royal have
been brought up to strength with additional aircraft from storage after the
recent losses against Northern Fleet units earlier this month.<br />
<br />
Soviet Air defences are estimated as heavy, with various SAM and AAA Systems, backed up
with PVO Fighters.<br />
<br />
Strike targets are the airbase in the Kola Peninsula
which launched strikes on the United Kingdom mainland.<br />
<br />
Projected strike aircraft losses are over 80 percent. We do not expect everyone to come back from
this.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PMyLxeDfV3lHHGLfGZyIHgXJPmjQs1ATvbdczdCnkVmpVQRzmBfPrKE0hZDIF6zw3HGNst4b8z5TFJaoJLK0RJsbBcR5Ex_irn7y5TewDOeut7RXbHhNNhJWypeBu5lra5vSciIlTfA/s1600/Olenegorsk+Recon+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="772" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2PMyLxeDfV3lHHGLfGZyIHgXJPmjQs1ATvbdczdCnkVmpVQRzmBfPrKE0hZDIF6zw3HGNst4b8z5TFJaoJLK0RJsbBcR5Ex_irn7y5TewDOeut7RXbHhNNhJWypeBu5lra5vSciIlTfA/s320/Olenegorsk+Recon+Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Olenegorsk air base</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Enemy Forces</b><br />
SAM Systems : SA-2 Guideline, SA-3 Goa,
SA-5 Gammon.<br />
Air : Su-15 Flagon, Yak-28 Firebar, Tu-128
Fiddler.<br />
Surface : ASW Patrol Craft.<br />
Subsurface : Possible SSN,
SSGN from intel reports.<br />
<br />
<b>Friendly
Forces</b><br />
Carrier Strike Group 2 : HMS Ark Royal CV, HMS Glamorgan
DDG, HMS Sheffield DDG, HMS Berwick FFH, HMS Galatea FFH, HMS Danae FFH, RFA
Resurgent AE, RFA Tidespring AO.<br />
<br />
HMS Ark Royal Air Group:<br />
<ul>
<li>824 Sqn (SeaKing HAS.1)
</li>
<li>809 Sqn (Buccaneer S.2D)
</li>
<li>892 Sqn (Phantom FG.1)
</li>
<li>849 Sqn B Flt (Gannet AEW)
</li>
<li>SAR Flt (Wessex HAS.1) </li>
</ul>
<strong>Mission</strong><br />
Conduct tactical nuclear strikes on the
Soviet air bases of Olenegorsk and Severomorsk-1.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TgTI9w0UEBrfYFqBGDPR44TJRi9dIZeL8dsgNAnqaWZ_L5oHIJuNgLxxcmQLC3eBYgFt-Itl_sNqCjGFFzmPk9wF_UYM-X2IL7vTn0lhwxQVeK_DhSqq7iB0EQYMjD2mUhRL3XZa7nA/s1600/Severomorsk-1+Recon+Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="818" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5TgTI9w0UEBrfYFqBGDPR44TJRi9dIZeL8dsgNAnqaWZ_L5oHIJuNgLxxcmQLC3eBYgFt-Itl_sNqCjGFFzmPk9wF_UYM-X2IL7vTn0lhwxQVeK_DhSqq7iB0EQYMjD2mUhRL3XZa7nA/s320/Severomorsk-1+Recon+Image.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Recon imagery of Severomorsk-1 air base</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Execution</b><br />
1. Two 809 Sqn Buccaneers loaded with
WE.177 to strike Olenegorsk. (Titan 78)<br />
2. Two 809 Sqn Buccaneers loaded with WE.177
to strike Severomorsk-1. (Dusty 79)<br />
3. Eight 809 Sqn Buccaneers configured in the
SEAD-ARM role to clear a path through for the strike package.<br />
4. Two 809
Sqn Buccaneers configured for tanker role.<br />
5. 893 Sqn Phantoms to provide
escort for the strike aircraft.<br />
<br />
<b>Command and EMCON</b><br />
Command: HMS Ark Royal<br />
EMCON: ALPHA Limited
Emissions<br />
<br />
<b>September 26, 1975, 0500Z</b><br />
The <i>Ark Royal</i>'s crew had been hard at work preparing the strike, and the mood was tense.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUV5IIU5EsHmZBdbRv1HUCtLtV1Y2AIOseu1vlICzILsRIzcc0R_P3SfX9yVC-IB4FvpCjEBoIQOkOjGdWtjREtOcchpHzpiKBCWE03GLt3C7205oAfb2zgJYctR62RR9Jau7AHaSfVI/s1600/809_on_Cat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="1024" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeUV5IIU5EsHmZBdbRv1HUCtLtV1Y2AIOseu1vlICzILsRIzcc0R_P3SfX9yVC-IB4FvpCjEBoIQOkOjGdWtjREtOcchpHzpiKBCWE03GLt3C7205oAfb2zgJYctR62RR9Jau7AHaSfVI/s320/809_on_Cat.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Buccaneer of 809 Sqn on the cat</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It took over 20 minutes for the strike package to launch and form up.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXXTzP-QjXX5KLh8xdQvU4mGG0amBM7QbcZZik-PYYVx77uIvVb4l-b2S4iduCLkFHp-1LRou6bR1w0CBmOK3HWXOJAsWZfE_HqlGfsSJMjsngZLaV1K953LgJPT3V45ubDJ86UrJav0/s1600/829sqn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1062" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKXXTzP-QjXX5KLh8xdQvU4mGG0amBM7QbcZZik-PYYVx77uIvVb4l-b2S4iduCLkFHp-1LRou6bR1w0CBmOK3HWXOJAsWZfE_HqlGfsSJMjsngZLaV1K953LgJPT3V45ubDJ86UrJav0/s320/829sqn.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Phantom of 829 Sqn launching</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Gannet AEW detects multiple Su-15MF Flagon Ds, likely a CAP. It's doubtful that the <i>Ark Royal</i>'s position is known.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hzh_NbWwVLx4ULTdOeR_61YeEYsvZOgfsrw5Q7AwmQ_FtbwX5wP3A8WiSXzpdqTcoK4972ncisEhFbbDdY1Lh0EppAC2aicZxUHplupCEu09uDYPq_77d3Ite2jEzw2gCvhCCSfdtvI/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+052551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="859" height="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8hzh_NbWwVLx4ULTdOeR_61YeEYsvZOgfsrw5Q7AwmQ_FtbwX5wP3A8WiSXzpdqTcoK4972ncisEhFbbDdY1Lh0EppAC2aicZxUHplupCEu09uDYPq_77d3Ite2jEzw2gCvhCCSfdtvI/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+052551.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The plan to is fly low and avoid most of the SAM defense</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The plan is to descend at the extent of radar coverage, skirting the edge of SAM range, then make a dash for the targets from the northeast. A straight in run would take the strike right into the teeth of the Soviet air defenses.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmMLW9p4mO0i8Ir4ih5YUvfTVi8neul43_YhZdziACtK_kJLrCWXEwVbUHRgII-RQ5TfF0mGPTasXrkAx-GgqmEzRuHP9feBjoJInmTL_VWeU4Pcnma3yRo1Dxj6cMz3dy5cqs0W71aI/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="835" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmMLW9p4mO0i8Ir4ih5YUvfTVi8neul43_YhZdziACtK_kJLrCWXEwVbUHRgII-RQ5TfF0mGPTasXrkAx-GgqmEzRuHP9feBjoJInmTL_VWeU4Pcnma3yRo1Dxj6cMz3dy5cqs0W71aI/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053209.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multiple air and surface contacts are detected</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There are perhaps 16 air contacts and 5 surface contacts.<br />
<br />
<b>053518Z</b> It looks like the interceptors aren't waiting for me to get too close.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TWVCxK23XyO7oGPLZkL8_fb3FGp5QYG8VvxFQyvY_98DaCXihQNvxPs2iKNWJDVjuwiJlkwLVhTXINK-84U6Hv108wpFpyZ-zAQAp_aoi0YW_Ahc2AvDRqtMgsJ81D_uEo0hYalkHLk/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="781" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TWVCxK23XyO7oGPLZkL8_fb3FGp5QYG8VvxFQyvY_98DaCXihQNvxPs2iKNWJDVjuwiJlkwLVhTXINK-84U6Hv108wpFpyZ-zAQAp_aoi0YW_Ahc2AvDRqtMgsJ81D_uEo0hYalkHLk/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053518.jpg" width="309" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first interceptors show up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The interceptor count increases to six.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEl8edM6uS7TRuW11x1T5cCNEn0-KxKARJIdM7UBa5amK2eM27EkYyNPLGG0PPAHhQQ86CoK9dt197dPKiZm22N9apOjipmJHGFm8MPIyj20AF0GV_LLqXyS3Mfu28pTErj0dq3I7IzpY/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="772" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEl8edM6uS7TRuW11x1T5cCNEn0-KxKARJIdM7UBa5amK2eM27EkYyNPLGG0PPAHhQQ86CoK9dt197dPKiZm22N9apOjipmJHGFm8MPIyj20AF0GV_LLqXyS3Mfu28pTErj0dq3I7IzpY/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053624.jpg" width="303" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Interceptor count is six</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
They aren't behaving as if they have detected the strike yet. The Phantoms, all twelve of them, move to intercept the interceptors.<br />
<br />
To prevent them from burning up too much fuel, I slow my interceptors to cruise, and I set my strike package to loiter to give the interceptors time to get a little lead. I also start decreasing their altitude in the hopes of keeping them from being detected a little longer.<br />
<br />
And then, the eight Soviet interceptors all turn and start to leave. Is it because they lost contact with me, or are they low on fuel? My F-4s still have their radars on, so it's hard to tell.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmidif19OTSjba4xILgXpBLNL2A43vKmYH9uoBQ5fVncL682vKvj-nkEqTbfoV7uOdjWRyltcQ6flARxe1PliQH56ylVUe5JV56ClDK7A2LhogWt8dzh8Fkkqy89ujFslwyWO0S1e-fs/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="836" data-original-width="778" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDmidif19OTSjba4xILgXpBLNL2A43vKmYH9uoBQ5fVncL682vKvj-nkEqTbfoV7uOdjWRyltcQ6flARxe1PliQH56ylVUe5JV56ClDK7A2LhogWt8dzh8Fkkqy89ujFslwyWO0S1e-fs/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+053734.jpg" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The interceptors leave?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I order my Fighters to break off and return to their packages. Just before the contacts are lost, they are identified as Yak-28P Firebars. The more distant contacts, some of them anyway, are Su-15 Flagons, identified by their radar emissions. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZz66rseWfIz-ny0wkPzqCYslj8I_RhtBEbQUEjbw65OQPkH74SiYdu25ONpHbzQ1w_yNSi2DGxSPagtTS2eLis-eaU3pOec_JTD25bKgS4gxLrgcGe9hlMptZoNlvNJC3P_Psalbeas/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="693" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYZz66rseWfIz-ny0wkPzqCYslj8I_RhtBEbQUEjbw65OQPkH74SiYdu25ONpHbzQ1w_yNSi2DGxSPagtTS2eLis-eaU3pOec_JTD25bKgS4gxLrgcGe9hlMptZoNlvNJC3P_Psalbeas/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055045.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More interceptors, for real this time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Phantoms begin firing Sparrows.<br />
<br />
Splash One. The contacts are identified as Tu-128 Fiddlers.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Hopg6nbPuWpw3UiCNDrakPpGY_5mrzr0DN8wSf2C8KYYS_inhnvjs6Jgi7m4FWAFE-ShdpWOMRyaVthZ9MdkkFyLJT80mrVqQbaGrCNwUg4izEz-VNE-RSdJKdw-BT-IajlAEctJFDw/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="659" data-original-width="873" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Hopg6nbPuWpw3UiCNDrakPpGY_5mrzr0DN8wSf2C8KYYS_inhnvjs6Jgi7m4FWAFE-ShdpWOMRyaVthZ9MdkkFyLJT80mrVqQbaGrCNwUg4izEz-VNE-RSdJKdw-BT-IajlAEctJFDw/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055128.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Splash One.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Missiles are detected inbound. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6PNiKjRxxuHb1YjVtJFYBGi3OhR3YisfZc8GRuUgqfeQd6W000UEBnUIXKAWlQ6B9TTG6LbDDe2tXygmzzUwjHlLjS_ZFKi_L1Xw7vGrfba-fDbL0pU_iBgcxEDLMRJRosWiMocOOi50/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055221.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="748" data-original-width="788" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6PNiKjRxxuHb1YjVtJFYBGi3OhR3YisfZc8GRuUgqfeQd6W000UEBnUIXKAWlQ6B9TTG6LbDDe2tXygmzzUwjHlLjS_ZFKi_L1Xw7vGrfba-fDbL0pU_iBgcxEDLMRJRosWiMocOOi50/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055221.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missiles fill the sky</td></tr>
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Missiles are everywhere, and I am tempted to micromanage every single aircraft's actions, but I decide that I have to trust my escorts to know what they're doing.<br />
<br />
Splash Two.<br />
<br />
Then one of my Phantoms is shot down by a lucky hit.<br />
<br />
Splash Three.<br />
<br />
Splash Four. I'm killing them, but it's using up a lot of Sparrows to do it. <br />
<br />
Splash Five, and then Six.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtjTESqwYyNiVaLNrSDyiAJuStZ-li6q2mMeNcUYSamx1uTUawoYPd2q3quDL-OvN7-1Owx-PyQ5hsho9xY3-MM_3GRqafwHU5OZgJA7Ua0G-xc3m82JbJo1hWX-SIAlu5MxG3w7OBCA/s1600/300px-Su-15_Flagon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="196" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCtjTESqwYyNiVaLNrSDyiAJuStZ-li6q2mMeNcUYSamx1uTUawoYPd2q3quDL-OvN7-1Owx-PyQ5hsho9xY3-MM_3GRqafwHU5OZgJA7Ua0G-xc3m82JbJo1hWX-SIAlu5MxG3w7OBCA/s1600/300px-Su-15_Flagon.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Su-15 Flagon</td></tr>
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Now I have three bogies bugging out, and three bogies closing in. One of them is a Su-15MF Flagon D.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCV7fzBFcvxuyWBmtvUqOQTu5DwdNzof8sInlTrg00sI_U_wvKLuTF1r-_qapv69JBGnbhZMSRzcBCb0eovrYtvT3i_UeWUYazJiUn-BIUoqspSL3ahyphenhyphenMtmgbO-6z7D13Ac_w6AtJp0zA/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055551.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="687" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCV7fzBFcvxuyWBmtvUqOQTu5DwdNzof8sInlTrg00sI_U_wvKLuTF1r-_qapv69JBGnbhZMSRzcBCb0eovrYtvT3i_UeWUYazJiUn-BIUoqspSL3ahyphenhyphenMtmgbO-6z7D13Ac_w6AtJp0zA/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055551.jpg" width="269" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here comes a Flagon...</td></tr>
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My F-4s expend a lot more Sparrows, and then one of my Phantoms is shot down at close range.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfKRIbCQxSjajFccipICqv76SlY3uHEAB3wvyWA-XrDrGtcYKoXdSHOQadzsg2xH0x8HIvm4H_QQ2qx-nSn2NSrPiWxJelYO-A-3yX9sMKLWriEoLR0ombxbPEIg3VdkeNLiyoAbeWQs/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="914" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFfKRIbCQxSjajFccipICqv76SlY3uHEAB3wvyWA-XrDrGtcYKoXdSHOQadzsg2xH0x8HIvm4H_QQ2qx-nSn2NSrPiWxJelYO-A-3yX9sMKLWriEoLR0ombxbPEIg3VdkeNLiyoAbeWQs/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+055724.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My second Phantom is shot down</td></tr>
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Splash Seven, this one a Flagon, and then Splash Eight.<br />
<br />
Once most of the Soviet interceptors have turned tail, I constantly have to adjust the speed of my Phantoms down from afterburner to cruise. They have limited fuel, and I cannot afford to have them go Bingo when I need them most. <br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4832507778586404963" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><br />
I splash two more Flagons, then notice that a three-ship is heading towards my strike package. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQq-7-Wh_C7-ADwUKmqIuXBWii_bsEq9Hk9XislEYQe5zMPmsULHVbMMIVD8gyOmxjzjJAvLfsaP5NNDEndu53BoGZsfPxJpzduPfNZDCxdgOAYiMUSFz9BzhepeLddejpWXPR-Xkzth4/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060209.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="717" data-original-width="778" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQq-7-Wh_C7-ADwUKmqIuXBWii_bsEq9Hk9XislEYQe5zMPmsULHVbMMIVD8gyOmxjzjJAvLfsaP5NNDEndu53BoGZsfPxJpzduPfNZDCxdgOAYiMUSFz9BzhepeLddejpWXPR-Xkzth4/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060209.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Missiles inbound on the strike package!</td></tr>
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The first salvo of missiles miss. The second doesn't, and one of my ARM armed Buccaneers is shot down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3EOxT8jruVBjAsiWIEgt5fDK39GezeWS_BLBqU4a6gNKpBvM5HaWdWb4lpO9h4Ty5Zm92wSMaSRDmR9QC65jcqnW_DDCJU3Fjs_CcQLahPOCC2tAnsoNsp9D5pQvISe-SB3nSLctxLU/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="655" data-original-width="1012" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp3EOxT8jruVBjAsiWIEgt5fDK39GezeWS_BLBqU4a6gNKpBvM5HaWdWb4lpO9h4Ty5Zm92wSMaSRDmR9QC65jcqnW_DDCJU3Fjs_CcQLahPOCC2tAnsoNsp9D5pQvISe-SB3nSLctxLU/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060257.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Buccaneer is shot down</td></tr>
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My strike flight is still in deep trouble. I manage to shoot down a Yak-28P Firebar. There are still three bogies in the immediate area, and a few more further out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiShv0imtSaxIQYoZS-KVWN_yZEEmWtBQqmSSPcZMfqKJfDioDHSLvcPMHcgtXo2EcnIFoBwTcGNSAvcX6L0xUuS_tUo0FS2lPGQQdnpiKmTH-xz6MzkwR6xchMJqTMhw2wdHfBAeQ5tFc/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="185" data-original-width="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiShv0imtSaxIQYoZS-KVWN_yZEEmWtBQqmSSPcZMfqKJfDioDHSLvcPMHcgtXo2EcnIFoBwTcGNSAvcX6L0xUuS_tUo0FS2lPGQQdnpiKmTH-xz6MzkwR6xchMJqTMhw2wdHfBAeQ5tFc/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yak-28P Firebar</td></tr>
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A second Firebar is splashed, and then a third.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIj8hXqJ6KU_L0mEFSiaCL-nKrtdFo_lOGVR5lGLOFQSwbZIMiX-QsnFx025TrOcvZ_6wWurQmyy4vvkdjbWpLUXqL_1RGhNfgyqx2z_Hqfc-c3Jh5pFHNFiO9W3eepv9OQfIeJyOD4M/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="840" data-original-width="641" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZIj8hXqJ6KU_L0mEFSiaCL-nKrtdFo_lOGVR5lGLOFQSwbZIMiX-QsnFx025TrOcvZ_6wWurQmyy4vvkdjbWpLUXqL_1RGhNfgyqx2z_Hqfc-c3Jh5pFHNFiO9W3eepv9OQfIeJyOD4M/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060447.jpg" width="244" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More bogies inbound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Looking further afield, four more bogies are inbound. My Phantoms are completely out of Sparrows, so hopefully this is all they have left to throw at me.<br />
<br />
The Soviet fighters launch their radar-guided missiles first, which miss, but then they close in. One of the Su-15 Flagons shoots an AA-3 Advanced Anab F missile and succeeds in shooting down one of my strike Buccaneers. And just like that...I've lost one of my four nuclear bombs.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxFZoMNpoZv4Xd2F_HCCna4x4jmsHPsvROz9jjV2nqYVg9R029GsfDf-a1iNYVDStI1O2HzGOIXnQDykHoBV-prtjQgKwNWDspaJhCdFtR64nXS0ROJ0OlLSo48nb1KVVZ92s6_5CaQo/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="1148" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzxFZoMNpoZv4Xd2F_HCCna4x4jmsHPsvROz9jjV2nqYVg9R029GsfDf-a1iNYVDStI1O2HzGOIXnQDykHoBV-prtjQgKwNWDspaJhCdFtR64nXS0ROJ0OlLSo48nb1KVVZ92s6_5CaQo/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+060638.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buccaneer 809 Sqn #13, seconds before being shot down.</td></tr>
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A Phantom attempts revenge on the Flagon with a Sidewinder, which misses, giving the Flagon time to shoot down a different Phantom. Finally, a third Phantom shoots down the offending Flagon. After a chase, my escorts shoot down one more, and for the moment, at least, my strike packages are not threatened by interceptors.<br />
<br />
The bad news is, I detect a bunch more bogies to the south. This could get ugly.<br />
<br />
As the bogies approach, my strike package drops to the deck. The Soviets launch a few missiles, but fortunately none hit. And then, all about the same time, my Phantoms go Bingo and have to head home. My strikes are on their own.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRbQ9Wh_FJrL-ou4c6yYD2IflIBajrbyhCSCXDe4ZdRqn-fBXxD_2K69pLEYncEsDA5npUkffbFByN_PghARwuY8gVPJY2ABzNe2nuTnHzuP5ADZ9OIelv34sz7IbR9vtcn6cNdnXeZGA/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+061627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="764" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRbQ9Wh_FJrL-ou4c6yYD2IflIBajrbyhCSCXDe4ZdRqn-fBXxD_2K69pLEYncEsDA5npUkffbFByN_PghARwuY8gVPJY2ABzNe2nuTnHzuP5ADZ9OIelv34sz7IbR9vtcn6cNdnXeZGA/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+061627.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Phantoms go RTB.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My strikes still have approximately 80 miles to go to skirt the SAM batteries along the coast, and then the final dash inland, 60 miles to Severomorsk-1, and 95 miles to Olenegorsk.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeeesEwg4MEvSRf5pTYWhSSkzBoJawt7EsjU1Sk1FhGhLsqZVQ4yzsbj2uZv6lCiHnBPjh18kpOC9BObqB8sWBHKGx27ROmSko0bdzzT90rTWTd8L-JEk2nK1SqjvvMNvVi_oopjLto0Q/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+061630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="834" data-original-width="756" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeeesEwg4MEvSRf5pTYWhSSkzBoJawt7EsjU1Sk1FhGhLsqZVQ4yzsbj2uZv6lCiHnBPjh18kpOC9BObqB8sWBHKGx27ROmSko0bdzzT90rTWTd8L-JEk2nK1SqjvvMNvVi_oopjLto0Q/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+061630.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Still have a long way to go.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4832507778586404963" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<b>061758Z</b> Several SAMs are launched at my retreating Phantoms, but fortunately they mostly dodge them. In dodging the SAMs several of the Phantoms won't make it home without refueling, so I go through them, sending those that can make it home directly, while sending the rest to the tankers.<br />
<br />
My strike package, however, despite flying at 300 feet ASL, is apparently still detected, as some Tu-128 Fiddlers attempt an intercept.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWS6Q_PC884LcPwQmy1iFAZGb1ewMUFqK1Az-qpBNNahJt4gz9WQF4wRxgfi0VJ2S5tb-Xh7ixQueSCvrRoOzslgpbZYvBFFUy6pxs-NidI2HfUiCRUVxOT5ExzoilBeBqp1vdgCrGv4w/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+062159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="722" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWS6Q_PC884LcPwQmy1iFAZGb1ewMUFqK1Az-qpBNNahJt4gz9WQF4wRxgfi0VJ2S5tb-Xh7ixQueSCvrRoOzslgpbZYvBFFUy6pxs-NidI2HfUiCRUVxOT5ExzoilBeBqp1vdgCrGv4w/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+062159.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fiddlers attempt to intercept.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Fiddlers pass, but have difficulty engaging the strike so low. Four Fiddlers chase the package, but seem unwilling to descend below 1500 ft. Then a Su-15 Flagon shows up. Although it descends to 300 feet, it still doesn't launch any missiles. Fortunately their radars are not "look-down shoot-down", so they can't engage the Buccaneers amidst the ground clutter.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMzrx0t9xy6WTeNecIMC0oMSlsXOONTwiLhoMOBy1k4TSKFJ7RoQh5gdr9okJxfNH47oydWr4nu7FNmSs8AaHZZum-Dw9vkOJNUUPlTVJuA4s_IBd83m9SAgzWmvEWJ7R9G4Hrjf-0xk/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+062516.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="857" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMzrx0t9xy6WTeNecIMC0oMSlsXOONTwiLhoMOBy1k4TSKFJ7RoQh5gdr9okJxfNH47oydWr4nu7FNmSs8AaHZZum-Dw9vkOJNUUPlTVJuA4s_IBd83m9SAgzWmvEWJ7R9G4Hrjf-0xk/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+062516.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The escorts begin shooting AS.37 Martels to take out the radars</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As the strike closes in, the SEAD escorts begin launching Martels to take out radars on the coast.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnjR4silEgd9jfH9xP0oYfR1qaFNvzDnEKlxERPVnDMDyzOfZElOUQZHpdaoIN3sU8pKSOjc9oDSzbuj5oNjKlu5k7W5l1BYTbs23vazWgkaj0T-vJnrvxIYgEANfjyPK9a9tuf3plAg/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+062803.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="1260" height="171" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnjR4silEgd9jfH9xP0oYfR1qaFNvzDnEKlxERPVnDMDyzOfZElOUQZHpdaoIN3sU8pKSOjc9oDSzbuj5oNjKlu5k7W5l1BYTbs23vazWgkaj0T-vJnrvxIYgEANfjyPK9a9tuf3plAg/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+062803.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Buccaneers go feet dry over the Russian coast</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Staying at 500 feet AGL, the Buccaneers hug the terrain as they close in on their targets. So far, no SAMs have been launched, but that could change very quickly.<br />
<br />
The Severomorsk-1 Strike is 40nm away from its target, and the Olenegorsk Strike is 63nm away. The Soviet interceptors still attempt to shadow the Buccaneers, but are unable to attack them.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOAtuhaXtr-Nvd7Zg53Hk7eobikTlJshZhieJ811CjOKcNVIuJDTc5Ilp5Gr0Yf513EBptRC0Zevqn0nYUxbhJHDw9OMgRSmOiymjL2yH7PMCBUwtdMQxzfWNBHBmJMqFhRZcqFW9qsA/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="758" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPOAtuhaXtr-Nvd7Zg53Hk7eobikTlJshZhieJ811CjOKcNVIuJDTc5Ilp5Gr0Yf513EBptRC0Zevqn0nYUxbhJHDw9OMgRSmOiymjL2yH7PMCBUwtdMQxzfWNBHBmJMqFhRZcqFW9qsA/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063001.jpg" width="280" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The strikes are not yet being fired upon by SAMs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>063141Z </b>With the strikes 27nm and 49nm away from their targets, the first SAM launch is detected, a SA-3b Goa near Severomorsk-1. The nearest Buccaneer immediately targets the SAM battery with its remaining Martels.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpUgwBh7j8Si-l0q8nMc1gh39qRMRdr_cOUFOdE0dqRrtSA5Ia1QtHvNy6Bc6bOQo9cmpPb4x0viLZeB8_FCWZGokgnp9RhgEQGE7ee-M6Gq6cStYyq92v8fIBVKPB4fbM8qYrTDQK3Y/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="1034" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpUgwBh7j8Si-l0q8nMc1gh39qRMRdr_cOUFOdE0dqRrtSA5Ia1QtHvNy6Bc6bOQo9cmpPb4x0viLZeB8_FCWZGokgnp9RhgEQGE7ee-M6Gq6cStYyq92v8fIBVKPB4fbM8qYrTDQK3Y/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063141.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SAM launch!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The SA-3b battery near Severomorsk-1 takes some Martel hits, hopefully reducing its effectiveness. The strike is 19nm out. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDw8toZVlTRcopQexXuIs_8oFjB2sQPvk0xO0bT8G_3gmRge_NSde-zzKYxCzvDQRMeLgxQLH2Hjk8-zAETtz7IJJbjTk-xP4S3SjgvVpmQ327nJQzKo1_PY4wn6_H8tKQXC7L9UuA9VI/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="764" data-original-width="1215" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDw8toZVlTRcopQexXuIs_8oFjB2sQPvk0xO0bT8G_3gmRge_NSde-zzKYxCzvDQRMeLgxQLH2Hjk8-zAETtz7IJJbjTk-xP4S3SjgvVpmQ327nJQzKo1_PY4wn6_H8tKQXC7L9UuA9VI/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063331.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A nuclear SAM is inbound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As the Severomorsk-1 strike closes to within 15nm of its target, one of the escorting Buccaneers inadvertently ascends to above 1000 feet AGL, and the Soviets are ready. Instantly a nuclear SAM is launched. The Buccaneer immediately dives again, but the SAM closes in anyway. The strike package maneuvers in an attempt to avoid flying right into the fireball should it detonate.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_-jvUJnhF0CJEnev6VTo2YQoKwnsD4kz9VfzBe0jq-LBy5l5k-bBZLpPNJEuifyrwwEkfjXlre376xcdU5Elh3uPWGBWcWDi51d6fEcLjuxtYOYdlquAI4Zl1uks-Jw3STzNBmE7-4k/s1600/5V28-S-200V-Launcher-1S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="768" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_-jvUJnhF0CJEnev6VTo2YQoKwnsD4kz9VfzBe0jq-LBy5l5k-bBZLpPNJEuifyrwwEkfjXlre376xcdU5Elh3uPWGBWcWDi51d6fEcLjuxtYOYdlquAI4Zl1uks-Jw3STzNBmE7-4k/s320/5V28-S-200V-Launcher-1S.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SA-5 Gammon</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Amazingly, the 25kT nuclear SAM malfunctions...could it be that bad Soviet Quality Control has doomed the air base?<br />
<br />
A second Buccaneer foolishly ascends, and this time the ambushing nuclear SAM does not malfunction.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfi2vYwTvX46rKWoju3NeI8weqBl9ZZh7Y3eTQbtNKjYAhNouDdo43LTdAUe_gZqr0oy-nnTnXoxWfg3L3JWq3SV3q-vbPWLX9NuNT1WXnKJzsicXuGBGol-DnZrQR0d8p46IPHdqCbg/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063352.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="1042" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfi2vYwTvX46rKWoju3NeI8weqBl9ZZh7Y3eTQbtNKjYAhNouDdo43LTdAUe_gZqr0oy-nnTnXoxWfg3L3JWq3SV3q-vbPWLX9NuNT1WXnKJzsicXuGBGol-DnZrQR0d8p46IPHdqCbg/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063352.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The 25kT nuclear SAM detonates</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgCqLt2ZsczOyGYGJW0gdlPBlCb303IWlIy140ObvEV-_CJ_kftA27hTgsxGwMGUhcFWPSohIc5Od4I-A3P4DiRDy1EdgAs7dqwblJMzHenUvWIiCIzZYmXo8vsXO01Wz6sexIeCoorA/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="1215" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgCqLt2ZsczOyGYGJW0gdlPBlCb303IWlIy140ObvEV-_CJ_kftA27hTgsxGwMGUhcFWPSohIc5Od4I-A3P4DiRDy1EdgAs7dqwblJMzHenUvWIiCIzZYmXo8vsXO01Wz6sexIeCoorA/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063402.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fireball blossoms</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As the fireball expands, the escorting Buccaneers unleash salvos of Martels at the SA-5b Gammon launch site.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf14pEBuT6IOR1HpeX30PlMxZa1qTW7yxNancmVevaJ5IkmEeXn0vRfYc-2TaFR9pT-7aEliing5HPIrT7haURoBeg444H0pHmAyQX_7LlDr2n3JhE92QrHRzEoY9YqCksf_HfjoMnVJM/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063449.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="808" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf14pEBuT6IOR1HpeX30PlMxZa1qTW7yxNancmVevaJ5IkmEeXn0vRfYc-2TaFR9pT-7aEliing5HPIrT7haURoBeg444H0pHmAyQX_7LlDr2n3JhE92QrHRzEoY9YqCksf_HfjoMnVJM/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063449.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SAMs launch everywhere</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>063449Z </b>As the Severomorsk-1 strike closes to under 10nm from its target, SAMs start launching everywhere. The Martels have hit the nuclear SAM site, silencing it temporarily, but it is but one of many sites in the area. SAMs are all over the place.<br />
<br />
<b>063520Z</b> Bombs away!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWU5oiUt07fFTlVsWX4MDscF1Wotm3Uq4JyVRU8J-yg_wI5CUnO_Dkh3nlb1ZbXvtI3i-AbtCSh8oMR0ZgP2K29KfOmlmkUDQjGIDpCUSzTeY81mFkc6jQjFc2940c4DQFIzWJRcsf-w/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063530.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="789" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDWU5oiUt07fFTlVsWX4MDscF1Wotm3Uq4JyVRU8J-yg_wI5CUnO_Dkh3nlb1ZbXvtI3i-AbtCSh8oMR0ZgP2K29KfOmlmkUDQjGIDpCUSzTeY81mFkc6jQjFc2940c4DQFIzWJRcsf-w/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063530.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bombs away!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of the escorting Buccaneers is shot down, but the rest of the Severomorsk-1 package turns and runs.<br />
<br />
To the south, the Olenegorsk strike package has its hands full with SAMs.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIbYw6Km0oCtugYl3eLIXlSnezYIJnj8vOJvntku9AplnQphhYiB3YPTv4-8euz7w8EvDeEwufNXzo0OgWArEnaQdND3_d3YYAG1K83Z3PZ4o1_cvv_NE6wiRjMD5Z8Q01RITHEqSIO8/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063541.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="752" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOIbYw6Km0oCtugYl3eLIXlSnezYIJnj8vOJvntku9AplnQphhYiB3YPTv4-8euz7w8EvDeEwufNXzo0OgWArEnaQdND3_d3YYAG1K83Z3PZ4o1_cvv_NE6wiRjMD5Z8Q01RITHEqSIO8/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063541.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Olenegorsk strike is heavily engaged by SAMs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>063647Z </b>The WE.177 Type B 400kt Nuclear bomb detonates over Severomorsk-1.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBe1C2yekZbDvzsOCnEC0svO7iJ8Ii2-7BTil0N4VIe_DHRhtKOiPJqGZWW7RM7qeAhDj2p-z9ajslvWsILfgVmWvreJ8sN-tjo14ZGre1JmG9AzJ4Gs6Suvfd_SGl_MHBFJpbm0jvlU8/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063647.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="878" height="221" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBe1C2yekZbDvzsOCnEC0svO7iJ8Ii2-7BTil0N4VIe_DHRhtKOiPJqGZWW7RM7qeAhDj2p-z9ajslvWsILfgVmWvreJ8sN-tjo14ZGre1JmG9AzJ4Gs6Suvfd_SGl_MHBFJpbm0jvlU8/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063647.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Detonation.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPo_P61O3QZZXPRakW1Wf5wqGANTWcSOeIx8FW1TIQCQNkG8D6mmZCk0-V9UlJn8h5q-X_Raz9YktAVMVxIw3x1voDjlXQgolRhqG39TWH2QzkFjyflFjyLu7JWHoDqi18obD2quU64M/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="703" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaPo_P61O3QZZXPRakW1Wf5wqGANTWcSOeIx8FW1TIQCQNkG8D6mmZCk0-V9UlJn8h5q-X_Raz9YktAVMVxIw3x1voDjlXQgolRhqG39TWH2QzkFjyflFjyLu7JWHoDqi18obD2quU64M/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+063714.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fireball expands</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The fireball destroys the town of Severomorsk with its 50,000 inhabitants, and expands to the outskirts of Murmansk, a city of nearly 300,000.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
To the south, the Olenegorsk strike still deals with SAMs. The escorts are out of Martels, and so head for home. It's up to 809 Sqn #14 to go it alone. The Buccaneer dodges unbelievable amounts of SAMs as it bobs and weaves its way towards Olenegorsk Airbase.<br />
<br />
And then, a mere 7nm from its target, the Buccaneer's luck runs out. Constantly dodging, it is forced to fly very close to a SAM site and it is hit by a SA-3b Goa.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpovcBXys0Oy_SEhrNwFRyjJf8HFN0lgP8CjV5Cri7-Vxob9P9VOoT0WxITc7sh0iG5LSZ74Aj9zQARA6Rfc6vxHXK-dYb-lR8dSOtRvs366arxa1eEup8VPN1uYDMm4uXRZ04jAu2Yc/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+064049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="608" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpovcBXys0Oy_SEhrNwFRyjJf8HFN0lgP8CjV5Cri7-Vxob9P9VOoT0WxITc7sh0iG5LSZ74Aj9zQARA6Rfc6vxHXK-dYb-lR8dSOtRvs366arxa1eEup8VPN1uYDMm4uXRZ04jAu2Yc/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+064049.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olenegorsk will survive.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The surviving Buccaneers, six of them, fly low over the sea until they are out of SAM range and then climb and slow to 350kts to conserve fuel for the return home. The Gannet AEW.3 aircraft detects Soviet interceptors inbound, but the Soviets are blind and cannot find the leaving strike package. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3mohg5XYXKyect-z5IzXW36WEbzPb6YP9j9ZJH4EyE6BsPE0ABgwlxEBa8ydr4EIW-YI3VVRWvSJ6iae8ibPAdEZm-XXW146QO0cWzoaZiMcbAP9y74NWhWBWg1HV9nc8wBUV8mCcqs/s1600/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+074505.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="747" data-original-width="1042" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_3mohg5XYXKyect-z5IzXW36WEbzPb6YP9j9ZJH4EyE6BsPE0ABgwlxEBa8ydr4EIW-YI3VVRWvSJ6iae8ibPAdEZm-XXW146QO0cWzoaZiMcbAP9y74NWhWBWg1HV9nc8wBUV8mCcqs/s320/An+Eye+for+an+Eye+074505.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The survivors return home</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>080516Z</b> The surviving Buccaneers land safely on <i>Ark Royal</i>, which then sets a course west in an attempt to get out of harm's way...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7WHpzUM7TcKBaCPYSXfFSC5kdsFqsbOxxL2JCVxZtJFUv9IqhUUFt71gLI6Ld4AM1zGov1y9gw_-hUxfWkOMCY6LEBbB1388RpsKWfeHG2rgN6CHzknd0Jhrfl41TTEjeiNfVRkepss/s1600/809-landing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="736" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7WHpzUM7TcKBaCPYSXfFSC5kdsFqsbOxxL2JCVxZtJFUv9IqhUUFt71gLI6Ld4AM1zGov1y9gw_-hUxfWkOMCY6LEBbB1388RpsKWfeHG2rgN6CHzknd0Jhrfl41TTEjeiNfVRkepss/s320/809-landing.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home safe.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><br />Conclusion</b><br />
I have to admit that I "cheated" a little on this one. On my first attempt, my Buccaneers got to the Soviet coast and then refused to obey my frantic commands to keep them flying low. They soared into the sky, the SAM radars picked them up and send scads of nuclear SAMs at me...and in no time it was all over. My mistake was that I assumed the AI would keep the Buccaneers low and following the terrain.<br />
<br />
So after that debacle, I opened a previous save from just before the Buccaneers went feet dry. This time I micromanaged the hell out of them, updating and plotting courses for each individual aircraft frequently to ensure they would stay as low as I could keep them. I would let the simulation run for maybe 5 seconds, then check each aircraft to make sure it was doing what I told it to, give it new orders if it was misbehaving, and then let the sim run for another few seconds. I had to do this for the entire attack run. Even so, two of my Buccaneers decided to go ballistic for no apparent reason and got shot down for their trouble.<br />
<br />
Complaints aside, the mission was exciting, and I think my plan was basically sound. I was not expecting the air battle to occur so far out to sea, but my Phantoms did their job. Once the strike stayed low enough, they managed to get pretty far inland before the sky lit up with SAMs. If I did it again, I would have sent my Olenegorsk strike through the gap in SAM coverage between Severomorsk and Olenegorsk, and then south to attack Olenegorsk from the west. As it was, the eastern approach to Olenegorsk is overloaded with SAM batteries, and I'm surprised my strike Buccaneer made it as far as it did.<br />
<br />
On to Scenario 11, which promises to be epic, but begins with some depressing news... <br />
<br />
Triumph<br />
Score: 1000<br />
<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
6x Tu-128 Fiddler A<br />
7x Su-15MF Flagon D<br />
3x Yak-28P Firebar<br />
3x Radar (Thin Skin A HF [PRV-9])<br />
1x Radar (Thin Skin B HF [PRV-16])<br />
3x Radar (Spoon Rest C [P-12])<br />
2x Vehicle (Low Blow [SNR-125])<br />
4x SA-3b Goa Quad Rail<br />
6x SA-7a Grail [9K32 Strela-2] MANPADS<br />
2x Vehicle (Flat Face B [P-19])<br />
2x Radar (Bar Lock A [P-37])<br />
3x Building (Square Pair [5N62])<br />
1x Building (Tall King C [P-14])<br />
4x Vehicle (Fan Song F [RSNA-75M])<br />
4x Vehicle (Spoon Rest C [P-12])<br />
6x SA-2f Guideline Mod 1/2 Single Rail<br />
1x Runway (4000m)<br />
1x Single-Unit Airfield (1x 3201-4000m Runway)<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
8x AA-5 Ash A [R-4R, SARH]<br />
6x AA-3 Anab C [R-98R, SARH]<br />
1x AA-3 Anab D [R-98T, IR]<br />
6x AA-3 Advanced Anab E [R-98MR, SARH]<br />
1x AA-3 Advanced Anab F [R-98MT, IR]<br />
1x AA-8 Aphid [R-60T]<br />
29x SA-5b Gammon [5V28, 25kT Nuclear]<br />
38x SA-3b Goa [5V27, V-601P]<br />
30x SA-2f Guideline Mod 1 [S-75M2 Volkhov, 5YA23 / V-759]<br />
12x 23mm ZU-23-2 Burst [20 rnds]<br />
2x SA-7a Grail [9M32]<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
4x Phantom II FG.1<br />
6x Buccaneer S.2D<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
16x AN/SSQ-47 Julie Active Range-Only<br />
46x AIM-7E2 Sparrow III<br />
18x AIM-9D Sidewinder<br />
26x AS.37 Martel [ARM]<br />
1x WE.177 Type B [400kT Nuclear]<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-86818880235273541992017-07-24T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-24T08:00:24.605-04:00Boldrdash Kids & Family Rocky Point 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuJHsw-RKSLJ-owTg2_Rtu432NvM8Pl3AC5oBSJ1gjkHRSzwj_19js8tczTda13eoag3p9Rdp6DZlRoabH_9PKDcmukq2qG54uo_ZRlUTd7lFHjmiGPwO0yASHtVtK_CtCNOd0f9dWh8/s1600/logo.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="181" data-original-width="279" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuJHsw-RKSLJ-owTg2_Rtu432NvM8Pl3AC5oBSJ1gjkHRSzwj_19js8tczTda13eoag3p9Rdp6DZlRoabH_9PKDcmukq2qG54uo_ZRlUTd7lFHjmiGPwO0yASHtVtK_CtCNOd0f9dWh8/s1600/logo.png" /></a></div>
<b>September 10, 2016</b><br />
This was to be the second BoldrDash Kids and Family race that my family did, and it would be held at Rocky Point, Rhode Island, the site where an amusement park used to be. I had been there several times as a kid myself, my favorite being the Corkscrew, a roller coaster that lived up to its name.<br />
<br />
There was no sign of the amusement park now; it was all covered in grass and all the of the rides and buildings were gone. Instead, there were lots of BoldrDash obstacles.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>This was to be the second (or third?) BoldrDash race my kids have done. I would be racing along with them and helping them over the obstacles as necessary. Naturally, before the race started, spirits were high and everyone was in a good mood. It wouldn't necessarily last. Dun dun dun...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLf7oYdKpT6gsyNbg48r5HOGNcRqtvELN_oB2woiEZvM41PtzTJNpTiSY5yp6WYSKWuUwqB-lE9Gt61yBXn3EvivEEKeYwnGr-6X0TzZoxTbffqbcE6nVpzRXNYHo7aIEu_xW8DKlSLw/s1600/14264159_10210826739484146_5094270655414017496_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="578" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDLf7oYdKpT6gsyNbg48r5HOGNcRqtvELN_oB2woiEZvM41PtzTJNpTiSY5yp6WYSKWuUwqB-lE9Gt61yBXn3EvivEEKeYwnGr-6X0TzZoxTbffqbcE6nVpzRXNYHo7aIEu_xW8DKlSLw/s320/14264159_10210826739484146_5094270655414017496_n.jpg" width="192" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to race</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The course at Rocky Point was a standard three miles or so, winding around a large field but also along the beach for a portion. The family portion would stick primarily to the field with a very short section through the trees.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5iG89NdXRazwuOOw9srnTBqhW3sME006XIJ3a_CUwI5T2W1N4PtycTKUPsnEzRQRntiygIjYwY17okY9ekCIf1IYKINcv9s-v7n_luLL-D-gq952shqZKggP6Dy2D4mqMsFo30TJQF68/s1600/14233251_10210826740004159_2244453417085914468_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="960" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5iG89NdXRazwuOOw9srnTBqhW3sME006XIJ3a_CUwI5T2W1N4PtycTKUPsnEzRQRntiygIjYwY17okY9ekCIf1IYKINcv9s-v7n_luLL-D-gq952shqZKggP6Dy2D4mqMsFo30TJQF68/s320/14233251_10210826740004159_2244453417085914468_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laurelin rolls under a wall</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
At the previous event, my son was very young, and fell right at the starting line, with hordes of other racers running past him while I shielded him on the ground, while my daughter ran forward with her cousin. As a result, I ended up carrying him for most of the 1.5 mile race. This time, however, he was more up to the challenge, and did not fall at the beginning.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWclQXHuN3_q7S4n9QnnvMVKOheOgdaSGqT8VP0O9UBGZ1gVokUWrj35-wYzQuv_uvFL9PuSLt_GloGMHBP2eUnU5kxKeWSl9psdzEETvsGGeItEnOT0nEaU3NtYP_Ppx-OZ_eBYWiGI/s1600/14322431_10210826740724177_4179170478371942030_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWclQXHuN3_q7S4n9QnnvMVKOheOgdaSGqT8VP0O9UBGZ1gVokUWrj35-wYzQuv_uvFL9PuSLt_GloGMHBP2eUnU5kxKeWSl9psdzEETvsGGeItEnOT0nEaU3NtYP_Ppx-OZ_eBYWiGI/s320/14322431_10210826740724177_4179170478371942030_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Over the top</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In fact, both kids were much more willing to tackle obstacles that they had balked as previously, which means both that they're getting more mature and building confidence.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnj9uw5eVa-G-0T9kWnyQyd1glnOXN37_OCyHpAdxR_9oju2-Dr98eetnBE3AZ3al64M__3qkZiLxUGKWHMjiW_ClAn4NMt-1pdTUKzfYTXrkuu1-_PtzhyphenhyphenLGgLRMeYYR52AXNDlYeuw/s1600/14199284_10210826740244165_145816353094208829_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="843" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFnj9uw5eVa-G-0T9kWnyQyd1glnOXN37_OCyHpAdxR_9oju2-Dr98eetnBE3AZ3al64M__3qkZiLxUGKWHMjiW_ClAn4NMt-1pdTUKzfYTXrkuu1-_PtzhyphenhyphenLGgLRMeYYR52AXNDlYeuw/s320/14199284_10210826740244165_145816353094208829_n.jpg" width="281" /></a></div>
</td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carrying rocks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Getting them to go through the tunnels was never an issue, however.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyS6MksVS8P6DvbhrbJeWoZ88ffwvhXxHGSLWytVLWvdb18lmvV-p_e8n5HphWhcUHSzmXcwK4YMrZf0NE4jvgQP7tHFO_aq40rWWK_ncZg9xzSBPsINs3SF8a5s1QcVUmoGqD_mWElJI/s1600/14291787_10210826740844180_1790404811451744516_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="648" data-original-width="960" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyS6MksVS8P6DvbhrbJeWoZ88ffwvhXxHGSLWytVLWvdb18lmvV-p_e8n5HphWhcUHSzmXcwK4YMrZf0NE4jvgQP7tHFO_aq40rWWK_ncZg9xzSBPsINs3SF8a5s1QcVUmoGqD_mWElJI/s320/14291787_10210826740844180_1790404811451744516_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Through the tunnel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The trouble started when my son was getting thirsty, and since he had a fixation on drinking from straws at the time, he refused to drink it from a cup, despite the race organizers having plenty available. As the race went on, he got more and more upset and agitated, and despite my best attempts to get him to drink some water from a cup, he was completely melting down, and bowed out of the race within sight of the finish line. Lesson learned; next time I'll bring my hydration pack regardless of how short the race might be.<br /><br />
My daughter was getting tired and wanted to skip obstacles towards the end, but she still was tough do several before it was over.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlwLHYsF7aW9u229IjI0yWYjTuLT1DrD_vay130IejQyDOYrJWoTxBfZl6BvrQ6QQ7hS3kJw9JleV5n2IMZ3WLUzd15UxD2mfIaXN5ABK2jOObYWD29ySGUN1HeqQ1l5zjh20n3QrBcE/s1600/14322730_10210826741284191_717198252689081316_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="628" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihlwLHYsF7aW9u229IjI0yWYjTuLT1DrD_vay130IejQyDOYrJWoTxBfZl6BvrQ6QQ7hS3kJw9JleV5n2IMZ3WLUzd15UxD2mfIaXN5ABK2jOObYWD29ySGUN1HeqQ1l5zjh20n3QrBcE/s320/14322730_10210826741284191_717198252689081316_n.jpg" width="209" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Negotiating the net</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Like her previous race, we ran through the finish line together and earned her another medal. On to the next one!Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-73770614779177823812017-07-19T08:00:00.001-04:002017-07-19T08:00:22.996-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 9: Fox Two<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQyKS6ESByPPMQyyq9L_J6pUK1mRA0WR5NdmIQS1VyBin68LulEEvIY3E10xXj95cAlv8CerirSf-cODUwUerSTAPJ-HjChzCsGjG5z35li8-18ktWfrZnD7BSSC4fNPeFJGWPoan3rA/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQyKS6ESByPPMQyyq9L_J6pUK1mRA0WR5NdmIQS1VyBin68LulEEvIY3E10xXj95cAlv8CerirSf-cODUwUerSTAPJ-HjChzCsGjG5z35li8-18ktWfrZnD7BSSC4fNPeFJGWPoan3rA/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a>
<b>Introduction</b><br />
For the past few weeks northern
Norwegian airfields have been pummeled by Soviet forces, rendering them
unsuitable for fixed-wing operations. Forward-deployed RAF units have now
withdrawn to airbases in Scotland to bolster home defence. <br />
<br />
So far the United Kingdom has not been directly attacked; but now
intelligence has suggested that the UKADGE and northern airfields are next on
the target list.<br />
<br />
Recon flights and satellite imagery have detected
multiple bomber regiments fueled and armed with supporting assets in the Kola
Peninsula. These forces are expected to be the spearhead of an attack on the UK
mainland.<br />
<br />
Will the RAF be able to protect the Crown and country once more?<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<b>Situation</b><br />
43 and 111 Sqn at RAF Leuchars have been
brought up to strength with additional Phantoms from storage. 43 Sqn has been
forward-deployed to RAF Stornoway, while 5 Sqn Lightnings from Leaming have now
forward-deployed to RAF Wick for additional point defence and interception
tasking.<br />
<br />
Intelligence strongly suggests a coming Soviet major attack
against northern UK. Main targets will likely be UKADGE Sites in Scotland and
the Outer Isles. 8 Sqn flying the venerable AEW Shackleton are now on
round-the-clock patrol 200nm north of Scotland for early detection of possible
raids.<br />
<br />
HMS <i>Bristol</i> is set up-threat as a SAM trap to thin any raids
inbound.<br />
<br />
Latest intel has indicated a Regiment of Tu-128 Fiddler
interceptors are based at Bardufoss air base, and one regiment of Su-24 Fencer
strike aircraft in Iceland.<br />
<br />
<b>Enemy Forces</b><br />
Surface: Nil<br />
Air : Tu-95KM Bear C, Tu-128 Fiddler, Su-24 Fencer<br />
Sub-Surface : Nil <br />
<br />
<b>Friendly Forces</b><br />
RAF Stornoway : 43 Sqn (FGR.2 Phantom) (Callsign: Gamecock)<br />
RAF Leuchars : 111 Sqn (FGR.2 Phantom) (Callsign: Scorcher)<br />
RAF Lossiemouth : 8 Sqn (AEW Shackleton) (Callsign: Sentry)<br />
RAF Wick : 5 Sqn (Lightning F.3A and F.6)<br />
Silent SAM : HMS Bristol<br />
<br />
<b>Mission</b><br />
Prevent Soviet strikes on mainland United Kingdom.<br />
<br />
<b>Execution</b><br />
1. Deploy AEW Shackletons as required for long-range detection of incoming
raids.<br />
2. HMS Bristol to be deployed up-threat as SAM trap.<br />
3. Use
your Phantoms and Lightnings in their optimum roles, as long-range CAP and
point-defence respectively.<br />
<br />
<b>Command and EMCON</b><br />
Command: RAF Boulmer CRC.<br />
EMCON: Bravo-ACTIVE ALL EMITTERS (exception HMS Bristol)
<br />
<br />
<b>September 22, 1975 1000Z</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFymsfD1quNLtqSdFqsG0uxW0s9TcQ_lVB9hqj7jj9pEUQte6PxxgjeziVD0wBMzrDL3e1eAv_pvEpkW4KHITW-6Ae-Uq-_JtxJIA_yed5GPfpmxjZImbXGZI-qXD4R-30Va79-AtLyf0/s1600/Avro_696_Shackleton_AEW2%252C_UK_-_Air_Force_AN1008804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1024" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFymsfD1quNLtqSdFqsG0uxW0s9TcQ_lVB9hqj7jj9pEUQte6PxxgjeziVD0wBMzrDL3e1eAv_pvEpkW4KHITW-6Ae-Uq-_JtxJIA_yed5GPfpmxjZImbXGZI-qXD4R-30Va79-AtLyf0/s320/Avro_696_Shackleton_AEW2%252C_UK_-_Air_Force_AN1008804.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Royal Air Force Shackleton AEW.2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
NORWEGIAN SEA<br />
The Reds were coming. Squadron Leader Mark Bolling sat at his control station in the venerable Shackleton AEW.2 high over the ocean. As long as the Shackleton was on station, he would be controlling the battle. Ultimately the Air Marshal at RAF Boulmer Control and Reporting Centre (CRC) was in nominal command, but Bolling was at the tip of the spear. It was he would would issue the orders to direct what interceptors where and when, to stop the Soviet attack. Intelligence had it that the the Soviets were planning a major attack on the UK mainland from its bases in northern Norway, the Kola Peninsula, and Iceland. The war had already taxed the RAF severely, and there were limited assets to fend off the next blow. Today he knew he was going to have his hands full.<br />
<br />
On board the Shackleton the controllers were all in a row, sitting sideways in the cramped aircraft, facing their consoles with the starboard side of the fuselage behind them. Bolling could look to the right and see the cockpit, and look to his left and see the other controllers, wedged in between all of the equipment. Each man could stand up (slightly stooped), but that was about it.<br />
<br />
Intelligence indicated that the attack would come soon, so two of the three remaining Shackletons were being launched from RAF Lossiemouth in Scotland, one to cover the approaches from Iceland west of the Faroe Islands, and the other over Norway near Trondheim Fjord. With their combined radar coverage, no raid would be able to slip by.<br />
<br />
Each Shackleton had a pair of F-4s to guard them, and each sector--east and west, had both a separate CAP and tankers assigned to it. The Lightning Interceptors would stay on the ground until they were needed. They had short legs so they could not afford to go airborne before then.<br />
<br />
HMS <i>Bristol</i> maneuvered in the Norwegian Sea east of the Faroe Islands and north of the Shetlands, radars off, waiting for any unwary Soviets to fly overhead. It headed eastwards, anticipating the most likely approach of any raids from northern Norway.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTj4wfk-Vd3vzm0JreRWLuDy_mcHILlccSgWJixoc15l6GuTmRhkWaPIGLmoKnzv9u-rPh1AAd7ti90kjOT_26dWXQUQNUUhQrmqVm8LyVRgIxAG8qMl3miTuXaTKRWP9zvm55M-5Vb2I/s1600/Fox+Two+100000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="776" data-original-width="791" height="313" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTj4wfk-Vd3vzm0JreRWLuDy_mcHILlccSgWJixoc15l6GuTmRhkWaPIGLmoKnzv9u-rPh1AAd7ti90kjOT_26dWXQUQNUUhQrmqVm8LyVRgIxAG8qMl3miTuXaTKRWP9zvm55M-5Vb2I/s320/Fox+Two+100000.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial positions</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It did not take long for the Shackleton's radar to detect the first Soviet movements. <br />
<br />
"Contact, four-ship, bearing 275 for 200 miles from Faroes RP."<br />
<br />
If the Soviets were initiating a major attack, they likely would target the forward deployed radar stations in the hopes of blinding the NATO forces before the main raid took place. "They're probably going for the Reporting Post," Bolling speculated aloud. A pair of F-4 Phantoms was headed to their CAP station, and Bolling ordered them rerouted to an intercept course.<br />
<br />
"Contact lost," came the report a few seconds later.<br />
<br />
"They probably dropped altitude," Bolling said. "The Phantoms will pick them up as they close in."<br />
<br />
Confirming his suspicions, several minutes later the Phantoms reported in. "Sentry, Gamecock 91. Contact on the bogies, Angels One."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjYDTxBhEPnqN6T00Jlvk1e79mnwpMs6I4E85dY8_Turjz6t4mYTxMdzr0ZPO9Qjax4YY2Tlzz_M2nqd7-jqTqMYlnkpJhga4LC3yDLYiV7qcLhQOg6jwW_nzMEAgD9dGOVjZZIS2RMI/s1600/Fox+Two+101531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="928" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEjYDTxBhEPnqN6T00Jlvk1e79mnwpMs6I4E85dY8_Turjz6t4mYTxMdzr0ZPO9Qjax4YY2Tlzz_M2nqd7-jqTqMYlnkpJhga4LC3yDLYiV7qcLhQOg6jwW_nzMEAgD9dGOVjZZIS2RMI/s320/Fox+Two+101531.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bogeys detected</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>101721Z</b> The Phantoms closed the range and shot down all four Su-24 Fencers. <i>Not bad</i>, Bolling though, <i>but this is just the beginning</i>. In shooting down the Fencers, the Phantoms expended all of their Sparrows, so Bolling ordered them home. The sooner they got home, the faster they could rearm and refuel for the coming battle ahead.<br />
<br />
<b>114226Z </b>"Sir, we're getting some jamming." The radar scopes on board the Shackleton turned to hash. The raid was was on its way, and it would take a while before the Shackleton's radar burned through the jamming.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3J-AYfVyIS8xlhrzcW6JeCFOZL3cnlOrPi7XOCmkI6hMzsT6CmVkMPxv-2EkcScXfkPNvpRUw6zXumMGpPJnWUg5mdIJsnfmYOuybdwB8sA5R66oSRKwgcpoCbM9F8tMC8zvNa1kZQ3o/s1600/Fox+Two+114226.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="859" data-original-width="730" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3J-AYfVyIS8xlhrzcW6JeCFOZL3cnlOrPi7XOCmkI6hMzsT6CmVkMPxv-2EkcScXfkPNvpRUw6zXumMGpPJnWUg5mdIJsnfmYOuybdwB8sA5R66oSRKwgcpoCbM9F8tMC8zvNa1kZQ3o/s320/Fox+Two+114226.jpg" width="271" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't detect a raid yet...but it's coming</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>120617Z </b>"Contact."<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJrOlnT2c1WrlMGtzPR3wfV80EHyDMEFL2_fDGbyYAgQ4Gss4V4kgT2v9Z-ve8qnn8b2mMZ6RQbEUyp07ITO1JXDTci9GqrVYmswvgzR1-B4lR5daDQF3F7q8hF7EZXgEI23jx8zxD5E/s1600/Fox+Two+120622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="623" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVJrOlnT2c1WrlMGtzPR3wfV80EHyDMEFL2_fDGbyYAgQ4Gss4V4kgT2v9Z-ve8qnn8b2mMZ6RQbEUyp07ITO1JXDTci9GqrVYmswvgzR1-B4lR5daDQF3F7q8hF7EZXgEI23jx8zxD5E/s320/Fox+Two+120622.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A three-ship of bogeys detected, undoubtedly with more behind</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>121419Z</b> "Sir, we have multiple contacts, designate Raid 1."<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQERprg3si6-73glbnpTkFHfOxEhivBQ-s6IQm-F2ksOYn8eflMZJzimt1X35R3tpKJsjd_pUn19cb1PrETLt7anKMMmsB_OR12eiPEgzU9cxESlacU93ailJRT7oa2aYVkMizNyla3Qc/s1600/Fox+Two+121419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="798" data-original-width="907" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQERprg3si6-73glbnpTkFHfOxEhivBQ-s6IQm-F2ksOYn8eflMZJzimt1X35R3tpKJsjd_pUn19cb1PrETLt7anKMMmsB_OR12eiPEgzU9cxESlacU93ailJRT7oa2aYVkMizNyla3Qc/s320/Fox+Two+121419.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=4832507778586404963" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>Eight more bogies detected</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Raid count is fourteen aircraft."<br />
<br />
Bolling watched the scopes as more and more contacts appeared. "Raid count is now nineteen." Bolling smiled grimly. This was it....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv497J5isX5RAp6XB93IYaPeiROij5mefQeuFFlxVkUXRMe5L7ChxLqJHnmJwd49NBonierytYz5ave1kDG4mALNKsbeh99fkDff6fv96x-fG0IixF2H-UN8MGGUKfOZFFIjQy_ctuwfM/s1600/Fox+Two+121752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="608" data-original-width="713" height="272" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv497J5isX5RAp6XB93IYaPeiROij5mefQeuFFlxVkUXRMe5L7ChxLqJHnmJwd49NBonierytYz5ave1kDG4mALNKsbeh99fkDff6fv96x-fG0IixF2H-UN8MGGUKfOZFFIjQy_ctuwfM/s320/Fox+Two+121752.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The raid just keeps getting bigger</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Flight Lieutenant David Lynch, in an F-4 Phantom II FGR.2, was the first pilot ordered to intercept. His wingman had to RTB early with engine trouble, so his Phantom was meeting the raid head on, all alone.<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Scorcher 81, Fox One!" And then a short time later, "Good kill! I have visual, splash one Bear Charlie."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsw3d-_mDnBh7MWF7JCB_OhxNoiRohnqIihOjmFW1tA0ayN2NCXht5-pBVktEnx9GHcDzwqJrnsWgT9tyrdD8ZslvGJoTIUqJEhSJhm4SuyL3Bw6lpqXlmFILliD17oReVtKwPLOXCV0/s1600/111_Sqn_Phantom_II.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="500" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsw3d-_mDnBh7MWF7JCB_OhxNoiRohnqIihOjmFW1tA0ayN2NCXht5-pBVktEnx9GHcDzwqJrnsWgT9tyrdD8ZslvGJoTIUqJEhSJhm4SuyL3Bw6lpqXlmFILliD17oReVtKwPLOXCV0/s320/111_Sqn_Phantom_II.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">F-4 Phantom II FGR.2 from 111 Sqn.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
"Copy, Scorcher. Raid count is now twenty-four."<br />
<br />
Sqn Ldr Bolling considering diverting some F-4s from his western CAPs, but he was still concerned about a pincer attack by Fencers out of Iceland. For now, the eastern Phantoms were on their own. Scorcher 81 was out in front, and another pair of Phantoms was closing in to support but it would be some time before they got there.<br />
<br />
<b>121849Z </b>"Raid count twenty-six."<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Scorcher 81, splash two Bear Charlie. I am engaged defensive." Flt. Lt. Lynch dodged hard as the Bears' escorts, Tu-128 Fiddler As, began firing missiles. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-fxcpt_iznztGIk1oXKqSGAYWsHvtmyvFpgmhKouAopOGEsHcHBTIFstuzQ9TuqOyFg1R0G6W_1quOkKJuwPp8_9WsBhcviu0A8SCdmW-8HOcmd_D3mAN3-aonWCMeMD8vl2a2RTB-Tg/s1600/tu128-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="354" data-original-width="654" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-fxcpt_iznztGIk1oXKqSGAYWsHvtmyvFpgmhKouAopOGEsHcHBTIFstuzQ9TuqOyFg1R0G6W_1quOkKJuwPp8_9WsBhcviu0A8SCdmW-8HOcmd_D3mAN3-aonWCMeMD8vl2a2RTB-Tg/s320/tu128-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tu-128 Fiddler</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Raid count thirty."<br />
<br />
No less than six Fiddlers had begun to engage him, and Lynch maneuvered his Phantom to go on the offensive. His Phantom was not the nimblest of dogfighters, but the Fiddlers were far, far worse. His best chance of survival was the Fiddlers was to duke it out.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_tPnXz_eg89fQYY8t6_vmVxewW7Xo0X6UoYhaKmVkJMG1j5D5G0eSMBnVIp6VDfTjesA9pgUs9mvQdA8_mT1hpsQO1-Y3erFf208Bdjh0RBXwKhFH-KDiWrXKt8BbFuxLsm1nYQwegOA/s1600/Fox+Two+122017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="859" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_tPnXz_eg89fQYY8t6_vmVxewW7Xo0X6UoYhaKmVkJMG1j5D5G0eSMBnVIp6VDfTjesA9pgUs9mvQdA8_mT1hpsQO1-Y3erFf208Bdjh0RBXwKhFH-KDiWrXKt8BbFuxLsm1nYQwegOA/s320/Fox+Two+122017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phantom 111 Sqn #15 is engaged with six Soviet fighters</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Raid count thirty-one."<br />
<br />
Lynch maneuvered behind a Fiddler and launched a Sidewinder, bringing it down, and then his wingman. <i>These things turn as bad as bombers,</i> he thought to himself. He lined up on another Fiddler, closing in fast.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwYHsKHe3FR3xbY6bd_skUlousTCEhI3jxSF3G5zl1eIS5TjrbGJsgIZt7pjG7j3hpMcAuyU6HcWZCkuQD8ji9nLSc5Mh1-jw93Y_7FcTp_E1nhdYDVXCLELf9f1G9gzvekUV-Mipeek/s1600/Fox+Two+122054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="431" data-original-width="463" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwYHsKHe3FR3xbY6bd_skUlousTCEhI3jxSF3G5zl1eIS5TjrbGJsgIZt7pjG7j3hpMcAuyU6HcWZCkuQD8ji9nLSc5Mh1-jw93Y_7FcTp_E1nhdYDVXCLELf9f1G9gzvekUV-Mipeek/s320/Fox+Two+122054.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The F-4 shoots down a Fiddler with a Sidewinder</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Fox two! Miss." The Phantom and the Fiddler turned together at 1600 ft ASL. Lynch couldn't turn hard enough to take out the first Fiddler, but there was another a little further away, so he sent a Sidewinder after that one, killing it. He had made ace in a single mission. He closed into gun range with the original Fiddler and opened up, killing it. "Splash Six!" he called out jubilantly. "<i>Who's next!</i>"<br />
<br />
The two remaining Fiddlers turned and ran, Lynch's Phantom in hot pursuit.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PLnTeh0RBifhnjplpwZiZx4qE_LTQBQUi1fIjl8o09FTrpB4R2RBQQi7jRDTjI1XbwwhywN19E-3VHWaz3RZa_zLsiltV6f-ogksPE92Wivf-YU_nA6486ktwe00e1E0Q06zj7pAnD8/s1600/Fox+Two+122315.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="547" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1PLnTeh0RBifhnjplpwZiZx4qE_LTQBQUi1fIjl8o09FTrpB4R2RBQQi7jRDTjI1XbwwhywN19E-3VHWaz3RZa_zLsiltV6f-ogksPE92Wivf-YU_nA6486ktwe00e1E0Q06zj7pAnD8/s320/Fox+Two+122315.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Phantom chases down the fleeing Fiddlers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lynch's Phantom was whittling down a tiny portion of the inbound raid, but more and more aircraft appeared on the scopes. "Raid count is thirty-four."<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2apzsAoMSSQ_nFh29GhhDDLaF93vzpVYTUPMzG6Tn87dfD1OkREojR1kE1NDulYF_dl2kngfqDnm9dALG2A-o1gyQBFah09pG92OqnIuGVq9lhztLncdqxp-o75EJbQ92YDd7TW7ypQ/s1600/Fox+Two+122333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="816" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2apzsAoMSSQ_nFh29GhhDDLaF93vzpVYTUPMzG6Tn87dfD1OkREojR1kE1NDulYF_dl2kngfqDnm9dALG2A-o1gyQBFah09pG92OqnIuGVq9lhztLncdqxp-o75EJbQ92YDd7TW7ypQ/s320/Fox+Two+122333.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The skies above the Norwegian Sea are getting crowded</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Correction, raid count is now forty." Some of those were escorts, and some were jammers, but a large amount of them were bombers. <br />
<br />
Lynch closed in on the retreating Fiddler, low on both fuel and ammunition.<br />
<br />
"We need to break off," Lynch's backseater warned, looking at the radar picture which showed six more Fiddlers closing in.<br />
<br />
"I'm going to get this bugger!"<br />
<br />
"Missile inbound!"<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7szidWcMP2Ztf-3IzVRESRUic5D-LvJ1DrTP0EXPiEytvCxpT4TQXSmahhmDzIU1jgB0YF3YquQR2zgd9ipyVn2zkux76skpcVNjpr_iMxuqoe7HvJOgxUULvuxCMJ8nrnMEogWoDrOE/s1600/tu-128-side-sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="212" data-original-width="560" height="121" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7szidWcMP2Ztf-3IzVRESRUic5D-LvJ1DrTP0EXPiEytvCxpT4TQXSmahhmDzIU1jgB0YF3YquQR2zgd9ipyVn2zkux76skpcVNjpr_iMxuqoe7HvJOgxUULvuxCMJ8nrnMEogWoDrOE/s320/tu-128-side-sm.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tu-128 Fiddler armed with four AA-5 Ash SARH missiles</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lynch accelerated, overshooting his target and breaking left to evade the missiles. Both AA-5 Ashes soared past the Phantom, and Lynch was grateful they weren't that accurate. <i>How many have I dodged already? </i>he thought. <i>Six?</i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMQfyJJCMyDCqCKbyVtMEJZ4zoefSSf5vyi6mJ0BR4rQAwCfopY3a236Uoa3QVmbi0rqBYN7xkY9S7OQE2CrflvnJQloDDTPL5MWztBXJY4_n64uQLBzB4RR47_fpoyG8DUBayvi02sk/s1600/Fox+Two+122441.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="727" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMQfyJJCMyDCqCKbyVtMEJZ4zoefSSf5vyi6mJ0BR4rQAwCfopY3a236Uoa3QVmbi0rqBYN7xkY9S7OQE2CrflvnJQloDDTPL5MWztBXJY4_n64uQLBzB4RR47_fpoyG8DUBayvi02sk/s320/Fox+Two+122441.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More fighters close in on the lone Phantom</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Scorcher 81, Sentry, break off," Sqn Ldr Bolling ordered. He could sense by Flt. Lt. Lynch's voice that he was keyed up from all of his kills and not thinking straight. With the Phantom undoubtedly running low on fuel and out of missiles, it was better to preserve both the aircraft and its crew rather than throw it away against more escorts.<br />
<br />
"Negative, Sentry, we still have some bullets left. We're taking out as many as we can."<br />
<br />
"Raid count forty-three."<br />
<br />
Bolling was about to repeat the order for Lynch to break off, but then his attention was drawn to another engagement. Farther west, two more Phantoms had gotten within range of a flight of Bears.<br />
<br />
"Fox One!"<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fBjP7sjof_A9GUZAetiZvWrO9OB3QY1HJt1IUxA4-vuRyzhiTM5Xk_V4gldFWFhR-G7e5a57Wgs9Ff-OIZgSsHkwlzYbAFTOjxg7VGNVETWQR3IRXAjVeuKhxAyv9mnOMW10yRC0_8s/s1600/Fox+Two+122524.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="709" data-original-width="1377" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fBjP7sjof_A9GUZAetiZvWrO9OB3QY1HJt1IUxA4-vuRyzhiTM5Xk_V4gldFWFhR-G7e5a57Wgs9Ff-OIZgSsHkwlzYbAFTOjxg7VGNVETWQR3IRXAjVeuKhxAyv9mnOMW10yRC0_8s/s320/Fox+Two+122524.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two dogfights engagements are now underway</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The two Phantoms splashed three Bears, and Bolling turned his attention back to Lynch's fighter.<br />
<br />
Lynch maneuvered wildly, his fuel state becoming critical. He was now engaged with eight enemy fighters, and only had enough bursts in his gun for five shots.<br />
<br />
"Lynch, we're bingo," called his backseater, his voice tinged with worry. "We need to get out of here. <i>Missiles inbound!</i>"<br />
<br />
Lynch slammed the Phantom into another hard turn, and dodged the ninth and tenth missile launched at him that day. He cursed and then turned the Phantom south. Six kills would have to be enough. It was time to go home.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQD4PBIVPpW7pIkP5J_p2ewYoFNF-IVFG6w24dQjicZLhMXvzFiZcohYd1m9TYbSkpKWgFaOrM8uiORuobYrCx2peHpevcTRIC1jW1siRe7fhNJblD-xBJ2HVSaDQlVzIRmxOXYEXFtDc/s1600/Fox+Two+122804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="568" height="252" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQD4PBIVPpW7pIkP5J_p2ewYoFNF-IVFG6w24dQjicZLhMXvzFiZcohYd1m9TYbSkpKWgFaOrM8uiORuobYrCx2peHpevcTRIC1jW1siRe7fhNJblD-xBJ2HVSaDQlVzIRmxOXYEXFtDc/s320/Fox+Two+122804.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">43 Sqn 5 and 6 fire Sidewinders at the retreating Fiddlers, splashing three before running out of Sidewinders</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The two western Phantoms together wiped out a section of six Fiddlers, killing three with Sidewinders and then the remaining three with guns. Bolling directed them to head after another flight of Bears. <br />
<br />
Lynch's Phantom headed south, and the Fiddlers followed, hoping to get their revenge. One by one they took turns shooting AA-5 Ashes at him, and each time he was forced to turn hard to avoid them. <br />
He had dodged fifteen missiles already when the sixteenth forced him to pull the Phantom into another turn. His hand shook on the stick from exhaustion. The missile streaked in, and he almost dodged it. The warhead detonated, shredding the tail and aft fuselage with fragments. The Phantom shook violently, but he managed to level off. "<i>Eject! Eject! Eject!</i>"<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvsCackQnFi736O3CR0LNiirNdtRlDWIO-mek-DN55Fe5vMwhSByGjuiwfD17Mb4RSTJTfxryHmf0tKe_hcA7CfimvAid0QEruGzIkCx7-Uz1gpqfqL3wPHO5OvXaXhdAgCOmxOlUJZg/s1600/Fox+Two+123104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="401" data-original-width="862" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnvsCackQnFi736O3CR0LNiirNdtRlDWIO-mek-DN55Fe5vMwhSByGjuiwfD17Mb4RSTJTfxryHmf0tKe_hcA7CfimvAid0QEruGzIkCx7-Uz1gpqfqL3wPHO5OvXaXhdAgCOmxOlUJZg/s320/Fox+Two+123104.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flt. Lt. David Lynch's Phantom is finally shot down</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Lynch's chute was good, and to his relief he could see his backseater's as well. Below the ocean looked huge and blue. He knew that Trondheim Fjord was maybe 100 miles to his east, and with the Norwegian Sea sanitized of Soviets, there was a chance he'd be rescued.<br />
<br />
After Lynch's Scorcher 81 was shot down, the flight of six Fiddlers, out of SARH missiles, turned and headed for home.<br />
<br />
Gamecock 31 and 32, the two other engaged Phantoms, closed on a trio of Tu-95KM Bear Cs, with only their guns, but they were unlucky On their first pass, Gamecock 32 was shot down by a lucky shot from the lead Bear's tailgunner, and as Gamecock 31 maneuvered back into position, the gunner shot him down as well.<br />
<br />
Bolling assessed the situation. "Seven Fiddlers are bugging out," his controller said, "but three more bogies inbound. Raid One is now thirty-nine aircraft."<br />
<br />
The next pair of Phantoms closed in on the raid, and Bolling knew it would be a while before more could be launched.<br />
<br />
<b>124419Z </b>Scorcher 61 and 62 was the next Phantom flight in range of a lone Bear. It took all of their Sparrows against and finally a Sidewinder to kill it. The amount of missiles needed to bring down a Bear was frustrating. The Phantoms flew on to take on another flight.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNPtzHYyb9eognFuS_Aidtlqk-oYw3ArLOA7RPYOhlASbTKDdSMaUPkVkuVDrkNzSplkci9wq5D09FhvydwUGQP2eGSZgNh43lg3tCO44fjj89uYTxBESSVEyZiqveRKJm8gHXAzSOBs/s1600/Fox+Two+124737.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="629" data-original-width="637" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiNPtzHYyb9eognFuS_Aidtlqk-oYw3ArLOA7RPYOhlASbTKDdSMaUPkVkuVDrkNzSplkci9wq5D09FhvydwUGQP2eGSZgNh43lg3tCO44fjj89uYTxBESSVEyZiqveRKJm8gHXAzSOBs/s320/Fox+Two+124737.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorcher 6 engages an endless stream of Bears</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"How long until those other fighters are ready?" Bolling asked.<br />
<br />
"Twelve minutes."<br />
<br />
Scorcher 61 and 62 shot through a formation of Bears at a combined speed of 900kts. They could see tracers in the sky from the Bears' tail gunners. Scorcher 62 lined up a shot. "Fox Two!" The Sidewinder streaked in and hit the Bear. He quickly lined up on the second. "Fox Two!" The shot was a little too close, and the missile didn't lock on.<br />
<br />
Scorcher 61 took his place, killing the Bear with a Sidewinder. Scorcher 62 and the last Bear traded gunshots while Scorcher 61 moved to back him up. <br />
<br />
"Fox Two! Fox Two!" Scorcher 61 called out, and 62 broke left to get out of the way as the missiles locked on. The first Sidewinder missed, but the second blew the wing off the Bear. <br />
<br />
Scorcher 62 had two Sidewinders left, while 61 only had guns. Normally with so few weapons left they would head home, but with a raid this size inbound, there was no going home while they still had weapons.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCX_AmQMgcNmzPA-GY8azo3hoY41n0mhhdlOLW_ipR-69lKcvOK3MFB8X1Sum0nQgPKeT6mIGFVOWHzTWFxMeRwIqZ5C7E0NinfC7J0DUfIz4CLN5QdeaM7KGQLHGJJLmpjJukPY2jdI/s1600/Fox+Two+124943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="539" data-original-width="704" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPCX_AmQMgcNmzPA-GY8azo3hoY41n0mhhdlOLW_ipR-69lKcvOK3MFB8X1Sum0nQgPKeT6mIGFVOWHzTWFxMeRwIqZ5C7E0NinfC7J0DUfIz4CLN5QdeaM7KGQLHGJJLmpjJukPY2jdI/s320/Fox+Two+124943.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gamecock 6, low on weapons, engages a host of bogies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Raid count?"<br />
<br />
"Thirty-five."<br />
<br />
"Distance?"<br />
<br />
"Nearest bogies are 300nm from RAF Wick."<br />
<br />
"How long until the Phantoms can launch?"<br />
<br />
"Eleven minutes."<br />
<br />
"Call Wick and have them start launching Lightnings."<br />
<br />
<b>124959Z</b> Scorcher 61 and 62 came into range of another flight of bogies, identifying several as bombers.<br />
<br />
"Fox two!" Scorcher 61 called, firing off his Sidewinders, both of which failed to track.<br />
<br />
"Missile launch!"<br />
<br />
"Break left!" <br />
<br />
"No, wait! Vampire! Vampire! That's a cruise missile!"<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Scorcher 61, we have missile launches from the Bears. Three Vampires, repeat three Vampires!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DqehCWFtvaLMdY4PWPQIg805xtF77t_uWECRCiyqd2j_WkCBUASMv1pi6kqLcYRCggB8UCs_BHv_kZUZV01sc_7qXzr24RcLio-Xw9qoTUd6pvlm19ZiTjwOQUdDHN0EOgbQSI1z2BQ/s1600/x20_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="600" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6DqehCWFtvaLMdY4PWPQIg805xtF77t_uWECRCiyqd2j_WkCBUASMv1pi6kqLcYRCggB8UCs_BHv_kZUZV01sc_7qXzr24RcLio-Xw9qoTUd6pvlm19ZiTjwOQUdDHN0EOgbQSI1z2BQ/s320/x20_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tu-95 Bear launching an AS-3 Kangaroo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
"Copy, Scorcher 6,"<br />
<br />
"We are Winchester, repeat, we are out of missiles."<br />
<br />
"Copy." The controller replied.<br />
<br />
"Plot the course of those vampires," Bolling ordered his technicians, "I need a list of possible targets."<br />
<br />
"Sentry, we have have a tally on two Tu-16P Badger Julietts in addition to the Bears," and then, a few seconds later, "I'm hit, I'm hit!"<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Scorcher 61. 62 has been hit."<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7seibw3jmCPKkL_kGgkjsxspIgknV0bOw49joaZNgac74KoP9O5hGu3vTf3o53DbKWyYaSdTxvuWUY9YS5b4k2xwgQBYwcNSCw5B1baHVgLZ1LQENj15s00J0eECdHc-3HyHYcrBV3F0/s1600/Fox+Two+125111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="685" data-original-width="1054" height="207" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7seibw3jmCPKkL_kGgkjsxspIgknV0bOw49joaZNgac74KoP9O5hGu3vTf3o53DbKWyYaSdTxvuWUY9YS5b4k2xwgQBYwcNSCw5B1baHVgLZ1LQENj15s00J0eECdHc-3HyHYcrBV3F0/s320/Fox+Two+125111.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorcher 62 is shot down</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
With all of the Phantoms getting shot down, Bolling was about to order Scorcher 61 to break off when the Phantom's pilot called out, "Splash one Bear!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxgmuZ8ql5xSBflggqVk79I4cCDT0n_eJ2hYyYROJKwLRCGOvilyPKDiHYOyeK5hP6drcLz87f3DCoX4VUOchXM5qkxEX1-Bn0bkvdTcujIJXO6KR3EcczrCztTSMustYH6sTS7MLa0Y/s1600/Fox+Two+125128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="799" data-original-width="1342" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMxgmuZ8ql5xSBflggqVk79I4cCDT0n_eJ2hYyYROJKwLRCGOvilyPKDiHYOyeK5hP6drcLz87f3DCoX4VUOchXM5qkxEX1-Bn0bkvdTcujIJXO6KR3EcczrCztTSMustYH6sTS7MLa0Y/s320/Fox+Two+125128.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorcher 61 gets a kill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few seconds after that, "Splash Two!" Scorcher 61 banked hard to the right and circled around behind the two trailing Badgers. Tracers lit the sky as both of their tail gunners tried to take out the Phantom, and the Phantom returned fire. The Badgers won the duel, and 23mm rounds from their tail guns tore into the Phantom's wings and fuselage, sending it tumbling from the sky.<br />
<br />
The first four Lightnings took off from RAF Wick, climbing rapidly. <br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcLVv6i4nswqz-08UA33NEyPAuPrfEtJ_SuQtnqc8KUh3d54KPW6xsFKSAO4FQxUkFe7jf08eCVjRn32pSOHCelvn9vdFJhuPJjVS-MgX0jIacK06FGtl3O7zVx9HdYvh18La7srfkDQ/s1600/6773-2_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="598" data-original-width="800" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHcLVv6i4nswqz-08UA33NEyPAuPrfEtJ_SuQtnqc8KUh3d54KPW6xsFKSAO4FQxUkFe7jf08eCVjRn32pSOHCelvn9vdFJhuPJjVS-MgX0jIacK06FGtl3O7zVx9HdYvh18La7srfkDQ/s320/6773-2_l.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">English Electric Lightning</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>125520Z </b>"Sir, we have multiple bogies entering <i>Bristol</i>'s SAM envelope."<br />
<br />
"<i>Bristol</i>, Sentry, five bogies, bearing 050 for 35 miles, Angels 36. Light 'em up."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUsG2OHPpbeDu0MCne1gdMGB8hjqL_tnzSpZfa4T87ruzIg2wcxOOBQzUyXu0MCipOxDtgx1_bY4ImbUm8BQj1LTkzIToJqTh3jPMvAp0-Mo22Hjg9i0qJKBqNMoXP5hxOvjI0eEwkcM/s1600/D23-HMS-Bristol-003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="646" data-original-width="1600" height="129" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqUsG2OHPpbeDu0MCne1gdMGB8hjqL_tnzSpZfa4T87ruzIg2wcxOOBQzUyXu0MCipOxDtgx1_bY4ImbUm8BQj1LTkzIToJqTh3jPMvAp0-Mo22Hjg9i0qJKBqNMoXP5hxOvjI0eEwkcM/s320/D23-HMS-Bristol-003.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Bristol</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
HMS <i>Bristol</i>, steaming at flank speed to try to get a better shot at the incoming range, lit off its Air Search and Type 909 Illuminator radars.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkOHt49vXly8sLGBSuyZia30ep3i32B0P7S5lPqD547N3Pb1qNa4IlTKp3XayLfAhgDcsRuinVjSBt3bw4ZlUrOJ7PC6QbKI1UI4DCVJqEDeZdqaC8vv0QQ8S15L77F2b7dqoVMxDwTg/s1600/Fox+Two+125607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="624" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxkOHt49vXly8sLGBSuyZia30ep3i32B0P7S5lPqD547N3Pb1qNa4IlTKp3XayLfAhgDcsRuinVjSBt3bw4ZlUrOJ7PC6QbKI1UI4DCVJqEDeZdqaC8vv0QQ8S15L77F2b7dqoVMxDwTg/s320/Fox+Two+125607.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Bristol</i> lights off its radars</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Birds away!" called out a controller. "<i>Bristol</i> is launching SAMs."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCuaqy0VG0ZCaMAP4ZvIvpC1PVHyPcpLdLuFz6GhAhRC8h6Cc2WZc6H1Yu2j9-BlURJky0-4LrWTrR97bLD7utWT3n-nB_BTNBenZR03JXZAbDTO-6yjlhZTCUjFtEjW1144CtFXTxZo/s1600/Fox+Two+125714.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="705" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyCuaqy0VG0ZCaMAP4ZvIvpC1PVHyPcpLdLuFz6GhAhRC8h6Cc2WZc6H1Yu2j9-BlURJky0-4LrWTrR97bLD7utWT3n-nB_BTNBenZR03JXZAbDTO-6yjlhZTCUjFtEjW1144CtFXTxZo/s320/Fox+Two+125714.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Bristol</i> gets its first kill</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Bristol</i> shot down the remaining two Bears, and then turned its attention to the trailing Badgers jammer aircraft.<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Scorcher 7, we are engaging the inbound Vampires. Fox One!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVREMmBkMBa51BxE_ZWkVx0J-FxaLVRR8NqhXHvkxhywat1EyH-56hmA-mFs0jcV6k9koXcEWsrWf6sUGBoZc13aIhhrcfWh9Qv-3EOeHaOrqll9glAvJNeHGOLWt6df-0j630iZjy6Kc/s1600/Fox+Two+130014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="921" height="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVREMmBkMBa51BxE_ZWkVx0J-FxaLVRR8NqhXHvkxhywat1EyH-56hmA-mFs0jcV6k9koXcEWsrWf6sUGBoZc13aIhhrcfWh9Qv-3EOeHaOrqll9glAvJNeHGOLWt6df-0j630iZjy6Kc/s320/Fox+Two+130014.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorcher 7 engages the nuclear cruise missiles just east of the Shetland Islands</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The pair of Phantoms was forced to expend all of their Sparrows, but they managed to shoot down all three Vampires.<br />
<br />
"Sir, the Phantoms at Stornoway and Leuchars are ready."<br />
<br />
"Get some airborne."<br />
<br />
<b>130307Z</b> "Vampire! We have a missile launch!"<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Scorcher 7, we are engaging a Bear Charlie and Badger Juliett-two-ship. Vampire! The Bear just launched! Fox Two!"<br />
<br />
"Sentry, Gamecock 42, I am engaging the Vampire. Fox One!"<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCeEu-apPpqwwEe5C0Gco2N14zcF_AiJucwc1OHCYm7J_flrBz-Ugh4rzDdyQFeQ0_DJkMmvDWA5fzcmVYD9bsNYHnBkKdJLJ0Q_cop3aRgDg2_wUIlXa2n3d3f7GnUrn37JN7w2nUO84/s1600/Fox+Two+130506.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="1066" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCeEu-apPpqwwEe5C0Gco2N14zcF_AiJucwc1OHCYm7J_flrBz-Ugh4rzDdyQFeQ0_DJkMmvDWA5fzcmVYD9bsNYHnBkKdJLJ0Q_cop3aRgDg2_wUIlXa2n3d3f7GnUrn37JN7w2nUO84/s320/Fox+Two+130506.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Scorcher 7 engages the Badgers with Sidewinders while Gamecock 4 engages the Vampire</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Gamecock 42's last Sparrow took out the Vampire, while the Scorchers took out the two Badgers, although they had to use all of their Sidewinders to do it. Scorcher 72 and the Bear each killed the other with guns as close range.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPHRCTn4415-b5zVRXcMlltjRodbKQs7FD3dscYgbNGGrjk8Vskt_R1rsUIUj9Cd3BGyAVCCaaC6ryp_T4qa9Oi_JRwxE1b6ESA4wObWGtr5DsB5ZGgFDVZp0_wFiwECgBeOqmXbhXAtY/s1600/Fox+Two+130720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="896" data-original-width="1079" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPHRCTn4415-b5zVRXcMlltjRodbKQs7FD3dscYgbNGGrjk8Vskt_R1rsUIUj9Cd3BGyAVCCaaC6ryp_T4qa9Oi_JRwxE1b6ESA4wObWGtr5DsB5ZGgFDVZp0_wFiwECgBeOqmXbhXAtY/s320/Fox+Two+130720.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The skies are busy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Bolling stared at his scope, trying to make sense of the situation. There appeared to be some aircraft heading towards his Shackleton, perhaps Fiddlers, but they were entering <i>Bristol</i>'s SAM envelope, so he ignored them. The primary raid was occurring to the east, and the airborne fighters were doing their best to take out the vampires as they were launched. Far to the northeast was a group of Soviet aircraft that appeared to be circling. Could they be the tankers? Bolling cursed that he could not send any fighters up there to take it out. The immediate danger was the present raid--they could not let a single Vampire through.<br />
<br />
Gamecock 41 shot down another vampire. Five vampires were left. More Bears turned and began to head north.<br />
<br />
HMS <i>Bristol</i> began to fire on the aircraft closing in on it. As a precaution Bolling ordered the Shackleton's pilot to head away from the aircraft--there was no way they could outrun them, but they could delay the intercept long enough for <i>Bristol</i> to deal with them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0HUygV-92fZvRRTuCC1BhJAMjJ4cPNmKY5_QTvdpc-v5H-Gk-Q5MRzuUMiOxN2NcOoqHskn4d0ca7d_We4uIdapP4mbjV8tE-GGlGYVUpUUaUA2H6eBdQ1wp8hiD80u0QyfmRwmP2bl0/s1600/Fox+Two+130859.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="871" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0HUygV-92fZvRRTuCC1BhJAMjJ4cPNmKY5_QTvdpc-v5H-Gk-Q5MRzuUMiOxN2NcOoqHskn4d0ca7d_We4uIdapP4mbjV8tE-GGlGYVUpUUaUA2H6eBdQ1wp8hiD80u0QyfmRwmP2bl0/s320/Fox+Two+130859.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Bristol</i> launches on the approaching aircraft to defend the Shackleton AEW.2</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i>Bristol</i>'s first salvo took out a Fiddler, and the others dodged while <i>Bristol</i> launched another. <i>Bristol</i>'s Sea Darts took out a second Fiddler, and then a third, and then two more. <br />
<br />
Gamecock 41 took out a pair of Vampires with its Sidewinders. There were three left. Gamecock 41 was running on fumes, and so was happy to leave the remainder to the Lightnings. The first Lightning expended his Firestreaks without a hit. The second pair of Lightnings shot past their targets and turned, but had a hard time catching up to the 920kt AS-3 Kangaroos.<br />
<br />
<b>131437Z</b> Three more Vampires were launched. New F-4s from Stornoway were closing in to backup the Lightnings.<br />
<br />
The Lightnings had failed in their intercepts, so it was up to the F-4s. Gamecock 62 launched its first Sparrows.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTraL9Wn7eVmJqmxReHcDeLTupgUC2XGtqWEUdSztOLMAe_j7KX0N2TawjKcAkBwRvFkkHJiZEKxYGKIC9ZEVnFaTzWnI_YHx2JlbtkaeoeS-EsrXqAy5Fan9yUTqt7Vuv-xgnuujIZw/s1600/Fox+Two+131643.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="956" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTTraL9Wn7eVmJqmxReHcDeLTupgUC2XGtqWEUdSztOLMAe_j7KX0N2TawjKcAkBwRvFkkHJiZEKxYGKIC9ZEVnFaTzWnI_YHx2JlbtkaeoeS-EsrXqAy5Fan9yUTqt7Vuv-xgnuujIZw/s320/Fox+Two+131643.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Phantoms attempt to intercept the Vampires</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Phantoms did well, shooting down five out of six of the Vampires. <br />
<br />
<b>132300Z </b>Three more Bears launched cruise missiles, but this time there were plenty of Phantoms ready to shoot them down. By this time, most of the raid had turned back north. One Lightning shot down two of the missiles, and a Phantom shot down the third.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyyfrRFQtOPW9o3RgCYi3kt-czpwpNToDJgQ_aEBzoGGDIVAvS1G3LM9qLVKoyRaZX6gffDwnuKewViZmGWg2G8suSI5o_pRQ9tHIm7vlBQ071s9oD3Sa7fCqE65wwmK1Lxkio3cJXKYg/s1600/Fox+Two+133839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="688" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyyfrRFQtOPW9o3RgCYi3kt-czpwpNToDJgQ_aEBzoGGDIVAvS1G3LM9qLVKoyRaZX6gffDwnuKewViZmGWg2G8suSI5o_pRQ9tHIm7vlBQ071s9oD3Sa7fCqE65wwmK1Lxkio3cJXKYg/s320/Fox+Two+133839.jpg" width="296" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The raid appears to be over...will there be another?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
"Let's make sure this this is over," Bolling said. "Head north a bit," he ordered the pilot. The Phantoms on CAP were refueling, and most other aircraft were heading back to base to refuel and rearm. But Bolling was concerned another raid might be on the way, and he was determined not to get caught flatfooted.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7L7YEGWuGGjye2a1PcG5Hvr36-oqv6zIW8QqhXp06u_t60aAPdfz6DlF8qgDjlV9UWbwJNQoBWQLfUiMFBIwH786VRRojARWwhyphenhyphenNmKFC9UzlsWFRw8shfxb_l83TVXTT-SwqghrZEus/s1600/Fox+Two+143344.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="645" data-original-width="1032" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI7L7YEGWuGGjye2a1PcG5Hvr36-oqv6zIW8QqhXp06u_t60aAPdfz6DlF8qgDjlV9UWbwJNQoBWQLfUiMFBIwH786VRRojARWwhyphenhyphenNmKFC9UzlsWFRw8shfxb_l83TVXTT-SwqghrZEus/s320/Fox+Two+143344.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>143344Z "</b>Contact, bearing 041 for 199 miles. Correction, contact is two-ship."<br />
<br />
And then, a few minutes later. "Another contact, 344 for 196 miles."<br />
<br />
The first two contacts were heading northwest. "What could they be doing?" he thought. "Is it their CAP?" He ordered the Phantoms on CAP to investigate.<br />
<br />
The Phantoms closed in, and soon it was obvious. The contacts were not the Soviet CAP, but rather than Badger jammer aircraft and their Tankers. The two Phantoms managed to down one tanker and one jammer before they had to break off.<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion</b><br />
In short, I didn't think this was going to be a pure cruise missile attack. What I was expecting was a multi-axis attack, with coordinated attacks from Iceland and northern Norway, involving some cruise missiles, but also bombers and more short-ranged attacks by the Fencers. Instead, it was essentially a minor probe from Iceland followed by a major cruise missile attack from northern Norway. I kept holding back many of my interceptors so as to wait for the raids to get a little closer, but what happened was that the raid simply launched their cruise missiles at 200nm and then turned away (as they do...). My interceptors that were already airborne went Winchester shooting down planes left and right, but because I held so many back, I ended up shooting down only 15 Bears, rather than the 16 that were "required" to advance to the next mission. In the end the real victory was that I did not allow any cruise missiles to reach their targets.<br />
<br />
So I could continue along with the campaign, I replayed the mission, and this time I sent everything I had north to intercept the inbound raid. The result was that I shot down a <i>lot</i> more Bears, but a single cruise missile slipped through and hit RAF Lossiemouth. Oops. On to Scenario Ten!<br />
<br />
Minor Victory<br />
Score: 750<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
4x Su-24 Fencer B<br />
15x Tu-95KM Bear C<br />
15x Tu-128 Fiddler A<br />
1x Tu-16P Badger J<br />
1x Tu-16P Badger H<br />
5x Tu-16Z Badger A<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
22x Generic Chaff Salvo [4x Cartridges]<br />
16x AA-5 Ash A [R-4R, SARH]<br />
1x AA-5 Ash B [R-4T, IR]<br />
77x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
28x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
14x Generic Flare Salvo [4x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
16x AS-3 Kangaroo [Kh-20M, ASM, 800kT Nuclear]<br />
1x 23mm AM-23 Burst [25 rnds]<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
6x Phantom II FGR.2<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
84x AIM-7E2 Sparrow III<br />
44x AIM-9D Sidewinder<br />
32x 20mm/85 SUU-23/A Gun Pod Burst [100 rnds]<br />
20x Sea Dart Mod 0<br />
4x Firestreak<br />
2x Red Top<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-91941104095618281512017-07-17T12:00:00.000-04:002017-07-17T13:05:35.520-04:00Savage Race 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA5p4JHdzT-mYro8ReeA0XAWrMGgqX0kvbfYzBDXI_25BldZyZQk2FKpOTziFsk3toSj6943yQomRCLDKFTAgmfN2KzQTMcHz33Ei1ERaOVY-Mepjp2dDZYnSmHeSnTuLG6PR4loF5gXw/s1600/savage-logo-14.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA5p4JHdzT-mYro8ReeA0XAWrMGgqX0kvbfYzBDXI_25BldZyZQk2FKpOTziFsk3toSj6943yQomRCLDKFTAgmfN2KzQTMcHz33Ei1ERaOVY-Mepjp2dDZYnSmHeSnTuLG6PR4loF5gXw/s1600/savage-logo-14.png" /></a></div>
<b>July 15, 2017</b><br />
There was a lot of anticipation for this race. Word of its good reputation had spread from other parts of the country and so many people were looking forward to it coming to New England.<br />
<br />
From looking into it ahead of time, it looked much like a Spartan Race, but without the Spartan elitism. Similar obstacles, but with some fun ones thrown in. Spartan Race seems to be all about brute strength, whereas Tough Mudder's shtick is more about teamwork and mental obstacles, and the vibe I got from Savage Race was somewhere in between.<br />
<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
There were over two hundred <a href="http://www.newenglandspahtens.com/">New England Spahtens</a> registered for the race, so the team was going to make a big showing. The event was to take place at Carter and Stevens Farm in Barre, Massachusetts, a venue I am familiar with, having raced there three times before (<a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2015/08/boston-spartan-sprint-2015.html">2015 Spartan Sprint</a>, <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2015/06/boston-spartan-super-2015.html">2015 Spartan Super</a>, and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2015/07/battlefrog-new-england-2015.html">2015 Battle Frog</a>). <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefxNBezB9MgkGqIZd4yiihk-9nNq_usTfqcaIX1_Y1Mrk9frnY30TqbDvkwhpnN1olOxa-X4fF0L-Y1K_eDGX9RWcDZ6wH3F68g0PYBkfLpg7GaofVmbfxuwR9AOPEOT6F6ZciSVGfxc/s1600/savage_race_team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgefxNBezB9MgkGqIZd4yiihk-9nNq_usTfqcaIX1_Y1Mrk9frnY30TqbDvkwhpnN1olOxa-X4fF0L-Y1K_eDGX9RWcDZ6wH3F68g0PYBkfLpg7GaofVmbfxuwR9AOPEOT6F6ZciSVGfxc/s320/savage_race_team.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New England Spahtens Team Photo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Like the other races, parking was offsite in a large field, with shuttle buses to the venue. Once at the venue, check-in was quick and painless, and I realized I had nearly an hour to kill before my starting wave. I was debating whether or not to bring my hydration pack because while it was humid, it was also overcast and in the 70s. But ran into several friends I had met from previous races, and several of them were wearing theirs, so in the end I decided to bring it. I went to the bag check and was disconcerted as the line was extremely long, but fortunately it moved fast. The girl who took my bag kept repeating my bib number back to me wrong, but she wrote down the number correctly on the tag, so in the end all was well.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Course Map</td></tr>
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Soon it was off to the starting line, where the commentator turned out to be Dustin, a guy who also has also done the introduction for Spartan Races, who spoke in his characteristic speed-talking fashion, "pumping us up." In my opinion the intro was entirely too long, as I am always eager to get past the pep talk and get going. Finally we were off, and quickly any hopes I had that I would be running with the same group I did for Tough Mudder were dashed. The crowd quickly spread out, and while I was still in the middle (well, towards the back) of the pack, I wasn't running "with" anyone. This would be another race in which I raced essentially alone. I suppose I could have asked someone sheepishly "Can I run with you?" but that requires social behavior at which I am a disaster, so I didn't try. In any event, throughout the course there were usually Spahtens around, if not actually <i>with</i> me, so I suppose being alone is just my perception of it rather than the reality.<br />
<br />
It was a half mile at least to the first obstacle, which was a simple <b>Low Crawl</b> underneath barbed wire. The wires weren't too low, so I was able to high crawl under it without any problems. Next was <b>Barn Door</b>, which was a simple climb over a wall with plenty of handholds. <br />
<br />
We had already slogged through plenty of mud pits that qualified as obstacles themselves, up to knee deep. This would become common throughout the course, and all of them had a very characteristic "farm" smell to them.<br />
<br />
This first loop brought us back towards the festival area, where we hit the first water station. I had my hydration pack so I skipped the water. Most stations at OCRs consist of large water bottles/kegs where the volunteers give you small cups of water, but these were all bottled water. As such it seemed very wasteful to me, as most people took a swig or two from their bottle, dumped out the rest, tossed the bottle in the recycle bin and moved on.<br />
<br />
Soon after that was <b>Shriveled Richard</b>, a simple jump into a cold water tank followed by a duck under a small wall to dunk you, and then out of the tank. The water was cold, but did not have visible ice in it, and so wasn't too bad.<br />
<br />
After that was <b>Blazed</b>, which was a simple fire jump, which felt odd being so near the beginning of the race rather than the last obstacle before the finish. Then was <b>Squeeze Play</b>, a low crawl underneath barrels that you had to push out of the way while crawling under them. <br />
<br />
We left the festival area and it was off to into the woods and then fields, where we hit <b>Backscratcher</b>, which was a series of low walls to climb over with sections of barbed wire to crawl under in between them. Next was <b>Slippery Incline</b>, which is a simple inclined wall (but not very slippery) with a rope assist. Then was <b>Lumberjack Lane</b>, where you had to carry a large piece of wood (maybe 6" x 4" x 4') around a small loop. <br />
<br />
Soon after that was <b>Tree Hugger</b>, the first obstacle I failed that day. It consisted of multiple vertical logs interspersed with metal posts that you had to maneuver across, with sparse hand and foot holds. I did not get very far before I gave up. Savage Race does not penalize you for failing obstacles, which I am appreciating more the more races I do. There's nothing that kills the fun of obstacle course races than overzealous volunteers screaming at you like drill sergeants while you struggle through obstacles, only to yell at you louder to do your burpees if you slip and fall (I'm looking at you, Spartan Race). <br />
<br />
Next was <b>Me So Thorny</b>, which is just another barbed wire crawl, this one supported by a wooden frame. Following this was a long hike through the woods and mud and more woods and mud, until <b>Wheel World</b>. Wheel World is a monkey bar-like obstacle consisting of five pentagonal steering wheel-like contraptions hanging from a frame. You have to hang from each freely-spinning wheel in turn, spinning each one to be able to reach the next one. I didn't think I'd get very far on this, but seeing how far I got on the monkey bars at Tough Mudder, I thought I might have a small chance of completing it. Well, it didn't turn out that way. Despite the wheels being dry, my hands slipped right off of them as if they were greased, and into the water I went.<br />
<br />
Then was <b>Big Cheese</b>, a wooden obstacle that looks vaguely like a cheese grater that you have to climb up and over that was relatively easy, followed by <b>Mud N Guts</b>, yet another muddy barbed wire crawl. This got us nice and dirty for <b>Davy Jones' Locker</b>, which was a jump from a 15 foot platform into a pool. Fifteen feet, but it always looks higher from the top. Like most obstacles of this type, I don't hesitate but just go for it.<br />
<br />
Next was <b>Mad Ladders</b>, which consisted of a traverse across several rope ladders and cargo nets. I made it about 2/3 of the way through it before I couldn't go any farther simply because I couldn't reach the next ladder. <br />
<br />
More hiking, and then to the <b>Great Wall</b>, which was an 8' wall. Tough Mudder had a similar wall with a small foothold near the bottom that you could use to help boost yourself up. I ran up to this one, jumped, grabbed the top, and tried to haul myself up and get my leg over the top...and my left shoulder gave way with a sharp stab of pain, and down I went. I've mentioned in previous posts that my shoulders have inferior instability and therefore are prone to subluxation (aka partial dislocation). I can pop them both in and out at will, generally painlessly. However, if they pop out involuntarily, usually caused by some kind of hanging or full extension reaching, depending on how much weight is on them, it can hurt really bad. This one did, and so after some swearing I gave up on the obstacle and went on to the next.<br />
<br />
This was <b>Block Party</b>, which was dragging a cinder block at the end of a long rope across the grass maybe 15 yards, and then carrying it back to full extension. More hiking through mud and woods until <b>Hangarang</b>, which consisted of a pair of logs hanging from a rig that you had to traverse as they swung freely. This one looks difficult, but most people managed so long as they went slowly and carefully. The most difficult part is the transition from one log to another, and as I reached for the chain holding the second log, my shoulder popped out again, which hurt, but I was able to complete the obstacle successfully. After this was <b>Thor's Grundle</b>, which was another water/mud obstacle where you had to negotiate a muddy water pit and under a cargo net stretched across it. <br />
<br />
Following that was more trails and it was somewhere along this point that I rolled my ankle, giving me a long jolt of pins and needles in my foot for a while. But I could still put weight on it, so I kept going until <b>Pole Cat</b>, which was a traverse over water where you had to brace your arms on one pole and your feet on another, halfway with hands higher than feet and halfway with feet higher than hands. This wasn't too bad, and then it was on to <b>Sawtooth</b>. This is a set of inclined monkey bars with a complication in the middle that makes it far more challenging. I had no illusions that could complete it, but I figured I could get to the halfway point. Unfortunately by this point my palms felt like large blisters, so my grip wasn't that great, and I only made it perhaps 1/3 of the way up the incline before I fell into the water. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtS2Twn4XwLBGbKRdhneHb1iSdjgeIfrSOOrASAvuvI6cYdRbXXe_xhLHFKutTXu1gQRAQddAbSG3QZsET47WXwK5YyOGlZlK_WZzHO0hF3zWPaBoeKUxA63cYfZUmwPCathcIFf69y4/s1600/savage_race_sawtooth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="639" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRtS2Twn4XwLBGbKRdhneHb1iSdjgeIfrSOOrASAvuvI6cYdRbXXe_xhLHFKutTXu1gQRAQddAbSG3QZsET47WXwK5YyOGlZlK_WZzHO0hF3zWPaBoeKUxA63cYfZUmwPCathcIFf69y4/s320/savage_race_sawtooth.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just before my grip failed...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Another hike across open fields to a water station, followed by <b>Big Cargo</b>, a tall A-frame cargo net.<br />
<br />
Beyond that was <b>Colussus</b>, which I had been looking forward to. At first I thought it was just a big water slide that you climbed up to, but when I got to it I realized that it is more than that. The first part is a quarter-pipe with rope-assist climb that is similar to Everest 2.0 from Tough Mudder. You run up the increasing slope, grab the rope, and pull yourself up until you get a hold of the lip, and pull yourself (most of the time with help from those already on top) onto the platform above. The second part is a ladder up to the the third part: a very fun looking waterslide into a pool below.<br />
<br />
But I had to complete the first part to get to the fun part. Several people were making the attempt, getting pulled up and over the lip as they got to the top. I wasn't with any friends at this point, so I suppose I couldn't count on any help, but I hoped that if I was making the effort, someone would step up to help.<br />
<br />
My first attempt up the slip wall was a disaster: the ground leading up to it was uneven, so in my run up to the wall I became unbalanced and crashed into the wall rather than going up it. After brushing myself off I tried again, and this time I grabbed the rope and hauled myself up, and got both hands on the lip...and there I stopped. I had enough strength to hold myself there, but not enough to to get over the top. I could see people standing at the top not four feet away from me, straining and paralyzed, and no one moved an inch to help. It felt like longer, but I hung there for at least ten seconds, going nowhere. And then I distinctly both heard and felt a <i>crunch</i> in my right shoulder as it gave way, and I fell down the wall.<br />
<br />
This was the low point of the race for me, and it soured me on the entire experience. This incident made the event stand out in sharp relief to Tough Mudder. On Everest, people are eager to work as a team and get everyone over the top. Every success earns a cheer, and every failure earns a sympathetic groan. Complete strangers are pulling for each other, and this spirit is one of the things I like best about Tough Mudder. At this obstacle, however, I hung there on the lip waiting in vain for a hand, and no one said a word when I tumbled down to the bottom. I suppose I shouldn't have expected anyone to help, and I always could have asked...but I didn't, so in the end it's my own fault. As I walked away disgusted (half with the experience, half with myself for failing), I passed a friend who said "No waterslide?" "I couldn't get to the top," I whined. "No one helped." Angrily I stalked past the spectators watching people have fun going down the slide. Looking at post-event pictures, I saw that there was a ladder that provided access to the top so I could have bypassed the climb and just gone down the slide. Had I done so, it probably would have improved my mood considerably. But at the time I didn't see it and I just kept going.<br />
<br />
The next two obstacles--the final two obstacles--naturally, were both rigs: <b>Savage Rig</b> and <b>Twirly Bird</b>, which are pure upper-body strength obstacles. With my grip failing and my shoulders hurting, I skipped both, feeling like a failure. Into the woods again on several muddy trails to the Finish. <br />
<br />
In 2015 I complained that the finish of the <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2015/06/boston-spartan-super-2015.html">Spartan Super</a> at Barre was a letdown--at the end you went through some wooded trails, only to break out of the woods 20 yards from the fire jump and the finish line. This time it was much the same, but no fire jump. You just exited the woods...and there was the Finish. With such a short run up to the finish and no obstacle prior to it, it felt like a let down.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGiq4GiAIsv9-i8ug4YKDpS5IXOiaE9LRrbQ8zeOW9aZfAHq7ghnTWjK1K7FyHoL7ctBzKsBdUcLraKA-oCDbmdMF9wap1YwTHBUS_VzOkbdEhRLAlTNAFtwbJEtkc9RJV5sqe_4NRAc/s1600/savage_race_medal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="782" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGiq4GiAIsv9-i8ug4YKDpS5IXOiaE9LRrbQ8zeOW9aZfAHq7ghnTWjK1K7FyHoL7ctBzKsBdUcLraKA-oCDbmdMF9wap1YwTHBUS_VzOkbdEhRLAlTNAFtwbJEtkc9RJV5sqe_4NRAc/s320/savage_race_medal.jpg" width="260" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can see what a good mood I was in.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
By all accounts I was the only one who didn't have a fantastic time, as everyone else raved about how Savage Race put on an awesome event, so my being disappointed is more a reflection on me than it is on the race or other participants.<br />
<br />
Trying to look at it objectively, the race was pretty good. The tagline of Savage Race is <i>The Best Obstacles, The Perfect Distance</i>. I have no complaints about the distance. The obstacles were OK. I thought there were too many wire crawls, and most of the other obstacles, although many were fun, were just variations of obstacles I have seen at other races. <b>Shriveled Richard</b> is just a version of Tough Mudder's <b>Arctic Enema</b>. <b>Davy Jones' Locker</b> is just like Tough Mudder's <b>Walk the Plank</b>. And so on. Walls, cargo nets, rigs, monkey bars: they're all standard fixtures in races. The lack of penalties for failing obstacles is a plus however: I'm usually hard enough on myself for failing that the last thing I need is for someone to penalize me for it.<br />
<br />
Despite my sour grapes, it was good to see the familiar faces I have come to expect at these races, and I'm glad that they enjoyed themselves, even if in the end I didn't. On the ride home I was in such a bad mood I was debating whether or not to go to the Tough Mudder I am signed up for next month, but hopefully my mood will improve enough to look forward to it.<br />
<br />
Will I do Savage Race next year? (The race was such a hit they've already signed a contract with the venue, and Spahtens are excitedly signing up a year in advance). Probably. If I am still racing next year, I'll do it sooner than I will do another Spartan Race. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/p/ocrs.html">Other races in this series</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-49565004169889813472017-07-17T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-17T08:00:06.219-04:00Insane Inflatable 5k 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRx-mAsNL_VMUobkFPKFqDlOnsHnvXApUEd1LTLh1Zq8S_Ngy0yGKX9_0s8vrf6zX35YJVxkkG_THWDKcvrkNZDGuxxQYu4yQZEF5nd3jxN1Bevix6uEb4c-RghsD1p4EdH-aFNPYm0pY/s1600/Course-Map-Rounded.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1020" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRx-mAsNL_VMUobkFPKFqDlOnsHnvXApUEd1LTLh1Zq8S_Ngy0yGKX9_0s8vrf6zX35YJVxkkG_THWDKcvrkNZDGuxxQYu4yQZEF5nd3jxN1Bevix6uEb4c-RghsD1p4EdH-aFNPYm0pY/s320/Course-Map-Rounded.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<b>September 3, 2016</b><br />
After the debacle that was the <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2016/06/samurai-sprint-mud-run.html">Samurai Sprint</a> (not the race's fault, but rather my injuring my shoulders and not feeling good enough as a racer), I decided to focus a little more on "fun" races.<br />
<br />
This race was the "Insane Inflatable 5k", a 5k race where the obstacles were all inflatable "bouncy house" type obstacles. I didn't think that my 5-year-old son would be up for the distance, and that coupled with the price made me decide to so only with my 7-year-old daughter. That turned out to be a good decision.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>The race was only a half hour from home, which was good, and took place at a local speedway, so there was ample parking, and we parked a very short walk away from the venue. Registration was easy and we got our bibs. One smart thing was that the bibs themselves were stickers, so no safety pins were necessary.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6EMz9AL6AEqg6y-N8fABxinZQcKvmLAEN4-oM7x6X63J_hH18lyLaCcrWGh_o2UQ7CNRZMtTxQwmq23clIvnpnfiumXiHw2YLTfI5Ewm1KnToQZeE8kCwII9n1lhWAjSXFyCCDyR7HA/s1600/14222131_10210753847421890_4421742449111037451_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6EMz9AL6AEqg6y-N8fABxinZQcKvmLAEN4-oM7x6X63J_hH18lyLaCcrWGh_o2UQ7CNRZMtTxQwmq23clIvnpnfiumXiHw2YLTfI5Ewm1KnToQZeE8kCwII9n1lhWAjSXFyCCDyR7HA/s320/14222131_10210753847421890_4421742449111037451_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to race</td></tr>
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While waiting for our wave, there was a small bouncy house for kids that Laurelin took full advantage of. But it wasn't long before our wave was ready to go. The course was on a speedway, which meant flat and open, so there wasn't any shade to speak of, except for within some of the obstacles themselves.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ANbaBSzA7IqGNPOB7KriiXxKO0yHL7SpCho1cIP7cjIwWSBxSBICQFnQvsu31Gm042lzya2kNgi9bVgrKDDfcMYlLvcWspzB7o38NH1TMa0TR00xNMkV6BnHCQ0Ls6GzKG5VmrLB9ZY/s1600/14238133_10210753848181909_4410198723059595165_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3ANbaBSzA7IqGNPOB7KriiXxKO0yHL7SpCho1cIP7cjIwWSBxSBICQFnQvsu31Gm042lzya2kNgi9bVgrKDDfcMYlLvcWspzB7o38NH1TMa0TR00xNMkV6BnHCQ0Ls6GzKG5VmrLB9ZY/s320/14238133_10210753848181909_4410198723059595165_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Beach Ball obstacle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first obstacle was a simple climb up inflatable stairs and then down a slide, and we were off. Most of the group just took off running, but Laurelin and I went slower, which helped as group spread out and when we arrived at obstacles we didn't have to wait. the next was a simple run through a bouncy house like structure, and then one that was like a large mattress.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenHTmKe3MQplYTqrcQtpq5li8jwckVC0z_T07WC3kVpjIwRerKUR8R0tyOIyHNgZyCo8s_7QAYuF3yjxI8v_8gN12FrWBivs7kqbzfJ1NEfdMWoujt3lM-lJrpiYeb0lk3qBSVMJzgxo/s1600/14233086_10210753849461941_826115282600490636_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="893" data-original-width="960" height="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenHTmKe3MQplYTqrcQtpq5li8jwckVC0z_T07WC3kVpjIwRerKUR8R0tyOIyHNgZyCo8s_7QAYuF3yjxI8v_8gN12FrWBivs7kqbzfJ1NEfdMWoujt3lM-lJrpiYeb0lk3qBSVMJzgxo/s320/14233086_10210753849461941_826115282600490636_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fighting through the obstacles</td></tr>
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Laurelin had a blast karate kicking making of the upright parts of the obstacles on her way through, but sometimes lost her balance. One of my favorite obstacles was a "ball pit" of sorts where you had to negotiate your way through beach balls as large as a person. I had a lot of fun when I got to the end and started hurling them back at racers behind us.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVr_WBIaVD3fMde0O2CoI_sBVdzka03VVVpqm0j9VzMGXiK11u7d5JPao-bcR-ExJaf4oxkCPkkaMFmoZnL8_OlfKaWZNqMc07Yfz_Hx6TmUGriPBzJcylLPYVhVuUHmwuVrGMm1uG17k/s1600/14232653_10210753853702047_2218747089188650067_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="960" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVr_WBIaVD3fMde0O2CoI_sBVdzka03VVVpqm0j9VzMGXiK11u7d5JPao-bcR-ExJaf4oxkCPkkaMFmoZnL8_OlfKaWZNqMc07Yfz_Hx6TmUGriPBzJcylLPYVhVuUHmwuVrGMm1uG17k/s320/14232653_10210753853702047_2218747089188650067_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Completing another obstacle</td></tr>
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The heat and the distance started to wear on Laurelin, and we made it to the halfway mark water station.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNnaYnRdY72B4GA4-cwW2V_H8-PwUxQCETczTYJCyQe0vjArcfijRWiwxfzInBL6yrjtNNaE2GH4DSiFEAVhfKwsz_Ubpm0mVmhuM2Nq76pOcUBe4WtEqxoHHWuCDhrr3sLlZOsfZDm4/s1600/14222180_10210753854062056_1484345541158315541_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSNnaYnRdY72B4GA4-cwW2V_H8-PwUxQCETczTYJCyQe0vjArcfijRWiwxfzInBL6yrjtNNaE2GH4DSiFEAVhfKwsz_Ubpm0mVmhuM2Nq76pOcUBe4WtEqxoHHWuCDhrr3sLlZOsfZDm4/s320/14222180_10210753854062056_1484345541158315541_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a short break</td></tr>
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The second half of the race was much the same as the first, but by now Laurelin was tired and I started carrying her for stretches of the course. Of course her sore feet magically felt better every time we reached an obstacle...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsNURV1mMXfdRWWptrSSKbhjvdtx9B2vxDhhzfXPFHs6PBpWXtRwfFC7tc6yvpc_7r_yqI_KtcZOOFMD_I27v6taH1FMDgIvw09eV7XPGL9YNl3f0J-077vN04ty4LYDSpKFZYN8xgiM/s1600/14222130_10210753848381914_5546211926224712006_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEsNURV1mMXfdRWWptrSSKbhjvdtx9B2vxDhhzfXPFHs6PBpWXtRwfFC7tc6yvpc_7r_yqI_KtcZOOFMD_I27v6taH1FMDgIvw09eV7XPGL9YNl3f0J-077vN04ty4LYDSpKFZYN8xgiM/s320/14222130_10210753848381914_5546211926224712006_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down the slide!</td></tr>
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Sore feet or not though, Laurelin was still all smiles by the time we got to the end.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGuvbuyrdvMCY7N0bChZnJmicvb58Ltf2af04u-PDiSYifwm8FM8CY2Mf3dAwayIT7eFPkhT_AJkkVZAjgT2JCWim61yjaH2oOnSYpmLpILqpCFO73y_KfFu45F9nU7tOa9jFKfWMpkY/s1600/14141717_10210753854302062_1504418639231233330_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvGuvbuyrdvMCY7N0bChZnJmicvb58Ltf2af04u-PDiSYifwm8FM8CY2Mf3dAwayIT7eFPkhT_AJkkVZAjgT2JCWim61yjaH2oOnSYpmLpILqpCFO73y_KfFu45F9nU7tOa9jFKfWMpkY/s320/14141717_10210753854302062_1504418639231233330_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Waiting our turn at the last obstacle</td></tr>
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Before we knew it we were at the end, another race in the books. The only downside to this race was the price, which was something like $150 for the two of us. The Krazy Kids Inflatable Fun Run that we did later was much easier on the wallet, and just as much fun for the kids.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvQvucUl4f7c7Hk1_3TJ7KWwuavEugGnayhyphenhyphenoJ-Wf_xxmJikI_XtFAg-Qwl0JAPsrizaLqHkT4AFaH14D6RALEBbCYVt8D1UfV03GmU4p5e0UkQwn_FphiYEdXnyEMc7-CcoScuWkXIk/s1600/14225398_10210753856142108_6167006376692974819_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivvQvucUl4f7c7Hk1_3TJ7KWwuavEugGnayhyphenhyphenoJ-Wf_xxmJikI_XtFAg-Qwl0JAPsrizaLqHkT4AFaH14D6RALEBbCYVt8D1UfV03GmU4p5e0UkQwn_FphiYEdXnyEMc7-CcoScuWkXIk/s320/14225398_10210753856142108_6167006376692974819_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With her medal and T-shirt</td></tr>
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The race was fun but I'm not sure we'll be doing another one, if only because of the price. On the other hand, they're in the area only once a year, so we'll see.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-54248562436995976522017-07-14T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-14T08:39:14.668-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 8: Damn the Torpedoes Part 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A NATO convoy is headed across the Atlantic to a safe haven in the English Channel. The convoy is absolutely vital--it must get through. The primary threat is from submarines, and undoubtedly there are a lot of them. In the first day of the mission, I lost the frigate USS <i>Pharris</i> early on to a cruise missile attack, but I repaid the favor by sinking several Soviet submarines.<br />
<br />
Then, overnight, things got worse. An air-raid sank two ships of the convoy, and then as the sun rose over the convoy, things went from bad to much, much worse. A larger air raid struck, sinking several more ships and the USS <i>Lexington</i> itself, the flagship of the convoy. <br />
<br />
Yet there are still seven ships in the convoy left, and I still need to make a dash to safety. The problem is that there is still over 500nm to go to safety.<br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>September 19, 1975, 0918Z </b>In probably another six hours I can expect another air raid from Backfires, and that will finish off the convoy. There is little I can do except to keep moving as fast as I can towards the safe haven, and hope that the Soviets decide they don't want to attack the convoy anymore. <br />
<br />
I know, wishful thinking.<br />
<br />
Within minutes a Soviet satellite passes overhead, providing imagery that will no doubt make the Politburo cackle with glee.<br />
<br />
A submarine is detected in the sea lane, and my dwindling assets maneuver to prosecute. And then, HMS <i>Tartar</i> detects a cruise missile launch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qQwwCWZFSse1RPaRMvV6b796yBVHAvzljwcDWSRqGIYh3Qv1FifhVFb6J5ubn0rOo0A7v_fCZfL1_ToPnt47WJADRni85e2QMJYhBT6aDHZFYWrZ6aZ4JAFF81bUsujqRThtxsGTXrM/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+092944.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="750" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3qQwwCWZFSse1RPaRMvV6b796yBVHAvzljwcDWSRqGIYh3Qv1FifhVFb6J5ubn0rOo0A7v_fCZfL1_ToPnt47WJADRni85e2QMJYhBT6aDHZFYWrZ6aZ4JAFF81bUsujqRThtxsGTXrM/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+092944.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the rate they're going, the Soviets are going to sweep the Atlantic clean...</td></tr>
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Seconds later, it is detected that there are in fact six Vampires inbound to HMS <i>Tartar</i> and HMS <i>Jupiter. </i><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZNJkseLzgiCPkFF05YM8asuCOc-t_NRzw6it00D9RoRlU7zoSTn3xFbXixU11WJaHbDimqgHmU1WML4i8005TsBXP6qPCbR2xKCgERwUgZzmAxlobyXrLgJAIVE4jlWPEHGYoeXSEXgU/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+093116.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="756" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZNJkseLzgiCPkFF05YM8asuCOc-t_NRzw6it00D9RoRlU7zoSTn3xFbXixU11WJaHbDimqgHmU1WML4i8005TsBXP6qPCbR2xKCgERwUgZzmAxlobyXrLgJAIVE4jlWPEHGYoeXSEXgU/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+093116.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vampires...again</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The missiles appear to be heading towards HMS <i>Jupiter</i>. <i>Jupiter</i> has Sea Cats, so that means it will likely be able to defend itself against...one missile? Maybe? If I'm lucky?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPnNdc4gpBFn16uJJVVjHmSmton-Z-WlFd79_uNNBdngSfVq9ko36P2sK_iaNtUwa8pnvTWwZuW52TU1XSdCl0q0pwZ89SjHt7h03hpmo1ZU5aZPgD60E42s6MartQLY129WvzqgRYjI/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+093311.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="653" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisPnNdc4gpBFn16uJJVVjHmSmton-Z-WlFd79_uNNBdngSfVq9ko36P2sK_iaNtUwa8pnvTWwZuW52TU1XSdCl0q0pwZ89SjHt7h03hpmo1ZU5aZPgD60E42s6MartQLY129WvzqgRYjI/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+093311.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Jupiter</i> launches a Sea Cat to defend itself</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Unsurprisingly, the Sea Cat misses. <i>Jupiter</i> subsequently fires three more Sea Cats, all of miss by a mile, and then fires its 114mm guns, which also misses. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWfv6PcTHKHzjfOeueG6XV__XZk9v4DvHD7znXWAjc0cc2-J6Woo5tKZE75Gk1HnXdgHhCJq4rd5aLjHxSOaN7ULiWMo8MS09dKgOharGhFI3vEe6kwDCyAeL7k9P58qJ5uoNQzSXHXY/s1600/Jupiter_Sea_Wolf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="500" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUWfv6PcTHKHzjfOeueG6XV__XZk9v4DvHD7znXWAjc0cc2-J6Woo5tKZE75Gk1HnXdgHhCJq4rd5aLjHxSOaN7ULiWMo8MS09dKgOharGhFI3vEe6kwDCyAeL7k9P58qJ5uoNQzSXHXY/s320/Jupiter_Sea_Wolf.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Jupiter</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And yet, the first SS-N-9 Siren misses the <i>Jupiter</i>, and the second malfunctions. Naturally, <i>Jupiter's</i> luck runs out and the third missile blows it out of the water.<br />
<br />
Two more Vampires are detected, headed in the general direction of HMS <i>Tartar</i>, but they pass off the ship's bow.<br />
<br />
<b>093942Z</b> One of the Sea Kings from the <i>Lexington</i>, out of fuel, crashes into the sea.<br />
<br />
<b>095724Z </b>A Whiskey V SSK is sunk. Seven subs down. The minor victory is a hollow one.<br />
<br />
<b>100716Z </b>And then the E-1B Tracer detects another air raid. Six aircraft, probably Backfires again. If so, they can launch twelve more Kitchens and completely wipe out the convoy. I wouldn't be surprised if there was an entire regiment of Backfires on Iceland. Certainly at least 12 are present. Whoever provided the intelligence for this mission needs to be shot.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnX704SRbqU_wR0sZtNkiMXf6fcmX7n1bN9UwbM7koU3VkegJvrbviUl1x1DDHm5Haz3NPfdZBAjKPNqcsnJ0izolimgD0VlzdITk85TEg8Eq9B6t2LF8_-tfgjWCHzgMHIQIzDXlI_5c/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+100729.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="809" data-original-width="516" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnX704SRbqU_wR0sZtNkiMXf6fcmX7n1bN9UwbM7koU3VkegJvrbviUl1x1DDHm5Haz3NPfdZBAjKPNqcsnJ0izolimgD0VlzdITk85TEg8Eq9B6t2LF8_-tfgjWCHzgMHIQIzDXlI_5c/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+100729.jpg" width="204" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The last hopes of the convoy are dashed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>100916Z</b> Four more Backfires are detected. Raid count is now ten.<br />
<br />
<b>100956Z</b> Raid count is now sixteen.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa8Y4wDUuM5yG2Yl7nMUK4gxZpV8x-BEWgxCj8QJGJPRSdx-dGdJMTpQ5tQoXz5LquX4xWolesnWQ_SyYqKReJF7SGdrrYzNaR45e0eNvJzowWTV5_YUzf36ISg8up5B32k6LYYsOD5I/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+101017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwa8Y4wDUuM5yG2Yl7nMUK4gxZpV8x-BEWgxCj8QJGJPRSdx-dGdJMTpQ5tQoXz5LquX4xWolesnWQ_SyYqKReJF7SGdrrYzNaR45e0eNvJzowWTV5_YUzf36ISg8up5B32k6LYYsOD5I/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+101017.jpg" width="246" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Raid count is sixteen</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had been kicking myself for not being more proactive. I should have had my CAP stationed at least 200nm out along the axis to Iceland to intercept any inbound raids, despite the fact that my Skyhawks would not be able to remain on station for long and there would be inevitable gaps in coverage, not to mention the fact that I couldn't expect a two Skyhawk CAP to stop a regiment of Backfires by itself. I might have stopped the first raid, perhaps damaged the second raid, but this? Now I realize that there's absolutely nothing I could have done to stop this. Sixteen Backfires means thirty-two Kitchens, which means they can sink my convoy four times over. What a joke.<br />
<br />
The Vampires begin to streak in, Kitchens all.<br />
<br />
(As a quick aside, I get a notification that a Nimrod at RAF St Mawgan is out of ordnance. The mission isn't even half over, and I'm already running out of weapons?)<br />
<br />
The first vampire flies over the USS <i>Orleck</i>, and it surprisingly runs out of energy. But there are eighteen Vampires in the sky now.<br />
<br />
Missile count is now twenty.<br />
<br />
<b>101826Z </b>The next Vampire descends, heading for a tanker, the BP <i>British Envoy</i>. Amazingly, USS <i>Richard L. Page</i> opens fire. I do not have high hopes for the missile hitting. The angle is poor, and so is the SAM.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHU6yN-IJ6vr3Qk7_deSpYxXHm7ZkQc2_3mz5Xuim9KuvTnOl_UUYwdDo6vb2IOV2MbN6l_DrkOvfbg-RtqbKCg-D-ciIz1OwpJNJcBhO3zTzN3qQniZKhvopPNtqRXpDUexzEAOU2cQ/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+101826.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="767" data-original-width="838" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHU6yN-IJ6vr3Qk7_deSpYxXHm7ZkQc2_3mz5Xuim9KuvTnOl_UUYwdDo6vb2IOV2MbN6l_DrkOvfbg-RtqbKCg-D-ciIz1OwpJNJcBhO3zTzN3qQniZKhvopPNtqRXpDUexzEAOU2cQ/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+101826.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Richard L. Page</i> tries desperate to defend the convoy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Predictably the RIM-66A SM-1MR Blk IV misses.<br />
<br />
The AS-4 Kitchen hits the <i>British Envoy</i>, causing heavy damage.<br />
<br />
<i>Richard L. Page</i> fires a SAM at the second inbound missile, and misses again.<br />
<br />
<i>British Envoy</i> is hit and sinks.<br />
<br />
More Vampires are being launched, and even after several hit, the missile count is still twenty.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-UV3IAqGQU4AABIRa973oOg0i6-QsLb-leuPV1L9DfulmEJIcFO7dJliLmVpJTJjQSYAzB4i4bUu_2icA3kVL34Qs6uOorPX5-MVlSARXihRlQBd6fSAabtp4tAIS1txnh-Tq0-BjG-s/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+102000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="823" data-original-width="644" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-UV3IAqGQU4AABIRa973oOg0i6-QsLb-leuPV1L9DfulmEJIcFO7dJliLmVpJTJjQSYAzB4i4bUu_2icA3kVL34Qs6uOorPX5-MVlSARXihRlQBd6fSAabtp4tAIS1txnh-Tq0-BjG-s/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+102000.jpg" width="250" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's an unending unstoppable stream of death</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As four Kitchens fly over the <i>Richard L. Page</i>, it managed to get off two shots, but both miss by a mile.<br />
<br />
BP <i>British Pride</i> dies next.<br />
<br />
Missile count is nineteen as three missiles are launched to replace the four that took out <i>British Pride.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
SS <i>Atlantic Conveyor </i>explodes as two missiles hit her.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2mFmd0G9sacXhizCBFAxluSuQ0oMNfpOUtA7Q1f7epTiW2C-yzOATMSpRVOwFzUYDS7RPPVEQ4n1NQz-S1chL6uNtB5v2usOIIbUMvU1rdWcC0riF0Z600od5Hh7jICLEkmoHu6E33c/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+102153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="819" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn2mFmd0G9sacXhizCBFAxluSuQ0oMNfpOUtA7Q1f7epTiW2C-yzOATMSpRVOwFzUYDS7RPPVEQ4n1NQz-S1chL6uNtB5v2usOIIbUMvU1rdWcC0riF0Z600od5Hh7jICLEkmoHu6E33c/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+102153.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires just keep piling up</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
MV <i>Bright Field</i> is targeted by five AS-4 Kitchens. The first three run out of energy and crash into the sea two miles short of hitting her. But it doesn't matter. The last two blow her to smithereens.<br />
<br />
SS <i>Aegean Breeze</i> explodes.<br />
<br />
One AS-4 Kitchen decides to put <i>Richard L. Page</i> out of its misery, diving straight down on the frigate and exploding it.<br />
<br />
At this point there are only two ships from the convoy left, the MV <i>Camelot</i> and the MV <i>Clipper Sun</i>. There are five utterly useless escort ships, but the Kitchens are smart enough to ignore them. And there are fourteen Vampires still inbound.<br />
<br />
Two Kitchens head for the MV <i>Clipper Sun</i>, and destroy her.<br />
<br />
With few options left, the remaining Vampires start searching the ocean for something worthy of their attention. They pointedly ignore the escorts, after all, it's not like they're threats. Despite this, one decides to target the <i>Charles F. Adams</i>, and amazingly, the destroyer's jammer succeeds in spoofing the missile.<br />
<br />
Two Kitchens focus on the MV <i>Camelot</i>, and just like that, the entire convoy, that is, every single ship in it, is destroyed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD84IPwE_GrrSl5rpIC4q7huUUxPbMzM1EM-3lmGIWDLOXez1oBWxakumqy9cvI7Crx8c28j9wd0dhMmYZT6cJ_0yTz0WqC-CDGKIFUc2Qnfv5KiuNr4nidkT5SpaNP5zU3M9SgRjdPNo/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+102153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="801" data-original-width="819" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD84IPwE_GrrSl5rpIC4q7huUUxPbMzM1EM-3lmGIWDLOXez1oBWxakumqy9cvI7Crx8c28j9wd0dhMmYZT6cJ_0yTz0WqC-CDGKIFUc2Qnfv5KiuNr4nidkT5SpaNP5zU3M9SgRjdPNo/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+102153.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The convoy that simply <i>must</i> get through...doesn't</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A single Vampire targets USS <i>Talbot</i> and the <i>Talbot</i> shoots it down with a RIM-66A, the first hit of the day. Too little too late.<br />
<br />
USS <i>Charles</i> <i>F. Adams</i> has two Kitchens targeting it, and it fires a total of seven RIM-66As, all of which miss. One of the Kitchens then malfunctions, and amazingly, the second Kitchen is taken out by a 5-inch gun at extreme close range. The <i>Adams</i> leads a charmed life...too bad it could not help any of the ships it was supposed to protect.<br />
<br />
Soon after, another Sea King crashes into the sea, out of fuel.<br />
<br />
<b>140427Z </b>A Zulu IV SSK is sunk, but it is essentially meaningless.<br />
<br />
<b>234718Z</b> The luck of the USS <i>Charles F. Adams</i> runs out, as out of nowhere it is hit by a torpedo. ASW assets are scarce now.<br />
<br />
<b>September 20, 1975 0847Z </b>The surviving ships from the convoy, USS <i>Talbot, </i>USS <i>Barry</i>, USS <i>Valdez</i>, and USS <i>Orleck</i>, all make it into the safe haven. Soon after, the HMS <i>Talbot</i> detects Backfires inbound, over Ireland, no less. I guess I RAF is all busy elsewhere.<br />
<br />
I do have a pair of A-4s ready to intercept, but predictably, they're both near Bingo fuel and will not be able to. It looks like the war is going badly enough that the UK cannot protect even the British Isles from enemy bombers, which now fly over it with impunity.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rtUi5_HlTpxohA8sTtnme7sgsJ2gQh9_t3FBXvBWU81XpkMGeqjU4XR2WmSKh9LUfWkRJGgvC6iKDPs0vMcAUS-Sit-3oqAhfXcKdgDioV8U1JpwBqS_t9H6JP01DJHGFNpd2xdbZ8g/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+20+084956.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="845" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-rtUi5_HlTpxohA8sTtnme7sgsJ2gQh9_t3FBXvBWU81XpkMGeqjU4XR2WmSKh9LUfWkRJGgvC6iKDPs0vMcAUS-Sit-3oqAhfXcKdgDioV8U1JpwBqS_t9H6JP01DJHGFNpd2xdbZ8g/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+20+084956.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Backfires over Ireland without a care in the world...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
And with that, I'll call this disaster of a mission over.<br />
<br />
Disaster<br />
Your current score is -1330<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusions</b><br />
This mission was a classic example of how if you make a mistake, you pay for it hard. My mistake in this case was interpreting my Intelligence, in this case the mission briefing, too literally: This is what I read:<br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Even though there are no strike aircraft on Iceland at present, Badger and Bear MPAs are thought to be using the airfields as a staging base for deep recon and surveillance into the Atlantic. Submarine threat is the main problem...</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
I interpreted this as: "Focus on the sub threat. I might have to deal with a few recon Bears, and perhaps a Badger will launch a handful missiles at me, but the key thing I have to worry about is those Bears getting a fix on my position and calling in the subs to swarm me."<br />
<br />
But I didn't notice the fine print lurking further down in the briefing (emphasis mine):<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<i>Enemy Forces</i><br />
<i>Air: Tu-95 Bear (recon), <b>Tu-22M Backfire (strike)</b>, Tu-16 Badger (Recon and ELINT versions)</i><br />
<br />
The briefers sneaked those Backfires in there! First they say "there are no strike aircraft on Iceland at present" and then they casually slip in that Backfires are a threat, and hide the mention between two recon planes. I suppose the intel guy could try to weasel out of it saying that what he told me was technically true, and that the strike aircraft weren't <i>on Iceland</i> <i>at present</i> (i.e., mission start), but were merely en route from the Kola peninsula. They landed, refueled, and launched the strike as soon as my location was pinpointed. I guess.<br />
<br />
In any event, enough complaining. My fear was that the recon craft would update the subs about my position, and I wasn't even thinking about a threat from strike aircraft. so I decided to keep my emissions quiet, as I didn't want to broadcast my position and make their job easier. This turned out to be a mistake, as very soon after the scenario started, a Bear appeared directly over my fleet. Soon after that, two satellite passes nearly overhead made me think that the game was up. Therefore there was no harm in sending up my AEW aircraft, not that it made any difference. And then, starting late at night, the Backfires started showing up. (I didn't even realize they were Backfires at first, I thought they were Badgers! But then when the massive raid showed up, I finally figured it out) <br />
<br />
I had already put enough work into the AAR that I wasn't about to redo it until I "get it right". If I screw up massively, then the AAR will show it. But what I should have done in this mission was read the briefing more carefully, then been more aggressive with my air defense. I should have parked my CAP <i>at least</i> 200nm north of my fleet, with the AEW nearby, and taken out every recon plan I detected. My fear was that if I put my AEW, the Soviets would then know where my fleet was by the reasoning: "it's right behind the AEW, duh." But I guess just knowing the location of the AEW isn't enough information to launch a strike--at least for Command's AI, so I would have been well advised to have had the AEW up there from the beginning.<br />
<br />
I do have to say that as this mission began to fall apart, I was feeling bitter, thinking that the mission was impossible. Prior to the scenario I was feeling that I was at least somewhat knowledgeable about naval warfare, and this was a wakeup call.<br />
<br />
Command is a simulation and its scenarios are designed to explore real world problems--not be "fair." And it teaches you some severe lessons. If you want to survive, you can't take anything for granted. You need to do it right, every single time, or you will pay the price.<br />
<br />
<i>Post Script: I replayed the mission </i>seven<i> times before I finally succeeded. In one of those attempts I succeeded in shooting down no less than twenty Backfires, and I </i>still<i> lost. In the end, I had to station my E-1B Tracer 450 miles north of my convoy, and the A-4s flying CAP 230 miles out. No recon plane got within 250 miles of my convoy, and the Backfires were still showing up. So then I discovered that there was not one SSV </i>Mayak<i> intelligence ship, but </i>two<i>. I destroyed one over 200nm away from my fleet, but the second one came within 100 miles...and the Backfires came and wiped me out. Again. So I had to resume from a previous save, deliberately seek out the SSV </i>Mayak<i>, and kill it much farther out. Only then was I able to continue without the Backfires showing up. How the </i>Mayak <i>detected my emissions-quiet fleet from more than 100nm away is a mystery to me.</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>By comparison, the submarines were a non-issue. The name of the scenario should have been "Don't Get Detected," rather than "Damn the Torpedoes." </i>What <i>torpedoes? Ultimately this scenario taught me the harsh lesson of "Never trust Military 'Intelligence'" and "Kill everything within 200nm of you, if not farther."</i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgz6leQET9CllVFOzsbX3WBDM_bs8nEeYMAmYtGEMp1unuWz_PJgPKYAEJcT-C8pp4awzhd0J1JuBpqWpeoDaVGF4t-g8jdBoOrO0oWqFxx8pdk902xQ0oLC4fellEIt8xzTT2Vqn4Pwc/s1600/drevil.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="498" data-original-width="500" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgz6leQET9CllVFOzsbX3WBDM_bs8nEeYMAmYtGEMp1unuWz_PJgPKYAEJcT-C8pp4awzhd0J1JuBpqWpeoDaVGF4t-g8jdBoOrO0oWqFxx8pdk902xQ0oLC4fellEIt8xzTT2Vqn4Pwc/s320/drevil.png" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Losses and Expenditures (from original play through)<br />
<br />
SIDE: Soviet Union<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
3x Tu-95RT Bear D<br />
3x PL- 613 Whiskey V<br />
1x PLA-671RT Victor II [Syomga]<br />
1x PLARK-670 Charlie I [Skat]<br />
1x PLA-627A November [Kit]<br />
1x SSV Mayak [Pr.502, ASW Mod]<br />
1x PL-641B Tango [Som]<br />
1x PLARK-675 Echo II<br />
1x PL-611 Zulu IV<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
4x SS-N-7 Starbright [P-70 Ametist]<br />
2x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
1x 23mm AM-23 x 2 Burst [50 rnds]<br />
4x Generic Flare Salvo [4x Cartridges, Single Spectral]<br />
1x 53-57 Pattern [NATO 53-56]<br />
21x Generic Acoustic Decoy<br />
16x SS-N-3a Shaddock [P-6, ASM]<br />
50x AS-4 Kitchen A Mod 2 [Kh-22M ASM]<br />
8x SS-N-9 Siren [P-120 Malakhit]<br />
6x 53-65K WH<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
SIDE: NATO<br />
===========================================================<br />
<br />
LOSSES:<br />
-------------------------------<br />
2x SH-2D Seasprite<br />
1x FF 1052 Knox<br />
3x E-1B Tracer<br />
2x Commercial Tanker - General Purpose [20,000t DWT]<br />
2x Commercial Container Vessel - Panamax [4,500 TEU, 65,000t DWT]<br />
3x Commercial RO/RO Vessel [18,000t DWT]<br />
1x FF 1040 Garcia<br />
2x Commercial Dry-Bulk Carrier - Handymax Size [45,000t DWT]<br />
18x S-2G Tracker<br />
6x A-4E Skyhawk<br />
8x SH-3D Sea King<br />
1x CVS 16 Lexington<br />
1x Wasp HAS.1<br />
1x F 12 Achilles [Type 12I Leander Batch 3 Broad Beam]<br />
2x Commercial Tanker - Large Range 1 [75,000t DWT]<br />
1x FFG 1 Brooke<br />
2x Commercial LNG/LPG Tanker [18,000t DWT]<br />
1x DDG 2 Charles F. Adams<br />
<br />
<br />
EXPENDITURES:<br />
------------------<br />
1015x AN/SSQ-47 Julie Active Range-Only<br />
552x AN/SSQ-41A Jezebel LOFAR<br />
128x AN/SSQ-50B CASS<br />
48x AN/SSQ-2 Jezebel LOFAR<br />
<br />
<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-38295726385693844742017-07-13T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-14T08:37:56.579-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 8: Damn the Torpedoes Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQyKS6ESByPPMQyyq9L_J6pUK1mRA0WR5NdmIQS1VyBin68LulEEvIY3E10xXj95cAlv8CerirSf-cODUwUerSTAPJ-HjChzCsGjG5z35li8-18ktWfrZnD7BSSC4fNPeFJGWPoan3rA/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQyKS6ESByPPMQyyq9L_J6pUK1mRA0WR5NdmIQS1VyBin68LulEEvIY3E10xXj95cAlv8CerirSf-cODUwUerSTAPJ-HjChzCsGjG5z35li8-18ktWfrZnD7BSSC4fNPeFJGWPoan3rA/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a></div>
In <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/07/command-northern-inferno-scenario-8.html">Part One</a> of this Scenario, a NATO convoy is headed across the Atlantic to a safe haven in the English Channel. The convoy is absolutely vital--it must get through. The primary threat is from submarines, and undoubtedly there are a lot of them. <br />
<br />
In the first day of the mission, I lost the frigate USS <i>Pharris</i> early on to a cruise missile attack, but I repaid the favor by sinking four Soviet submarines. But there is a long way to go still, some 730 nautical miles. The first day is over, now my convoy must make it through the night.<br />
<a name='more'></a><b>September 19, 1975, 014203Z</b> After several hours of relative quiet, one of the Sea Kings closes in on a ship wandering a little too close to the convoy for comfort. It is identified as the SSV <i>Mayak</i>, a Soviet intelligence ship. I shall not suffer this ship to survive.<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4F-9MxF8rMsPIzRqHcEiDWcQPjf7Gl-iz9jiCwaIw01b7IAyD4iUvFPGR4-L6exhGKNF0JG-AHUr2rf-OI6vwlP_SzMmBxhIBOGMxi-2Kf00KaNsxKhs2MhC1byA1LUbDw_47kvbns8E/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+014804.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="596" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4F-9MxF8rMsPIzRqHcEiDWcQPjf7Gl-iz9jiCwaIw01b7IAyD4iUvFPGR4-L6exhGKNF0JG-AHUr2rf-OI6vwlP_SzMmBxhIBOGMxi-2Kf00KaNsxKhs2MhC1byA1LUbDw_47kvbns8E/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+014804.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Charles F. Adams</i> opens fire on the <i>Mayak</i> with its 5-inch guns</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Before the first shells even have a chance to hit, the E-1B Tracer above the convoy detects Vampire launches to the northeast.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrm3DJilRWCkTeUfkyJokvDhT0BC_RTvyZG-amBO6ZJiulyh0rd_gMXieZ3xOOi-MRbIe9LFFPN657s87mAXAeMBAyg1vvIhXodtgzQ5n94GSi2VCahFy38RJYAjWKO4BSJcJjc8uVPU/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+014839.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="495" data-original-width="630" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhrm3DJilRWCkTeUfkyJokvDhT0BC_RTvyZG-amBO6ZJiulyh0rd_gMXieZ3xOOi-MRbIe9LFFPN657s87mAXAeMBAyg1vvIhXodtgzQ5n94GSi2VCahFy38RJYAjWKO4BSJcJjc8uVPU/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+014839.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vampires detected!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
As the <i>Charles F. Adams</i> pounds the <i>Mayak</i>, the Vampire contacts firm up, and they appear to be heading towards the convoy on a bearing of 234. The closest ship along that bearing (235) is <i>Charles F. Adams</i> itself, which is on the far side of the convoy. Soon contact with the <i>Mayak</i> is lost, and a Sea Sprite is dispatched to do BDA.</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCcg6MiU1Od-rjotkCtb9XysZiByYs1apxGy8bvvkLm4PZLmwKK9pUYlSDnDuDtgmASZhnYqpIwYKCbotOmythEJML0E-7u_MnXbWVBvfS238PxgdkUnj-x97z6-I9mwebX6l2qRjZf0/s1600/SH-2F_Seasprite_landing_on_the_USS_Nicholson_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="193" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFCcg6MiU1Od-rjotkCtb9XysZiByYs1apxGy8bvvkLm4PZLmwKK9pUYlSDnDuDtgmASZhnYqpIwYKCbotOmythEJML0E-7u_MnXbWVBvfS238PxgdkUnj-x97z6-I9mwebX6l2qRjZf0/s1600/SH-2F_Seasprite_landing_on_the_USS_Nicholson_%2528cropped%2529.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Sprite</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Above the convoy, the two A-4 Skyhawks flying CAP move to intercept the inbound cruise missiles. The intercept is successful and the A-4s shoot down both Vampires with their Sidewinders. Immediately thereafter, another pair of Vampires are detected, and A-4s successfully intercept those as well.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>0250Z </b>An airborne contact is detected far to the north, about 180nm out, and I suspect it's another Bear, but then it launches cruise missiles. Those cruise missiles seem to be moving <i>awfully</i> fast, and then I see that they're going at 2300kts at 74,000 feet.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqe5qdZwNer89T225Fc4Djb_l8XfNQx-UM9KR-YPSaAtkdzgn78vAlpRcWaDlyyg5ahAJuOlmlUpGb9pEk6ZQz_Q99PukWxHVptb71uWhO5-y8PRu9avb4egDxeeFJ6sx1ev_bYY_w4E/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+055054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="978" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDqe5qdZwNer89T225Fc4Djb_l8XfNQx-UM9KR-YPSaAtkdzgn78vAlpRcWaDlyyg5ahAJuOlmlUpGb9pEk6ZQz_Q99PukWxHVptb71uWhO5-y8PRu9avb4egDxeeFJ6sx1ev_bYY_w4E/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+055054.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2300kts? This has me worried.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
I hope they're not nuclear. I scan the database and determine that they are AS-4 Kitchens. By this time the missiles change course and are heading almost due south, straight for the convoy. Not good. My A-4s are moving to intercept, but I seriously doubt they can do anything to missiles that are this high and this fast. There's a good chance that 2 ships in my convoy are doomed. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6lVJbCUcHrYQ2BLhrqm0nmaYSf5e76F00R9V0mreukCTkp6odN4dgeunOu55aAPC009JgU3MPDWZyTWPCs3M4zTHIWxX1kWEFoly_oyVmEHGVz-b3WDvY3rTtu6rDAa1wgWPgoQx6Bg/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025252.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="962" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH6lVJbCUcHrYQ2BLhrqm0nmaYSf5e76F00R9V0mreukCTkp6odN4dgeunOu55aAPC009JgU3MPDWZyTWPCs3M4zTHIWxX1kWEFoly_oyVmEHGVz-b3WDvY3rTtu6rDAa1wgWPgoQx6Bg/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025252.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two AS-4 Kitchens inbound, and I have essentially nothing to stop them.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
In retrospect I could have stationed the USS <i>Richard L. Page</i> to the north, and maybe I still will do so, but I have serious doubts that the RIM-66A SM-1MR Blk IV would be up to the task of taking out a Mach 4 cruise missile.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The Kitchens move inexorably towards the convoy. The Kitchens begin their terminal dives and zoom by the helpless A-4s like they aren't even there. Even if the A-4s could get into a good firing position, the AIM-9H Sidewinder has a top speed of 1475kts...which has no hope of catching a 2300kt missile.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The apparent target of the Kitchens is the SS <i>Alpha Germania</i>, and "fortunately", both Kitchens appear to have targeted it, which may spare another ship the same fate.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPmdbqqLIneOrSPAHVsmLJC4h93BIGj1PWJ0PeTegJcY0oGdPJ1wpbbqNOMnhfoXmjRn_bAQMpXTbVGlY0KelhaI_NSwnzixCiA6spfJgmwI-pkkus4ZF0gWZbXKn3LCTrWe618JCv9S4/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025430.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="649" data-original-width="845" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPmdbqqLIneOrSPAHVsmLJC4h93BIGj1PWJ0PeTegJcY0oGdPJ1wpbbqNOMnhfoXmjRn_bAQMpXTbVGlY0KelhaI_NSwnzixCiA6spfJgmwI-pkkus4ZF0gWZbXKn3LCTrWe618JCv9S4/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025430.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The <i>Alpha Germania</i> is doomed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cQ_XoJOiadC2MgMfJLX-ikwHQWF66jm9_CFjRtK4YuL0EQzVBB-7sZ0mee-9oUcGQjkv63YEy0LU62mz71KqoiNqzAQnCPKWRcYRGTkE2qjwQhgnYO3ELzFb9YKD_pzCWhUIuG5vBjU/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025457.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="607" data-original-width="1077" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-cQ_XoJOiadC2MgMfJLX-ikwHQWF66jm9_CFjRtK4YuL0EQzVBB-7sZ0mee-9oUcGQjkv63YEy0LU62mz71KqoiNqzAQnCPKWRcYRGTkE2qjwQhgnYO3ELzFb9YKD_pzCWhUIuG5vBjU/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025457.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Alpha</i> <i>Germania</i> sinks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The second AS-4 Kitchen, its target destroyed, self-destructs.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
USS <i>Richard L. Page</i> maneuvers to act as goal keeper over the convoy. And then, two more bogeys are detected inbound. They are almost certainly more Backfires (originally I thought they were Badgers), flying in to dump more unavoidable AS-4 Kitchens my way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26rJ840OGmXvR1lBunZkDi5OdIzm1c81P31bOTQubJNISjGH6j5MP6Jwbj5-aBk7IVYCmYyjaLQRU4ej5NW4T9NlAng6MSr37GgZU2u02BXrDej3B-Q9JOLRwm9mVxYcWswe1ufXFxCA/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="825" data-original-width="751" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg26rJ840OGmXvR1lBunZkDi5OdIzm1c81P31bOTQubJNISjGH6j5MP6Jwbj5-aBk7IVYCmYyjaLQRU4ej5NW4T9NlAng6MSr37GgZU2u02BXrDej3B-Q9JOLRwm9mVxYcWswe1ufXFxCA/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+025732.jpg" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two more Bogeys detected</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
As expected, the bogeys soon launch cruise missiles. Their profiles indicate that they are more AS-4 Kitchens. Four vampires are inbound, which means I just lost two more ships.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
USS <i>Orleck</i> and USS <i>Richard L. Page</i> are along the bearings of the inbound Vampires, so I hope that they might sacrifice themselves to save the convoy. The escorts are expendable. The convoy is not.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A few moments later the Vampires make course corrections. It's possible that the USS <i>Orleck</i> is the target for all four missiles.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyASiyLNM1DIz6cQ9_F9zkZPMVk8_f8kGYL9wGstQ_761ltZGEnP9iDTh0ffdlLALoeiE9dXziWWZiMwss3nc0llixO-tTm4ihiWGWKBhE3U2eAl-TUYpnCEs4VSY85B9Jw1pHmqHxq0/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+030338.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="763" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDyASiyLNM1DIz6cQ9_F9zkZPMVk8_f8kGYL9wGstQ_761ltZGEnP9iDTh0ffdlLALoeiE9dXziWWZiMwss3nc0llixO-tTm4ihiWGWKBhE3U2eAl-TUYpnCEs4VSY85B9Jw1pHmqHxq0/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+030338.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires streak in</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br />
The first two vampires ignore <i>Orleck</i>, and appear to be targeting the <i>Edith Maersk</i> instead. The second pair are still aimed at <i>Orleck</i>. The second pair does not begin their terminal dive, however, and so will likely ignore <i>Orleck</i> and take out another ship instead.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHdgW2AtVFnLzj_nau2smMhOgT_Uo0dZwQLQmX7YAEVrxzwgCC6w1AKSaOza-HXO6CV7OsMUaMup8BoG1pRi7idyuRj3ltvhj9_zb7u68Qosb-26tIIxYNC9fhA1toaX1myPBiPhQhyk/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+030451.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1037" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXHdgW2AtVFnLzj_nau2smMhOgT_Uo0dZwQLQmX7YAEVrxzwgCC6w1AKSaOza-HXO6CV7OsMUaMup8BoG1pRi7idyuRj3ltvhj9_zb7u68Qosb-26tIIxYNC9fhA1toaX1myPBiPhQhyk/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+030451.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires ignore the <i>Orleck</i> and head towards <i>Edith Maersk</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The first Kitchen malfunctions and fails to hit the <i>Edith Maersk</i>. The second impacts the ship and delivers severe damage.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi43GHCNbvr7FB12bIIozMzCWilaaJwLNpWyY6fGJ56uo4O_mPh7WoNKOSiuhgwEokYiPHopVOnIwacBa7TcAiBLOzWt8mnwwXvZRy1ORq3RcYaWrawoTMj4etp2m8-bUxMmiGbOseVxxo/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+030520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="737" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi43GHCNbvr7FB12bIIozMzCWilaaJwLNpWyY6fGJ56uo4O_mPh7WoNKOSiuhgwEokYiPHopVOnIwacBa7TcAiBLOzWt8mnwwXvZRy1ORq3RcYaWrawoTMj4etp2m8-bUxMmiGbOseVxxo/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+030520.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Edith Maersk</i> is hit</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<i>Edith Maersk</i> loses its engines and is both on fire and is flooding. One way or the other, it's doomed. Then the second pair of missiles arrive, and the first of the pair sinks the <i>Edith Maersk</i>. The last missile self destructs. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
All I can hope for is that there are no more Badgers on the way.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Dawn arrives and the rest of the night has been quiet. About 600nm to go.<br />
<br />
<b>074928Z</b> USS <i>Talbot</i> detects a submarine contact to the south. A pair of S-2G Trackers move in to prosecute.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDCw3jtFbHWyBRVbIpOOLoVEmhK8a7moDjfF3lATL6YfOQ2NEEdEgKvQcpcbJIevOFI500eRIZGmuLY1w9f79lwUlf4T80MJT8QCRmwHncbKCWwLfjEbTRbX8eZySaozld0tIYQaYZEs/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+075320.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="723" data-original-width="754" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsDCw3jtFbHWyBRVbIpOOLoVEmhK8a7moDjfF3lATL6YfOQ2NEEdEgKvQcpcbJIevOFI500eRIZGmuLY1w9f79lwUlf4T80MJT8QCRmwHncbKCWwLfjEbTRbX8eZySaozld0tIYQaYZEs/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+075320.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Talbot</i> detects a submarine</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first torpedo dropped on the sub is spoofed. The second torpedo flat out misses. The third damages the submarine. By now, there are three S-2G Trackers flying overhead, and an Atlantique is closing in to hopefully finish the job. The Atlantique's first torpedo hits the sub, again damaging it.<br />
<br />
<b>081800Z </b>A sonobuoy in the midst of the protected sea lane, some 200nm ahead of the convoy detects another submarine. My ASW assets have their hands full.<br />
<br />
<b>084308Z</b> Eighteen seconds but 175nm apart, two Soviet submarines are sunk, an Echo II SSGN south of the convoy and a Whiskey V SSK farther along the protected sea lane. Submarines five and six are down.<br />
<br />
<b>085426Z</b> It is not long before another submarine is detected, this one, dead center in the protected sea lane, 160nm ahead of the convoy.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlaMzKqwMmJAtHKQqrnC7cr_d7zYbZC1qvNammAsq4XiYQfjBi33C_46IJmkKkjfZtpB86RMqJzZtUGBa3sU1RFSZwxpI28yABjgRwHxrET955z2sNbKH10DAXxXH1KyBrhn9_9OEVzc/s1600/uss_richard_l_page_ffg5_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="485" data-original-width="744" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUlaMzKqwMmJAtHKQqrnC7cr_d7zYbZC1qvNammAsq4XiYQfjBi33C_46IJmkKkjfZtpB86RMqJzZtUGBa3sU1RFSZwxpI28yABjgRwHxrET955z2sNbKH10DAXxXH1KyBrhn9_9OEVzc/s320/uss_richard_l_page_ffg5_01.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Richard L. Page</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And then what I feared happens. USS <i>Richard L. Page</i> detects two bogeys approaching from the northwest. They are almost certainly Badgers or Backfires again, ready to launch more unstoppable anti-ship missiles at the convoy. The A-4 Skyhawks on CAP immediately head off to intercept, but the contacts are 200nm away, and I will not be able to intercept them before missile launch. As expected, seconds later the Vampires are detected.<br />
<br />
And then I detect two more bogeys, farther west and heading south, but the primary problem is the initial four Vampires launched at the convoy.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOsoKUX7aAURcJdUTL5JgDM8KdNCxuzQNvVoqu_hKdyKpTdEKJ881OEv_I8JaUCktMZfLlvif0eVxlI_qU1XlBwpLbJuJm5zZoote7jlrN_Xr0atdWsU_HyK8UqgFmB-fgXo2WIJA5dM/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+090131.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="844" data-original-width="743" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfOsoKUX7aAURcJdUTL5JgDM8KdNCxuzQNvVoqu_hKdyKpTdEKJ881OEv_I8JaUCktMZfLlvif0eVxlI_qU1XlBwpLbJuJm5zZoote7jlrN_Xr0atdWsU_HyK8UqgFmB-fgXo2WIJA5dM/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+090131.jpg" width="281" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four more Vampires are inbound</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first Vampire I assumed was heading for the MV <i>Sygna</i>, a Dry-Bulk Carrier, but the missile soars right over it and goes for the <i>Emma Maersk</i>, a Container vessel. Unsurprisingly, the <i>Emma Maersk</i> is hit and has major flooding, so it is almost certainly lost. And now, more vampires are detected, and again, there's nothing I can do to stop them. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3rEaDpp0ZPFhDVHkdVjXvfoRSYMOmzxZu_YHKZGFWjBNKfTL9S_DQDSGa9TWgKyhYtPoHP4mkMN_xCe6l_SwIkV07S19fWkQ0bsAmLq60uVVjWNG60AvkgACL0U5UIAqmEMh8GJtuqGI/s1600/Kh-22-Kitchen-DD-ST-84-07764-1S.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="384" data-original-width="768" height="159" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3rEaDpp0ZPFhDVHkdVjXvfoRSYMOmzxZu_YHKZGFWjBNKfTL9S_DQDSGa9TWgKyhYtPoHP4mkMN_xCe6l_SwIkV07S19fWkQ0bsAmLq60uVVjWNG60AvkgACL0U5UIAqmEMh8GJtuqGI/s320/Kh-22-Kitchen-DD-ST-84-07764-1S.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AS-4 Kitchen on a Tu-22M Backfire</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So much for all the briefing's talk about "Submarines are the main problem."<br />
<br />
There are eight Vampires inbound now, and I have only ten merchant ships left. One of the Vampires appears to be targeting the USS <i>Koelsch</i>, so at least there's a silver lining.<br />
<br />
SS <i>Bow Pioneer</i>, a Tanker, explodes in a huge fireball.<br />
<br />
SS <i>Atlantic Causeway</i>, a RO/RO Vessel, is next to die.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOD7x9w8CTGJA14vdSynHljVCHDDYHKuVGIC3n2rvVnW9tc64XWJZ7wQ8POosq577fjL58wCO0B3HkNBOwEjlgDeshk4wkU_CVwxWmlqwGvFvG5GvAbCgJxKcc3neAmf8v9VgeLTkXTk/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+090542.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="779" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipOD7x9w8CTGJA14vdSynHljVCHDDYHKuVGIC3n2rvVnW9tc64XWJZ7wQ8POosq577fjL58wCO0B3HkNBOwEjlgDeshk4wkU_CVwxWmlqwGvFvG5GvAbCgJxKcc3neAmf8v9VgeLTkXTk/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+090542.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The convoy is utterly helpless in the face of Backfire air raids</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
USS <i>Koelsch</i> is destroyed next.<br />
<br />
More Vampires are detected inbound, so even though three were expended sinking ships, there are still eight of them closing in, every single one of them, an invincible AS-4 Kitchen.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCacPvqC0Z-79xHJHA3n6VmjZQ7W3A3S1NGElxNei95V8h1aYH5kW-8BlBWlF45zG9-Fav7YbR2cl0hTMel0HM9Bn1LqP74j-c52puvt7p16y3VyMWNR-qPsx6qXJjaf9wY5xNOb_-VYA/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+090721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="522" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCacPvqC0Z-79xHJHA3n6VmjZQ7W3A3S1NGElxNei95V8h1aYH5kW-8BlBWlF45zG9-Fav7YbR2cl0hTMel0HM9Bn1LqP74j-c52puvt7p16y3VyMWNR-qPsx6qXJjaf9wY5xNOb_-VYA/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+090721.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I fear I'm going to lose every single ship...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Eight Vampires inbound. I have eight ships left in the convoy, not counting the severely damaged <i>Emma Maersk</i>. <br />
<br />
The Turkey Shoot continues. <i>Emma Maersk </i>fortunately(?) is targeted by two more cruise missiles and finished off.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhXfroTo4jJhoZZlCkoHCWLa4BvvK7oBpT1ao10wyLJDbvVW-Z9pOvobIlFD8zafv7fwoFzAWbyjbCz-VTxEw-M8N36x9T9Vzm965DbS1nijKb_EQNKsTCC59kC8A9toLpcPsbB7vf7A/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+091010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="586" data-original-width="684" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKhXfroTo4jJhoZZlCkoHCWLa4BvvK7oBpT1ao10wyLJDbvVW-Z9pOvobIlFD8zafv7fwoFzAWbyjbCz-VTxEw-M8N36x9T9Vzm965DbS1nijKb_EQNKsTCC59kC8A9toLpcPsbB7vf7A/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+091010.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More and more ships are killed</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One Kitchen self-destructs, leaving six that search for new targets. One runs out of energy before finding another target, but another targets MV <i>Sygna</i>, a Dry-Bulk Carrier, severely damaging it. A second Kitchen hits it and destroys it.<br />
<br />
Three Kitchen left, and they appear to be going after the <i>Lexington</i> herself.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZsqyOTHX9It1WqbLstV9-Ii_776OSZ0T6znF0KSC41qyJHsc1xBdp2BK0HmxvYmGtp3CTejk-ocCI5PNh-RK-UtJy-krc5dbDAymrxTd5CoHAexhW6E_j1qpsr4P_gBsuimEdS2AvyA/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+091109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="643" data-original-width="611" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZsqyOTHX9It1WqbLstV9-Ii_776OSZ0T6znF0KSC41qyJHsc1xBdp2BK0HmxvYmGtp3CTejk-ocCI5PNh-RK-UtJy-krc5dbDAymrxTd5CoHAexhW6E_j1qpsr4P_gBsuimEdS2AvyA/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+091109.jpg" width="304" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Lexington</i> may be toast...</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
In the grand scheme of things, <i>Lexington</i> is worth less than the convoy she's "protecting," but it's clear that she hasn't been much protection at all.<br />
<br />
Lexington is hit by two Kitchens in rapid succession and completely destroyed.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4uJnXqX0ODWrpAalyFYclasdR-EBttkgrmpcXSlgWNMSgym9HAQuukbDBWTiqhi4xaL0GPT2lgKtZ8I0LJMt8kYwJrHnqh1nFG6gTLfzqhtvPa5BWistj4Ms76v7nR_SD5ZT3IZaJ28/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+091129.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="779" data-original-width="1055" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU4uJnXqX0ODWrpAalyFYclasdR-EBttkgrmpcXSlgWNMSgym9HAQuukbDBWTiqhi4xaL0GPT2lgKtZ8I0LJMt8kYwJrHnqh1nFG6gTLfzqhtvPa5BWistj4Ms76v7nR_SD5ZT3IZaJ28/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+19+091129.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Lexington</i> is lost</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The last Kitchen promptly self-destructs.<br />
<br />
It is difficult to overstate what a disaster this is.<br />
<br />
Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/07/command-northern-inferno-scenario-8_14.html">Part Three</a>.</div>
Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-85042820259101422202017-07-12T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-14T08:38:33.478-04:00COMMAND: Northern Inferno Scenario 8: Damn the Torpedoes Part 1<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQyKS6ESByPPMQyyq9L_J6pUK1mRA0WR5NdmIQS1VyBin68LulEEvIY3E10xXj95cAlv8CerirSf-cODUwUerSTAPJ-HjChzCsGjG5z35li8-18ktWfrZnD7BSSC4fNPeFJGWPoan3rA/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglQyKS6ESByPPMQyyq9L_J6pUK1mRA0WR5NdmIQS1VyBin68LulEEvIY3E10xXj95cAlv8CerirSf-cODUwUerSTAPJ-HjChzCsGjG5z35li8-18ktWfrZnD7BSSC4fNPeFJGWPoan3rA/s1600/MATR_CNI_Box_3D_170.gif" /></a>
<b>Introduction</b><br />
The Soviet Union has warned NATO that
any further reinforcement of Europe "will dramatically escalate the situation".
The Red Banner Fleet deployed most of its submarines before the conflict
erupted; as a result, the surviving ones are now well-placed to interdict NATO
shipping in the Atlantic LOCs (Lines Of Communication).<br />
<br />
With Iceland still in Soviet hands, even after strikes by the Oriskany CVBG, the
airfields are still in operation after Soviet engineers repaired them. <br />
<br />
A large, vital convoy is currently approaching Europe with cargo, container
ships as well as oil tankers. <br />
<br />
The US 2nd Fleet with NFR (Naval Fleet Reserve) units has managed to assemble a motley collection of escorts together
including the training carrier USS Lexington with an air group thrown together with reserve squadrons of S-2 Trackers and SH-3 Sea Kings. <br />
<br />
The Royal
Navy has spared 4 escorts from the Home Fleet to cover the Western Approaches.
RAF will also be deploying Nimrod MPA as long-range ASW cover and Sea Kings from
RNAS Culdrose when in range; STANAVFORCHAN and MCM 3 groups are also patrolling
the South-Western Approaches and English Channel areas.<br />
<br />
This convoy must get through, period. Nothing less will do.<br />
<a name='more'></a><b><br /></b>
<b>Orders for Cmdr NATO Forces</b><br />
<b>Situation</b><br />
With Iceland's airfields back online, the
situation is becoming dire for NATO. Even though there are no strike aircraft on
Iceland at present, Badger and Bear MPAs are thought to be using the airfields
as a staging base for deep recon and surveillance into the Atlantic.<br />
<br />
Submarine threat is the main problem: a unknown number of Soviet submarines had sortied south before the outbreak of hostilities, and with the severe degradation of SOSUS their positions are unknown at present.<br />
<br />
NATO still requires fuel, ammunition and stores from CONUS to Europe, so a fast convoy is en route protected by the venerable aircraft carrier USS <i>Lexington</i>, now re-rolled from training carrier duty to her new role as ASW flagship.<br />
<br />
<b>Enemy Forces</b><br />
Subsurface : Multiple
SSK, SSN, SSGN, SSG<br />
Surface : Unknown <br />
Air: Tu-95 Bear (recon), Tu-22M Backfire (strike), Tu-16 Badger (Recon and ELINT versions)<br />
<br />
<b>Friendly Forces</b><br />
TASK GROUP 20.04: USS Lexington CVS, USS Charles F. Adams DDG, USS Barry DD, USS
Orleck DD, USS Richard L. Page FFG, USS Talbot FFG, USS Koelsch FFH, USS Pharris
FFH, USS Valdez FFH.<br />
1st frigate squadron: HMS Tartar FFH, HMS Brighton FFH, HMS Salisbury FF, HMS Jupiter FFH.<br />
MCM 3 Squadron: HMS Glasserton, HMS Shoulton.<br />
STANAVFORCHAN: HMS Kirkliston, FGS Paderborn, HNLMS Gemert, BNS Bovesse.<br />
RAF St Mawgan: 201 Sqn (Nimrod MR.1)<br />
RNAS Culdrose: 820 Sqn (SeaKing HAS.1)<br />
Lann-Bihoue: 23F (Atlantque 1)<br />
<br />
<b>Mission</b><br />
Safely escort the fast convoy to area "Safe Haven" in the English Channel.<br />
<br />
<b>Execution</b><br />
1. Using shore-based ASW assets, conduct aggressive ASW patrols in relevant areas .<br />
2. USS <i>Lexington</i>'s air group to provide close- and medium-range ASW coverage on transit
to area "Safe Haven" in the English Channel.<br />
<br />
<b>Command and EMCON</b><br />
Command: USS <i>Lexington</i><br />
EMCON: Alpha-limited emissions<br />
<br />
<b>September 18, 1975, 0900Z</b><br />
The convoy has 840nm to go to make it to the safe haven in the Channel.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9f0r6eoJwvZirsa80bvdp7ikclUj4pIDbTBeO40AryKTJNsV19OgnzbGRopRMZDZMww2A7m-BCKdll_q1J8_HWgD3BYNVS7fljgZWQvKaFSK6Y7K031vbQRW5-NILGxOW1PMFg2nzckQ/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+093240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="822" data-original-width="854" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9f0r6eoJwvZirsa80bvdp7ikclUj4pIDbTBeO40AryKTJNsV19OgnzbGRopRMZDZMww2A7m-BCKdll_q1J8_HWgD3BYNVS7fljgZWQvKaFSK6Y7K031vbQRW5-NILGxOW1PMFg2nzckQ/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+093240.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's a long way to the English Channel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I set up ASW patrols around the convoy, and also set up patrols in a sea lane towards the Channel. The Nimrods and Atlantiques will patrol a long stretch between the convoy and the British surface ships. The British surface ships will patrol another region in the Celtic Sea, and Sea Kings out of RNAS Culdrose will patrol the area between the Safe Haven and the British Surface ships. Once the patrols are set up, it's time to sit back and stare at the screens.<br />
<br />
I am reluctant to send up an AWACS aircraft over the convoy, as it might just alert the Russians to my position, so for now I'll keep my AEW aircraft quiet for now. This may be a mistake...<br />
<br />
<b>0941Z </b>Contact. The first sub-surface contact is made, northwest of USS <i>Talbot</i>. A Sea King and a Sea Sprite both maneuver to investigate.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8D1d_ZpCNHgT77dOajPEHkNjCRzGkzNxhwKikGKgH55pBs8ANdU8dm6ajMGDE9Kf3L2qJDJ8jR0oP4Ou1-uuabxnsm5kGk1hJhY5ZTJ6QTKv9lQO-wH9EjhK6KHAplYRJJC75c0h8UjY/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+094153.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="773" data-original-width="864" height="286" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8D1d_ZpCNHgT77dOajPEHkNjCRzGkzNxhwKikGKgH55pBs8ANdU8dm6ajMGDE9Kf3L2qJDJ8jR0oP4Ou1-uuabxnsm5kGk1hJhY5ZTJ6QTKv9lQO-wH9EjhK6KHAplYRJJC75c0h8UjY/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+094153.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contact</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Sea King drops a Mk46 Torpedo on the target, then identifies it to be a False Target. Patrols are resumed.<br />
<br />
<b>1007Z</b> A Soviet satellite flies overhead. The weather over the convoy is moderate cloud cover and heavy rain, so it's possible that the satellite will not detect it. I decide to keep a "wait and see" approach to launching my AEW aircraft. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwye4THVijEJD7ecdfeR8Ka3NmQ3dIt8sisWInS7_IfaAUpAbkCFu6MRogEldwDvTvVQkQQavENzXphxtLpAaWzsgpJJJhoatLPsFXmQd1o_zMpdm2txy9_5mHm7qTerD_6qOpZPDnUc/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+100752.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="872" data-original-width="1432" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwye4THVijEJD7ecdfeR8Ka3NmQ3dIt8sisWInS7_IfaAUpAbkCFu6MRogEldwDvTvVQkQQavENzXphxtLpAaWzsgpJJJhoatLPsFXmQd1o_zMpdm2txy9_5mHm7qTerD_6qOpZPDnUc/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+100752.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Soviet satellite passes overhead</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>103123Z </b>Here we go. Vampire detected by USS <i>Pharris. </i>Almost certainly submarine launched. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7Kb2tA7QiEhwRVT-0tq574JInfnOeMm516-hVVJ2OTmzctLXrjP3-CPPnqoQNCNjUq7pW8qCwdjpL67hL3-tHuR44gamvsrraHXvQLiW3PpRFo0r1OIddE6_nus5QrhLlKFDk88daFs/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103123.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="882" data-original-width="1475" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU7Kb2tA7QiEhwRVT-0tq574JInfnOeMm516-hVVJ2OTmzctLXrjP3-CPPnqoQNCNjUq7pW8qCwdjpL67hL3-tHuR44gamvsrraHXvQLiW3PpRFo0r1OIddE6_nus5QrhLlKFDk88daFs/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103123.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Damn the torpedoes, or damn the cruise missiles?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>103128Z</b> Cruise missile count is four, and they are close to <i>Pharris</i>. It looks like the frigate is toast. I immediately set up my AEW patrol. I doubt it would have helped here though--I might have been able to detect the cruise missiles earlier, but I seriously doubt I'd have been able to do something about them.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetCUiy3cr6EiiIN0aFazv7Fq0lpN7Vf8nwMUjRNivJOenSRV8bJu9oau4fKUcu_UK2yQJh9mVoNHk8u46S-DehjOuqb_m2lz7HK6cFj2-w8I_c_ksxa79hwdzlLD9cBPfN0HIv2aab6E/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103128.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="694" data-original-width="1081" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhetCUiy3cr6EiiIN0aFazv7Fq0lpN7Vf8nwMUjRNivJOenSRV8bJu9oau4fKUcu_UK2yQJh9mVoNHk8u46S-DehjOuqb_m2lz7HK6cFj2-w8I_c_ksxa79hwdzlLD9cBPfN0HIv2aab6E/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103128.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Four vampires inbound on the nearly defenseless USS <i>Pharris</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>103136Z</b> USS <i>Pharris </i>is hit by the first missile and sinks. The other three vampires passed over the wreck of the <i>Pharris</i> and continue on for nearly ten more miles before running out of energy and crashing into the sea. I send a S-2G Tracker to investigate the region where these might have come from.<br />
<br />
<b>103624Z</b> To my utter astonishment, my E-1B Tracer is shot down, right over the convoy and less than five miles from the <i>Lexington</i>!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3yCOxhfbZLCWLI5LeDiD9CR2CQdZQDsdg48BVWlwKd5hpzBTXs5FFHb2H0b6amZ1RJR2i_o-0Xm27SFW6ghibYs0inF40VSSJlmHAa9ix0PhN4Lez1WO4Igj5ZhBjHxQ-Y7MzqvW3VFY/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103624.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="570" data-original-width="947" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3yCOxhfbZLCWLI5LeDiD9CR2CQdZQDsdg48BVWlwKd5hpzBTXs5FFHb2H0b6amZ1RJR2i_o-0Xm27SFW6ghibYs0inF40VSSJlmHAa9ix0PhN4Lez1WO4Igj5ZhBjHxQ-Y7MzqvW3VFY/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103624.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The E-1B Tracer is shot down right over the convoy</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The shooter is no less than a Tu-95RT, flying at 1500ft! Somehow the Tracer flew close enough, and <i>behind</i> the Tu-95RT, and got shot down for its trouble. And I didn't spot the contact until now...this is embarrassing.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RAfbxID4hyphenhyphen4OZW-4Z0VjCB8YofFEWPxVl2_pHe7_kTEw_cBJ21LMSZidyO7tJ9A_bE0qTc7A1SSQ0Uaqpv4TQHmxC2s5Ct1npxWl0HEGPMK_lPOf8dTq6RGtNqR8VGE6mI89ABeehAA/s1600/1200px-USS_Lexington_%2528CVS-16%2529_underway_in_the_1960s.JPEG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="781" data-original-width="1200" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9RAfbxID4hyphenhyphen4OZW-4Z0VjCB8YofFEWPxVl2_pHe7_kTEw_cBJ21LMSZidyO7tJ9A_bE0qTc7A1SSQ0Uaqpv4TQHmxC2s5Ct1npxWl0HEGPMK_lPOf8dTq6RGtNqR8VGE6mI89ABeehAA/s320/1200px-USS_Lexington_%2528CVS-16%2529_underway_in_the_1960s.JPEG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Lexington</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Naturally the Tu-95RT is flying right overhead, and not within the AA envelope of <i>any</i> of my ships. I scramble some A-4s from <i>Lexington</i> and light off the group's radars. No point in hiding anymore, they know where we are.<br />
<br />
The Tu-95RT Bear wanders close to the USS <i>Lexington</i> of all ships, which opens fire with its 5-inch guns.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVCTaZW3aY0kZo-3QkShVo85LcxcyJ4c8i6OgXDz-faRhMhJXeSUPy-bX_lZMKNfnK-6YyOQyHbaAAawBZa7I-BXB5_K9iUNV7-efP85iil-dBfEE4MDaW5UPbnEopuDx9B2eDmskfbdY/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103717.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="978" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVCTaZW3aY0kZo-3QkShVo85LcxcyJ4c8i6OgXDz-faRhMhJXeSUPy-bX_lZMKNfnK-6YyOQyHbaAAawBZa7I-BXB5_K9iUNV7-efP85iil-dBfEE4MDaW5UPbnEopuDx9B2eDmskfbdY/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103717.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">USS <i>Lexington</i> fires on the Bear</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Tu-95RT continues on unperturbed, passing out of range of the <i>Lexington</i> and into range of the USS <i>Barry</i>, a Forrest Sherman-class destroyer, which opens up with its 5-inch guns.<br />
<br />
Seconds later, the first A-4 takes off from <i>Lexington</i>, immediately breaks right and launches a Sidewinder from an altitude of 350 feet.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6RMRKo7Nn6Nyy8pTq7Ijp524tWzYX3MTcD61JUsv-fi-WxPYlkCDX7pU-gE3oxi_zVpvDyc8JvBn8dQFLFUx766ZT3fOc0xoj3R_sMZk998XgvNFhvH4duI5bh0GPcAoig0VGb2AacU/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="509" data-original-width="789" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6RMRKo7Nn6Nyy8pTq7Ijp524tWzYX3MTcD61JUsv-fi-WxPYlkCDX7pU-gE3oxi_zVpvDyc8JvBn8dQFLFUx766ZT3fOc0xoj3R_sMZk998XgvNFhvH4duI5bh0GPcAoig0VGb2AacU/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+103846.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The A-4 opens fire on the Bear</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Sidewinder tracks the Bear and destroys it.<br />
<br />
<b>110122Z</b> HMS <i>Tartar</i> detects and underwater contacts and engages it with a Mk10 Limbo ASW mortar. The mortar misses, and a minute later, <i>Tartar</i> detects a torpedo in the water. Amazingly, the torpedo misses the <i>Tartar, </i>which continues to close in on the target, apparently only some 200 meters away. After passing over the submarine and turning away, <i>Tartar</i> launches another mortar salvo. This one is a dud and does nothing. <i>Tartar</i>'s third mortar shot, five minutes later, is on target and sinks a Whiskey V SSK, and suffers some minor blast damage because it is so close. One sub down.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOecjuWvxI-SOnaTy7KuyOljjXytdxnROhba3d9vIDYy1iHZo1AspZin6Fhv-X1_fuVOx3oa6_Xe_y4ks8EB5z5sjkZsmNRqdqES3vm-BaoAsdEccdDGA_8w1kyW-5EafAXA3KKlaOlL8/s1600/S-2G-on-deck-VS-27-USS-Intrepid-1972.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="800" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOecjuWvxI-SOnaTy7KuyOljjXytdxnROhba3d9vIDYy1iHZo1AspZin6Fhv-X1_fuVOx3oa6_Xe_y4ks8EB5z5sjkZsmNRqdqES3vm-BaoAsdEccdDGA_8w1kyW-5EafAXA3KKlaOlL8/s320/S-2G-on-deck-VS-27-USS-Intrepid-1972.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">S2-G Tracker</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>122742Z</b> VS-24 Duty Cats #12, a S-2G Tracker, gets a MAD contact directly in the path of the convoy.<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV52Sw1nn7umOkZiDVcK8j7ycY0OrVAdw1IkOyK8OeJpMeM0DCPq3ACjpjylnDzuuTdH0vzINJcNOz0-UM8Xl9u0Lt1gnQEZFd8EHSP5zGmL_3czEzKhHu71pSb_lo3jwc5nnBzq4qZiM/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+123044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="1456" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV52Sw1nn7umOkZiDVcK8j7ycY0OrVAdw1IkOyK8OeJpMeM0DCPq3ACjpjylnDzuuTdH0vzINJcNOz0-UM8Xl9u0Lt1gnQEZFd8EHSP5zGmL_3czEzKhHu71pSb_lo3jwc5nnBzq4qZiM/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+123044.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Duty Cats #12 detects a submarine contact</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Duty Cats #12 drops a Mk 54 Depth Charge, but misses. The second depth charge is closer, but still does not damage the submarine. The submarine increases speed and maneuvers, and the third depth charge misses. The Tracker has only one left.<br />
<br />
The last Depth Charge misses as well, and the Tracker is Winchester, but now a Sea Sprite, Valdez Flt #1, arrives on the scene.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-os1Lm5YiwpPOQRFBiQebFfU937gujy_05hcwUvjZT-yAvrRFxTJ6HpSlRew4p5ZXyFrtntfm8Pvr1k9A-h8CzQAlQJBNhX5GekvKPgrUmVXJMWOSVVwMMKN3JEWzcvaw2OTWUOOLNj0/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+124210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="464" data-original-width="638" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-os1Lm5YiwpPOQRFBiQebFfU937gujy_05hcwUvjZT-yAvrRFxTJ6HpSlRew4p5ZXyFrtntfm8Pvr1k9A-h8CzQAlQJBNhX5GekvKPgrUmVXJMWOSVVwMMKN3JEWzcvaw2OTWUOOLNj0/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+124210.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Valdez Flt #1 arrives to take over prosecution of the contact</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Valdez Flt #1 drops its Mk 46 torpedo. The submarine's speed has increased to 13 knots, but that's not enough. The Mk 46 closes in at 45 knots. The torpedo impacts the target, but it is not immediately clear how much damage is done. Duty Cats # 25 arrives and launches its own torpedo, which quickly acquires the target, again hitting it. Finally, Duty Cat #25's second torpedo impacts and sinks the submarine, which is identified as a Victor II SSN. Two subs down.<br />
<br />
<b>1313Z</b> A bogey is detected north of the protected sea lane, likely another Tu-95RT. No emissions are detected, and as it is some 200nm away, I decide to ignore it for now.<br />
<br />
<b>133141Z</b> <i>Vampire!</i> <i>Vampire! </i>Missiles detected, bearing 070, estimated 178nm. Naturally, that bearing is one where I have essentially no AA assets. I hope those missiles are headed somewhere else...<br />
<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutgWIrHOp9EB3dlUvelHx3xRAL8nze9NXpym2Ef4Tb4rk4liJQYUxrF47D-q5-YXY8_G41voQCZz-CXt2rQviVEOFsB1whJCmbsT2GX3ReggLBiqGKLecAo1TySy-j6OrDMxFW7WFWX4/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+133141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1091" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutgWIrHOp9EB3dlUvelHx3xRAL8nze9NXpym2Ef4Tb4rk4liJQYUxrF47D-q5-YXY8_G41voQCZz-CXt2rQviVEOFsB1whJCmbsT2GX3ReggLBiqGKLecAo1TySy-j6OrDMxFW7WFWX4/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+133141.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vampires!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A few more sweeps of the E-1B Tracer's radome, and it appears that the two Vampires at headed due west, which would take them far to the north of the convoy. In fact, they appear to be headed towards the unidentified surface contact northeast of the convoy, Skunk #116. The missiles close in and attack Skunk #116, it turns out that they were both SS-N-3a Shaddocks, and Skunk #116 is a Commercial Dry-Bulk Carrier. Both Shaddocks miss 55ft and 60ft respectively. <br />
<br />
<b>134401Z</b> More vampires detected! Apparently the submarine that shot at the Commercial Carrier is firing more missiles. I feel bad for him, but at least it's not me that's being fired upon! Eventually the two Vampire contacts are lost, and the fate of the Commercial Carrier is unknown.<br />
<br />
<b>150620Z</b> USS <i>Koelsch</i> detects a submarine contact to the southwest of the convoy, some 30nm miles away from it. A Sea King is dispatched to prosecute.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3N5JHTMLIcRSHAiyjPPO7HNSixX17mALP9L2733DvbArQLFlMMKCEgOVhbcMijQamSLi8JUQga4roJIL8GBaOezocCJOAkiOJqPjbKgutSlnnVwMQVHHLS3e-PuWKLQnFUjdehsqTWfE/s1600/SH-3H_Sea_Kings_of_HS-15_in_flight_in_1975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="868" height="138" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3N5JHTMLIcRSHAiyjPPO7HNSixX17mALP9L2733DvbArQLFlMMKCEgOVhbcMijQamSLi8JUQga4roJIL8GBaOezocCJOAkiOJqPjbKgutSlnnVwMQVHHLS3e-PuWKLQnFUjdehsqTWfE/s320/SH-3H_Sea_Kings_of_HS-15_in_flight_in_1975.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sea Kings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Sea King wastes no time and drops two torpedoes on the contact, which is identified is a Charlie I SSGN--quite possibly the same one that took out USS <i>Pharris</i>. The submarine is quickly sunk. Three subs down.<br />
<br />
A bogey is detected moving south west of the convoy, and the two A-4s flying CAP are tasked to intercept. Likely it is another Bear. The Bear proves elusive in the clouds, and seeing as the A-4s have no radar, they are forced to rely on the Mk1 Eyeball to find it. Eventually they do, and a Sidewinder takes out the Bear.<br />
<br />
<b>1638Z </b>Another Soviet satellite passes overhead.<br />
<br />
<b>164734Z </b>Vampire! Vampire! HMS <i>Salisbury</i> detects a pair of vampires to the west.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Salisbury</i> detects two Vampires</td></tr>
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Vampire! More vampires are detected, now four of them, and they're inbound. The British ships have point defenses, but that's about it. A Nimrod is dispatched to the detection location in the hopes of detecting the launching submarine.<br />
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The Vampires close in, and more are detected, It appears that a second salvo is on the way.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Multiple vampires inbound</td></tr>
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The first salvo of Vampires may have been launched bearing only, as they are not headed directly towards <i>Salisbury</i>. Or perhaps they were targeted at HMS<i> Brighton </i>beyond.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUfcYZwX3vRSsVeHdOgD4EdKz-gacqVe9PIvIb5Yvk9hcINc00C4KQqhDJqHejjaecOJINqSCAv5mEnl0KsGkpIH1seJYVhc4LoolZUU0BvXlH5xEiqkaTBAzSqrn4YKPwpgTP1kjgKY/s1600/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+165846.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="364" data-original-width="692" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzUfcYZwX3vRSsVeHdOgD4EdKz-gacqVe9PIvIb5Yvk9hcINc00C4KQqhDJqHejjaecOJINqSCAv5mEnl0KsGkpIH1seJYVhc4LoolZUU0BvXlH5xEiqkaTBAzSqrn4YKPwpgTP1kjgKY/s320/Damn+the+Torpedos+18+165846.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires close in...but what is their target?</td></tr>
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The four vampires pass harmlessly 2.65miles off the <i>Salisbury</i>'s bow, still 20,000 feet up. Then one by one they alter course, apparently heading for the <i>Brighton</i>. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires choose another target.</td></tr>
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The Vampires' course keeps changing as if they are jinking or perhaps searching for a target. They begin their terminal dives, but are not quite headed towards <i>Brighton</i> either. The missiles pass 2.32 miles astern of <i>Brighton</i>. The missiles descend to 30 feet, and continue on their course.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HMS <i>Salisbury</i></td></tr>
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<i>Salisbury</i> detects more vampires inbound. The second salvo passes astern of <i>Salisbury</i> at a range of nearly five miles, possibly on a course to attack HMS <i>Jupiter</i>. The third salvo heads more northerly, potentially against HMS <i>Tartar.</i> The possible strategy becomes clear: the submarine fired bearing-only shots at each of the four British ships. Against <i>Salisbury</i> and <i>Brighton</i>, the bearing wasn't good enough. It remains to be seen how good the aim will be against <i>Tartar</i> and <i>Jupiter.</i><br />
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Contact with the Vampires headed towards <i>Jupiter</i> are lost. HMS <i>Tartar</i>, however, is still threatened. The Vampires appear to have a good bearing.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Vampires close on HMS <i>Tartar</i></td></tr>
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But again, as they descend, the missiles wander off astern and miss. That was close.<br />
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The Nimrod dispatched to investigate the area liberally covers it in sonobuoys but no contacts are made.<br />
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Meanwhile, USS <i>Koelsch</i> detects another submarine contact, and <i>Koelsch</i>'s Sea Sprite investigates. Also to the southwest, the A-4s of the CAP investigate another airborne snooper.<br />
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The A-4s take out the snooper, which as expected was a Tu-95 Bear D.<br />
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Koelsch Flt #1 drops a torpedo on the contact, and hits it, but submarine is not sunk. Winchester, the Sea Sprite is forced to leave the area. A Sea King sets a course to follow-up the attack.<br />
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The Sea King arrives and drops a torpedo...and a November SSN is sunk. Four subs down.<br />
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As night falls over the Atlantic, the convoy suffered the loss of one escort, the USS <i>Pharris</i>, but sunk four submarines in return. It still has a long way to go until safety, some 730 nautical miles.<br />
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Continued in <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2017/07/command-northern-inferno-scenario-8_13.html">Part Two</a>.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-23078181120036236242017-07-10T08:00:00.000-04:002017-07-10T08:00:05.187-04:00Sasquatch Hikes Mount Monadnock 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>May 20, 2017</b><br />
After the ignominious end to my OCR season last year, I was looking for "easier" events to go to this year. I took my daughter to the BoldDash Winterdash, but so far that was it. <br />
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Then I heard about Sasquatch Take a Hike. It's inaugural event would be a timed hike up Mount Monadnock in New Hampshire. Mount Monadnock is relatively close to home, and I had always wanted to climb it, so this "race" seemed like a good excuse to do it.<br />
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It was the same weekend as the Bonefrog event, which I did in 2015, but did not feel fit enough to tackle this year. I was planning on going alone, but then my friend Jane decided to join me, so we would hike up the mountain together.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Up the rocky trail</td></tr>
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The "race," as it were, was just a timed hike up the mountain. I wasn't interested in "racing" per se, but just hiking up the mountain and enjoying the scenery. In many of the OCRs I have done in the past that have been on mountains, the views can be spectacular, but you're always tired and don't have much time to enjoy the views.<br />
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The race planners had it set up so that racers would start every few minutes on the trail in singly or in small groups so as not to clog the trail, which we would have to share with other hikers. When we arrived we got our bibs and a back of goodies, including a t-shirt, water bottle, and trail map. Plenty of snacks were provided for free, including some from Panera, Vermont Smoke and Cure, and some homemade trail mix.<br />
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We did not have to wait and were able to start hiking right away. We hiked up White Dot trail, and on the way back down we would take White Cross trail. The first half of the 2 mile hike up the mountain was mainly a wooded trail sloping up the mountain but broken up by some very steep sections where you had to scramble up rocks.. There were plenty of other hikers on the trails, but things never got very congested.<br />
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Quickly my lack of fitness make itself apparent as I lagged behind (as I always do on climbs), but that just gave Jane more time to look around and enjoy the scenery while she waited for me.<br />
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After making to the top of many of the steep sections, there were overlooks where you got great views.<br />
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At roughly the halfway point up the mountain, the trail breaks (mostly) out of the trees, and becomes mostly walking on the rock face of the mountain itself, involving a good amount of scrambling. The rock face itself was interesting, as long veins of white marble ran through the massive granite monoliths.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summit still far away (the peak in the distance left of center)</td></tr>
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When we reached the summit, there was a sizable crowd there, having little picnics all over the summit.<br />
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It's bare rock up there, so there was plenty of room to find a spot to sit. Jane and I took some pictures, had some snacks, and took in the view for some twenty minutes before heading back down.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the summit</td></tr>
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Not that this was very much of a "race", my time was recorded as 1:39, my place overall was 37/150, and 21/44 in men's.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVVztLR-akRQHPX8_Laec88YOjhxeM7eL3JUCFDpExHbLbAltK_i3f_4HobChxmnMRdFVGIQ6JI6bUlZ9Up0BpYELB_WQt-eb6yuIikkwSpysNqTE0_0NNxTblnqMtZj2aUyVDZN3-OU/s1600/20170520_163031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="1600" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVVztLR-akRQHPX8_Laec88YOjhxeM7eL3JUCFDpExHbLbAltK_i3f_4HobChxmnMRdFVGIQ6JI6bUlZ9Up0BpYELB_WQt-eb6yuIikkwSpysNqTE0_0NNxTblnqMtZj2aUyVDZN3-OU/s320/20170520_163031.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just below the summit on the way down</td></tr>
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On the way down we took a different trail, the White Cross trail, which is less steep, but no less pretty, and we got a lot of good views to the south. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ftMmUX6zMYrhDKPZ6MqOzJkZMi95P0iDf28BrD0jWabwp5gXYhsThZWoBY3cz9fByzvSJVGBxr62sFNTOLzOA1SkPMYCc17iVNbh9BaVUBDT_r4TA7i9qGYvgdaIMJE8FBOb5fn9i0s/s1600/18622177_10100482635935570_8226827219957739078_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0ftMmUX6zMYrhDKPZ6MqOzJkZMi95P0iDf28BrD0jWabwp5gXYhsThZWoBY3cz9fByzvSJVGBxr62sFNTOLzOA1SkPMYCc17iVNbh9BaVUBDT_r4TA7i9qGYvgdaIMJE8FBOb5fn9i0s/s320/18622177_10100482635935570_8226827219957739078_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Time for a little goofing off too</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaggT3aJj1ikH7VLap5FdfXhWpBC1zzUwdELn0WUPl9B3Uh3hDT71rxdOFaxONyn-rqRdxPlau8F3Y2tO39P6krYOd99meFU2zXB5ooseyRSnDWetQOwo2L1c2gPNohGihWgZl11Lct3k/s1600/20170520_125456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaggT3aJj1ikH7VLap5FdfXhWpBC1zzUwdELn0WUPl9B3Uh3hDT71rxdOFaxONyn-rqRdxPlau8F3Y2tO39P6krYOd99meFU2zXB5ooseyRSnDWetQOwo2L1c2gPNohGihWgZl11Lct3k/s320/20170520_125456.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And some more photo ops</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj019tHgUjeSYixGxCmss_zeJnoExfg02rYi1NdVh_W4ATERPanXkdkn3QL9EVI2UhHiyocbkKPzmfGORCvlOxAMPjdPCl-kIr-ddFiBDfJBihsfVGQ7tH8b9fKoT4ofsWcidd7nRjNBMQ/s1600/18582176_10100482635845750_3507137087523845340_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj019tHgUjeSYixGxCmss_zeJnoExfg02rYi1NdVh_W4ATERPanXkdkn3QL9EVI2UhHiyocbkKPzmfGORCvlOxAMPjdPCl-kIr-ddFiBDfJBihsfVGQ7tH8b9fKoT4ofsWcidd7nRjNBMQ/s320/18582176_10100482635845750_3507137087523845340_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More photo ops</td></tr>
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All in all, the hike was low key and fun, and the "race," as it were, was a good excuse to spend a beautiful day on a hike. Not that you should need an excuse to go on a hike, but it was that little bit of extra motivation to go out for the day and enjoy it.Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4832507778586404963.post-14200963244388773492017-06-30T08:00:00.000-04:002017-06-30T08:00:03.552-04:00Tough Mudder New England 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLIQLKFEJ8_XZ1y0QWU-p7np5kvzgu0gYZEbyiOWEnW2PdEchNUqLhNG41aPE0kuLBBzeyYC_8mGgg6le0zYzUFvFyQnlXUqRT1dn-t_xijwPIt9tVCNPoxqotJUY9xyi_FirZ6ninNU/s1600/toughmudderlogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="138" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLIQLKFEJ8_XZ1y0QWU-p7np5kvzgu0gYZEbyiOWEnW2PdEchNUqLhNG41aPE0kuLBBzeyYC_8mGgg6le0zYzUFvFyQnlXUqRT1dn-t_xijwPIt9tVCNPoxqotJUY9xyi_FirZ6ninNU/s1600/toughmudderlogo.jpg" /></a></div>
<b>June 25, 2017</b><br />
I did my first Tough Mudder (TM) in 2015, and I had a lot of fun. It didn't take me long to sign up to go again for both TM New England and TM Northeast in 2016. Unfortunately neither race panned out. In general, 2016 did not turn out to be a good racing year for me, and <a href="http://wfarcadia.blogspot.com/2016/06/samurai-sprint-mud-run.html">Samurai Sprint</a> was my last race of the year. (the exception being the two family races I did with my kids)<br />
<br />
I transferred my 2016 registration to this year, and I needed the motivation to get into shape and hopefully get back into OCRs regularly. As usual, the training was not to be, so I ended up going into this race out of shape, again. Since as far as I knew, my friends weren't going to this one, so I figured I'd have to do it alone. The downside, of course, is that you have no one to run with, but the upside was that I wouldn't be holding anyone back by how slow I am.<br />
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But fortunately I ran into some fellow members of the <a href="http://www.newenglandspahtens.com/">New England Spahtens</a>, and we would run (walk?) the race together. We spent the wait for our race time arguing about who was slower. The racers would be Mama Hen Sandy Rhee (who lives up to her nickname), the two Amys with their matching blonde hair, telephone pole-impersonator David with his Go-Pro camera, and his friend Phil, who at 61 is a badass. Sandy had done the race on Saturday, and was thinking she wouldn't do it this time, but we convinced her to go with us and she obliged.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimC9fUAEDaYKKV6NewM2vZGMErIZrszzMSLmnDB2NOKIM8Ar2WYnQy6i1XMYxefEIBdZBTbpBn0zLopQNY7Ue_aiTm1SfCZrXY_ZGoo3HWoUNO5Donszx4GZDf1LG5IoSlC_IW1Fyvn3A/s1600/ToughMudderNewEnglandMap2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="766" data-original-width="1019" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimC9fUAEDaYKKV6NewM2vZGMErIZrszzMSLmnDB2NOKIM8Ar2WYnQy6i1XMYxefEIBdZBTbpBn0zLopQNY7Ue_aiTm1SfCZrXY_ZGoo3HWoUNO5Donszx4GZDf1LG5IoSlC_IW1Fyvn3A/s320/ToughMudderNewEnglandMap2017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Tough Mudder is a popular race, and Saturday is the most popular day to run it. My first TM was on a Sunday, and after that experience and this one, I think I'll always do Sundays. The atmosphere is laid back, the obstacles are not crowded, and as such there are few waits. I can take my time and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP4AM4aEXyr2rJRDF-iLSPHZHGZWuJ1ss1Z99wg4OUE6Z67oTi3KpsYQyCndAiriDbIMPkWxYXxL5_rr2keZPxbIj8NU_4PDefHK0RPSdKQyX9uq63-Fh4FXuSFHLdm8Lf7ZvBmezBRg/s1600/race_3613_photo_54778993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQP4AM4aEXyr2rJRDF-iLSPHZHGZWuJ1ss1Z99wg4OUE6Z67oTi3KpsYQyCndAiriDbIMPkWxYXxL5_rr2keZPxbIj8NU_4PDefHK0RPSdKQyX9uq63-Fh4FXuSFHLdm8Lf7ZvBmezBRg/s320/race_3613_photo_54778993.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phil, me, David, Sandy, Amy, and Amy</td></tr>
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My start time was 9:00am, but as a group we were still waiting for some one. We divided ourselves between the slow and the fast groups, and the fast group went ahead while the slow group (me included) waited, and therefore we didn't start until 9:30. TM stated that start times would be strictly enforced, but on Sunday things are less strict as there were far fewer racers.<br />
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Waves left at 15 minute intervals, and as I wasn't looking forward to the intro, as I remember it dragged the first time I did a TM. This time, however, it wasn't so bad, and we were off right on time at 9:30. The trail meandered a short ways up the mountain, and as I expected, I lagged behind on the upslopes, but my team kindly waited for me. Back down the mountain and to the first obstacle, <b>Quagmire</b>, which is a simple pit dug out of the ground filled with muddy water. Climb in, wade through waist deep water, and wade back out.<br />
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Soon after that was <b>Berlin Walls</b>, which was a simple wall climb, perhaps 10 feet high. It had a step on it, so I was able to get a leg up by boosting myself on it so I was able to climb over without any help.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdD9KB1yFLxcqtXwK1-AZOcFfVG0LoIiNNMwXEv3QJbdtzo110A5Oe6AGoDTtc5ejRGfo3akfkh7kp5bY3l_l4SyXsLnxVqspyaA4NxhlWe98JGUaDVcNlC3ua3fUyeYXrXD9KLTdbjJ8/s1600/race_3613_photo_54762364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdD9KB1yFLxcqtXwK1-AZOcFfVG0LoIiNNMwXEv3QJbdtzo110A5Oe6AGoDTtc5ejRGfo3akfkh7kp5bY3l_l4SyXsLnxVqspyaA4NxhlWe98JGUaDVcNlC3ua3fUyeYXrXD9KLTdbjJ8/s320/race_3613_photo_54762364.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Climbing over without any help" doesn't necessarily mean "easy."</td></tr>
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Back up the mountain to <b>Swamp Stomp</b>, which was a walk through a thigh deep muddy water pit that had some logs barring the way so you had to watch your footing.<br />
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Farther up the mountain to <b>Underwater Tunnels</b>, which was in a small pond. You had to get in the water which was about 4 feet deep, wade to the "tunnel", which was really just a floating barrier perhaps three feet wide, swim under it, and then on to two more tunnels. The water was colder than expected, and most people cringe at the cold water and try not to get wet (despite the fact that we all have to dunk under). When faced with these obstacles, I just try to plow through them as fast as possible to get it over with. So rather than wade through it, I ended up swimming and got through pretty quickly.<br />
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Immediately after Underwater Tunnels was the <b>Hero Carry</b>. Sandy carried me the first quarter of the way, and I carried her to the halfway point, and then she carried me to the finish. I offered to do the last quarter, but she was't having it and powered my considerable weight to the end.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6RiNLtinVpH_EjV9orWyFbIT0SelhorDb1lMv5ZFKPX-VZeVkNzztygqylOEFwjaZtfMI58hGEmRy8ksB-7Qc5DfZWtpKWNAdKdMlrtWkkt4LPVnNpWj9h-yHwg6U1J1wTM9MtlGA3g/s1600/race_3613_photo_54775247.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1068" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR6RiNLtinVpH_EjV9orWyFbIT0SelhorDb1lMv5ZFKPX-VZeVkNzztygqylOEFwjaZtfMI58hGEmRy8ksB-7Qc5DfZWtpKWNAdKdMlrtWkkt4LPVnNpWj9h-yHwg6U1J1wTM9MtlGA3g/s320/race_3613_photo_54775247.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sandy carries me through the Hero Carry</td></tr>
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A short climb and then back down to <b>Balls to the Wall</b>, which was a wall with a knotted rope hanging from the top. The wall was tilted a few degrees towards us, which made it a bit harder to scale the rope as you couldn't use the wall itself as much to take up some of your weight. Going down the far side is much easier.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the mountain</td></tr>
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More climbing up the mountain, and then down a long ways through a very steep, very muddy, very technical wooded section. Despite my trail running shoes, I slipped several times and it was slow going. This was easily the most technical part of the course, matching if not surpassing part of the Killington Spartan Beast I did in 2015.<br />
<br />
A meandering climb back up the mountain to <b>Devil's Beard</b>, which is a net stretched across the ground that you have to go under. Many people opt to crawl under the net, but I found that there's just enough slack in the net to walk under, albeit very hunched over. I let the net slide over my back and plowed my way through it, going through relatively quickly.<br />
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Farther up the mountain to the highest point we would reach that day (which was only maybe 2/3 of the way up Mount Snow), to <b>Ladder to Hell</b>. It is a ladder with four rungs made of wide planks, spaced several feet apart. The only difficult part is the transition over the top, which can be tough for people who are afraid of heights.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dyiulLiEC8xWpIMtDc91Zdqm4ONxJyMrG2OujYshxWGrTkulEHJuGJvz0J2U4ORKS0BX_f3K4M4AGzPk_QoROEvOHejNCY1FiTEylJgpAGqzT2wOouFNvcnJ9NGbH4jl1XmgCV9OZpI/s1600/tough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="813" data-original-width="960" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8dyiulLiEC8xWpIMtDc91Zdqm4ONxJyMrG2OujYshxWGrTkulEHJuGJvz0J2U4ORKS0BX_f3K4M4AGzPk_QoROEvOHejNCY1FiTEylJgpAGqzT2wOouFNvcnJ9NGbH4jl1XmgCV9OZpI/s320/tough.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking Tough!</td></tr>
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Back down the mountain to <b>Reach Around / Stage 5 Clinger</b>. The Stage 5 Clinger is for Legionnaires only, so while I qualified to do it, it looked to be a little much for my upper body strength, so I opted for the Reach Around. it consisted of a ladder angled towards you by about 30 degrees. You had to climb that and maneuver your way up onto a platform above. The ladder itself was easy; it was the transition to the platform itself that was hard. I struggled a bit--it's at the edge where you cling on with a deathgrip, hoping you don't slip, but I managed to get onto the platform ok. Phil slipped at the top and fell to the woodchips below, but he brushed himself off and kept right on going. David and Sandy both conquered Stage 5 Clinger, while me and one of the Amys did the Reach Around. The other Amy was racing with a broken thumb, so she can be forgiven for skipping this one.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpc3sP-KE7HmXs_qXFDXYMzlSXU0x3yGsOabmed-HmcARa0J2RhLMn5ccUVXkEdMUtKgN_0KE7Alg5fR1SeOyP7r80dmezN_P7TM32Na0PpgCHfFBEE9U8RENIc3g6OxDALhFoM2fDKGw/s1600/tough-mudder-the-reach-around.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="648" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpc3sP-KE7HmXs_qXFDXYMzlSXU0x3yGsOabmed-HmcARa0J2RhLMn5ccUVXkEdMUtKgN_0KE7Alg5fR1SeOyP7r80dmezN_P7TM32Na0PpgCHfFBEE9U8RENIc3g6OxDALhFoM2fDKGw/s320/tough-mudder-the-reach-around.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reach Around</td></tr>
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Not far after this was <b>Birth Canal 2.0 / Black Hole</b>. Essentially you have to crawl underneath multiple tarps that are filled with water to the point where they nearly touch the ground. With the weight of the water and it sloshing around, it makes for a difficult crawl. The difference between the Birth Canal and the Black Hole is that the Birth Canal's tarps are clear, so you can see where you're going, whereas the Black Hole's tarps are opaque, so you have to crawl through in darkness. I went through Black Hole, and it wasn't all that bad. I thought the Birth Canal from my first TM was tougher.<br />
<br />
Soon after was the funnest (most fun?) obstacle of the race: <b>Block Ness Monster</b>. It consisted of a pool that was probably between four and five feet deep, crossed by a pair of large rectangular blocks on axles that rested a little above the surface of the water. You had to get over the freely rotating blocks with assistance from your teammates. In essence some people turned the blocks on their axles while others grabbed on and rolled their way over the top. This was a lot of fun, both from the perspective of helping people over and riding over yourself. Our group was having so much fun that we stayed with this one, helping people over until no one else was in sight.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimP3HZNdq44cXP_mo92NXUWiLqO_na-jBAqm75GttI1MXgqu8-VHzPfvo5QI4IWbI0mnu5qMM-NqI8CWSKRAGx89iDpgtsZAKUiRAND8wCz_QwmWZQO2d86W1nf7r0rgPwkkr7_SnZEP4/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimP3HZNdq44cXP_mo92NXUWiLqO_na-jBAqm75GttI1MXgqu8-VHzPfvo5QI4IWbI0mnu5qMM-NqI8CWSKRAGx89iDpgtsZAKUiRAND8wCz_QwmWZQO2d86W1nf7r0rgPwkkr7_SnZEP4/s320/maxresdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Block Ness Monster</td></tr>
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Following Block Ness Monster was another teamwork oriented obstacle, <b>Everest 2.0</b>. This is a slippery quarter pipe where people have to run up the slippery slope as far as they can while people at the top try to grab them and pull them up before they fall. David made it up by himself. On my first attempt up this one, I got up farther than I expected, and I missed grabbing the offered hands of people up top, so I slid back down. My second attempt up was much better, and I was pulled over the top without a problem. Amy with the broken thumb attempted a run, tripped, and did a somersault so smoothly we all thought it was intentional. We spent a while helping people up that one, and there was a lot of good teamwork involved, so it was a lot of fun.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CX2ZvIrU6Wn4zBnCy9Rp6dKzJF8LAuv9YdO18UciUXEin5ultphq4L6fhhe8gVYgoBqCL9u0FLDUtcR5MhPmH_AxiVzLosMIejyXdBpd6atQ1iEcvl6T48qft6M_VNMDwRYsHYrflAU/s1600/tm_everest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="750" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7CX2ZvIrU6Wn4zBnCy9Rp6dKzJF8LAuv9YdO18UciUXEin5ultphq4L6fhhe8gVYgoBqCL9u0FLDUtcR5MhPmH_AxiVzLosMIejyXdBpd6atQ1iEcvl6T48qft6M_VNMDwRYsHYrflAU/s320/tm_everest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Everest 2.0</td></tr>
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Following this was a long walk before we reached <b>Mud Mile 2.0</b>, which was a series of muddy water filled trenches followed by little berms made of the dug out dirt. We waded through this one and then marched another long distance to <b>Kiss of Mud 2.0</b>. Here we had to low crawl through the mud under barbed wire. Fortunately the crawl was relatively short. Through most "muddy" obstacles this far we didn't get too muddy (relatively) as there was plenty of water that washed off the excess mud. This time, however, there was little water, and we were covered in mud by the time we got out.<br />
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A relatively short slog down to the bottom of the mountain to <b>Arctic Enema the Rebirth</b>. This is one of the more mental obstacles, as you go down a slide into icy water, getting fully dunked, and then under a wide barrier with only a few inches of breathing space in it. The original intention of the obstacle was to go down the slide headfirst, but they changed that quickly for safety reasons. Since we were near the tail end of the race, by the time we got to it, they were nearly out of ice, so the water, while very cold, wasn't as cold as it could have been. I went down and through and out relatively quickly, not nearly as chilled as I was expecting to be.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe7yz0YFhOGA9z5rjEnb8vpolo21oQLXLzOF0H5AQzS2HsMxNKk0h7058qgyCuDM9TkMSUlDYu8ym9Qa_f-U_gMWetXZozWZrxnvevn0WPIAssE4-obFTZWtch9TbFKiPZK19HdV2FRU/s1600/Arctic-Enema-2.0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="662" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKe7yz0YFhOGA9z5rjEnb8vpolo21oQLXLzOF0H5AQzS2HsMxNKk0h7058qgyCuDM9TkMSUlDYu8ym9Qa_f-U_gMWetXZozWZrxnvevn0WPIAssE4-obFTZWtch9TbFKiPZK19HdV2FRU/s320/Arctic-Enema-2.0.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arctic Enema the Rebirth</td></tr>
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Following this was <b>Funky Monkey the Revolution</b>, which is a set of climbing monkey bars, followed by a horizontal wheel and two vertical wheels that are free to rotate, and then a handing longitudinal bar that is free to swing on chains. All of this over electric green-dyed water about four feet deep. In my first TM, I got perhaps three rungs up the monkey bars before falling. This time I did much better, as my grip has improved, and I made it to the horizontal wheel, swung around on it, then grabbed for the first vertical wheel, slipped and fell. So I didn't complete it, but I'm happy that I made some progress on it. Both Sandy and David made it across, while the rest of us did our best but didn't quite complete it.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqTL77e6XtLrk6ahzkvwVRmazCcQv-Hnq-vSAwrqVNXz0pdDnbP1LBZF5pMOWNqmm9oEp9lJWfqvodH0hruvxG4YkBw-8dQMRl8rO7ZeyEOGVmi9lYxF3-pVfdUaaV4wTbnbjZIUf1k8/s1600/race_3613_photo_54772357.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLqTL77e6XtLrk6ahzkvwVRmazCcQv-Hnq-vSAwrqVNXz0pdDnbP1LBZF5pMOWNqmm9oEp9lJWfqvodH0hruvxG4YkBw-8dQMRl8rO7ZeyEOGVmi9lYxF3-pVfdUaaV4wTbnbjZIUf1k8/s320/race_3613_photo_54772357.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting farther than I expected</td></tr>
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Following this was <b>Augustus Gloop / Snot Rocket</b>. This consisted of going into water, muddy of course, then climbing up the inside of a nearly vertical pipe with makeshift hand/footholds (not enough to quite call it a ladder). On top of that, there is water cascading down on you from above like a waterfall.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxzIfPqayJmjXohNk9nmtTYwzOSAI3nVlJSiGgNuR7XqMiBHOVi78a_loJgXhFHgWSNP8S-7UMbODlxKKxdB-Lp4yxDm6CjMoN-p8rP4w5HOqNPCnxdOwd1r8sRVvd1hVphbCboxmnE4/s1600/augustus-gloop-snot-rocket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="648" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxzIfPqayJmjXohNk9nmtTYwzOSAI3nVlJSiGgNuR7XqMiBHOVi78a_loJgXhFHgWSNP8S-7UMbODlxKKxdB-Lp4yxDm6CjMoN-p8rP4w5HOqNPCnxdOwd1r8sRVvd1hVphbCboxmnE4/s320/augustus-gloop-snot-rocket.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Augustus Gloop (near) and Snot Rocket (far)</td></tr>
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This turned out to be one of the most mentally challenging obstacles for me, if only for a moment. The water was colder than I expected, so there was the shock of that as soon as I got in. Then to the pipe, where I was expecting a ladder and not the handholds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fzIJgduaRCHuYzNMIMgzoHuCq4g17Egx1XRqFbJIXytWassUaWv_tkMTBh00P3MSc1hxMhueJxL5gPAma1rk2_-Jzs1jTrFg8imO283kKxN8j3UR0BSYq2iKWWb4GvTSrrVGgE24_sk/s1600/maxresdefault+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3fzIJgduaRCHuYzNMIMgzoHuCq4g17Egx1XRqFbJIXytWassUaWv_tkMTBh00P3MSc1hxMhueJxL5gPAma1rk2_-Jzs1jTrFg8imO283kKxN8j3UR0BSYq2iKWWb4GvTSrrVGgE24_sk/s320/maxresdefault+%25281%2529.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not quite a ladder on the inside...</td></tr>
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I climbed upwards into the water, which felt ice cold, and as I climbed, the water got stronger, and eventually completely blinded me. For a second or two I felt "trapped" in the pipe with the icy water pouring onto to my head so hard that I couldn't see. But almost immediately after that moment of panic I reached the top and got out, but afterwards I was felt freezing--even more than I was after doing Arctic Enema, and it took a while before I warmed up.<br />
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At about this time we caught up to "Darth Vader," the nickname for a veteran who had recently had his right leg amputated. He was being helped through the race with a team of runners that pulled him along on a wagon, with him walking over some of the parts that were too technical for a wagon to cross. Once again it showed how the TM community (and by extension the OCR community) come together to help each other out.<br />
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A short walk brought us to <b>Pyramid Scheme</b>, which is another teamwork-based obstacle like Everest 2.0, however this one is not a half pipe but a flat sloped slippery wall, perhaps at a 45 degree angle. The standard strategy is to form a human pyramid on the slope that others climb up to the top. Fortunately there was a rope assist where you did not need to climb far on people to reach. After some effort we managed to get everyone up.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-PckjLclHEKhoRSwTv9cN8VMl9YZ4w98yql6BqGoMwEqF4bctyECas2WMw4gi4o1ONSUurpiKowvnRspCLZqwirzxg70r3-lmtMn_buYIXoKOE4qNM5IG4X4DOBD9OCLKF59L0zpdNo/s1600/Tough-Mudder-Philly-Pyramid-Scheme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="960" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx-PckjLclHEKhoRSwTv9cN8VMl9YZ4w98yql6BqGoMwEqF4bctyECas2WMw4gi4o1ONSUurpiKowvnRspCLZqwirzxg70r3-lmtMn_buYIXoKOE4qNM5IG4X4DOBD9OCLKF59L0zpdNo/s320/Tough-Mudder-Philly-Pyramid-Scheme.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyramid Scheme</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And then, were reached the final obstacle(s), <b>Electroshock Therapy</b> and <b>Kong</b>. Kong was a set of rings over a long drop onto an inflatable mat, for legionnaires only. With my arm strength and loose shoulders, I opted to do Electroshock again (which was my plan all along). Electroshock consists of a fifteen yard or so walk through a foot of water with dozens of hanging electrified wires that zap you as you brush past them. Typically people run though it, cringing and trying to minimize any contact with the wires. Some groups link arms and go through together. At my first TM, I went through it at a good clip, expecting every single wire to be electrified, so it was almost a letdown when I only got a few zaps, and those weren't as hard as I was expecting either. This time I was determined to be a little "tougher", so rather than rushing through it, I went through at a walking pace, determined not to flinch at the wires. I think I got half a dozen shocks, none of them that bad, the worst being a zap on my left quadriceps that caused my leg to jerk and stagger my pace. But I kept going, and at the end I extended my arms to catch more wires on the way out.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGONiIxFH8iOaIXyncNxgJoZzoX7Oq4DJ77OCobPn5tNCLSusa1Qtw32u7yPbOnM8ANYY2_IWcJW7VWitL9IbyjxCYpnqaFeiL1IRiyoWR2_Tnfoga-mmbIu1FHHc2H56DHl-U8BPxKs/s1600/race_3613_photo_54767119.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjGONiIxFH8iOaIXyncNxgJoZzoX7Oq4DJ77OCobPn5tNCLSusa1Qtw32u7yPbOnM8ANYY2_IWcJW7VWitL9IbyjxCYpnqaFeiL1IRiyoWR2_Tnfoga-mmbIu1FHHc2H56DHl-U8BPxKs/s320/race_3613_photo_54767119.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finishing Electroshock</td></tr>
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<br />
After waiting a bit to cheer on my teammates who were doing one or the other, we crossed the finish line and race was over. I got my second TM headband, this one bright green.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlSAfrO9KcbtpFJ4CYo2neA63ZP3_K9meqJ7nCVBnTKUH0I9C1GWuT8VRYn97-C6gZdn8R2MflzdGApqQsk5CAT5phKUXYM3Q9AwOxCRUlpFcOyDf72VanfqYxnCB3Iv9vOx4Y8EpoDc/s1600/tmfinish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="941" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlSAfrO9KcbtpFJ4CYo2neA63ZP3_K9meqJ7nCVBnTKUH0I9C1GWuT8VRYn97-C6gZdn8R2MflzdGApqQsk5CAT5phKUXYM3Q9AwOxCRUlpFcOyDf72VanfqYxnCB3Iv9vOx4Y8EpoDc/s320/tmfinish.jpg" width="313" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the finish line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
All in all, this race was a lot a fun. When I showed up, I was expecting to run alone, and it would be been "ok", but running with a group of people: Sandy, Amy, Amy, David and Phil, made it a whole lot better.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-g0dQtxY8Hd0xpPLjRf6XMkoU6tgY0smGAHBY6KCos04LN9fSKcbXfuXfzXz2Y7v4tpz8hhQlEg5YDmEHykj7VPcyA-A6GH7suXvb71bRwnYJwB79cR5L8GAM1VpO2H52HZ3DDjkqT-k/s1600/ToughMudderNewEngland2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="971" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-g0dQtxY8Hd0xpPLjRf6XMkoU6tgY0smGAHBY6KCos04LN9fSKcbXfuXfzXz2Y7v4tpz8hhQlEg5YDmEHykj7VPcyA-A6GH7suXvb71bRwnYJwB79cR5L8GAM1VpO2H52HZ3DDjkqT-k/s320/ToughMudderNewEngland2017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">GPS map of Tough Mudder New England 2017. My GPS measured it as 10.67 miles in 5:47:17.</td></tr>
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Before doing this race I was eyeing doing others, including Savage Race in July, and Warrior Dash and a Tough Mudder in August. I wanted to see how this race went before I signed up for others. Now that I've done it though, I definitely want to go ahead and try these other races. On to the next one!<br />
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<br />Dan Eldredgehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06028212796512806387noreply@blogger.com1