MEDC

Chastiser (Part 4 of 8)
Cyprus Affair Campaign
New World Order series
HDS3 MEDC Battleset
 
When the NSC made good on its promises to deliver SA-10 Grumble SAM systems to the Greek Cypriots in Spring 1995, despite Turkish protest, the stage was set for another conflict in Cyprus. The presence of the advanced weapons shifted the delicate balance of power, as it put nearly all aircraft operating from the Turkish side of the island at risk. When regular Turkish forces stormed the island a few months later, NATO was embarrassed. It had not been aware of Turkey's intention to reclaim Cyprus once and for all. Hand in hand with the economic boom in the NSC came military modernization and revitalization, funding for which was fuelled at least partly by an unprecedented level of arms exports. The NSC would no longer sit idly by while its national interests were decided by others. It launched a major attack against Turkey in June 1995. The NSC did not believe NATO would intervene in the Cypriot affair after having been snubbed by its Turkish partner and after the beating it had received in the Baltic conflict a year earlier. The NSC was wrong.
 
The move to seize the Bosporous-Dardenelles was a mistake. The prospect of a modernized, ambitious New Soviet navy with a front yard on the Eastern Med was too much for NATO to bear. The US Sixth Fleet, standing off Italy and observing the conflict in Turkey from afar, has now been called into action. The task force will be entering an extremely hostile zone. Yesterday the NSC launched a major airborne assault upon the Turkish contingent in Cyprus, and all indications are that the island will be firmly under NSC control by tomorrow. The ROE remains tight - do not fire unless fired upon. (Released August 2000).

Carving Turkey (Part 3 of 8)
Cyprus Affair Campaign
New World Order Series
HDS3 MEDC Battleset
 
When the NSC made good on its promises to deliver SA-10 Grumble SAM systems to the Greek Cypriots in Spring 1995, despite Turkish protest, the stage was set for another conflict in Cyprus. The presence of the advanced weapons shifted the delicate balance of power, as it put nearly all aircraft operating from the Turkish side of the island at risk. When regular Turkish forces stormed the island a few months later, NATO was embarrassed. It had not been aware of Turkey's intention to reclaim Cyprus once and for all. Hand in hand with the economic boom in the NSC came military modernization and revitalization, funding for which was fuelled at least partly by an unprecedented level of arms exports. The NSC would no longer sit idly by while its national interests were decided by others. It launched a major attack against Turkey in June 1995. The NSC did not believe NATO would intervene in the Cypriot affair after having been snubbed by its Turkish partner and after the beating it had received in the Baltic conflict a year earlier. The NSC was wrong.
 
Pleased that NATO had thus far remained only a verbal combatant, the Kremlin became blinded to the original objective - the liberation of Greek Cyprus. They suddenly realized that here was a golden opportunity to finally rid themselves of the Bosporous-Dardenelles chokepoint. To do so, it would be necessary to invade and claim at least a portion of Turkish territory. An amphibious assault has been launched to carry out the mission. (Released August 2000).

Mauled by the Bear (Part 2 of 8)
Cyprus Affair Campaign
New World Order Series
HDS3 MEDC Battleset
 
When the NSC made good on its promises to deliver SA-10 Grumble SAM systems to the Greek Cypriots in Spring 1995, despite Turkish protest, the stage was set for another conflict in Cyprus. The presence of the advanced weapons shifted the delicate balance of power, as it put nearly all aircraft operating from the Turkish side of the island at risk. When regular Turkish forces stormed the island a few months later, NATO was embarrassed. It had not been aware of Turkey's intention to reclaim Cyprus once and for all. Hand in hand with the economic boom in the NSC came military modernization and revitalization, funding for which was fuelled at least partly by an unprecedented level of arms exports. The NSC would no longer sit idly by while its national interests were decided by others. It launched a major attack against Turkey in June 1995. The NSC did not believe NATO would intervene in the Cypriot affair after having been snubbed by its Turkish partner and after the beating it had received in the Baltic conflict a year earlier. The NSC was wrong.
 
Heeding the lessons learned as an observer of the 1991 Gulf War, the NSC pounded Turkish military bases and command facilities with air strikes for the first few days of the conflict. By 11 June 1995, most Turkish bases in the north of the country were either destroyed or severely damaged. NATO was protesting loudly against NSC actions, but as of yet no major strategic moves had been made. This scenario examines the difficulty experienced by the Turks in their attempt to defend the northern half of their country while confined to bases in the south. (Released August 2000).

Impetus to Disaster (Part 1 of 8)
Cyprus Affair Campaign
New World Order series
HDS3 MEDC Battleset
 
When the NSC made good on its promises to deliver SA-10 Grumble SAM systems to the Greek Cypriots in Spring 1995, despite Turkish protest, the stage was set for another conflict in Cyprus. The presence of the advanced weapons shifted the delicate balance of power, as it put nearly all aircraft operating from the Turkish side of the island at risk. When regular Turkish forces stormed the island a few months later, NATO was embarrassed. It had not been aware of Turkey's intention to reclaim Cyprus once and for all. Hand in hand with the economic boom in the NSC came military modernization and revitalization, funding for which was fuelled at least partly by an unprecedented level of arms exports. The NSC would no longer sit idly by while its national interests were decided by others. It launched a major attack against Turkey in June 1995. The NSC did not believe NATO would intervene in the Cypriot affair after having been snubbed by its Turkish partner and after the beating it had received in the Baltic conflict a year earlier. The NSC was wrong.
 
The first scenario examines the opening NSC attacks on Turkey. While Turkish forces are at full readiness and deployed in combat formations, they are primarily oriented towards the operation in Cyprus. By the time they become aware of NSC intentions late in the day on 2 June 1995, it is much too late. Witness the power of the new Soviet military machine. (Released August 2000).

Helo
EC2000 Battle for the Mediterranean
 
It occurred to me that there aren't many HC/HC97/HC2002 scenarios which focus on helicopter combat, particularly helo vs helo warfare in the virtual absence of fixed wing aircraft. Hence HELO. In this scenario, you are commander of a joint US/UK force operating inside the war ravaged Balkans. Your force controls the airports at Sarajevo and Mostar, but little else. A British Royal Navy task group centred around HMS Ocean is enroute with reinforcements, and a force of eight C-130 Hercules airlifters are sitting on the tarmac at Souda awaiting your confirmation that the area is secure. The enemy is well equipped with Hind gunships and assault helos, and enemy ground troops are heading in your direction. They have every intention of kicking you out of the region. Get the Ocean task group safely to Beachhead Freedom, and the Hercules safely into Sarajevo. Time is of the essence. (Released April 2003).

Bottling up the black sea
EC2000 Battle for the Mediterranean Sea
 
The previous months saw a marginal victory for the Allied forces in a bid to retake the Med and contain the European Federation's newly rebuilt Black Sea fleet. Unfortunately, two new carrier groups slipped through the hastily gathered Allied mission and reports have these rogue groups seeking refuge somewhere on the southern coast of Turkey. A number of other Russian, Turkish and Arab destroyers and frigates remain poised and regrouping into patrols in the Aegean. Spain remains a steadfast supporter of the Federation. Up until recently a Spanish carrier group and a small Russian carrier have been on maneuvers in the Black Sea with other Black Sea Fleet units. Apparently, within the past week they have sailed south through the Bosporus and into the Dardanelles. They appear to be forming up as the center group for the Federation destroyer and frigate patrols. Outside these patrol rings are a number of submarines on picket. To the best of intelligence estimates, the Allies can expect an attack of Sunburn missiles on Tanagra from Sovremenny, Udaloy and Dergach naval units. By all accounts, it is clear that the Federation will also attempt to take out Salamis and Souda in order to regain control of the central Med and the gates to the Black Sea.

Allies take back the Med
EC2000 Battle for the Mediterranean
 
With a surprise victory in the previous month, the Allies were able to break the blockade created by the European Federation and reinforce American naval units in the Med and refortify Tel Aviv. The Federation wants to reverse this setback, so they have gathered their naval assets in the central Med. Intelligence estimates conclude that they intend to open up a gap to bring out the recently rebuilt Black Sea Fleet; a giant force capable of driving a wedge clear to Africa if given the opportunity to pass through the vulnerable Bosporus and Dardanelles.

Escape from the Med
EC2000 Battle for the Mediterranean
 
The European Federation's aggression in the Baltic, Iceland/UK Gap and North Atlantic has spread into the Mediterranean. With France siding over to the E.F., Italy has decided to remain committed to the Federation's cause. Earlier in the month, the Italian navy had siezed three Saar V's from the Israelis that were on maneuvers in the Adriatic. Italy has now positioned several of it's naval assets, in coordination with some French carrier groups, to create a blockade and prevent American forces from trying to leave or establishing reinforcement. There are several Arab navies whom are sympathetic to the Federation and are on the brink of signing a multi-lateral agreement of military and economic cooperation.

EC2003 MEDC
 
Shortly after the Six Day War, Soviet forces joined briefly with Egyptian forces against Israel in a "War of Attrition." Although this failed to seriously damage Israel, it laid the foundation for future joint Soviet-Egypt military action. By 1990, the progress towards peace made by Sadat and Begin fifteen years earlier has mostly fallen by the wayside. Soviet forces have returned to Egypt. Intelligence suggests that they may again initiate joint attacks against Israel. (Released January 2007).

Crete Convoy (Battle Ocean 1990 series)
EC2003 MEDC
 
It is 1990 and the world is at war. America and its allies are gradually preparing to liberate Iran from the Soviet Union, which invaded that country earlier this year. Several allies of the Soviet Union have declared their support for the Soviet invasion. Convoy AAS (Flag Robison) should proceed to the waters off the southern shore of Crete in preparation for a rendevous with other vessels. Once at the rendevous point, you will receive additional orders. Libya has declared its support of the Soviet invasion of Iran. It is possible that Libyan aircraft, surface vessels, or submarines will attempt to attack your convoy. Soviet submarines may also be in your area. Greek aircraft are available to provide air support for your convoy. You are free to fire on either Libyan or Soviet assets if they attack or appear to threaten the convoy or allied assets. You are not directed at this time to attack Libyan territory. (Released June 2006).

EC2003 MEDC
 
History is full of interesting surprises. The mercurial leader of Libya, having made much of his reputation as a foe of the West, ultimately decided that the future of his country (and his own future) might be secured more easily by adopting a policy of moderation. He was promptly ousted and forced into exile. The new regime is openly hostile to the West. Its ultimate goal is to dominate North and Central Africa and it has started an aggressive campaign of purchasing weapons from nations such as China, North Korea, Russia, and Iran. In addition, it has purchased materials necessary for the creation of chemical and biological weapons. (Released June 2006).

EC2003 MEDC
 
Relations between Spain and Morocco deteriorated after the departure of the Socialist government in Madrid, re-opening numerous old wounds. A brief but anxious confrontation in July 2002 had failed to resolve a longstanding quarrel over certain disputed territories in the Strait of Gibraltar, principally among them Leila (called Isla Perejil in Spain), Ceuta and Melilla. Morocco now claimed sovereignty over all three areas, declaring that Spain should be satisfied enough with its claim to the Canary Islands. In reply, Spain has renewed a permanent military presence at Ceuta that had not existed there since 1960, asserting not only its 400 year old territorial claim but also contending it had a "responsibility" to guard the region against illegal immigrants, smugglers and terrorists who might exploit the strategic value of the Strait of Gibraltar. NATO and the EU, pre-occupied with a host of their own problems, declared the matter a bilateral dispute and refused to intervene. The Arab League, however, already exasperated with perceived European insensitivities to Arab issues, pledged vigorous support for Morocco's claim. Notable among these advocates was Algeria. Relations between Morocco and Algeria had improved significantly after the two nations were able to reach an agreement regarding the Talsint oil field and the issue of Western Saharan separatism. The only question remaining was how far each of them was willing to go. (Released February 2006).

EC2003 MEDC
 
The eruption of a new civil war in the Balkans on the eve of the XX Winter Olympics drastically complicated European efforts at achieving security in Torino. The air forces of Switzerland and Italy were already working closely to ensure the Games were safe from terrorist attack, but the sudden outbreak of armed conflict on their doorstep was completely unexpected. Their accord did not cover military threats. The situation in the Balkans was still very unclear, but it appeared that several of the former territories of Yugoslavia were ganging up on Slovenia. Preliminary intelligence analysis indicated that the conflict may be rooted in tensions arising from Slovenia having joined NATO in March 2004, and if this was in fact the case, the possibility of attacks against neighboring NATO countries cannot be ruled out. The aggressors are warning against outside intervention, and previously little known factions within the former Yugoslav republics are threatening attack against the Games should NATO interfere. (Released January 2006).

EC2003 MEDC
 
A few years in the future ... Tensions between Algeria and the E.U. have increased. Algeria is now controlled by a religious dictatorship that is hostile to the West. The E.U. believes Algeria is responsible for several recent terrorist attacks in Europe. Current thinking in Europe is that the most likely solution to the problem is regime change. Intelligence officers have been in communication with a coalition of rebel groups in Algeria--it would probably be too much to call them pro-Western, but they would certainly be an improvement over the current lot. They will view an E.U. attack as a signal to initiate their own attacks against the Algerian government. If the rebels can overthrow the current regime, it may mark the start of a period of improved relations with Algeria. (Released January 2006).

Operation Spanish Fury (Battle Ocean 1990 series)
EC2003 MEDC
 
A few years in the future ... Revolutions in Algeria, Libya, and Egypt have left these countries in the grip of radical Islamic governments that are hostile to the United States and the European Union. In recent months, there have been a number of terrorist attacks in Spain. While the Algerian government is not directly responsible for these attacks, they have fostered an atmosphere of hatred against the E.U. and they have done nothing to prevent terrorists from organizing and training in their country. Spain has decided to destroy three command bunkers in Algeria in retaliation for the recent terrorist attacks. This purpose of this attack is not only to reduce the effectiveness of the Algerian military but also to send their government a message. (Released January 2006).

Kilo Krush (Battle Ocean 1990 series)
EC2003 MEDC
 
A few years in the future ... Libya has purchased two Kilo-class submarines from Russia. The European Union does not wish the transfer to take place. There is serious concern in the E.U. that the new government of Libya is too hostile to the West and that these submarines represent a potential threat the European merchant fleets and military forces. Libya refuses to reconsider the deal, claiming that since it has abandoned its WMD programs, it has every right to expand its conventional forces. (In fact, there are persistent indications that Libya is again involved in terrorism and the development of chemical and even nuclear weapons). Russia has declared that the E.U. has no right to interfere with its arms deals. It has also issued a stern warning that, since Russian crews are currently on board the Kilos, any attack against these submarines will be seen as an attack on Russia. The United States is remaining neutral on this issue. (Released January 2006).

Black Valor (Battle Ocean 1990 series)
EC2003 MEDC
 
A few years in the future ... Tensions between Turkey and its neighbors in the Black Sea region have increased during recent years. The causes have ranged from trade issues to environmental concerns. Romania has been among the most vocal in its protests against Turkey, going so far as to threaten the use of force if Turkey continues to interfere with its international agenda. The situation has been made more serious because Ukraine has declared itself a guardian of the slavic Black Sea nations and has made it clear that Turkish aggression against any of these nations, even those it has squabbled with in the past, will not be tolerated. A few months ago, Romania purchased long range ballistic missiles from China. (Released January 2006).

EC2003 MEDC
 
Relations between the Ukraine and Russia have degraded into a shooting war after a prolonged dispute over gas supplies. Elements of the US-Eastern European Task Force (EETAF), established at a forward location in Romania, are being called into action to support and defend the West friendly government in Ukraine. (Released January 2006).

EC2003 MEDC
 
Our support of the Ukraine in its border conflict with Russia has broken up most of the enemy offensive, except in the Crimea, where the war is bogging down. Intelligence indicates that many Russian units are no longer getting consistent support or orders from Moscow, and that some isolated groups of Russian forces are either surrendering or "melting away". There is, unfortunately, at least one exception. A rogue general in the Crimea has taken the opportunity to seize a nuclear powerplant. His intentions are unknown, but he and his compatriots are known to have ties to the criminal underworld in the Caucasus region. Our fear is that he may begin disassembly of the nuclear facility and sell weapons grade nuclear material to the highest bidder. The reactor and its support facilities must therefore be disabled or destroyed. (Released October 2005).

EC2003 MEDC
 
In this scenario, the ties and alliances between a host of European nations, old and new alike, have broken down. War has broken out once again between newly reformed states, failed states, and age old enemies. This time, the relationships evidenced by NATO, the EU and the like, have also crumbled. France, Germany, Italy, Russia, Bulgaria, Romania and Slovakia have joined the battle on the side of Croatia, while the US, UK, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, and the Ukraine have pledged to support Macedonia and the Former Yugoslavia. Peacekeeping in the region is no longer a viable option, and American and British forces are now being pulled out in an effort to avoid to impending quagmire ... (Released October 2005).

EC2003 MEDC
 
Chaos reigned in the aftermath of the fall of Saddam Hussein and his regime. The United States failed to obtain sufficient support from the international community for its exercise in nation building, and with the body count rising and a new Administration in Washington, US forces pulled out in late 2004. Continuing political friction with the European Union was only aggravated by the turn of events in Iraq. The withdrawal of any significant Western presence in the Middle East led to a power vacuum that soon twisted itself into a nightmare scenario. The intifada in Israel intensified when the USA pulled out of Iraq. The Israelis responded with a heavy hand. In turn, the longtime enemies of Israel sensed an opportunity, and then moved with shocking speed. (Released August 2004).

EC2003 MEDC
 
Egyptian and Syrian air strikes against Israel have in large part been repelled, but not without a heavy cost in lives and equipment. Worse, Jordan has joined the cause and is supporting a massive overland assault by armored forces moving through the Golan Heights and across the Sinai. The George Bush carrier battle group has now arrived in the battle zone, having suppressed a hostile Libya, but we can no longer rely on support from the RAF or Aviano airbase in Italy. The situation in Israel is desperate. They are battling valiantly against the Arab incursion, but it is questionable how long they can hold out without reinforcement and resupply. A merchant convoy is enroute to Haifa, but they will need protection if they are to make it safely. (Released August 2004).

EC2003 MEDC
 
Today, as the first decade of the 21st century comes to a close, Georgia remains piteously poor. And, yet, geopolitically, it is a country of enormous importance. An immense pipeline passes through Georgian territory, moving vast quantities of oil and gas from the Caspian Sea to a Turkish port. In the wake of the American withdrawal (some might say, ejection) from the Persian Gulf, Caspian oil is seen as crucially important in relieving dependence on oil from the Gulf region. The Russians are about to withdraw from the republic completely, and NATO membership is just around the corner for Georgia. And, still, as always, trouble is brewing just below the surface. Its only a matter of time before a soldier calls, "Tsetskli ! Tsetskli ! Tsetskli !" (Released July 2004).

EC2003 MEDC
 
In an apparent coup, a committee of Soviet hardliners has taken control of the government. NATO and Soviet militray forces have been put on full alert. President Gorbachev and his family has been taken from their dacha in the Crimea to a merchant ship in the Black Sea where his fate will be decided by the de facto Soviet government. (Released December 2004).

The Eastern Mediterranean has erupted into chaos. Israel's enemies Syria and Libya have decided to wipe Israel from the map. Meanwhile, the Egyptian government has been accused by Libya of being "a traitor to the Arab cause" and is massing troops along the common border. Intelligence sources have been observing an increase in readiness levels of both Libya and Syria in the past few months. In addition, both governments have purchased a large amount of Soviet equipment. In an unforeseen development, Soviet paratroopers and Marines have taken over the Suez Canal zone in a "caretaker and peacekeeping" mission in order to "protect the canal until regional tension abates." The United Nations has condemned this action and is demanding the withdrawal of Soviet forces from the region. Intelligence sources have observed a large number of Soviet reserve forces being mobilized and returned to active service. In addition several Northern Fleet units have entered the Mediterranean Sea supposedly headed towards Sevastopol for overhaul. Contact has been lost with these units. (Released January 2005).