American Commonwealth General Movements and Actions

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Weapons Development Projects

M4 Rhino Heavy Tank
Information
Weight: 82 tons
Length: Gun forward: 12.4 m
Hull length: 10 m
Width: 4.2 m
Height: 3 m
Crew: 5 (commander, gunner, assistant gunner, driver, systems specialist)
Armor: Composite, DU
Weapons: 140mm ETC Cannon, 3 x 25mm chain-guns,  2 x ADATS missiles, 2 x 12.7mm HMGs, 1 x 7.62mm MMG
Engine: 2500 hp Honeywell AGT2500 multi-fuel turbine engine
Power/weight: 30.4 hp/ton  
Suspension: Hydro-pneumatic
Operational range: 200 mi
Speed : 30 mph


The M4 Rhino Heavy Tank  is, to date, the heaviest armored vehicle developed by the American Commonwealth military weighing in at a hefty 82 tons fully loaded.  The Rhino is intended to fill the niche role of heavy armor as well as acting as a technological testbed for new armored vehicle technologies intended to be used in the next generation of military armored vehicles.  The Rhino will be used to equip independent companies in armored brigades.  They will also form the core of independent armored battalions attached at the corps level.

One of the most obvious features of the Rhino is the very thick modular armor plating.  The frontal arc of the hull and turret is virtually impervious to even its own impressive gun.  It also has all round protection against medium cannons and side protection against 105mm weapons.  This protection is made possible with its advanced composite armor system, which is inlaid with numerous materials and encased in depleted uranium making it highly effective against both HEAT weapons and kinetic penetrators.  The armor’s modularity allows for quicker repair and maintenance as well as making future upgrades easier.  The gun round storage area at the rear is also of a modular design allowing for the complete and rapid replacement of the magazine.  In addition to the physical armor the Rhino also sports the best available active and passive defense measures.  The AMAPS-ADS offers rapid and effective active defense against ATGMs, RPGs and even kinetic penetrators.  The AMAPS-PDS offers a wide range of passive countermeasures including laser detection and jamming gear, IR/smoke decoys, and an electronic warfare system.  One of the newest advances is the development of the Armored Vehicle Signature Reduction System (AVSRS).  The AVSRS is similar to the RAM coating of stealth aircraft, the materials used in the paint reduce the vehicle’s visible, infrared and electromagnetic signature by factors of up to 40% helping the vehicle avoid detection or targeting.

The Rhino’s armament is also a very noticeable feature being the most heavily armed tank in service with the Commonwealth military.  The massive 140mm ETC cannon is capable of defeating virtually all projected armored threats.  Coupled with an advanced fire control and stabilization system, the main gun has a range of 10km and is able to use a wide variety of ammunition.  The main gun uses an compact bustle auto-loader allowing for safe storage and loading of munitions while minimizing space usage providing a respectable rate of fire of twelve rounds per minute.  Secondary armament consists of three 25mm chain guns and a pair of ADATS missiles, which allow for effective anti-aircraft or additional anti-tank capabilities.  Anti-infantry weaponry consists of two heavy machine guns for the commander and gunner, and a medium machine gun facing the rear for the assistant gunner.  

Mobility was compromised as a result of the heavy armor and armament but not to the point where it would drastically effect operational capabilities.  In fact it retains a respectable 30 mph top speed thanks to the 2500hp Honeywell gas turbine engine, which comes at a cost with a somewhat reduced operational range and less than optimal fuel efficiency.  Ground pressure is actually slightly less than that of the M1 Abrams because of the Rhino’s wider tracks and cross country performance is not degraded.  Due to its weight, strategic mobility has been affected accordingly.  Currently a C-5 Galaxy or C-17 Globemaster can only carry one Rhino tank but planned upgrades to the C-5 fleet will allow two to be carried.  

Due to the larger numbers of weapons systems and auxiliary equipment the crew has been increased to five with the addition of a systems specialist and replacement of the loader with an assistant gunner.  The assistant gunner is in charge of the operation of the ADAT system and top mounted 25mm chain gun as well as serving as a backup loader if required.  The systems specialist is located next to the driver and is in charge of operating the hull mounted chain gun and overseeing the Rhino’s defense and electronic warfare systems as well as the tank’s micro UAV.

M2A5 Bradley IFV
The M2 Bradley series was to be discontinued after the A4 upgrades and slowly phased out by the M1 Infantry Combat Vehicle and the planned next generation combat vehicle systems currently under development.  Due to unforeseen delays in the program it has been decided that the M2 Bradley needs to be retained but that existing vehicles should be upgraded to successfully fight on the current battlefield.  The A4 variant ensured the Bradley was capable of being integrated into the Battle Net and some other systems upgrades.  The A5 upgrade includes upgrades to weapons, engines and protection systems.  The turret has been enlarged to be able to accommodate a 40mm auto-cannon and replacement of the old two tube TOW system with a four tube FOTT system.  Upgrades have also been made to electronics and fire control-stabilization equipment.  Defenses have been improved with the addition of MVAPS kits and the integration of active defense systems.  The engine has been replaced with a hybrid electric propulsion system based on that developed for the M1A3 providing greater power and fuel efficiency.  The A5 upgrades have extended the Bradley's life span for a while longer until the next generation combat vehicle systems have been developed.

Tactical Ground Based Multipurpose Radar Surveillance System

The Tactical Ground Based Multipurpose Radar System is a new multi-service radar system designed to fill several roles including ground surveillance, air tracking and targeting and electronic warfare.  The standard system consists of an AESA radar system on an extendable mast with 3D tracking capabilities within a 120 degree arc and a range of 50km.  The mast also integrates a laser rangefinder/targeter and an electro-optical surveillance system.  Its design allows it to be mounted on a variety of fixed and mobile platforms with minimal effort.  Depending on its selected mode of operation the system can optimize tracking ground targets and individuals, providing highly accurate information differentiating vehicle types, or air tracking and targeting, in which case the detection of aircraft will be optimized.  The TGBMRS can network with other units through the Battle Net providing an accurate picture of the battlefield as well as providing weapons guidance capabilities.   While the base system is capable of tracking and targeting aircraft, a more specialized air defense version has been developed which greatly enhances its air tracking and targeting capabilities over the baseline multipurpose version, extending range to 75km and enhancing performance against low flying/low observable aircraft and missiles.  The baseline version is intended to equip reconnaissance units while the air defense version will equip air defense units with a highly mobile and cheaper radar system.

[MostGloriousLeader]

Military Infrastructure Assessment

With the growth of the military as well as the addition of several new states and territories to the Commonwealth, the expansion and/or creation of military facilities and infrastructure in these areas is critical to maintain adequate garrisons and effective defensive military capabilities. 

 

Army Facilities:

Fort Defiance

Built near the old colonial fort, the modern day Fort Defiance is the North-westernmost major military facility in the Commonwealth, able to accommodate a division plus extra support assets.

 

Fort Dennison

Located northeast of Cincinnati, Fort Dennison is built upon an old civil war Camp and will be able to accommodate a garrison of one division.

 

Fort Perry

Camp Perry will be expanded to accommodate a garrison of one division with surge capacity for one more for operations or training purposes and will be one of the army's primary bases in Northwestern Ohio. 

 

Fort Ravenna

Formerly Camp Ravenna, Fort Ravenna will be expanded and will function and serve as a major training center and logistical hub for military forces in Ohio as well as being able to support a brigade sized garrison. 

 

Fort Knox

Fort Knox will serve as the military's primary military operational, training and logistics facility in Kentucky with expansion planned to accommodate a three division garrison.  It has also been decided to move the Army Armor School back to its historical residence at Fort Knox.

 

Fort Campbell

Straddling the border of Kentucky and Tennessee, as well as the border of the American Commonwealth and the Confederate States of America, Fort Campbell is a joint national base administered by both countries. 

 

Blue Grass Logistics Depot

The Blue Grass Logistics Depot, formerly Blue Grass Army Depot, will be expanded to serve the logistical requirements of all military service forces throughout Kentucky.

 

Air Force Facilities:

Wright-Patterson AFB

The Wright-Patterson AFB is one of the largest air force bases located west of the Appalachians.  Facilities have been expanded to accommodate multiple wings of combat, support and auxiliary aircraft as well as to allow the base to perform its longtime tradition of research. 

 

Youngstown-Warren AFS

The Youngstown-Warren Air-force Station is a joint military-civilian airport in eastern Ohio, the military has funded the expansion of existing runways and will also create another dedicated for military usage along with necessary support facilities, although the military has the right to exert control over the whole airport in times of war or emergency.

 

Rickenbacker AFB

Located in the Ohio state capitol of Columbus, Rickenbacker AFB is the central air force base for air force operations in the Commonwealth's western states.  The addition of two more runways and the support facilities for over a dozen squadrons at surge capacity. 

 

Radar Surveillance Facilities:

This list of facilities are general radar surveillance facilities that are to be reactivated or constructed as part of the National Air Defense Command's air defense network.  All facilities will have standardized equipment and upgraded with appropriate support facilities and security measures.  These new facilities, as well as older ones, will be upgraded with the newly developed AN/FPS-110 AESA Radar.  One of the Commonwealth's most advanced designs, it is capable of tracking over 512 targets at a range of 400 km as well as participating in multi-static operations with ground based or aerial based radars and is integrated into the Battle Net system.  It is able to operate in a variety of modes and radar bands and has the ability to track stealth aircraft.  The system is relatively cheap and fairly mobile with most set ups/break downs taking up to two hours, a well trained crew can do it in half the time, allowing for spare systems to be available to replace lost or damaged sets relatively quickly.

• Bellefontaine AFS
• Brookfield AFS
• Gentile AFS
• Owingsville AFS
• Snow Mountain AFS
• Sandusky AFS
• Bowling Green AFS

Joint Facilities:

Campbell Army Airfield

Nominally an army facility, the Air Force has been able to utilize the airfield as a base.  With new additions and expansions to the facility it will be able to accommodate a permanent assignment of air-force aircraft.

 

Godman Army Airfield

Another army run aviation facility, located on Fort Knox, the Godman Army Airfield is also capable of accommodating combat aircraft in addition to its use by the army.

 

Joint Base Guadalupe

Located on Guadalupe Island in the Pacific Ocean,240 km off the coast of Mexico, Commonwealth engineers and contractors have begun the establishment of a joint service/multi-national base with the Hudson Bay Federation.  The existing airfield on the island will be replaced by an airbase with two 3,000 meter runways and one 2,000 meter runway.  Hangers, garrison and support facilities will  be constructed both on ground as well as into the rugged volcanic terrain.  An anchorage will be expanded to accommodate two dozen medium sized vessels and the island will also host a space tracking facility, and long range radar network.  The Commonwealth military has appropriated a permanent garrison of one infantry battalion in addition to facility and support staff.

 

Joint Base Springfield

Formerly Springfield AFB and located several miles south of the city of Springfield, the Commonwealth military has transformed the facility into a joint army-airforce base.  The airfield has been expanded while facilities have been planned for a garrison of one brigade, with a surge capacity of one whole division. 

 

Joint Base Toledo

Similar to JB Springfield, Joint Base Toledo was originally an air-force facility but its close proximity to the border prompted the military to garrison a brigade at the base.

 

[MostGloriousLeader]

Weapons Development Projects

6.8mm ERR

For several months, the Commonwealth military has conducted numerous studies and field tests for a replacement of the ubiquitous 5.56x45mm rifle cartridge used by its forces.  After extensive trials and looking at other alternatives, the 6.8x45mm Enhanced Rifle Round was selected as the new primary rifle ammunition for Commonwealth troops.  Combining the accuracy of the 5.56mm round while having comparable stopping power to the 7.62x39mm cartridge, it is an excellent blend of both accuracy and firepower.  Based on the 6.8mm SPC cartridge, the 6.8mm ERR was designed with consideration given to long range combat and is easily capable of achieving accurate and lethal fire at over 800 meters using a normal rifle with appropriate optics.  Another reason for choosing the ERR was cost considerations.  Because the round can be used by the M-16A5 with a simple barrel and receiver change, the military can use the new cartridge now rather than wait for a whole new rifle to be developed.  With the M-16A5s having a service extension refurbishment coming up it fits perfectly within budget and time constraints. 

 

Mk 50 SAW

With the military phasing out the 5.56x45mm cartridge in favor of the ERR there has been the question of what to do with the M249 SAW because it uses the 5.56 round.  The favored option was to convert the M249 to a different caliber as the most cost effective option.  The 7.62x51mm cartridge was chosen as the new caliber for two reasons.  One, the upcoming force restructuring will put a designated marksman in each fire team armed with a rifle using the 7.62x51mm cartridge and it will allow some measure of commonality within the fire team.  The second is that such a conversion already exists for the M249, the Mk 48 machine gun.  The Mk 50 Squad Automatic Weapon further improves on the design with the usage of lightweight composite materials and titanium in the weapon allowing for an increase in firepower at even lighter weight that the M249.

 

M240L GPMG

The M240 Light General Purpose Machine Gun is a modification of the M240B that has served as the Commonwealth military's primary GPMG.  Primary changes are the usage of lightweight composites and titanium to lower the weight of the weapon as well as providing an optional shorter barrel.  These modifications lighten soldiers combat loads, lessening fatigue, and makes the weapon easier to handle and maneuver. 

 

[MostGloriousLeader]

MIL-STD-625

Development of Military Standard 625, Hardening of Military Electronic Systems, has been completed and the armed forces of the American Commonwealth will begin implementation immediately.  MIL-STD-625 specifies minimum levels of electronic radiation hardening to protect military and government systems and equipment from electronic radiation attack.  Recent advances in microchip technology, circuit development and shielding has lead to the ability to create electronics that are highly resistant to all forms of radiation while maintaining their speed and capabilities, essential to the survival of troops and equipment in the field ranging from radars to a soldier's personal electronic equipment or aircraft systems..  All new equipment will be required to meet these standards while older equipment will be given a massive overhaul program to upgrade electronics.

[MostGloriousLeader]

FORCE XXI
Recent operations and actions undertaken by the American Commonwealth military, including the first and second collapse of Mexico, have highlighted glaring defects in the military’s current force structure.  The Commonwealth military was initially designed primarily with the mission of defending the Commonwealth proper.  Recent events have shown that, even though Commonwealth forces were able to accomplish their missions and objectives, there are issues with deployability outside the Commonwealth.  Except for light infantry, special forces and airborne units, most units are heavy in nature and have been demonstrated to be too heavy and cumbersome for overseas deployment.  As the American Commonwealth grows, so do its continental and global responsibilities and the military must be able to adapt to those needs.  With that in mind the new force structure, dubbed Force XXI, developed for the military has placed an emphasis on combat capability, flexibility, deployability and sustained operations.

These reforms take place at the most basic level, with infantry units being completely reformed.  Infantry are organized into eleven man squads, broken down into two five man fireteams and a squad leader.  In a rifle squad, each fireteam has a team leader, rifleman/specialist, marksman, grenadier, and automatic rifleman.  The teamleader, usually a sergeant, provides leadership for the fireteam and.  The rifleman/specialist is armed with a multi-purpose anti-tank weapon, capable of using a variety of munitions.  The marksman is armed with an extended range rifle and given the training to be able to provide accurate fire out to 1000 meters, versus the usual trained range of a normal rifleman of 600 meters.  The grenadier carries a rifle mounted grenade launcher as well as spare ammo for the specialist or automatic rifleman.  The automatic rifleman carries a squad automatic weapon, a light machine gun that provides the fireteam with heavy and accurate firepower.
Infantry Platoons are composed of three rifle squads and a weapons squad, along with the platoon headquarters which includes the platoon leader, platoon sergeant, RTO and medic.  The weapons squad provides the platoon with extra firepower and support.  Similar to a rifle squad, it consists of a squadleader and two five men fireteams, the difference is their composition.  Each fireteam has a teamleader, a machine gunner, assitant machine gunner, mortarman and assistant mortarman.  The machine gunner operates a general purpose machine gun and the assistant machine gunner helps spot and provides security for the machine gunner as well as carry components and ammunition.  The mortarman operates a 60mm lightweight mortar system with the assistant mortarman who carries ammunition and parts.  Armored platoons are composed of four tanks.

Each infantry company composed of three rifle platoons plus the company headquarters which includes the company commander, executive officer, company sergeant, RTO, supply sergeant, and two forward observers.  An infantry weapons company consists of the same headquarters and three weapons platoons, each containing two assault sections and two mortar sections.  The assault section consists of two fireteams each with two weapons specialists and two assistant specialists.  These weapons specialists are trained to use a variety of weapons ranging from MANPADS to ATGMs.  The mortar section has two mortarteams each operating a single 81mm or 120mm mortar.  An armored company is composed of three armored platoons and the company headquarters, which includes the CO and XO’s tanks as well as two IFVs for support staff.  Every combat company is also assigned a fire support observation and team.

Battalions form the basic maneuver units of a combat brigade.  Infantry Battalions consist of three rifle companies, a weapons company and a headquarters company for a total of 650 men.  Additionally, in an infantry battalion, one rifle platoon will be selected to receive some special forces training in order provide the battalion with a force capable of executing a wider arrange of missions without having to rely on additional special forces missions.  An armor battalion consists of a combined arms mix of three armored companies and two mechanized infantry companies plus the headquarters company.  An artillery battalion consists of a headquarters battery, three eight gun field artillery batteries and an air defense battery, equipped with self propelled AAA and medium range SAMs.  

The brigade is the smallest unit capable of independent self sustained operations, possessing the inherent organic logistics and support units to do so.  Every brigade possesses a reconnaissance squadron, artillery battalion, special troops battalion and a support battalion along with a varying number of maneuver battalions (three for infantry brigades, two for armored).  The special troops battalion provides essential command and combat support capabilities to the brigade as a whole consisting of the brigade headquarters,  an independent armor company, anti-tank company, military intelligence company, engineering company and network support company.  The support battalion provides logistics support for the entire brigade with forward support, medical, maintenance and general aviation services.  Different types of units may have a different support unit composition.

The division is the building block of the Commonwealth military and its primary operational unit of movement and combat.  In addition to its command and administrative duties for its combat brigades, a division is also capable of providing even further levels of support through the services of its combat aviation and support troops brigades.  These provide additional capabilities like long range air defense, rocket/missile artillery, aviation and additional engineering support.  Even more support may be provided by corps or higher level commands.

 Divisional compositions have also been changed for some units.  Most will retain the diamond configuration of four combat brigades plus a minimum of a combat aviation brigade and divisional support brigade with the capability to add other units if needed.  Airborne divisions will lose their light armored brigade and instead add a light armored company.  The light armored brigade will instead be provided at the corps level.  Air assault divisions will also see the addition of a light armor company.
The higher level command structure has been changed as well, with Armies forming the primary geographic command.  The 1st Army will be designated as Central Command (CENTCOM), the 2nd Army will be designated Northern Comand (NORTHCOM), the 3rd Army will be designated Western Command (WESTCOM) and the 4th Army will be designated Southern Command (SOUTHCOM).  Corps and divisions will be able to shift between assigned armies based on changing needs and capabilities.

Accompanying the force restructuring is the expansion of ground forces resulting from both an authorized strength increase and the extra manpower available as units enact force structure changes.   The military has been authorized to increase its total manpower strength to almost 650,000 combat personnel.  After reforms are completed there will only be 448,800 combat troops, allowing for an increase of over 200,000 men.  The creation of new divisions has been approved and will take place immediately.  Units to be activated include two light infantry divisions, three airborne divisions, two air assault divisions, four mechanized infantry divisions, two armored divisions,  and two marine divisions.  Increases in special forces units have also been approved and confirmed as well.  
 

[MostGloriousLeader]

Fortress Jamaica

Negotiations with the local governments and communities in Jamaica has finally been successfully concluded, resulting in agreements that allow the Commonwealth military to establish a permanent presence on the island.  The local civilian population will be provided compensation twice the market value of their existing homes as well as accommodations already paid for elsewhere on the island.  First priority was the establishment of military facilities for garrison forces.  The two primary facilities will be Joint Base Ewarton-Linstead and Joint Base Santa Cruz, both providing accommodations and training facilities for up to a whole brigade as well as supporting two 4000 meter runways and full aviation facilities.  The Moores Pen Naval Base will have the facilities to support up to two dozen naval vessels.  Also approved were several general surveillance radar facilities as well as OTH radar facilities designed to provide full coverage of the Caribbean.    Units to be stationed on the island are one marine brigade, one local national guard infantry battalion, one coastal artillery regiment and one air defense brigade, two fighter squadrons and an airborne command and control squadron as well as a UAV force.  The Commonwealth military has also agreed to a stipulation that no weapons of mass destruction are to be deployed to the island, although nuclear powered naval vessels are allowed.

Edited May 14, 2013 by MostGloriousLeader

[MostGloriousLeader]

Aviation Development Projects

 

V-22C Osprey

The V-22C is a new upgraded version of the venerable Osprey tilt-wing transport to be put into service by the Commonwealth military.  All V-22s currently operated will be upgraded to the C version.  New features include improved engines, new avionics and flight systems,  new integrated FLIR and radar navigation system and the integration of weapons systems.  The weapons capabilities includes the mounting of an M197 20mm minigun  under the chin and the option of carrying a potent mix of weaponry on optional wing stub pylons.  A dedicated gunship version for special forces use has been developed mounting an 25mm gatling gun and 105mm short barrel howitzer in addition to other weaponry.
 

V-23 Black Wasp

The V-23 Black Wasp was designed to be able to act as a capable long range penetrator tilt-rotor transport aircraft for use by both special forces and conventional troops.  It was designed as a stealth aircraft and makes use of a well designed airframe and the use of composite and radar absorbent materials.  With a troop capacity of 16 and 750 nmi combat radius, it is an excellent long range assault transport. The Black Wasp is also a very highly maneuverable aircraft, enhancing its survivability.  Integrated weapons systems include an M197 20mm minigun in a retractable stealth mount, door guns, as well as mounting weapons on an optional wing pylon.

 

A-10D

The A-10D is a comprehensive upgrade to the Commonwealth’s A-10 fleet as it remains a highly effective close air support aircraft, even on the modern battlefield.    Upgrades include new engines, the addition of strong lightweight composites to reinforce the aircraft and make it more damage resistant, replacement of the canopy with new bulletproof transparent aluminum armor, and a new integrated AESA radar and targeting system with SAR capabilities providing the pilot with an clear and expanded view of the battlefield. 
 

C-18 Shadow Lifter

The C-18 Shadow Lifter is the Commonwealth military's first tactical stealth transport aircraft.  It is designed to allow for the clandestine deployment of special forces and airborne units when subtlety is important.  Very capable in its own right, it has a greater cargo and troop capacity than the C-130 Hercules, capable of carrying over 120 fully equipped paratroopers or 60,000 lbs of cargo.  Designed to operate in field conditions, it is also capable of STOL operations from an semi-prepared runway.  Over 200 aircraft are currently on order for planned production.

C-19 Globelifter

The C-19 Globelifter has been designed in response to growing gaps in the Commonwealth military's long range heavy deployment capabilities.  The massive aircraft is capable of lifting an obscene amount of cargo, including three main battle tanks, allowing Commonwealth forces to expand its airlift capabilities considerably.  The Globelifter is not intended to replace the C-5 Galaxy, which are currently undergoing refits and a service life extension program.  Up to 40 Globelifters will be manufactured and placed in service with the Strategic Air Transport Command.
 

MQ-47 Pegasus

The X-47D Pegasus is the Commonwealth navy’s first operational unmanned combat aerial vehicle, intended to fill a wide variety of roles and missions ranging from reconnaissance to electronic warfare and naval strike.  The D variant is an improvement on the original design with better stealth features, improved engines and a greater payload and range.  It also has an integrated sensor suite with combining electro-optical, FLIR, AESA radar, LADAR and SAR systems.  It is also able to carry an wide range of electronic warfare and ELINT equipment. 


F-24 Tigercat

The F-24 Tigercat is the Commonwealth navy's newest air superiority fighter aircraft, designed to replace the aging Super Tomat 21s currently in service.  Built upon technologies honed with the F-22 and its upgrades, the F-24 provides the navy with an highly capable successor to the vaunted F-14 Tomcat.  The Tigercat was designed as a very stealthy aircraft, incorporating radar defeating design features and RAM.  Its powerful engines incorporate the latest IR reduction technologies while providing enhanced maneuvering through via 3-D thrust vectoring.  Its internal weapons bay is larger than that of the F-22, the Tigercat is capable of holding up to 8 long/medium range air to air missiles, like the AIM-120 AMRAAM.  It is also capable of equipping a variety of ground attack munitions internally as well or on external pylons to increase its total payload capacity at the cost of losing stealth.  It also incorporates the AN/APG-90 AESA radar, capable of providing electronic warfare capabilities in addition to its advanced radar performance.  

[MostGloriousLeader]

TRADOCCOM

As part of the 'Grow the Army Plan' that came as part of the Force XXI restructurings, a manpower increase of 50,000 combat troops has been completed.  The manpower increase has resulted in the activation of two mechanized infantry and one armored cavalry divisions as well as a slight increase in special forces numbers.  The airforce will also be expanded with the addition of 240 combat aircraft as well as a manpower increase of 30,000 personnel.

[MostGloriousLeader]

WEAPONS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

 

Heavy Assault Landing Craft Air Cushion

General characteristics
Type: Air Cushion Assault Craft
Displacement: 400 tons
Length: 64 m
Beam: 26 m
Draft: 1.6 m
Propulsion: 5 x Honeywell/Hershey SGT-1535 Gas Turbines (2500 hp each)
Speed: 60 knots sustained, 70 top speed
Range: 500km
Crew: 32 (4 officers, 28 enlisted)
Sensors: Surface/Air search AESA Radar
Armament:  1 x 57mm cannon, 2 x Skyguard SHORAD systems, 2 x 120mm automatic mortar systems, 2 x retractable ADATS launchers, 4 x M2 HMG,  2 x RWS mounting GAU-13 30mm gatling guns.

The Heavy Assault Landing Craft Air Cushion (HALCAC) was developed and manufactured as a means to expand the Commonwealth Navy’s amphibious assault capabilities by providing a large capacity landing craft with excellent defense capabilities.  It has over three times the capacity of the normal LCAC, able to carry 3 main battle tanks, over 500 troops, 180 tons of cargo or any combination of the above.  The HALCAC also boasts an impressive array of weaponry to assist in forced entry operations with SHORAD and ADATS missiles, autocannons, mortars, rockets and machine guns all being able to be mounted and installed quickly on modular weapons mounts.  Lightweight high strength steel alloy armor renders the bridge and other critical areas impervious to small arms and machine gun fire.  The HALCAC is also capable of providing NBC protection to its crew and cargo.  While too big to fit on forward deployed amphibious assault ships, up to three can be carried on an amphibious cargo support vessel and it can make use of the literage system to board troops and equipment for an amphibious assault.  A total of 36 craft will be put into service in three 12 boat squadrons, one of which will be based at the Erie Naval Station, another at Norfolk and the last at the New York Naval Base.
 

AIM-183 Skybow

Specifications:                                                                                

Weight: 500lb                                            

Length: 3.8 m      

Diameter: 8 inches                                                                          

Warhead:  High explosive blast fragmentation                                                     

Detonation Mechanism: proximity/impact                                         

Engine: Throttleable ducted rocket/Ramjet                                         

Wingspan: 19 inches                                             

Range: 200km                                               

Speed:  Mach 6                                                 

Guidance System: active radar with INS midcourse data-link updates,  backup home on jam/anti-radiation capabilities

The AIM-183 Skybow missile is a supplement and intended replacement of the AIM-120 ARMAAM missile.  A high performance long range air to air missile, the Skybow utilizes a new more capable radar seeker with improved performance and the ability to switch over to home on jam mode.  The missile has a increased high angle off bore-site capability, a larger no escape zone, and a hardened two way datalink.  One of the biggest changes is the usage of a ramjet engine with 3-D thrust vectoring in order to achieve very high speeds, enhanced manueverability  and expanding its range.  The Skybow was designed to be able to be mounted in place of the AMRAAM and is therefore of similar size making integration of the missiles with existing systems easy.   An ground launched version to replace the SLAMRAAM has also been developed.
 

M5 AICV

Information
Weight: 14.2 tons
Length: 5.5 m
Width: 2.6 m
Height: 3m
Crew: 2 or 3 (commander, gunner, driver), 11 passengers
Armor: steel, composite
Weapons: Varies (M2 50 caliber HMG, 25mm chaingun, 40mm cannon, etc)
Engine: 500 hp Honeywell AVD500 diesel engine
Power/weight: 35.7 hp/ton  
Suspension: Hydropneumatic 
Operational range: 600 km
Speed: 50 mph

The Advanced Infantry Combat Vehicle is the replacement for the effective and widely used M113 line of armored personnel carriers, improving upon the desirable qualities of the M113.  The AICV is made of high strength lightweight steel, providing all round protection against heavy machine guns and small arms at a lower weight.  The frontal armor is capable of resisting 25mm cannon rounds and add on armor can improve protection levels against much larger weapons.  The M5 also has a high performance 500 hp diesel engine with excellent fuel efficiency.  Tactical and strategic mobility are excellent due to the AICV's low weight.  It is capable of limited amphibious operations without specialized equipment and is able to para-dropped with its crew still inside.  Weapons can vary as the AICV is intended to be used in a wide variety of roles but the most common are the APC and ICV versions.  The APC version is fairly simple with a remote weapons station operated by the commander placed on top of the vehicle capable of mounting a variety of weapons ranging from heavy machine guns to light cannons and automatic grenade launchers.  The ICV version comes with a two man turret using an auto-cannon and mounting a two tube FOTT system.  Both are able to carry up to 11 fully armed and equipped infantrymen to the battlefield.  Other variants of the AICV include mortar and ATGM carriers, ambulances, etc., and several thousand are on order and to be built to replace existing M113s.
 

M83 SLADAR

The M83 Shoulder Launched Active-Homing Disposable Anti-tank Rocket (SLADAR) is a new lightweight portable anti-tank weapon designed to enhance the lethality of infantry on the battlefield.  At 110mm it is a larger man-portable anti-tank weapon but is still unable to directly penetrate the armor of a main battle tank.  Instead the rocket uses infra-red guidance to perform a top-down attack profile hitting the weaker top armor of the tank.  Designed to be light, cheap and effective, the SLADAR excels in all three categories, being only slightly larger and heavier than the AT-4 despite being much more capable as well as much cheaper than the Javelin ATGM.  It is also capable of operating in a direct attack mode if needed.  The seeker and rocket allows for an effective range of up to 1 km and basic capabilities against low flying helicopters.  The optical/IR sight is reusable between any rockets as well as being able to be used as an independent observation device.
 

Edited May 22, 2013 by MostGloriousLeader

[TheShammySocialist]

[b]Encrypted Communications/Classified[/b]

 

Part and parcel with the South African-American Commonwealth cooperative security arrangement, with both countries already jointly operating satellite and ballistic missile tracking stations, the Union of South Africa would offer the Commonwealth a chance to engage in a Military Exchange Program. This would see a brigade-sized formation of the other nation's choice to spend upwards of three months in the other nation, training and engaging in cooperative exercises, which was also intended to introduce differing climates to the visiting units. A training schedule for the Commonwealth troops that could visit, would include maneuvers and training in the Kalahari Desert, as well as the jungles of northern Angola.

 

The South African Armed Services proposed that the first unit that it would dispatch to the American Commonwealth, would be the 1st South African Infantry Divisions' Second Brigade, comprising three regiments plus support personnel and equipment. This would coincide with a goodwill visit from the Botswana Carrier Battlegroup, which would not only make a call in Norfolk, but escort auxiliary vessels bearing the units' heavy equipment. The unit itself would arrive by charter airliners and military airlifters.

[MostGloriousLeader]

Encrypted Communications/Classified

 

Part and parcel with the South African-American Commonwealth cooperative security arrangement, with both countries already jointly operating satellite and ballistic missile tracking stations, the Union of South Africa would offer the Commonwealth a chance to engage in a Military Exchange Program. This would see a brigade-sized formation of the other nation's choice to spend upwards of three months in the other nation, training and engaging in cooperative exercises, which was also intended to introduce differing climates to the visiting units. A training schedule for the Commonwealth troops that could visit, would include maneuvers and training in the Kalahari Desert, as well as the jungles of northern Angola.

 

The South African Armed Services proposed that the first unit that it would dispatch to the American Commonwealth, would be the 1st South African Infantry Divisions' Second Brigade, comprising three regiments plus support personnel and equipment. This would coincide with a goodwill visit from the Botswana Carrier Battlegroup, which would not only make a call in Norfolk, but escort auxiliary vessels bearing the units' heavy equipment. The unit itself would arrive by charter airliners and military airlifters.

South African troops visiting the Commonwealth for joint training exercises would be led through a series of exercises with Commonwealth Army forces.  Due to the season, exercises focused on conducting operations in temperate climates with mountain warfare training in the Appalachians.  Plans were made for the near future to engage in cold weather mountaineering training in Vermont when winter came.  The South African Carrier Battlegroup would be welcomed to Norfolk and invited to conduct joint maneuvers in the Western Atlantic with the George Washington Carrier Battlegroup.  The Commonwealth military would reciprocate by deploying the 904th Infantry Brigade of the 60th Infantry Division (Light) to South Africa to take part in joint training missions there. 

[TheShammySocialist]

The Botswana Battlegroup would heartily accept the offer made by the Commonwealth's Navy to conduct joint training exercises in the Western Atlantic, with the South Africans suggesting joint air defense exercises against air attacks. With one diesel ultraquiet submarine, one of the South Africans' vaunted "high value killers", having accompanied the Botswana north, the Commodore in charge of the battlegroup would also suggest ASW exercises to test their effectiveness against the silent service. Standard maneuvering formations would also be practiced with the Commonwealth, with escort surface vessels performing ASW trailing, leading, and screening the carriers, as well as high speed maneuvering.

 

The 904th Infantry Brigade would find itself heartily welcomed in South Africa, where it would be assigned to Camp Dervish in the Kalahari Desert, alongside elements of the 1st South African Armored Division. The 904th would be given two weeks' worth of acclimatization time with desert equipment as well as training that would help ready them for maneuvers and exercises alongside the 1st. The training schedule would be rigorous, and include aggressive foot and vehicle patrolling against simulated insurgent forces who would be played by elements of the hardened Selous Scouts, a Tier 2 light infantry SOF, utilizing ambush and random bomb attacks. Other exercises would include screening the 1st Armored's flank against another armored force, desert helicopter air assaults against dug-in infantry forces, establishing static defensive boxes, as well as working with South African Army and Air Force air-to-ground controllers to expose them to the SAAF's tactical air support networks and running such operations.

[MostGloriousLeader]

WEAPONS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

 

AGM-122C Sidearm

The AGM-122C is a newly designed version of the Sidearm anti-radiation missile based on the AIM-9X Sidewinder air to air missile intended to provide a lightweight and cheaper alternative to the AGM-88 HARM against lower level shorter ranged threats like SPAAGs and short range SAMs for helicopters and fighter aircraft.  The infrared seeker has been replaced with a passive radar seeker capable of homing in on active radars and jamming.  The C version is much more capable than its predecessors with a range of 30km, a new improved seeker, better maneuverability and new ECCM capabilities.  The Sidearm is capable of being used by a wide range of fixed and rotary wing aircraft such as the AH-64 Apache, F-15SE, F-35, etc. 

 

AGM-88F HARM

The F variant is the newest model of the HARM possessing a wide range of new features and improvements.  One of the first is the use of a new more advanced and reliable seeker with better ECCM capabilities.  It also includes a millimeter wave radar system to complement the radiation seeker for if the targeted radar shuts down to try avoid being hit.  The most noticeable improvement is the addition of a ramjet engine system, similar to that of the Skybow missile, allowing for speeds of up to Mach 6 while extending the missiles range to 140km. 

 

 

[MostGloriousLeader]

Naval Air Warfare & Doctrine Command

New equipment and doctrinal requirements have led to an overhaul and reorganization of the layout of existing carrier air groups.  From now on a single carrier air group will operate:

 

3 x Fighter squadrons (36)

2 x Strike fighter squadrons (24)

2 x Naval UAV squadrons (24)

1 x Airborne Control squadron (6)

1 x Electronic Warfare Support squadron (12)

1 x Anti-submarine squadron (12)

1 x Helicopter squadron (12)

1 x Carrier Cargo Support detachment (4)

 

 

[MostGloriousLeader]

Naval Expansion & Development Program

Shipbuilding:
The most recent phase of the Naval Expansion Program has probably seen the largest increase in naval vessels so far seen in the Commonwealth Navy's history with over 70 combat vessels being commissioned, including replacements for the Bronson class aircraft carriers.

 

Enterprise class Aircraft Carriers

• ACNS Enterprise
• ACNS Intrepid
• ACNS Saratoga
• ACNS Yorktown
• ACNS Independence

New York class Battleships

• ACNS Pennsylvania
• ACNS Tennessee
• ACNS Ohio

Chesapeake class Amphibious Assault Ships

• ACNS Parris Island
• ACNS Bonhomme Richard

John Paul Jones class Destroyers

• ACNS Spruance
• ACNS Forrest Sherman
• ACNS Stockdale
• ACNS Kidd
• ACNS Farragut
• ACNS Cole
• ACNS Ingersoll
• ACNS Callaghan
• ACNS Russle
• ACNS Laboon
• ACNS Curtis Wilbur
• ACNS Stout
• ACNS Conway
• ACNS Eaton
• ACNS McNair
• ACNS Scott

Stark class Frigates

• ACNS Ethan Allen
• ACNS Greene
• ACNS John Hancock
• ACNS Francis Marion
• ACNS Daniel Boone
• ACNS George R. Clark
• ACNS James White
• ACNS John Armstrong
• ACNS John Rodgers
• ACNS Isaac Hull
• ACNS William Shafter
• ACNS Robert Anderson
• ACNS John Worden
• ACNS Andrew Foote
• ACNS Robert Shaw
• ACNS Charles Stewart
• ACNS James Lawrence
• ACNS William Lewis
• ACNS Downes

Mako class Submarines

• ACNS Bull
• ACNS Great White
• ACNS Walleye
• ACNS Perch
• ACNS Lionfish
• ACNS Barb
• ACNS Growler
• ACNS Blue Gill
• ACNS Marlin
• ACNS Sawfish
• ACNS Albacore
• ACNS Fugu

Devastator class Ballistic Missile Submarines

• ACNS Annihilator
• ACNS Obliterator

Franklin class Corvettes

• ACNS Lorain
• ACNS Ashland
• ACNS Marion
• ACNS Putnam
• ACNS Polk
• ACNS Palm Beach
• ACNS Anderson
• ACNS Hampton
• ACNS Sandusky
• ACNS Sumter
• ACNS Beaufort
• ACNS Cherokee
• ACNS Clay
• ACNS Gates
• ACNS Gaston
• ACNS Summit

Naval Devlopment Projects:

 

Enterprise class Aircraft Carrier

The Enterprise class is the newest aircraft carrier design operated by the Commonwealth navy.  While the Bronson class carriers were still within their planned service lives it was determined that they were too small and lacked the aircraft capacity necessary for projected carrier operations.  All five Bronson class carriers will be mothballed and maintained in reserve status for possible future usage.  The Enterprise class carrier is noticeably bigger with a length of over 360 meters and displacing 120,000 tons with an aircraft carrying capacity of over 120 aircraft.  The new class also brings with it many new innovations including electromagnetic launch/recovery systems, improved more efficient and compact nuclear reactors, higher degree of automation reducing crew size, optimized plane refuel/refit systems, advanced radar/sensor suites and improved defensive armament. 

 

SM-3 Block V
Block V upgrades to the SM-3 shipborne ABM missile drastically increasing numerous areas of performance.  Accuracy has been improved with an upgraded IR seeker and upgraded missile software systems as well as improvements to the lightweight exo-atmospheric projectile design.  Improved multi-stage thruster designs have lead to an increase in speed up to over Mach 8 as well as a range of 600km and a effective ceiling of over 300 km providing a larger area defense capability against terminal phase ballistic missiles. 

 

SM-8 Standard SAM

The SM-8 Standard Missile was designed to provide a long range, high performance surface to air missile for naval vessels against current advanced and future aerial threats, including hypersonic sea skimming missiles anti-ship missiles.  The new design allows for a maximum range of over 400 km against a wide range of targets.  It retains its active and semi-active homing capabilities and is provided with backup IR and radiation seekers as well as possessing enhanced ECCM systems.  It has a top speed of Mach 6 in order to engage hostile threats quickly. 

 

Sea Shield Block II

Upgrades to the Sea Shield close in weapons system will be applied to all systems currently in use by the Commonwealth Navy.  The gun/missile based defense system is provided with a new radar system as well as being upgraded with laser based directed energy weapons as well as a powerful microwave emitter capable of frying delicate electronics in missile guidance seekers.  The system will retain its normal gun and missile armament.

 

AN/SPY-4

The AN/SPY-4 radar is a massive improvement over the AN/SPY-3 providing a much larger detection and target tracking range of 500km.  Actually made up of two different systems, it is a multi-function, multi-band AESA radar system capable of air and surface search and tracking in heavy ECM conditions as well as electronic warfare.  The primary system is the main part of the overall radar system, this part of the AN/SPY-4 is capable of tracking several hundred targets and providing target illumination for over 64 missiles at a time.  It is highly capable against a wide variety of threats ranging from sea skimming anti-ship missiles to ballistic missile defense.  The ultra long range system is actually a separate AESA radar designed to operate at high power for extended periods of time to extend its range and can track over 1000 targets at over 600km and works in conjunction with the primary system.  Every naval combat vessel in the Commonwealth Navy from corvettes to aircraft carriers are or will be equipped with a version of the AN/SPY-4.

 

Aegis II

The Aegis Combat System in use by the Commonwealth Navy has been drastically upgraded to increase its effectiveness on the modern naval battlefield.  Massive hardware upgrades have dramatically improved processor power and performance and the move to an open architecture computing networks will allow the system to be easily upgraded and maintain its edge and performance.  Dubbed the 'Super Aegis' the system allows for the completely automated and efficient response to threats against naval vessels, coordinating weapons and sensor systems of entire task forces to prioritize and neutralize them.  All Commonwealth naval combat vessels are equipped as such and will be brought up to standards.

[MostGloriousLeader]

FLEET EX 20XX

While crews had received adequate amounts of training on their new ships it was decided to hold a fleet exercise involving almost all of the over 160 combat vessels now comprising the Commonwealth Navy for several days of war-games in the North Atlantic to further familiarize and train crews.  Invitations would be extended to the Faraway and South African navies to participate.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

A reply would be sent to the Commonwealth, containing the thanks of the Realm and a list on the ships Faraway would send. The RFN had mostly concluded that it was best to send the High Seas Fleet, comprising 28 ships, under the command of Admiral Emily C. Alexander.

[TheShammySocialist]

The South African Defense Ministry, through an encrypted cable that would be routed to the American Commonwealth via the South African embassy in Washington, would accept the invitation for its battle group that was on extended stay at Norfolk to join the Commonwealth's exercises. Centered around the carrier Botswana, the battle group contained a total of twenty-one support vessels (including three submarines), the South African Navy would also direct an additional two nuclear attack submarines from a patrol in the Central Atlantic to join the battlegroup.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Classified Diplomatic Cable

To: American Commonwealth, Department of Defense

From: Faraway Ministry of War

 

Greetings,

 

Due to the acquisition of Halifax as a new base capable of handling our High Seas Fleet, the Royal Faraway Navy has decided to remove its presence from Norfolk and to have all RFN ships have their homeport within the Realm. We hope you understand this move and we thank the Commonwealth for its hospitality. The fleet shall set sail within the next few days, with only the HMS Sleepy Hollow remaining behind until such a time her repairs are finished.

 

With regards,

Adéle Valmy

[MostGloriousLeader]

Naval Expansion & Development Program

 

Naval Development Projects:

 

MFAPC

The Multipurpose Fast Attack Patrol Craft is a new fast attack craft design intended to replace those currently in service with the Commonwealth Navy and Coast Guard.  The base design is an extremely stealthy vessel capable of virtually eliminating any radar, infrared, magnetic, acoustic or electromagnetic signatures when required due to its construction and additional features, such as being able to vent exhaust underwater or using a spray system to cool the entire vessel.  Its powerful engines allow it to achieve speeds of nearly 40 knots.  It is also a very versatile and modular design.  The base configuration has a 76mm gun, a SeaRAM CIWS and an 8 cell ESSM VLS.  Additional missile armament can vary between six subsonic/supersonic anti-ship missiles or the use of NLOS-LS missiles with an capacity of over 15 missiles for usage in littoral environments.  Its rear ramp can be configured for a variety of purposes ranging from depth charge launcher, mine laying or special operations support.  Beyond the armament, what makes the MFAPC a much more effective design than its predecessors is its integrated sensor and surveillance systems using advanced radar, sonar, EOTS and networked communications to provide it as well as other ships with an excellent picture of the battlefield.  Production has begun on 36 craft to be organized into six six boat squadrons, replacing older fast attack craft in service on a one for one basis in operational units.

 

LST-1 class Tank Landing Ship

The LST-1 class tank landing ship was designed in order to provide the Commonwealth marine forces with additional direct amphibious capabilities.  Based on the Newport class tank landing ship, the LST-1 class is larger and improves upon the original design.  It retains its unique bow ramp rather than having the entire front of the ship open as most LSTs, although it is still capable of beaching itself to conduct landing operations.  This design allows for a sleek bow design which, combined with its powerplant of two powerful gas turbine engines, allows for speeds in excess of 30 knots making it very suitable to accompany amphibious groups.  The ship has space and berthing for an entire battalion of marines.  It also maintains a stern ramp allowing for increased offloading capacity or even allowing amphibious vehicles to embark/disembark directly from the ship or the water as well as transferring equipment and troops to and from landing craft..  The LST-1 class also has improved armament and protection with armor reinforcing vital areas and crew and berthing compartments.  It armament consists of four 76mm guns, four modular remote weapons stations and two Phalanx close in weapons systems allowing it to provide fire support for landing operations as well as improving its self defense capabilities.  Orders have been made for 20 such ships with an option for 10 additional vessels.

 

JHSV

The Joint High Speed Vessel line of fast transports was created as a means of achieving the requirement of a high speed medium cargo/transport vessel in order to supplement the Commonwealth Navy's sea-lift capabilities.  Capable of achieving speeds of 50 knots due to its gas turbine engine powerplant and sleek catamaran design, it is the fastest such sized vessel in service with the Commonwealth military.  It is capable of transporting up to two fully equipped combat companies or serve as a troop transport for up to a whole battalions worth of troops.  Unloading is done via the stern ramp which can be done without the use of extended or developed port facilities.  The design was also meant to be stealthy, reducing its RCS to that of a much smaller fishing boat.  While initially intended to be unarmed it was decided that there should be some self defense capability for the design, with one Phalanx CIWS and four modular remote weapons mounts being installed.

 

 

[MostGloriousLeader]

PACFORCOM

The American Commonwealth military has activated the Pacific Forces Command as an operational unified combat command and establishing its first permanent command in the Pacific.  Headquartered on Guadalupe Island, it is responsible for the operations of all branches of the military in the Pacific area of operations.  Accordingly, additional forces would be provided for the new command including doubling its air contingent to four fighter squadrons, the addition of a marine division and the permanent basing of an amphibious ready group on the island.

[MostGloriousLeader]

American Commonwealth military forces deployed to South Africa would be ordered to begin withdrawal as the nation of Merina capitulated.  The only forces to remain were the 904th Infantry Brigade, which was to continue the joint training program with the South Africans, and the presence of the Saratoga carrier battle-group which would continue to operate in the South Atlantic for the time being.

[MostGloriousLeader]

MILITARY PROJECTS

 

AH-64F Apache

The next most comprehensive upgrade for the Commonwealth Army's fleet of Apache attack helicopters, the F model Apache significantly improves upon the previous E model.  New engines and composite rotor blades increase performance across a wide number of areas while new lightweight composite armor plating increases its survivability.  The most noticeable upgrades are to the Apache's avionics and electronics.  Fully digitized for networked warfare, the Apache is capable of seamlessly patching into the battle-net.  Its new AESA radar allows for a wide and accurate view of the battlefield as well as enhanced targetting accuracy.  The FLIR and flight systems have also been upgraded while providing compatibility with a number of new weapons systems including the AIM-9X and   The F model Apache is intended to be the last major upgrade until the new future attack helicopter comes into service.

 

Warrior Enhancement Program

Progress has been made for the next block of the Advanced Individual Warrior System which is intended to further augment the individual infantryman.  First is the decision to switch from the Universal Camouflage Pattern to MultiCam as the standard camouflage pattern design for uniforms.  Another improvement is the development of a lighter ceramic body armor insert that provides protection against high caliber rifle rounds at a much reduced weight improving the mobility of the individual warfighter while retaining excellent protection against battlefield threats.  Also being issued is the micro-climate control vest, providing cooling or heating for soldiers on the battlefield.  The integrated systems helmet will also be issued, providing for the attachment and usage of various optical and communications devices as well as providing the warfighter with a helmet visor display, improved head protection and a combat sensor suite that will provide expanded 360 degree combat situational awareness.  Other technologies being implemented include the advanced individual gunshot locator and mobile jammers for IEDs.  An improved lightweight power-pack system allows for the whole system to operate for 3 days under combat conditions without being replenished.  Power replenishment is also now accomplished with ease with every troop transport vehicle retrofitted to be able to operate re-charging systems that soldiers can plug into while on the move. 

 

New Sidearm

After lengthy and rigorous test trials for several pistols the Commonwealth military has decided to adopt the FN Five Seven handgun as the M57 Pistol.  Utilizing the unique 5.7mm round, the M57 possesses inherent penetration advantages over the 9mm Beretta currently used by the Commonwealth armed forces, even against body armor.  Current stocks of 9mm pistols and ammunition will still be retained for usage along with other pistols used by various other units and their ammunition.

[MostGloriousLeader]

WEAPONS DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS

 

RIM-116C RAM

An improved version of the Rolling Airframe Missile used for point defense on nearly all Commonwealth warships, the C model is the newest and most capable variant to date.  It possesses an new infrared seeker greatly improving its accuracy while improvements to the engine has doubled its speed and range to 20km at Mach 4.  A new version of the SeaRAM has also been developed which utilizes the original full scale launcher rather than the miniaturized 11 cell launcher used by the original SeaRAM.

 

RIM-162F ESSM

The newest improvement to the ESSM line of missiles, the RIM-162F includes a number of upgrades allowing it to remain a highly effective ship point defense weapon.  The new engine and rocket booster allows it to achieve speeds of up to Mach 5 and extends its range to 80km while the addition of thrust vectoring greatly enhances its maneuverability against targets.  Multiple improvements have also been made to its control systems and radar guidance and data-links.  Testing under has shown a consistent ability to engage sea skimming and high diving supersonic maneuvering threats.

 

BGM-181B Typhon

The Typhon is the Commonwealth Navy's primary anti-ship missile, replacing the harpoon on most naval vessels.  Upgrades have been made to further improve the range of the missile to 600km while retaining its supersonic speed of Mach 3.  The warhead and guidance systems have also been improved, increasing the primary warhead size to 800 lbs as well as adding a backup anti-radiation capability to the missile.

 

MGM-179D Sea Lance

The Sea Lance is the primary anti-ship ballistic missile used by the Commonwealth military.  Improvements have been made to its targeting and mid-course data-links to allow for better accuracy and increasing its warhead size.

 

BGM-184 Talos

The BGM-184 Talos is the Commonwealth military's first hypersonic anti-ship missile.  Utilizing a scram-jet engine, the Talos is capable of reaching sustained speeds of Mach 7 for over 400km.  Possessing an 800lb warhead the Talos is capable of destroying or seriously damaging even large naval vessels like carriers.  The Talos' design breaks away from normal naval missile designs that are normally created to fit inside standard Mk41/Mk60 VLS cells used on nearly every Commonwealth naval vessel.  Due to its required capabilities the Talos is too big to fit inside even a Mk60 VLS cell, which is slightly larger than that of the Mk 41.  Instead the Mk 62 Heavy VLS has been developed to accommodate larger missiles like the Talos and is slated to be installed on the next generation of naval vessels currently under development and construction.

 

 

 

 

 

[MostGloriousLeader]

TRADOCCOM

In response to the doubling of the size of the Commonwealth, Congress has raised the military's combat personnel limit to over 780,000 troops corresponding to a 100,000 troop increase in number.  In response the military has enacted several new units including two light infantry divisions, two mechanized infantry division, two armored divisions and a marine division.  Additional support units have also been activated in order to facilitate the proper logistical and support requirements of the troop increase.