Ontario Military High Command

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Just like any other nation, that cared about its continued souvereignity, Ontario had to ensure its own national safety. Altough the agression coming from neighbours was practically nonexistent, one could never know what could not happen. For this reason, the Ontarian Republic created an army for the nation, to secure its existence and its citizens well-being.
 

The Free Ontarian Armed Forces

Consisting out of the three branches of the Free Ontarian army, the Free Ontarian Navy and the Free Ontarian Airforce, the Free Ontarian Armed Forces would rely on a mixed system of a professional core, with a conscripted mass in times of need. Conscription would consist out of all citizens that were deemed able to bear arms, with an option of civil service or service in the Medical Corps for conscientous objectors, aged 18. Once 18, they would undergo 9 months of basic training, before serving for 2 years in a regular role. Once service ended, they would be added to the reserve, that had to undergo an annual 2 weeks of exercise and examination to hone their skills, up to an age of 65, where they would be finally released from all military duties. Thus, the country would be able to field a sizeable army, should ever, God behold, the need arise for a greater armed conflict.

Headquarters in Ottawa.

OOC: Military actions thread,

Closed and Classified, since the subtitles got lost.

 

Edit 22/4/2013: I noticed I can add tags still, so now it got a tag. Nothing changed otherwise.

Edited April 22, 2013 by Evangeline Anovilis

[Evangeline Anovilis]

It had needed quite a while, but after months of work, the Free Ontarian Army was finally to be created. Rifles and carbines, ammunition, artillery, vehicles, mortars, trucks, medical equipment, food, uniforms and everything else in material that was needed to equip a decent army had been ordered and most basic things had now already arrived. Without delay, the first regiments of the regular force would be armed. Mostly, they were supplied by domestic industries, as bids for the lacking capabilities were still not out. Thus, while rifles, uniforms and ground vehicles existed aplenty, most other things did not, requiring a bit more time, till the forces were ready for action.

[u][b]The current force structure of the Free Ontarian Army[/b][/u][list]
[*]Northern Army
[list]
[*]I[sup]st[/sup] Infantry Division
[list]
[*]The Algonquin Regiment
[*]The Irish Regiment of Ontario
[*]The Pembroke Dragoons
[*]The 1[sup]st[/sup] Hussars
[*]The 1[sup]st[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Horse Guards of the Republic
[/list][*]II[sup]nd[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]III[sup]rd [/sup]Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]IV[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]I[sup]st[/sup] Armored Division
[list]
[*]The 48[sup]th[/sup] Highlanders of Ontario
[*]The Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders of Ontario
[*]The North Bay Dragoons
[*]The 2[sup]nd[/sup] Hussars
[*]The 1[sup]st[/sup] Ontarian Field Artillery Regiment
[*]The 2[sup]nd[/sup] Ontarian Field Artillery Regiment
[*]The 2[sup]nd[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Georgian Bay Carbineers
[/list]
[/list][*]Saint Lawrence Army
[list]
[*]V[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[list]
[*]The President's Foot Guards
[*]The Brookville Rifles
[*]The Ontario Regiment, 1[sup]st[/sup] Brigade
[*]The Ontario Regiment, 2[sup]nd[/sup] Brigade
[*]The 3[sup]rd[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Horse Guards of the Republic
[/list][*]VI[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]VII[sup]th [/sup]Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]VIII[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]II[sup]nd[/sup] Armored Division
[list]
[*]The Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry Highlanders
[*]The Cameron Highlanders of Ontario
[*]The Winchester Dragoons
[*]The President's Horse Guards
[*]The 3[sup]rd[/sup] Ontarian Field Artillery Regiment
[*]The 4[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Field Artillery Regiment
[*]The 4[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Free Ottawa Hussars
[/list]
[/list][*]Lake St. Clair Army
[list]
[*]IX[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[list]
[*]The Windsor Regiment
[*]The Lincoln and Welland Regiment
[*]The Lake Erie Dragoons
[*]The 3[sup]rd[/sup] Hussars
[*]The Windsor Horse Guards
[*]The Chatham Light Horse
[/list][*]X[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]XI[sup]th [/sup]Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]XII[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]III[sup]rd[/sup] Armored Division
[list]
[*]The Highland Fusiliers of Ontario
[*]The Essex and Kent Scottish
[*]The Pembroke Dragoons
[*]The 4[sup]th[/sup] Hussars
[*]The 5[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Field Artillery Regiment
[*]The 6[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Field Artillery Regiment
[*]The 5[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Tilbury Mounted Rifles
[/list]
[/list][*]Niagara Army
[list]
[*]XIII[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[list]
[*]The Hamilton Light Infantry
[*]The Lorne Scotts (Peel, Dufferin and Halton Regiment)
[*]The Pembroke Dragoons
[*]The 5[sup]th[/sup] Hussars
[*]The 6[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Fort Erie Cavalry Brigade
[/list][*]XIV[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]XV[sup]th [/sup]Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]XVI[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]IV[sup]th[/sup] Armored Division (Reserve)
[/list][*]Greater Toronto Army
[list]
[*]XVII[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[list]
[*]The Grey and Simcoe Foresters
[*]The Toronto Scottish Regiment
[*]The Pembroke Dragoons
[*]The 6[sup]th[/sup] Hussars
[*]The 7[sup]th[/sup] Ontarian Horse Guards
[*]The Ontarian York Rangers
[/list][*]XVIII[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]XIX[sup]th [/sup]Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]XX[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division (Reserve)
[*]V[sup]th[/sup] Armored Division (Reserve)
[/list][*]First Free Ontarian Reserve Army (Reserve)
[list]
[*]XXI[sup]st[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]XXII[sup]nd[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]XXIII[sup]rd [/sup]Infantry Division
[*]XXIV[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]VI[sup]th[/sup] Armored Division
[/list][*]Second Free Ontarian Reserve Army (Reserve)
[list]
[*]XXV[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]XXVI[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]XXVII[sup]th [/sup]Infantry Division
[*]XXVIII[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]VII[sup]th[/sup] Armored Division
[/list][*]Third Free Ontarian Reserve Army (Reserve)
[list]
[*]XXIX[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]XXX[sup]th[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]XXXI[sup]st [/sup]Infantry Division
[*]XXXII[sup]nd[/sup] Infantry Division
[*]VIII[sup]th[/sup] Armored Division
[/list]
[/list]
Every Infantry division would consist out of two regiments with around 3,000 soldiers, two Dragoon regiments with 750 soldiers, using 50 IFVs and two armored brigades, using 20 light tanks, 10 AA self-propelled anti-air systems and 10 self-propelled howitzers.

Every Armored division would consist out of two regiments with around 2,000 soldiers, four armored brigades and two artillery batteries, using 20 self-propelled howitzers, two heavy artillery systems and 10 self-propelled anti-air systems.

Every regiment would be additionally equipped with 10 towed artillery pieces, 10 self-propelled anti-air systems and 4 helicopters.

Supply and Support would of course also be included.

Edited October 9, 2012 by Evangeline Anovilis

[Evangeline Anovilis]

As the Ontarian doctrine asks for the use of light tanks and the planned force structure takes this into account, within the last months, a new tank has been taken into service. [b]Toronto Heavy Ordonance Industries (TOHOI)[/b] has designed and produced the [b]Medium Universal Vehicle[/b] and [b]Light Universal Vehicle[/b], to be introduced into service. The [b]MUV-LUV series[/b] of vehicles is to provide mobile and adequate firepower for infantry forces, as well as provide anti-air cover and limited anti-missile protection.

[quote][i]MUV-40mm[/i]

Weight: 23.5 tonnes
Length: 6.40 m (w/ gun)/ 6.00 m (w/o gun)
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.70 m
Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver)

Armor: resistent to 40 mm ammunition
Main armament: 4 × 40 mm Guns 500 rounds each
Secondary armament: 1 × 8 mm machine gun 500 rounds
Engine: USB Diesel 550 hp (410 kW)
Suspension: Torsion Bar
Operational range: 600 km
Speed: 80 km/h (road)/65 km/h (off-road)

[i]MUV-76mm[/i]

Weight: 28.5 tonnes
Length: 8.60 m (w/ gun)/ 6.00 m (w/o gun)
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.70 m
Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver)

Armor: resistent to 40 mm ammunition
Main armament: 1 × 76mm 80 rounds
Secondary armament: 1 × 8 mm machine gun 500 rounds
Engine: USB Diesel 550 hp (410 kW)
Suspension: Torsion Bar
Operational range: 600 km
Speed: 75 km/h (road)/60 km/h (off-road)

[i]LUV-40mm[/i]

Weight: 16.5 tonnes
Length: 6.00 m (w/ gun)/ 5.80 m (w/o gun)
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.70 m
Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver)

Armor: resistent to 20 mm ammunition
Main armament: 2 × 40 mm Guns 500 rounds each
Secondary armament: 1 × 8 mm machine gun 500 rounds
Engine: USB 280 hp (210 kW)
Suspension: Torsion Bar
Operational range: 600 km
Speed: 65 km/h (road)/40 km/h (off-road)

[i]LUV-76mm[/i]

Weight: 24.5 tons tonnes
Length: 8.20 m (w/ gun)/ 5.80 m (w/o gun)
Width: 3 m
Height: 2.70 m
Crew: 3 (commander, gunner, driver)

Armor: resistent to 20 mm ammunition
Main armament: 1 × 76 mm 80 rounds
Secondary armament: 1 × 8 mm machine gun 500 rounds
Engine: USB 280 hp (210 kW)
Suspension: Torsion Bar
Operational range: 600 km
Speed: 60 km/h (road)/40 km/h (off-road)

[img]http://i.imgur.com/HEdrx.jpg[/img]

[i]A MUV-40mm. Note the retractable sensorics for finding and tracking targets. [/i]

The MUV-LUV light vehicle series of TOHOI, is conceived to give much needed fire support where heavier vehicles are not available. They are only lightly armored, the MUV class mostly resistent against 40 mm ammunition (larger calibers from some range) and the LUV class against 20 mm ammunition (larger calibers from some range).

The MUV-LUV series comes with two sorts of armament, either a 76 mm rapid firing light tank gun, or, multiple 40 mm guns, based on the Bofors 40 mm gun (2 guns for the LUV, 4 for the MUV). Additionally, they are armed with an 8 mm machine gun to take care of minor annoyances.

In terms of mobility, the MUV is able to be loaded on srategic airlifers and can be deployed rather fast by aircraft like the A400M. It is equipped with a modern engine, built by USB, allowing a maximum speed of up to 80 km/h on paved roads. The LUV is equipped with less propulsion power, however, their weight allows for them to be dropped onto the battlefield by LAPES. The endurance of 600 km range gives a reasonable space to operate in after the drop.

The MUV-LUV is also equipped with modern systems for target acquisition and tracking, as well as range acquisition. It can run a radar and modern IRST systems, to provide the frontline infantry with some anti-air capability, against attack helicopters and gunships. But also aircraft at normal flight altitudes around 10-12 km can be targetted by the 76 mm light tank gun.

The 76 mm Mk.1 light tank gun is a rifled 70 caliber gun system usable against ground targets (range of normal HE ammunition at 18 km maximum, 8 km effective), as well as air assets (4 km ceiling for normal HE grenade, 12 km with special AA ammunition). The gun is very versatile, the turret being able to rotate full 360° within 6 seconds, with the gun being able to adjust elevation between +85° and -45° (same versatility is present for the 40 mm turret).

To convert a vehicle of the MUV-LUV family between the 76mm and 40mm versions, only the turret has to be replaced, which, thanks to the overall light weight, can be done even near frontlines, within as little time as 6 hours. This makes the MUV-LUV a valuable asset for when firepower is needed, but a full MBT is not available or not fully needed.[/quote]

The MoD, together with TOHOI is currently planning to provide upgrades for the MUV-LUV at regular intervalls, for at least all of the envisioned service life of at least 20 years.

Edited October 21, 2012 by Evangeline Anovilis

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Altough the Free Republic of Ontario had no way to operate full-sized capital ships like battleships or carriers, it still had the need to operate smaller vessels, to secure its part of the Great Lakes, as well as maybe access the open ocean through the Saint-Lawrence Seaway. The naval facilities of the Free Republic soon began with laying down of newly acquired designs for small ships, while looking for appropriate naval yards for larger ships, that Ontario could not build on its own.

[center][img]http://i.imgur.com/e6IAj.png[/img][/center]
[center][i]Free Ontarian Naval Jack[/i][/center]

In order to develop adequate forces for maritime warfare, the Parliament of Ontario had agreed to the creation of the Free Ontarian Navy, with a budget coming from the overall defense one and a planned force of 12 patrol boats and 7 corvettes built in domestic naval yards, as well as 4 divisions of Ontarian Marines, that are to be recruited and trained in both, amphibious landings, as well as amphibious operations in the Great Lakes environment. Plans for additional ships may be drawn up, should additional capacities be acquired.

The plans for both, corvettes as well as patrol boats, are still classified, facilities for docking and maintainance are being constructed at Kingston, Hamilton, Long Point and Chatsworth. With most being minor bases for patrol boats (able to traverse the Trent-severn Waterway), apart from Hamilton base, which is to additionally host larger ships. While the Republic currently has only orders issued for 7 corvettes, a total of 18 medium-sized docks is being constructed for ships up to 230 m long and 30 m broad, as well as numerous smaller places for patrol boats.

While Ontario is still looking for adequate equipment for army and air force, it is clear to many, that the ability to achieve sea control or sea denial is vital for the security of the Free Republic and that said abilities can best be achieved by a combination of naval and land-based assets working in combination. Additionally, the existence of ocean-going ships could help in missions to counter piracy or combat instability, something that while not necessary now, is good to have in reserve in todays volatile and ever-changing world.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

[b]OOC:[/b] Don't want to edit it, because it would compromise legitimacy, but *"a total of 18 medium-sized docks [i]are[/i] being constructed" in the above post.

[b]IC:[/b]

In the drydocks of Seaway Marine and Industrial Limited it would seem to have become even more lively, as the hulls for another 6 ships were laid down. The dimensions however differed far from the ships on which construction had already started. These new vessels were almost double as long and surely much heavier. Whatever was planned to be built here, it surely was not another corvette. But who'd give a damn about what Ontario built in their naval yard in the Great Lakes, given if discovered, it would be still far from blue-water capabilities, green-water at best.

[hr]

The Georgian expedition was maybe strange and a bit unexpected, but surely, such an operation would not go unnoticed. Given it had to pass some of the worlds most used trade routes, also the backwater nation of Ontario had gotten knowledge of strange happenings in the Southern Hemisphere, on the same continent. But while officially, there was still silence about the events that seemed to unfold, the Ministry of Defense ordered the actions to be watched. From far away, the Free Republic would attempt to watch this attempt at neo-imperialism by the psychotic dictatorship that called itself socialist, as well as the expected counter-movements by the Brazileans, with satelites. First bets were made about how long Georgia would be able to assault Brazil, before Brazil would put an end to the farce.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

With a salvo fired by the corvettes cannons and the First Regiment of the Ontario Marines, the first ships of the Free Ontarian Navy were officially commissioned. For now, they were only 7 corvettes and 12 patrol boats, but hopefully, this would increase soon enough, especially, as trouble caused by the tensions that flared up after the recent collapse of Greenland and the possible acquisition of a naval base at the Atlantic Coast meant at least green-water capability had to be achieved. another set of 7 corvettes would be ordered from Seaway Marine and Industrial Ltd., while the Ministry of Defense looked abroad for acquisition of larger ships.

[hr]

Despite the finished hulls, TOHOI had not been responsible for weapon systems and the new ships for now only were armed with guns, lacking missiles, disallowing full usage until the shortcoming was fixed. The Ministry of Defense however, is hard-pressed to find a domestic missile manufacturing business and may rely on foreign solutions.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Alexander Nelson walked slowly, his hand firm on the hanfle of his cane. Surrounded by busy craftsmen and the noise of the factory's machines and tools, he seemed a bit stressed by the toll it took on his ears, adding to the decline of his hearing that resulted already of his old age of 77. "So, you want to tell me, that I should consider buying your products? Or what was it again, it is rather loud here." The blonde woman in her brown business suit adjusted her glasses, before giving a reply, that was more shouted than said. "Mister Nelson, with the government's recent course and the significant delay in the choice of an ordonance rifle, we here at Toronto Heavy Ordonance Industry have become rather concerned." He nodded. "Indeed, I guess one should be concerned about that, but should it not be my concern, rather than yours?" The woman smiled. "Well, the lack of a clear ordonance rifle is a matter that we all should be concerned about. I mean, as someone who wants to see this country prosper... I don't think your army will be able to just make do with the few old assault rifles from Canadian times." "Well, seems like someone did their homework." The old man looked at his opponent, a good amound of distrust in his eyes. "Well, I don't know what a person like you sees in Ontario, but I'd surely like to hear how you want to approach the problem." "Merci." Altough she seemed ever-smiling, it now changed from a simple business smile, to a slightly victorious one. She had gotten his attention. "Well, I propose a temporary solution. I guess the main concern of this country's the lack of rifles to arm all the soldiers that could get called upon in case of emergency. Of course, given the expenses, this means that the decision won't be too easy, even more complicated now that cooperation with Quebec may come into play." Alexander nodded. "Now, this is where I offer you this, Mr Nelson. We here will sell the Ontarian Army half a million combat rifles. Of course, given it is temporary, they will need to be cheap, so we will have to make a compromise there. I'd say, a simple to manufacture design, combined with a reduction. you can then arm your soldiers and can take a bit more time thinking it over. How's that?" The Minister frowned. "But you aren't selling me your junk now, are you?" "No no no, of course not. It's a sturdy battle rifle, only downside is the lack of full automatic fire. But people won World Wars with less." "Just that back then, the enemies had the same slow-firing rifles. But well, how much is the reduction?" "I'd say, I am generous, I half the price." He stumbled back a step. " Won't you have a loss?" She snickered. "Well, I may have that. But there, I'd like another clause. Once a full rifle is decided upon, TOHOI will manufacture it." Alexander thought for a moment. "Fine, let me think about this...What was your name again, Miss?" "Dunois, Charlotte de Dunois."

[hr]

The Carabine de Tigre enters production, to become the new standard issue of the FOA.

[quote name='Evangeline Anovilis' timestamp='1342891295' post='3012991']

[img]http://images.wikia.com/valkyria/images/a/a9/ZM_SG_4%28g%29.png[/img]
[b]AdC Carabine a Tigre[/b]

Weight: 3780 g
Length: 1260 mm
Barrel length: 797 mm
Cartridge: 7x64 mm
Action: Semi-automatic
Muzzle velocity: 880 m/s
Effective range: 400-600 m without optics, 800+ with optics
Feed system: 8 round detachable magazine
[/quote]

[Evangeline Anovilis]

As the world was a rather volatile one and diplomacy was more often than not the big stick, instead of friendly words, one of the first decrees was in regards to the poor state of the Royal Faraway Armed Forces. A number of ambitious projects had been started, mostly aiming at fixing the holes that had plagued the Ontarian military already for a while. However, not only were old problems fixed, new ones were partly created. 90% of the whole military staff was fired for reasons unnamed and such loss could only be partially replaced.

[hr]

The infantry were issued partially new uniforms, with a khaki standard uniform, a white winter coat and dark green uniforms for rangers and guards. Standard headgear are peaked cap and a steel helmet for frontline duty. Additionally to the main service rifle, the AdC CT, a new special rifle, the so called Tigre rifle, Long Pattern (production name: AdC FLT [i]Fusil longue de Tigre[/i]), was designed. With an overall length of 170 cm (not including bayonet), the Tigre rifle is a combat rifle for extreme ranges, effective for ranges between 600 and 1600 metres, though, hits beyond that range have been recorded. It fires a 9.3x64 mm round and has a 5 shot magazine. Like the CT, the Tigre rifle is semi-automatic, though a bolt-action variant is considered. The rifle comes with a bipod, as well as an optical sight. The bayonet of the Tigre rifle is the same as for the carbine variant, a 40 cm long sword bayonet, that is normally not attached, but carried at the side. The Tigre rifle is going to be issued to the army in limited quantities.

Additionally, altough the Tigre rifle has limited anti-material capability, the role of the anti-material rifle falls upon the newly introduced NTW-20 rifle, which will be domestically produced and will be issued at a rate of two such rifles per platoon of 20.

Grenadier companies, while being deployed similarly to normal infantry, shall be issued with V40 grenades in a quantity of 12, with a smaller quantity of additional special purpose grenades.

[hr]

While the rifles were mostly in licended production within Faraway, heavy firepower in the form of artillery had to be procurred abroad. Partially, Toronto Heavy Ordonance Industries was able to produce the artillery themselves, as was the cae with the [url="http://forums.cybernations.net/index.php?showtopic=110022&#entry2945520"]Durandal dual-purpose artillery module[/url], which would be used to fullfill the role of self-propelled hoitzer and anti-air system. Still, this left the army without towed artillery and heavy artillery that had been lined out in the military force structure. And while the Ministry of Defence worked closely with TOHOI on heavy artillery and further development, the towed artillery was something Faraway rather asked for from its neighbour and ally.

[hr]

Delivered through a highly encrypted line.

[quote]
[b]To: The Quebec Ministry of Defence[/b]
[b]From: Alexander Nelson, Minister of Defense of Faraway[/b]

To whomever it concerns,

The Faraway armed forces, as direct successor of the Free ontarian Armed Forces, still are lacking in many regards and though we currently could be brought into a situation that requires us to fulfill alliance obligations, we are currently hardly able to make such committments, not out of lack of willingness, but out of lack of capabilities. Thus, the Lord Protector has tasked the armed forces to be undergoing an upgrade and reform, a process where we would partially prefer to put forward orders to Quebecois industry, as we see this not only as products that meet the requirements of our situation, but also, as this may help in possible interaction, should our military forces need to cooperate, which is not all too unlikely.

Most of all, we would look towards the purchase of towed artillery pieces in the 105 mm range, for light artillery and 155 mm range, for a capable medium artillery to assist our infantry.Of course, the quantities would be about 1200 light artillery guns and 1000 155 mm howitzers, which are considerable numbers, but necessary to not only equip current forces, but also to create a reserve.

Additionally, the Faraway Military is looking to expand its naval forces. Currently, the capabilities are mostly green water ones, as Faraway has multiple corvettes and patrol boats, with soon to be commissioned cruisers, however, we are looking at the production of larger, more capable capital ships, including aircraft carriers. We already ordered a naval design bureau with the designs, but we, naturally, lack the capabilities to build these ships or to get them out of the Great Lakes. We would thus order up to 13 ships from Quebec naval yards, if the capabilities are present, though these ships have dimensions that are not to be underestimated. A length of about 380 meter should be expected.

Last, but not least, Faraway would like to know our ally's opinion on a matter that is quite problematic, the utter lack of combat aircraft for the Royal Faraway Airforce. We have up to now not been able to make a decision whether to re-activate old units, such as the CF-18 and the F-35, which some of the military called antiquitated and underperforming, whether to start a domestic program for developing adequate combat aircraft, or to procur the aiurcraft from other countries. The cost of developing adequate fourth and fifth generation aircraft would be quite large and expertise on production of such aircraft is not one of Faraways strongpoints.

I thank you for your attention,

With regards,

[i]Alexander Nelson[/i]
[b]Minister of Defence of Faraway[/b]
[/quote]

[Evangeline Anovilis]

The Royal Faraway Armed Forces have, after years of intense debate, adopted plans for two new missile families. The decision was made by the Lord Protector in favor of the newest projects of Lennartz Raketentechnik (LRT), a Vicidalo-French missile and engine manufacturing company based in Quebec. Funding has been provided and the final phases of development started to provide a working prototype within the next 6 months, a fully working missile within a year.

[u]LRT Chris [i]the Drunken Fairy[/i] AAMP (Air-air-moyen-portée)[/u]

The basic LRT Chris is a long range, ramjet air-to-air missile, with a range in excess of 100 km, a projected speed of around Mach 4, thrust-vectoring, modern guidance systems and variable seeker heads, exchangeable between active-radar homing, semi-active radar homing and IR homing. Additional specialised versions and derrivates are also planned, among them the LRT Chris SAMP (Sol-air-moyen-portée).

[u]Aria [i]the Annihilation[/i] MM70 (Mer-Mer)[/u]

The LRT Aria is to provide the Faraway navy with a potent anti-ship missile, that can achieve not only supersonic speeds, but also a longer range and greater payload than the Exocet missile currently in service. Not much has been reported by Lennartz yet, though, a first version is to be delivered for demonstration purposes within 6 months.

Additionally, the Royal Faraway Navy commissions a new class of cruisers, the so-called [i]Veronique[/i]-class, together with 7 additional corvettes. The initial concerns on missing missile systems have been resolved temporarily by using Aster and MICA missiles, as replacement until the time LRT can deliver adequate numbers of functional Chris SAMP, and LRT MdCN AN missiles, as replacements for still missing Aria missiles. Faraway has ordered a small stock of both missiles, in order to operate the navy while waiting for the partially more capable missiles.

The RFN is thus numbering now 6 cruisers, 14 corvettes and 12 fast attack craft.

[img]http://i.imgur.com/g00Tl.png[/img]

[img]http://i.imgur.com/OxncR.png[/img]

[img]http://i.imgur.com/qQXKs.png[/img]

[hr]

Toronto Heavy Ordonance Industries (TOHOI) is in talks with the Royal Faraway Army, about possible upgrades to the MUV-LUV vehicles. While the RFA has stated overall satisfaction with the system, TOHOI has received a list of shortcomings that will be adressed in the future.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Due to cuttings in the budget, the Royal Faraway Armed Services are lagging behind in schedule and up to this day, the missiles remained untested. The Royal Chamber had slashed military funding in half, as they saw more need in strengthening the country's industry and social institutions, than in a strong defense. Faraway had not many enemies, if at all, but still, Minister Adele Valmy was displeased to the degree that she wrote a personal letter to the Lord Protector. Thus, at least some funding returned, which was mostly used to pay for changes in the ground forces, the one with the most importance, as Valmy stated. That the Royal Faraway Navy still had only their guns to rely on and that the Royal Faraway Air Force, as well as all other branches outlined by the government only existed on paper (apart from the Military Police), was a disaster, but still, the infantry, backbone of the military, came first, until the day that military funding returned.

 

According to the Faraway Laws on Colour and Estate, the military was mostly comprised of commoners and temporary servants, thus lower estates, prohibited from wearing noble colours. The Military Uniforms of the Army thus are to be featuring colour according to the Law, which restricts the Lower Estates to wear no other colour than Black, White, Grey, Brown and Green. While the old uniform already featured mostly green clothing, the new uniform is designed to be more comfortable and practical, while being, sadly, less refined. Wgile the more extreme members of the Royal Chamber did oppose this move strongly, moderates and liberals greeted the change, as a more than necessary sacrifice for increased numbers of recruits and more combat efficiency. Still, liberal parts of the military are disgruntled by the partition of the army into Regiments and Auxiliary Regiments, the latter being nothing else but the first, deemed acceptable to be used as cannon fodder for the most dangerous missions.

 

The new Uniforms are...

 

...the Infantry Uniform, comprised of a green peaked cap with black band and silver cross, green coat, with green pants and black boots. Underneath a light ballistic vest. Optionally a thermal vest underneath and black gloves for service in cold climate. White sash for auxiliary infantry.

 

...the Winter Uniform, comprised of a light grey peaked cap with white band and silver cross, light grey coat, with white pants and white boots. Underneath a light ballistic vest and a thermal vest. White gloves and an additional white sash for auxiliary infantry. White overcoat and cap are also available for winter camoflage.

 

...the Guard Uniform, comprised of a black peaked cap with red band and golden cross, red coat, with white pants and black boots. Underneath a light ballistic vest. White gloves and optionally a thermal vest for cold climates. No auxiliary in this branch.

 

Guard uniforms are to be red, to show their allegiance and loyalty to the Royal House. While the only way of a commoner to join, is to distinguish themselves to the degree to become a honorary noble, the colour red, normally even for nobles a forbidden colour is justified by the status of these people as the Queens quasi-posession.

 

OOC: For reference, the uniform is something like this.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

The RFN carriers built in Colombia were brought to the mouth of the Saint-Lawrence and anchored there, as they were too large for the Seaway. Until such a time that Faraway got an open port, these ships would be supplied by transport ships coming from Kingston. Of course, given this improvised state and the utter lack of carrier aircraft, the RFN did not commission these ships yet.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

While Operation Maize Field clearly showed the flaws in the equipment of the Royal Faraway Armed Forces, the issues have been voiced already for some time. Thus, at Chatham Military Testing Grounds, it came with little surprise that Toronto Heavy Ordnance Industries brought already two new prototypes to the proving range, the moment their CEO heard of the possible increase of military funding. Most likely, given the nature of Faraway politics, TOHOI knew of this even before most of the Royal Chamber did.

 

The various engineers and officers stood on the muddy field, looking with their binoculars, as in the distance, army soldiers were instructed by technicians in how to use the new equipment. The expectations, as well as the moods of the people present were mixed, ranging from a few sleepy NCOs, who had just been called into service and needed to get accustomed to the new morning drills, to conservative officers, who seemed rather critical of the equipment, considering it not up to the task, to a smiling Charlotte, looking forward to the awe the inventions may inspire to the commander in chief, a young noble general, standing on a crate, as she had trouble getting a glimpse at what was going on otherwise, due to her underwhelming height.

 

"My dear Ladies, what we demonstrate now, are nothing less, than our products, tailored to the needs of the Faraway Army, as lined out by the first reports from Lady Dorothy Alcott on the operations in the South. We are still working on a few things, as the reports arrive and today, this is the first field test, to determine the effectiveness of our equipment. Please watch carefully, as you see the products of Faraway's technological genius and industrious subjects, that we hope may one day serve in her Majesty's arsenals."

 

As Charlotte ended and bowed, the general clapped, though, she mostly seemed to be the only one. Most just readied the binoculars, looking at a moving box of metal in the distance. While it first struggled a bit in the mud, it soon caught a bit better ground and moved on with a good acceleration, reaching a speed of about 50 kilometres per hour, before slowing down and moving its turret.

 

"This, my dear ladies, is our newest project. While the MUV has served Faraway well up to now, Lady Alcott requested a vehicle that could actually be called a tank. As we are but servants of the realm, we have created a new medium tank for the Royal Faraway Army, this prototype. It is better armored than the MUV-76, while weighing little more. It's speed is currently not up to par, but once the producton variant would come out, it will be no less than the current MUV. However, while the MUV carries only a light armament of a 76 mm gun, adopted from our naval artillery, the new Faraway Medium Tank, as we call it, has a proper tank gun, developed as an original project for this tank. The Model 1 105 millimetre tank gun ETC is no longer simply a gun for scrap damage, but can actually disable or destroy most enemy tanks with its firepower. As the name implies, this gun belongs to a new generation of tank guns based on electro-thermal chemical technology, deployed already by most of the more advanced nations around the world and it is an honour, to announce, that this tank is one step closer to Faraway being a competitive military force."

 

As the tank gun finally was set on target and the gunner had taken aim, a loud shot rang throughout the testing range, and only moments later, the projectile hit an armor plate, positioned a few hundred metres away, ripping right through it. The officers nodded a bit more approvingly, the general was completely overjoyed.

 

"We are proud to be able to first-hand demonstrate the new Faraway Medium Tank to you here today. But this, brings us to the second project we had going, which is the Toronto Heavy Ordnance Quick-firing 76 millimetre anti-tank gun. I know, some of you may think that a gun of such small caliber may not be suitable to hurt a modern vehicle, that the caliber may be too small, but let me disprove you, for the 76 millimetre gun is no less advanced than the tank gun from before. Based on modern technology, we were able to pack a far greater punch, into a far smaller caliber. Some may belittle us, thinking the future lies with larger cannons, we however think, it is better to use this cost-effective measure, easier to be produced, easier to be deployed, easier to be handled and easier to be replaced, if lost to enemy attack."

 

 

Faraway Medium Tank prototype.

 

 

Toronto Heavy Ordnance QF 76 mm anti-tank gun

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Not long after the end of the Madison crisis, the Ontario Military High Command received a document, at least 800 pages worth of text. The so-called Albershaw-Alcott Report, named after the two authors, Elberto Albershaw and Dorothy Alcott, the two main commanders after the departure of Hanobel, contained detailed analysis and conclusions of issues that came up in the Madison Crisis and which they thought needed to be adressed. Ranging from the lack of dedicated armor, to the lack of aerial support, to the hardly-trained infantry, it was a harsh criticism on the overall readiness (or rather lack thereof) of Faraway for the event of war. The report also reached the Lord Protector and the Royal Chamber.

 

While the civil authorities were known to obstruct the military in the past, after 86 people dead, it was expected of them to now approve funding of reforms. A rather strong letter would be sent to, to underline the needs of the armed forces.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Pursuant of the decision by the Ontario Military High Command, the Royal Faraway Armed Forces adopted a few new vehicles to help in their quest of protecting the Realm from outside aggression and inside subversion. Dorothy Alcott, as High Inspector of the Royal Faraway Armored Corps had been one of the greatest advocates of the reforms and it was now that she herself would check upon the progress. As she strode past the saluting guards at the entrance of FFB Petawawa, she could already see the liveliness of the various teams of engineers that ran across the place, servicing the first examples of the many additions to the inventory.
 
The air was filled with the clattering of steel tracks, the smell of gasoline and the shouts of single officers that tried to organise their units, especially in front of their superior. But Dorothy would merely salute the various officers, without further interest in the actions of the soldiers, as she searched for someone else. And soon enough she found what she looked for. "Madame de Dunois?"
 
A blonde woman that just had talked with what seemed like an aircraft engineer turned her head and looked at Dorothy. "Yes, that'd be me."
 
"Ah, good. My name is Dorothy alcott, High Inspector of the RFAC..."
 
"Ah, yes. Madame Alcott, an honour to meet you. As you seem to already know, I'm Charlotte de Dunois. This is Madame Juutilainen, who works with us in aircraft development." Juutilainen extented her hand to Dorothy, who firmly shook it. "We were just discussing a few things about the upcoming aircraft demonstration. But I think everything was settled for now. Right?"
 
"Well, for now I think we can leave it at that, though I would like to talk with you afterwards still."
 
Charlotte merely nodded and then turned her attention fully to Dorothy. "Milady, as you sent us a catalogue of requirements, Toronto Heavy Ordnance Industries has worked hard to fulfill them. These vehicles are the answer of Faraway industry to the call of the Faraway armed Forces."
 
Dorothy sighed. "Yeah, yeah. Could you please demonstrate the developments?"
 
"Of course. If you could follow me." Charlotte walked off and the two would pass the arranged rows of verious armored vehicles, partly tracked, partly wheeled."
 
[hr]



Léone  Mk.I  Medium Tank

Length: 6.75 m
Width: 3.25 m
Height: 2.42 m
Weight: 34.5 tons

Armor: 50-80 mm composite
Main Armament: Toronto Heavy Ordnance Model 1 105 mm rifled gun/ETC (35 rounds)
Secondary Armament: co-axial Windsor Arsenal 7 mm general-purpose machinegun
Crew: 4 (commander/radio, driver, loader, gunner)
Engine: UCB 6-cylinder 780 hp
Maximum speed on-road: 75 km/h
Maximum speed off-road: 55 km/h
Operational range: 600 km, 800 km with additional fuel tanks

The Léone MT is the new dedicated medium tank of Faraway, replacing the MUV-76 as backbone of the Royal Faraway Armored Corps. Especially shortcomings in armor and armament that were existent with the MUV-76 were adressed in the development of the Léone.

While the armor of the Léone is still not equal to that of heavier tanks, it is a step up from the thin armor plates of the MUV. With a 50 mm thick composite armor plating for the hull and 80 mm for the turret, as well as a veritable slope, especially from the front, the Léone is able to survive even frontal shots from its smaller counterpart if fired from at least 400 metres away. The armor can be temporarily improved, by attachment of NERA armor plates to it.

The main gun of the Léone is the TOHO Ordnance Model 1 rifled gun, which, due to its high muzzle velocity can achieve energies equalling the more commonly used 120 mm guns. It is however easier to load, due to the lighter ammunition weight and the reduced space needed for handling the 105 mm caliber. The turret can traverse 360°, with maximum elevation of the gun being +20° and minimum being -7°.

The Léone's engine is a 6 cylinder diesel engine, producing 780 hp to allow the tank a good tactical mobility, even across uneven terrain.

[hr]

 

 

Lancer Mk I. Light Tank

 

Length: 8.20 m (5.50 m hull)
Width: 2.50 m
Height: 2.22 m
Weight: 17.8 tons

Armor: 40 mm composite
Main Armament: Toronto Heavy Ordnance  HCHV 76 mm rifled gun/ETC (60 rounds)
Secondary Armament: co-axial Windsor Arsenal 7 mm general-purpose machinegun
Crew: 3 (commander/radio, driver, gunner)
Engine: UCB Diesel 550 hp (410 kW)
Maximum speed on-road: 70 km/h
Maximum speed off-road: 60 km/h
Operational range: 480 km, 600 km with additional fuel tanks

 

Based on the M-551 Sheridan, the Lancer light tank uses an upgraded armor scheme and a new armament. The first tranche comes with the Hershey -produced armor upgrade, while later production runs will utilise the TOHOI advanced light armor scheme, increasing the weight to 17.8 tons, but increasing protection to a degree that this fine light tank can withstand even older RPGs and 40 mm ammunition. In the case of frontal hits, even larger ammunition may ricochet off the plate. Should it ever be necessary, applique NERA plates can be attached to temporarily increase the survivability.

 

The greatest change however is not the armor, but the armament, with the Lancer using the THO High-Cadence-High-Velocity 76 mm ETC rifle, a brand-new development by Toronto Heavy Ordnance. The HCHV 76 mm rifle upon being fired, cycles the round and fires again, repeating this action until the 5 round drum is emptied. Thus, this unconventional fully automatic configuration is able to fire a burst of 76 mm ammunition in a small timeframe, increasing the chances of the highly accurate gun to hit the same spot multiple times, in order to increase chances of penetrating even thicker tank armor. To allow for ease of operation, this fully automatic mode uses caseless ammunition, which is available as APFSDS or as HE-Frag. Second is especially used to battle slow-flying aircraft, which can also be engaged, with a gun elevation of up to +60°. Alternatively, a single-fire modus is available, for conservation of ammunition.

 

The Lancer light tank also uses an upgraded UCB Diesel engine, taken from the MUV project, to allow for greater mobility across. Mobility overall is an advantage of the Lancer, due to its light weight, allowing it to be transported by air for strategic and tactical airlifting, as well as transport by helicopter.

 

[hr]

 

"And this can actually hurt anyone?" Dorothy asked. Charlotte merely smiled. "Of course it can. We are rather sure, the Lancer can penetrate even a main battle tank. Well, maybe not a Juggernaut or those athenian ones, but your average tank."

[Evangeline Anovilis]

The MUV-LUV reclassification

 

As the Faraway Army deems the current classification system for the Medium and Light Universal Vehicles, with the addition of new types of the vehicle that still is the backbone of the RFA, the MUV and LUV shall be assigned the following classifications.

 

Medium Universal Vehicle

 

MUV Mk.I

 

Former MUV-76, considered an assault gun carrier.

 

MUV Mk.II

 

Shall be outfitted with a new turret and a HV 76 mm gun, based on the THO QF 76 mm field gun, to be used in a light tank role.

 

MUV Mk.III

 

SP-AA vehicle, formerly designated as MUV-40.

 

MUV Mk.IV

 

Shall be outfitted with a new turret, fitting the THO Twin-barrel 120mm Mortar system.

 

MUV Mk.V

 

Shall be outfitted with a new turret, fitting the FCW¹-Projector M1 and a 1,500 litre armored tank , to be used as mobile flame thrower.

 

MUV Mk.VI

 

Armored Recovery Vehicle based on the MUV chassis. No turret, only one Windsor arsenal 7 mm machine gun for defense.

 

MUV Mk.VII

 

Artillery tractor derrived from the MUV Mk.VI.

 

Light Universal Vehicle

 

LUV Mk.I

 

Former LUV-76, with 76 mm howitzer, reclassified as assault gun carrier.

 

LUV Mk.II

 

Based on the MUV Mk.II, a lightweight version.

 

LUV Mk.III

 

SP-AA vehicle, former LUV-40.

 

LUV Mk.IV

 

Shall be equipped with a FCW-Projector M1 and a 1,000 litre armored tank, to be used as lightweight mobile flamethrower.

 

LUV Mk.V

 

LUV version of the MUV MkVII Gun tractor.

 

¹Faraway Chemical Works

 

[hr]

 

To ease the logistics in the area of small arms, the Vic-2 LMG will be rechambered to utilise the standard infantry 7x64 mm cartridge, instead of the 8x57 mm cartridge used before. This removes the need for manufacturing of the 8x57 mm cartridge, except for hobby usage of old bolt action rifles, which are outlawed in Faraway. Factories producing the 8x57 mm cartridge will be producing the 7x64 mm cartridge. Existing stocks of around 8 million cartridges will be retained and stored away.

 

[hr]

 

After evaluation of reports by the Faraway Military of the QF 76 mm anti-tank gun's performance in Peru, the design will be adopted in a slightly improved version.

 

Toronto Heavy Ordnance Quick-Firing 76 mm field gun

 

 

Weight: 4,2 tons

Barrel length: 5,32 metres (70 caliber)

Caliber: 76 mm

Carriage: Split-trail, with gunshield

Elevation: -6° to +16.5°

Traverse: 60°

Effective range: ~1800 metres direct fire, ~11.5 km indirect fire

 

The THO QF 76 mm field gun is a light howitzer and anti-tank gun, useful for strategical transportation, due to its light weight and small design. It has moderate anti-armor characteristics, due to the small caliber, retains however a good muzzle energy, due to the high muzzle velocity, achieved by the usage of advanced propellants, in combination with the 70 caliber long barrel, giving the QF 76 mm field gun a good punch concentrated in a small impact area.

 

The gun doubles as normal field gun in indirect fire mode, able to fire at 15 rounds per minute. The RFA uses the 76 mm field gun especially for frontline infantry support, in defense, but partly also for limited advances.

 

The TOH QF 76 mm field gun is able to fire five different kinds of ammunition, which are a standard 76 mm HE shell, a specially designed tungsten carbide APDS round for anti-tank usage, an APHE shell for usage against lightly armored vehicles, a flechette carrying shell with 4,000 submunitions and a cannister shot, for close defense, using small tungsten cubes.

 

The gun normally is towed either by a MLVW, carrying crew and ammunition, or by a MUV-LUV gun carrier. a special horse carriage is also available, but not for normal usage. It is serviced by a crew of 3-4.

 

[hr]

 

While most advances in armor had been based on Faraway research into the area of vehicles, there were a few advances that had diffferent roots. And it was not merely a symbolic thing that it was Charlotte de Dunois leading Toronto Heavy Ordnance Industries, Faraway's leading arms manufacturer. Indeed, like the Durandal, research for certain projects had been ongoing for a far longer time.

 

Mystletainn Assault Artillery

 

 

Weight: 45 tons

Length: 10.50 metres, 5.80 metres hull

Width: 3.25 metres

Height: 3.10 metres

Crew: 3 (Commander, driver, gunner)

 

Armour: composite, resistent up to 40 mm

Main armament: THO 155 mm/55 caliber rifled gun (40 rounds)

Secondary Armament: Windsor Arsenal 14 mm heavy vehicle machine gun (500 rounds)

Engine: UCB 6-cylinder 780 hp

Maximum speed on-road: 65 km/h
Maximum speed off-road: 50 km/h
Operational range: 500 km, 700 km with additional fuel tanks

 

The Mystletainn, one of the derrivates of the Durandal project presents a less expensive and maintainance-heavy alternative to the twin-barreled Durandal. Still, the Mystletainn does not suffer too much and still shows the formidable engineering spirit that went into its predecessor. The Mystletainn was conceived for operations far nearer to the frontline and utilises a formidable protection against small arms and even auto-cannons (as well as NBC protection), though most tanks and artillery will be able to penetrate the armor with little issue. Using composite armor, the Mystletainn thus can face enemy infantry and lighter vehicles head-on, as long as no armor or too sophisticated a MANPAD are present.

 

The main armament of the Mystletainn is the TOH 155mm rifle, an upgraded version of the Durandal barrel, with 55 caliber lengths, instead of 50 and a larger propellant chamber, to increase muzzle velocity. The gun can be lowered or elevated from -6° to +60°, allowing engagement by direct or indirect fire. Indeed, the Mystletainn can take on tasks of a tank destroyer, firing a special APFSDS round,  APHE or HESH ammunition, though it was conceived as a howitzer with a rifled barrel. In this main role, the Mystletainn features less rounds per minute, compared to the Durandal, but has a slightly greater range and accuracy.

 

The Mystletainn also has an optical sensoric pod, utilising high resolution image recognition and infrared technology to find and track concealed enemy assets in direct sight, as well as a laser rangefinder to determine the distance between itself and the target. The data is compiled and evaluated by a targetting computer, assisting the gunner with adjustments and enabling advanced firing capabilities like MLRS.

 

The Mystletainn is designed to fire all ammunition that is already used for the Durandal, including HE, HE-ER, FS-ER, CP, as well as the Durandal AA proximity-fuse fragmentation round. Rate of fire ranges from 6 in 20 seconds (burst) to 5 per minute (continous).

 

In regards to mobility, the Mystletainn uses the same engine as the Léone medium tank, allowing a decent speed of 50 kilometres per hour cross-country, with little issues climbing slopes and being used in more challenging territory, similar to the Léone.

 

[hr]

 

After passing through the ordered ranks of light and medium tanks, as well as towed and self-propelled artillery, Charlotte led Dorothy Alcott to the last project that was to be introduced. Indeed, it was most likely the one thing she looked forward the most. With a broad smile of glee, she strode forward to the last row of vehicles.

 

While in all previous ranks there were about 30 or more vehicles, this last one consisted of merely 12. But when looking at them... most likely the overall mass was the same. Dorothy looked at the monstrosity before her and with a wink by Charlotte, two barrels suddenly started to raise themselves against the sky. "This, Madame Alcott, we named the CAESAR II."

 

CAESAR II Heavy Artillery System

 

 

Weight: 105 tons

Length: 37.20 metres, 27.80 metres hull

Width: 6.75 metres

Height: 7.40 metres

Crew: 6 (Commander, driver, 2 gunners, 2 escort) + supply team

 

Armour: resistent to small arms fire, but otherwise none.

Main armament: 2x THO 280 mm/70 caliber rifled guns (4 rounds)

Secondary Armament: 4x Windsor Arsenal 14 mm heavy vehicle machine gun (500 rounds)

Engine: UCB 8-cylinder 1,500 hp

Maximum speed on-road: 50 km/h
Maximum speed off-road: 30 km/h
Operational range: 300 km, 400 km with additional fuel tanks

 

The CAESAR II (Camion equippe d'une system d'artillerie) is a wheeled heavy artillery system built by Toronto Heavy Ordnance and equipped with two 280 mm guns. Despite the 280 mm caliber being used by Faraway already for ships and railway artillery, it is to be noted that the rifles used for the CAESAR II are specifically developed for this purpose. The CAESAR II presents the epidom of TOHOI artillery development and includes years of extensive research.

 

The CAESAR II is, in contrast to most Faraway artillery, not designed as multiple purpose unit and is very limited in its capabilities. In what it offers though, the CAESAR II was deemed worth introduction by the Faraway Army and this mainly due to its impressive potential to deliver overwhelming punishment over extreme ranges. With the ability to fire an Extented Range ammunition over 90 kilometres, the CAESAR II can excavate fortifications from a safe distance and maim enemy formations like maybe only a battery of Durandals can. The rate of fire consists out of 4 rounds in less than half a minute, however, it afterwards needs to refill its stocks. This normally occurs by withdrawing from the current position, getting resupplied further behind the frontlines and afterwards taking a new position, with a complete recharging of 4 shells taking about a minute of time.

 

To counter the immense recoil of the system, multiple systems are in place, to prevent the vehicle from tearing itself apart from the stress of firing. For starters, the two barrels are only fired alternatingly, not simultanously. Both barrels feature a heavy muzzle break to divert greater amounts of the exiting gasses upwards and towards the sides, which requires the crew to take shelter, unless they want to potentially suffer from the concussion. Both barrels are slightly retractable and are build to slide about two metres rearward against a massive spring, which tries to halt some of the immense energy. Next, the hydraulic system used to elevate the gun barrels receives part of the recoil, as the system gets partly suspended during firing. The remaining recoil is received by the massive vehicle and passed on to the ground.

 

Due to the aforementioned concussive force of firing, the CAESAR II emmits an audible signal 8 seconds before firing, to alert the crew members to seek shelter inside the vehicle. Deployment takes up to 5 minutes, with around 3 minutes to get mobile again after firing.

 

The CAESAR II is planned to fire multiple different types of ammunition, altough up to now only the HE, HE-ER and a thermobaric shell have been introduced. Toronto Heavy Ordnance Industries however assured that work on more ammunition types is underway.

 

[hr]

 

"Holy...", whispered Dorothy. "We need new bridges."

Edited May 27, 2013 by Evangeline Anovilis

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Decree by the Lord Protector

 

Due to the rampant socialism of the CSA, the Faraway Realm closes the border completely. No visas are to be handed to keep the malice out of the lands. Any attempt of crossing the border shall lead to detainment and return to the CSA. An eye shall also be kept on the South, to ensure that the socialists do not attempt to overthrow the Faraway Order. To this end, the Southern Provinces may be lifted to the status of a march. The Lake St. Clair Army, stationed in Springfield shall remain, while the possibility of creating a new local army shall be contemplated to improve border defenses. To this end, the local population needs to be evaluated, to ensure a minimum of loyalty, before any armed forces can be recruited from these lands. Lady Hanobel Hazelwood of the Southern Provinces is tasked to make sure all necessary measures are taken before the land can be elevated to a proper part of the realm.

 

Signed,

 

[hr]

 

Sentry posts along the Ohio river were errected, to keep an eye on any illegal border crossing and reinforced radar stations were erected further within the southern provinces. While one couldn't hope for others to share the realm's distain for such dangerous thought, at least one should try to prevent a spillover of it.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

 

Over the months, on the Isla de Juventud, the Faraway Realm had made already first progress in construction of its facilities. A first runway and a dozen docking spaces had been constructed in the first year, to allow first deployments to the South, even though it would still need a bit before the full extent of the planned facilities would be constructed. But at least the 6 carriers of the RFN were moved to the island, to be finally in secure waters, instead of lingering in the mouth of the Saint-Lawrence. Overall, a first force consisting out of the 6 still uncommissioned carriers, 2 battlecruisers HMS Veronique and HMS Viktoria, as well as 4 corvettes HMS Chatham, HMS Sudbury, HMS Warren and HMS St. Paul was sent to protect the new base, which was christened Royal Faraway Navy Base Fort Kingsmill.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

The Royal Faraway Navy prepares for the commissioning of its six fleet carriers, once the Royal Faraway Naval Aviation Corps (RFNAC) is equipped for first training for carrier operations. The plan for now is to commission all six carriers, but each only equipped with 12 aircraft, instead of the full contingent of 36 fixed-wing fighters. Once the carriers are commissioned, the naval organisation is to be restructured, to reflect the new nature of having de facto 3 ocean-going fleets and 2 coast guard elements. Commissioning is expected within a year, as aircraft are procurred. Reworking of the Naval ensign is also due.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

With the ability to at least maintain capital ships larger than the Seaway-Max Veronique-class, the Royal Faraway Navy was to be reorganised. The scope of operations, once simply being to patrol the Great Lakes and to assist Quebec in any possible defense of their shorelines was extented. From now on, the focus lay on assistance not only of Quebec, but also in the seemingly much more likely case that Faraway had to intervene on behalf of a North American crisis. To this end, the ability to operate fleet carriers made it possible to act more independently and without larger troop movements. Still, the Navy was split: Was there going to be a further extension of the fleet, including additional escorts to allow greater protection, or would the limited scope policy make do with corvettes.

 

 

As times had changed, so did the Naval Jack, the Royal Faraway Navy ensign would replace the Republican one.

 

As the original division into two fleets did not work out, due to political issues with the Southern ochlocrats, the fleet composition would be reorganised, to reflect the tripartite structure.

 

Home Fleet

 

Base: Kingston Naval Base

 

Composition:

 

• 2 Veronique-class Battlecruisers
• 6 Flonya-class Corvettes

 

High Seas Fleet

 

Base: Norfolk Naval Base

 

Composition:

• 4 Biscotti-class Fleet Carriers
• 2 Veronique-class Battlecruisers
• 8 Flonya-class Corvettes

 

Southern Fleet

 

Base: Fort Kingsmill Naval Base

 

Composition:

• 2 Biscotti-class Fleet Carriers
• 2 Veronique-class Battlecruisers
• 7 Flonya-class Corvettes

[Evangeline Anovilis]

As Faraway prepared for greater operations, the complete Army Reserve was called upon to serve the crown. A full strength of 8 armies was to be achieved. With the situation on the continent as it was, it seemed likely for Faraway to see a massive need for troops, as total war seemed near. In Faraway proper, the authorization was given to prepare the nuclear missiles for launch, should the enemy ever threaten the very existence of the Realm, or start a nuclear attack on civilian centers of the Realm. The Saint Lawrence Army, the Northern Army and the Greater Toronto Army, all the armies not already in the South, would be made ready for deployment within hours, to be used in operations.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

As the army was reduced to peace time strength, the War Council requested the military high command immediatly to create a report to assess damage and to evaluate the limited action seen.

 

In the Atlantic, the surviving ships would start pick up sailors from the sinking ships, before turning back to Norfolk for restocking and repairs.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Apart from the three carriers, of which one could be repaired, losses were little. However, this reduced the amount of capital ships to six, with two carriers and four battlecruisers. Given the battlecruisers served more in a escort role though, it was far more correct to say there were 2 capital ships.

 

[hr]

 

However, as the HMS Sleepy Hollow was towed to Norfolk, somewhere in the American Commonwealth, other ships were leaving the naval yards. Already before the war, the Faraway military had seen a need for stronger gunfire support for the naval forces, thus a class of 5 ships had been ordered.

 

 

The Euridice-class was surely, the zenith of CNS naval engineering. After years on the drawing board, the Royal Faraway Navy had finally given funding for the realisation of the largest ships CNS had built, stronger and better than even the Dalian-class. Finally, after years, one of the most glorious ships had its successor. a matter that did not interest the Faraway crown in the slightest though, as the Vicidalian naval design bureau in Quebec was not of their interest beyond the ability to create ship designs.

 

Armed with a plethora of large caliber guns, the ship can assist in any gun battle, between ships, as wel as in support of coastal operations, with the ability to destroy even sophisticated bunkers, due to the massive main battery. The secondary battery of 155 mm guns however can accurately deliver devastating barrages at up to 110 kilometres, as Faraway tests showed. The range of the main battery is still classified, though TOHOI is working on specialised projectiles for long-range fire.

 

To counter threats from the air, the Euridice can employ up to 128 missiles (normally 96 of which are anti-air missiles, but if necessary the full cell can be armed with anti-air missiles), as well as specialised anti-air proximity fuze ammunition for the 155 mm guns of the multi-purpose battery. Missile threats and approaching smaller craft can also be taken under fire by the CIWS systems 40 mm guns.

 

For anti-shp missile warfare or cruise missiles, normally 32 slots are reserved, and though it is Faraway doctrine not to use more than that in a 128 missile double-cell, the full cell could potentially be equipped with them.

 

As can be expected of a battleship, the Euridice has a thick armor belt, with 420 mm of modern ship armor, complemented with armored bulkheads, anti-torpedo bulkheads and an armored triple-deck to ensure the safety of the ship and the structural integrity, even if hit.

 

To assist in reconnaissance, search and rescue, ASW and targetting for the artillery, a small platform for aircraft is existent in the back, able to provide space for helicopters and UAVs. Seaplanes cannot be utilised, due to lack of a crane, plans to equip a crane have been scrapped for the forseeable future, due to the costs being deemed unnecessary.

 

While it still is upon her Majesty to christen the ships, the names are most likely going to be:

 

HMS Euridice (BB-1)

HMS Eucliwood (BB-2)

HMS Seraphim (BB-3)

HMS Sarasvati (BB-4)

HMS Maelstrom (BB-5)

Edited June 6, 2013 by Evangeline Anovilis

[Evangeline Anovilis]

Faraway had lost quite a few ships in the War of Southern Aggression, butas soon as the casualties had been listed and reported, already the first plans were drawn up to restore the naval strength of the Realm and to expand on it, in order to be prepared for the next armed conflict. The failure of faraway to seriously pose a threat to the Confederate Fleet was perceived by many as a sign of extreme weakness and especially the Crown took great interest in the expansion of the Royal Faraway Navy.

 

In order to regain the capabilities lost by the 4 destroyed carriers, 4 new carriers were included in the plans. After the last war had shown the extensive cooperation between Commonwealth Navy and Royal Faraway Navy, and as the Tawny fighter aircraft was not only STOBAR compatible, but also available for CATOBAR configuration, it was decided that a CATOBAR design would most likely be of more use. The details were however still to be worked out, and while 4 new design carriers were to be ordered, the two old Biscotti-class carriers would be retained, as the finances of the Realm were better used to improve other sections of the forces, rather than decommission functional carriers.

 

As the Flonya-class corvette had proven inefficient as an escort for the larger carriers, the RFN would commission a new class of 18 frigates, designed for the purpose of providing adequate support. In this instance, however, no new ships were constructed, instead, the Royal Faraway Navy would take over old Confederate ships, as reparations for the losses of the Faraway Realm. The design named "Global Combat Ship", a truely misleading name, would be renamed to Sudbury-class frigate.

[Evangeline Anovilis]

With the commissioning of the Sudbury-class frigates, quite a bit had changed. No longer it was regarded as the role of corvettes to escort the larger capital ships. Instead, they would be largely replaced by frigates, in order to allow the High Seas Fleet to protect itself better, even with the immense loss of naval aviation capacities.

 

RFN Home Fleet

Base: Kingston, Faraway

 

HMS Veronique (BC 1)

HMS Viktoria (BC 2)

HMS Sudbury (FFH 1)

HMS North Bay (FFH 2)

HMS Grimsby (K 1)

HMS Chatham (K 2)

HMS Exeter (K 3)

HMS Tobermory (K 4)

HMS Midland (K 5)

HMS Apsley (K 6)

HMS Bannockburn (K 7)

HMS Tillsonburg (K 8)

HMS Courtright (K 9)

HMS Emsdale (K 10)

HMS Tory Hill (K 11)

HMS Whitney (K 12)

HMS Beaverton (K 13)

HMS Callander (K 14)

 

RFN High Seas Fleet

Base: Norfolk, American Commonwealth

 

HMS Faraway (CV-1)

HMS Sleepy Hollow (CV-2)

HMS Euridice (BB-1)

HMS Eucliwood (BB-2)

HMS Seraphim (BB-3)

HMS Sarasvati (BB-4)

HMS Maelstrom (BB-5)

HMS Veltier (BC-3)

HMS Valery (BC-4)

HMS Kingston (FFH-3)

HMS Peterborough (FFH-4)

HMS Pembroke (FFH-5)

HMS Windsor (FFH-6)

HMS Warren (FFH-7)

HMS Ypsilanti (FFH-8)

HMS Springfield (FFH-9)

HMS Sterling (FFH-10)

HMS Peoria (FFH-11)

HMS Green Bay (FFH-12)

HMS Eau Claire (FFH-13)

HMS Mackinaw (FFH-14)

HMS Flint (FFH-15)

HMS Davenport (FFH-16)

 

RFN Norfolk Patrol Fleet

Base: Norfolk, American Commonwealth

 

HMS Albion (K 15)

HMS Knox (K 16)

HMS De Witt (K 17)

HMS Greenfield (K 18)

HMS Argonne (K 19)

HMS Willmar (K 20)

HMS Portage (K 21)

[Evangeline Anovilis]

As the Villier army experiment got extented to a full-on army reform, changes in equipment were inevitable. From foot soldiers to aircraft, pretty much everything was reworked to allow the RFA a semi-decent performance against enemy threats at least.

 

Colt Canada C7 Mk.II Assault carbine

 

 

 

As a relative of the M16 rifle, the old Canadian C7 assault rifle was just the ideal rifle to be adapted for use with the Faraway forces. Domestically produceable at an affordable cost and almost 100% compatible with American Commonwealth M16 rifles (at which also Villier troops had been trained), the greatest modification to this easy to handle rifle was the rechambering to a more powerful 6.8 mm cartridge. The adaption of the 6.8 mm CC (Commonwealth Cardridge, as it is designated in Faraway storages), was mostly driven by two factors: The unwillingness of old military personal to accept smaller calibres and the convenient interchangeability of ammunition, as the 6.8 mm cartridge has become quite a widely used caliber. However, there are plans for modifications for a C7 Mk.III gun, utilising a 7 mm intermediate cartridge, though such ideas are still not considered for the near future, due to the problems this would pose on logistics.

 

TOHOI Lancer Mk.II Light Tank

 

 

After the first Lancer Light Tank had proven rather unconventional and still rather unsuitable for use against MBT's, even with its innovative HCHV 76 mm gun, Toronto Heavy Ordnance has started fitting new Lancer light tanks with a new turret, wielding an auto-loading TOH QF 76 mm gun, adapted for tank gun use. The new turret will save on the complex system required for the HCHV and instead provide more armor to avoid the gun from being disabled, an issue that has become quite widespread, after the HCHV underwent training exercises, feeling the brunt of enemy firepower.

 

The new design also reduces the amount of crew needed to two people. While this is no longer considered optimal, it is deemed acceptable.

 

TOHOI Sagittarius Combined Gun-Missile System (CGMS)

 

 

While the HCHV turret was deemed unsuitable versus heavy armor, the gun did feature adequate accuracy and firing rate. Toronto Heavy Ordnance Industries thus has developed the Sagittarius CGMS, featuring a mixed armament of a HCHV 76 mm rifle, a 7 mm coaxial machine gun and up to 8 Starstreak II High-Velocity Multi-Purpose missiles. The CGMS does not posess a radar of its own, but requires a seperate radar vehicle to be employed to provide targetting data for a battery as a whole. Still, the Sagittarius system is deemed an inexpensive means of air defense, especially useful against helicopters and gunships, where their armament is sufficient to rip through the enemy protection.