May the plains run with blood

[Kevin Kingswell]

The government of Gabon had finally finished its term of office and recent elections had came to a surprising result when the more militaristic focused Imperial party won the election with a huge landslide. Reasons for this were speculated that many citizens felt that Gabon's growth was becoming stale and stunted and that expansion was needed and thus this was what the Imperial Party promised if they won. Now that they had won the election they indeed acted to fulfill the people's wishes. 

 

The military was readied and given their marching orders even as a new political system was implemented through out the nation. The nation of Gabon would be lead by a council of lords, all self proclaimed of course, and it was to these lords that the people would look to for guidance and governorship in the times ahead. This council of ten lords immediately had new laws put into effect at improving national security and stability at the cost of personal freedom for the citizens. There were complaints of course but as the crime rate among the land dropped sharply and productivity sky rocketed these complaints quickly died off.

 

Meanwhile the Gabon navy unleashed its new cruisers out into the open waters, these powerful naval weapons of war were fully loaded with cannon and missiles and they knew what their orders curtailed. As the five cruisers sailed out into the Atlantic Ocean they would be under constant guard from the air by Eurofighter planes equipped for air to air combat. In addition a pair of EC-130H electronic warfare planes also maintained station above the small fleet to provide electronic protection.

 

At the dockyards on the western coast of Gabon soldiers and other military vehicles were being loaded onto waiting landing ships for the days ahead. The loading process would be swift but careful to ensure that time was not wasted and that no accidents did occur to any of the people or cargo being loaded. The loading process would take some time to complete but it was estimated that the first wave of landing ships would be completed within three hours at the most.

 

Exactly two hours and forty five minutes later the first wave of landing ships had completed their loading of soldiers and other military equipment and set sail out into the Atlantic to rendezvous with the small Gabon fleet sitting off shore from the nation of Sierra Leone though still far enough out over the horizon to be in international waters and to avoid radar detection for now. The cruisers would sit there under aerial guard for the time it took the first wave of landing ships to meet them. In the meantime the second wave of landing ships would begin their loading focusing on heavier military equipment this time instead of raw soldier numbers.

 

It was at this point that the Gabon air force truly came into action with the launch of all four of the Tornado ECR planes plus one hundred of the Tornado GR4 planes. The GR4 planes would be armed with two Storm Shadow cruise missiles plus side winders for air to air if need be. Whilst the ECR variants were armed with the ALARM anti-radiation missiles of which they carried nine.

 

The one hundred and four planes of this task force would fly out over the Atlantic Ocean and turn to come in from the water, passing over the Gabon naval fleet and landing force and into the Sierra Leone shore line. Before these planes would reach the fleet though the EC-130 electronic warfare planes would begin by boosting their detection equipment on board as to identify any active radiation sources lying on the Sierra Leone coastline. Any detected sources would be pin pointed and marked into the global Gabon military GPS database which would then have the recorded data uploaded to the approaching airborne task force providing them with their first targets. 

 

As the airborne task force met the assembled naval task force the landing ships would make a sharp turn towards the coastline of Sierra Leone screened by the cruisers and a slightly larger force of fast attack craft. Above them the ECR Tornado planes would begin launching their ALARM missiles against any radiation source they were able to target whilst the EC-130 electronic warfare planes would begin to use their electronic suites to jam local Sierra Leone radar and communications along the coast line. 

 

The focus of the first attack was on the city of Freetown with it's vital port facilities. For now the city would not face any form of bombardment except for the anti-radiation missiles from the ECR Tornado aircraft. However, any naval vessels the Sierra Leone military may have in the city would find themselves facing immediate detection as soon as possible and then would come under attack by Storm Shadow cruise missiles depending on size, capabilities and numbers present.

 

Once the first missiles had been launched the Sierra Leone would receive a priority communication from the new Imperial Party in Gabon who broadcast the following message.

"To the government of Sierra Leone. For too long now we have sat and watched you oppress your people and their freedoms. Only too soon has blood been spilled in a vicious civil war that threatened to bring in foreign powers and possibly ignite the plains of Africa in fire. As the newly elected party of Gabon we can not allow this threat to the citizens of Gabon to stand unchallenged".

 

"Even now you are likely to be hearing reports of strikes against some of your military assets. We the council of Gabon call upon yourselves to surrender to us so that we can avoid unnecessary bloodshed. If you do so we can ensure favorable conditions for you and your people. We advise you to carefully consider your options and choose the wisest path". 

 

 

OOC: I realise that some local nations may have assets nearby that could react to my movement of forces. If they so manage to do so then we will work with what people post and parts of this post may be disregarded as need be. I only didn't delete them as it took some time and thought to write this and didn't want to lose the work put into it.

 

[TheShammySocialist]

With the Stormlands Navy on alert, and two carrier battle groups monitoring the situation farther to the south between the Draka and the Cape, shielding the eastern portions of the Catatumbo Commonwealth, the movement of these assets would not be lost. Large movements of aircraft and ships were not easy to mask, and picket AWACs operating from the Dahromo would confirm the movements of military assets through the region. Although little was thought of the ships, it was when large numbers of aircraft moved to support them actively, which raised alarm bells in Stormsend. After various exchanges of encrypted communication bursts with the capital, the Council of Shields would task the Dahromo Battle Group to track eastward toward these movements, the battle group consisting of the carrier Dahromo, a heavy cruiser, four destroyers, four frigates, two light surface combatants, and three submarines, two diesel AIPs and one nuclear attack hunter-killer.

 

To reinforce its position in the Central Atlantic, a combat action group with four destroyers and four more frigates, and six light surface combatants, along with a guided missile submarine and five diesel AIPs, would move at flank speed out of Trinidad City, to reinforce the Dahromo as necessary. The Grockall carrier battle group continued its screening position east of the Catatumbo Commonwealth, and if needed, and would move into position to support the Dahromo, if needed. The Stormlands Air Forces would also dispatch two Thunder Strategic Bombers equipped with surveillance equipment towards the Dahromo, to reconnoiter and assess the large-scale movements. Further, two more squadrons of the bombers, these being readied with combat armaments, would prepare for immediate dispatch from Trinidad City to support anti-surface operations.

 

The target of this movement of aircraft would be revealed minutes after the Dahromo got her "marching" orders, when sensors on board picket aircraft for the Dahromo, as well as long range patrol aircraft in escort began picking up the operations that were beginning in Sierra Leone. The Dahromo began immediate combat air operations to ensure the aerial security of the carrier, and the battlegroup went to immediate battle stations. Within an hour of the attack beginning, a broadcast would be put out on internationally-broadcast television, and a missive was dispatched from the Stormlands' diplomatic staff in Gabon to its government seat.

 

 

 

"The Stormlands Government issues a formal declaration of support for the government of Sierra Leone, a nation that has finally achieved peace after so much suffering. This movement by the government of Gabon is unprecedented and unacceptable, and Gabonese forces will withdraw from its hostilities against Sierra Leone.

If Gabon fails to heed this request, the Stormlands sees fit to use any and all means necessary to ensure that its Gabonese compatriots, who we thought to be peace loving individuals of high caliber and good moral fiber, to cease and desist these unprovoked attacks."

Edited May 5, 2014 by TheShammySocialist

[Markus Wilding]

Even before the Gabon air force breached the territorial waters of Sierra Leone, EWC-09 aircraft had been patrolling out on the coast, on watch for any unidentified aircraft. Once it was realized that the blips flying for Freetown were hostile and the sheer number of the invading forces was revealed, the EWC-09s retreated to a safe distance and continued surveillance. A general call was given once the reports were handed to the SLAF high command - mobilize all planes. Therefore, all 240 of the F-16SL and F-200SL were fueled, loaded, and sent off as quickly as possible, though given the speed of the Gabon invasion the response time was somewhere in the range of 30 minutes. Each F-16SL would be loaded with as many Sidewinder missiles as possible, while each F-200SL was loaded with six R-27 missiles. The order given from high command was clear - destroy every enemy airplane possible. While a complete lack of ground-based anti-air measures meant that, for now, Gabonese airplanes had control of the skies. Also due to a lack of anti-missile measures in Freetown's port, the main military shipping and receiving ports would take heavy damage, rendering them inoperable until repairs could be made.

 

Meanwhile, once it was determined that radar along the coast was being jammed, any facilities affected by the electronic warfare would be shut off. Missiles that could be fired were launched at any confirmed Gabon naval ship, utilizing radar that was on the missile itself and EWC-09 readings. A total of forty Kh-35 and P-800 Onyx missiles would be launched at any Gabonese naval ship, although special preference was placed on the cruisers in the bay. On orders from Freetown High Command, the 1st Armored Cavalry Regiment was transferred to Freetown, along with the Combat Engineering Regiment and two infantry divisions, full with anti-armor and sniper teams ready for deployment.

 

A simple response would be sent:

 

 

Leave Sierra Leone or die.

 

[Uberstein]

Following being informed of the war through the Stormland's international broadcast, the Sudanese government would release this statement:

"Sudan condemns the aggressive actions of Gabon, and offers its support to Sierra Leon. Africa must not continue down this path of violence and chaos."

[Captain Enema]

 

Classified
To: Sierra Leone
From: Jebbidah R. Denard
Regarding: Paying Old Debts

Legion has fallen but the Legion lives. Once my former government struck your nation with a heavy blow. Your nation picked itself back up off its feet, from all appearances you have ended the violence. You've improved the lot of your people and gained a measure of stability for Sierra Leone.

The Legion offers its services to Sierra Leone in the defense of your nation. If so invited, we will send our 1st Legion to fight against the Gabon invaders. 

- Denard

 

[Malatose]

The Intelligence Section, of the War Directorate, placed all information gathering assets on alert, as soon as hostilities began. Within minutes, a detailed report was compiled, with copies being sent to the Supreme General Staff and the Archon's Palace. Castle Tarleton, the headquarters of the War Directorate and the Supreme General Staff, would issue a classified directive to the Armed Forces.

 

From: the War Directorate

CC: The Supreme General Staff

 

Subject: The Current Situation in the North

 

As indicated by official intelligence channels, Gabon and Sierra Leone are in a state of conflict. As a matter of state security, we will be taking a number of precautionary measures.

 

I. Cosmic Intelligence (Satellite Intelligence) will be increased over the area of conflict.

II.  Carrier Strike Group IV and Submarine Group II and II will be dispatched to the Western African Coast.

III. Dispatched forces will assume a defensive posture and will attack only if provoked.

 

Current operations will last until an end to the above mentioned conflict is reached.

 

Service to the State!

 

Signed,

The War Directorate

 

 

Simultaneously, the Foreign Affairs Directorate would issue a quick statement on the current state of affairs.

 

"Instead of spilling the blood of our fellow countrymen,  we urge both nations stop the senseless violence, which has plagued our continent for so long. As such, we ask that a temporary cease fire is implemented and for both parties to attend a peace conference in Pretoria. However, let it be known, the Dominion of Draka is legally obligated to defend Gabon against foreign aggressors. Any aggressive attacks onto our allies will be considered an attack on the Dominion, and we will act accordingly."

 

Edited May 5, 2014 by Malatose

[Kevin Kingswell]

"The Stormlands Government issues a formal declaration of support for the government of Sierra Leone, a nation that has finally achieved peace after so much suffering. This movement by the government of Gabon is unprecedented and unacceptable, and Gabonese forces will withdraw from its hostilities against Sierra Leone.

If Gabon fails to heed this request, the Stormlands sees fit to use any and all means necessary to ensure that its Gabonese compatriots, who we thought to be peace loving individuals of high caliber and good moral fiber, to cease and desist these unprovoked attacks."

 

"The Imperial Gabon military will continue to carry out its mission until such a time as it has been deemed a success or too costly to continue. Imperial Gabon still holds the Stormlands in high regards due to the ongoing work in the homeland and we do not wish to see this broken over actions undertaken by the Stormlands. it is suggested that the Stormlands remain out of this conflict".

 

Even before the Gabon air force breached the territorial waters of Sierra Leone, EWC-09 aircraft had been patrolling out on the coast, on watch for any unidentified aircraft. Once it was realized that the blips flying for Freetown were hostile and the sheer number of the invading forces was revealed, the EWC-09s retreated to a safe distance and continued surveillance. A general call was given once the reports were handed to the SLAF high command - mobilize all planes. Therefore, all 240 of the F-16SL and F-200SL were fueled, loaded, and sent off as quickly as possible, though given the speed of the Gabon invasion the response time was somewhere in the range of 30 minutes. Each F-16SL would be loaded with as many Sidewinder missiles as possible, while each F-200SL was loaded with six R-27 missiles. The order given from high command was clear - destroy every enemy airplane possible. While a complete lack of ground-based anti-air measures meant that, for now, Gabonese airplanes had control of the skies. Also due to a lack of anti-missile measures in Freetown's port, the main military shipping and receiving ports would take heavy damage, rendering them inoperable until repairs could be made.

 

Meanwhile, once it was determined that radar along the coast was being jammed, any facilities affected by the electronic warfare would be shut off. Missiles that could be fired were launched at any confirmed Gabon naval ship, utilizing radar that was on the missile itself and EWC-09 readings. A total of forty Kh-35 and P-800 Onyx missiles would be launched at any Gabonese naval ship, although special preference was placed on the cruisers in the bay. On orders from Freetown High Command, the 1st Armored Cavalry Regiment was transferred to Freetown, along with the Combat Engineering Regiment and two infantry divisions, full with anti-armor and sniper teams ready for deployment.

 

A simple response would be sent:

 

 

 

The ECR variant Tornado aircraft would break off once they had fired their payloads at their targets of opportunity, with the Sierra Leone local radar network either destroyed, rendered inoperable or deactivated their mission was complete and it would be foolish to remain in the fight. The regular GR4 variant Tornado planes would fire their Storm Shadow cruise missiles against the now revealed coastal defense locations. Each aircraft would target a coastal defense position that was within their range with both of their cruise missiles to help counter any anti-missile defenses and to increase the chances of getting a confirmed kill of the defense position.

 

When the incoming Kh-35 and P-800 Onyx missiles were detected on radar anti-missile counter measures were enacted by the naval task force. The lighter units of the screening force came together to maximize the small amount of anti-air firepower they had whilst the larger cruisers began evasive maneuvers and engaging with their own anti-air missile batteries. One of the EC-130H planes up above concentrated on assisting the naval units with jamming and spoofing the incoming missiles as well.

 

In total eight of the incoming missiles were successfully jammed enough to ensure they missed their targets and plowed into the sea and another twelve were destroyed by defensive fire. This left half of the total amount to strike in at their targets. Three of the twenty fast attack craft were destroyed outright with the loss of all hands as each one took a direct missile strike and a further two were left crippled and slowly sinking. The cruisers Kraken, Chimera and Manticore were heavily damaged by missile impacts. The Kraken took two hits to the stern which left all of its armaments in that area neutralised, the Chimera took only a single hit but it was a direct impact against the bridge which left that area in ruins and only a wounded junior officer as the only survivor and the Manticore took three hits that reduced the ship to a moderately burning hulk though the crew on board fought to contain the fires.

 

The cruiser Dragon suffered a brave but certain end when she boosted her active emissions in an attempt to protect her sister ships and she drew the attention of six different missiles which plowed into her hull. The Dragon was last seen disappearing in a ball of flame and debris and only sixteen of her entire crew compliment would survive to be picked up.

 

Of the landing ships two would be destroyed and sent sinking below the waves, the soldiers on board throwing themselves into the sea and life boats to avoid going down with the ship. None of the equipment on board could be saved of course. Three more landing ships would be heavily damaged inflicting horrifying casualties among the soldiers waiting in their holds.

 

Still the invasion continued as the landing ships made full steam for the battered dockyards and shipping areas of Freetown. The would sail right up to the side of the docks and come to a halt before dropping their access ramps and allowing the soldiers on board to quickly disembark and fan out to carry out the task of securing the dock yards.

 

The remaining cruisers would use their available offensive missile capacity to engage any surviving coastal defenses in the vicinity of Freetown before moving into the port itself with the surviving fast attack craft. Here inside the port they hoped to be safe from further missile attack as they hoped that the surrounding buildings would shield them from any radar signals and missile paths. Unfortunately at this point the Manticore lost its fight with the fires and the crew abandoned her for the life boats.

 

The Tornado GR4 planes in the air turned away from Sierra Leone and headed out to sea to join the sixty Eurofighters that were waiting for them. In total they had hundred and sixty planes against the Sierra Leone's two hundred and forty but they had the benefit of ECM and it was hoped this would counter act their lower numbers. As such the EC-130H aircraft would switch from jamming the enemy radar systems to jamming and confusing the incoming Sierra Leone fighter craft as well as lighting them up for the Imperial Gabon fighters to engage as soon as they were in sidewinder range.

 

Back in Gabon a second wave of one hundred Tornado GR4 planes were sent into the air with these planes loaded with cluster bomb munitions and accompanied by another pair of EC-130H electronic warfare planes. These aircraft would fly along the coastline avoiding the soon to be developing dog fight off the coast of Sierra Leone and would head for the airfields that the Sierra Leone planes had come from. Their mission was to bomb and crater the airfields and runways whilst the fighters that would normally have been guarding them were engaged elsewhere.

 

The second wave of landing ships had by this point completed their loading procedures and set sail for the Atlantic Ocean heading for the battle of Freetown with their reinforcements.     

 

The Intelligence Section, of the War Directorate, placed all information gathering assets on alert, as soon as hostilities began. Within minutes, a detailed report was compiled, with copies being sent to the Supreme General Staff and the Archon's Palace. Castle Tarleton, the headquarters of the War Directorate and the Supreme General Staff, would issue a classified directive to the Armed Forces.

 

 

Simultaneously, the Foreign Affairs Directorate would issue a quick statement on the current state of affairs.

 

"Instead of spilling the blood of our fellow countrymen,  we urge both nations stop the senseless violence, which has plagued our continent for so long. As such, we ask that a temporary cease fire is implemented and for both parties to attend a peace conference in Pretoria. However, let it be known, the Dominion of Draka is legally obligated to defend Gabon against foreign aggressors. Any aggressive attacks onto our allies will be considered an attack on the Dominion, and we will act accordingly."

 

 

"Imperial Gabon is willing to consider a ceasefire and attend a peace conference in Pretoria if the government of Sierra Leone is". 

[Triyun]

Statement from the Shahdom of the Pure Lands:

 

The Pure Lands offers its support to the nation of Gabon, and any assistance it can be.  The Elimination of the Russian and Bolshevik threat must be completed before the World is to move on.  

 

Statement from the Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland:

 

Britainnia supports the nation of Sierra Leone against this unprovoked aggression.

 

Statement from the Empire of Tianxia:

 

Tianxia encourages all parties to peace.  

 

===================================

 

Night

 

Meanwhile aboard the [url=https://medium.com/war-is-boring/12801da6f353]Imperial Special Operations Ship, Sun Tzu[/url] the Imperial Knight Captain Ryu Hayabusa stood watching the chaos unfold.  The world was plunging into increasing instability.  The coup in Tianxia had hobbled the ability of his best friend and master, Yuan Jia, to respond to the attack, and no doubt the forces of he hashashin hunted him now.  Nevertheless the matter here required some attention.  

 

Colonel Matsuda entered the bridge area saluting, "We're within range of the coast line.  We can begin landing operations for the special forces against the coast within twenty minutes.  Air strikes from the Oni and Tianlong are already enroute.

 

The Knight Captain looked out, the coast of Africa barely visible as he nodded, "Alright.  Good."

 

What the Colonel was referring to was the presence of two dragon class attack subs, commanders till loyal to the Imperial Knights,  Each was equipped with six [url=https://medium.com/war-is-boring/12801da6f353]CHAMP[/url] equipped yamamoto cruise missiles.

 

The twelve missiles coated in their radar absorbent material, flew low, with its extremely low infrared emitting turbofan engines flew quietly just over the oceans from varying points in the Atlantic.  With the Gabonese using massive amounts of electronic output, sensors placed via low flying low cross section drones around the area, were able to map the radar emissions of the Gabonese manuvering them around the groups out to sea, while the curvature of the Earth protected against long range radar.  

 

Flying low over the coast line they start to hit radar targets, communications command centers, internet hubs, and cell phone towers around the small country, each target engaged at light speed by bursts of radio waves, finally power plants around the country.  Knocking it offline till repairs could be completed.  Upon expending their ammunition, the missile detonated free of identifying marks or recoverable technology.

 

At the same time special operations cyber command would put in rumors on internet message boards of false landing sights reporting Athenian troops having intervened int he conflict in Gabon, even running messages on official news websites in both the Gabon press, as well as regional and major global presses, using points of origins for the attacks from areas around the world.  

 

All this obscured what was really going on.  The unassuming cargoship Sun-Tzu, 120 miles out to sea, came alive as a stealth cargo ship.  Two groups of four stealth black-hawks using the same weaknesses would fly low, into Gabonese air space, flying low till they reached their points of drop, outside Libreville.   Each unmarked team lead by a different knight, Ryu leading one team, Colonel Matsuda the other.  Each group of a company of rangers would be spread out into individual groups of four, equipped with a collapsable anti-material rifle, charges, low probability of intercept encrypted comm systems, as well as personal weapons.  Units would remain spread out, while standard patrolling Global Hawks (I have these flying everywhere always remember, so one present wouldn't be suspicious), tracked movement of military forces around the capital.

 

Units would begin maneuvering around counducting reconnaissance from positions in the wilderness to prepare for further operations as soon as the Gabonese started their reaction to rumors of an Athenian invasion and a loss of power.

Edited May 5, 2014 by Triyun

[Markus Wilding]

"Sierra Leone will consider peace negotiations once Gabonese forces are either destroyed or withdraw completely from Sierra Leone. Until such time as either of those conditions are met, Sierra Leone will continue fighting against the foreign aggressors in their illegal and unprovoked war."

 

------

 

With missiles being launched at the offending missile emplacements, one last salvo of forty would be launched, again with emphasis on the cruisers. This, however, would be the last such salvo from the Freetown-based defenses as counter-strikes from Gabonese craft would annihilate or heavily damage the positions.

 

In the air, pilots expected the jamming from Gabonese forces and EWC-09 craft moved closer to begin their own jamming campaign. If missiles on the F-16SL and F-200SL planes were jammed beyond ability, then Sierra Leonean pilots, both bloodthirsty and perhaps slightly insane, would close in as fast as possible and engage in dogfighting with their 20mm and 30mm guns. Should any Gabonese missile lock onto any plane and be launched, however, flares would be dumped to trick the Sidewinder missiles. Should their missiles be operational, both F-16SL and F-200SL would begin launching their weapons as soon as possible, with locks acquired of course. Twelve planes, mostly the older F-16SLs, would be lost in the initial opening moves of the dogfight. As this happened, the six Tu-22M naval bombers would rev up their engines and head straight for the remaining cruisers, focusing their fire on the one that had escaped damage. They would launch their Sunburn missiles at their most extreme range of 120km, and given their speed the crew of the cruiser would have, at most, 50 seconds to respond.

 

On the ground, word was received that the Gabonese had landed. The order handed to the 1st Armored Cavalry Regiment was simply "Hold them at the gates." and they began to drive for the aptly-named Destruction Bay, where most of the military port facilities lay. In addition to these numbers, two regiments of infantry would head to the port as well. Once arriving, the M120 Panthers would swing around and flank the Gabonese defenses, had any been built. The dual-cannoned M105 Lions would hammer the defenses from the front and open holes in any structure believed to be occupied by enemy infantry. The infantry that arrived with the tanks would soon dismount and begin sweeping and clearing any and all structures, firing on anything that came within sight. A call would come for close air support, but given that both the Gabonese had begun cratering runways and that air superiority had not been achieved, this request was denied.

[Centurius]

Imperial Decree from the Athenian Federation

 

The Athenian Federation has observed the situation and its escalation with strong concern. Regardless of who started it the African continent now faces a war with the high likelihood of involving foreign powers. This is unacceptable, as such the Athenian Federation hereby issues the following ultimatum. The governments of Sierra Leone and Gabon submit to immediate peace talks under supervision of the Exarch of Africa. If in 24 hours one or both sides do not agree to these talks the Hellenic Forces will be authorized to engage those who resist. Furthermore we confirm our obligation to preserve the independence of the African continent and will engage any non-African party providing military support against either party.

 

---

 

As soon as the declaration was made public the entirety of the Athenian Federation moved to AlertCon Alpha, in line with this every element of the Hellenic Forces anywhere in the world was brought to maximum readiness. To provide quick response capabilities the First, Fourth and Sixth Armies of the Hellenic Army in addition to the First Army of the Hellenic Marine Corps were redeployed to the African continent. Additionally ten F-1 squadrons, twenty F-2 squadrons, five F-5 and two EA-18 squadrons were redeployed to Air Bases inside the Exarchate.

 

Finally Task Forces 1, 3, 9, 10 and 11 would be redeployed to the Southern and Central Atlantic to provide a naval strike capability.

 

In the Atlantic Free State, still remembering the last war fought against someone from South America, additional preparations would be taken as citizens were ordered to prepare for emergency protocols and additional air and naval support would be provided to the more southern islands to quickly respond to any incursion. 

 

In Sierra Leone the elements of the Hellenic Forces still stationed there in line with UNSC resolutions were ordered to dig in and await either an order to stand down or strike.

[Justinian the Mighty]

Just over 1,000 Russian soldiers were stationed in Sierra Leone as part of the UN Peacekeeping force. Off the coast the Russian Sovremenny-class destroyer, The Valiant, noted unidentified aircraft flying over the Atlantic Ocean and sent a transmission to Moscow and to the Russians stationed on the ground, many of whom worked side by side with their Sierra Leonean counterparts. Within the hour the Russian commander had his orders. He was to recall all troops and fortify his encampment. For now the barrel of the Kremlin's gun was focused squarely on the fascist enemy to the south. Nevertheless the Sierra Leonean government was a friend to the Russian Empire, therefore Russia was prepared to bankroll the entire war effort for as long as it was fiscally possible. Russia would purchase or lend military equipment to its ally for as long as it could, but made no promises to offer this service until Sierra Leone had won. After all, Russia was embroiled in its own war.

[Uberstein]

Sudan supports the Athenian call for peace. It would offer Khartoum for such talks, but another conference is currently being held at this time.

[Classified]
The 6th Infantry Division, with a Patriot missile system AA group attached, has been given orders to mount up in Antonov An-72 aircraft for potential deployment to Sierra Leon. An E-3 Sentry aircraft has been dispatched to Sierra Leon for reconnaissance purposes. The transport aircraft are to fly in pairs, are to be loaded with chaff launchers, and each pair are to be escorted by 2 squadrons of Dassault Rafale aircraft each. This will allow 10 Antonov aircraft to operate, allowing potential full deployment in roughly 30 trips.
[End Classified]

OOC: Edited to add the classified. Felt it wasn't worth a second post given nobody has responded yet.

Edited May 5, 2014 by Uberstein

[Kevin Kingswell]

Statement from the Shahdom of the Pure Lands:

 

The Pure Lands offers its support to the nation of Gabon, and any assistance it can be.  The Elimination of the Russian and Bolshevik threat must be completed before the World is to move on.  

 

Statement from the Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland:

 

Britainnia supports the nation of Sierra Leone against this unprovoked aggression.

 

Statement from the Empire of Tianxia:

 

Tianxia encourages all parties to peace.  

 

===================================

 

Night

 

Meanwhile aboard the Imperial Special Operations Ship, Sun Tzu the Imperial Knight Captain Ryu Hayabusa stood watching the chaos unfold.  The world was plunging into increasing instability.  The coup in Tianxia had hobbled the ability of his best friend and master, Yuan Jia, to respond to the attack, and no doubt the forces of he hashashin hunted him now.  Nevertheless the matter here required some attention.  

 

Colonel Matsuda entered the bridge area saluting, "We're within range of the coast line.  We can begin landing operations for the special forces against the coast within twenty minutes.  Air strikes from the Oni and Tianlong are already enroute.

 

The Knight Captain looked out, the coast of Africa barely visible as he nodded, "Alright.  Good."

 

What the Colonel was referring to was the presence of two dragon class attack subs, commanders till loyal to the Imperial Knights,  Each was equipped with six CHAMP equipped yamamoto cruise missiles.

 

The twelve missiles coated in their radar absorbent material, flew low, with its extremely low infrared emitting turbofan engines flew quietly just over the oceans from varying points in the Atlantic.  With the Gabonese using massive amounts of electronic output, sensors placed via low flying low cross section drones around the area, were able to map the radar emissions of the Gabonese manuvering them around the groups out to sea, while the curvature of the Earth protected against long range radar.  

 

Flying low over the coast line they start to hit radar targets, communications command centers, internet hubs, and cell phone towers around the small country, each target engaged at light speed by bursts of radio waves, finally power plants around the country.  Knocking it offline till repairs could be completed.  Upon expending their ammunition, the missile detonated free of identifying marks or recoverable technology.

 

At the same time special operations cyber command would put in rumors on internet message boards of false landing sights reporting Athenian troops having intervened int he conflict in Gabon, even running messages on official news websites in both the Gabon press, as well as regional and major global presses, using points of origins for the attacks from areas around the world.  

 

All this obscured what was really going on.  The unassuming cargoship Sun-Tzu, 120 miles out to sea, came alive as a stealth cargo ship.  Two groups of four stealth black-hawks using the same weaknesses would fly low, into Gabonese air space, flying low till they reached their points of drop, outside Libreville.   Each unmarked team lead by a different knight, Ryu leading one team, Colonel Matsuda the other.  Each group of a company of rangers would be spread out into individual groups of four, equipped with a collapsable anti-material rifle, charges, low probability of intercept encrypted comm systems, as well as personal weapons.  Units would remain spread out, while standard patrolling Global Hawks (I have these flying everywhere always remember, so one present wouldn't be suspicious), tracked movement of military forces around the capital.

 

Units would begin maneuvering around counducting reconnaissance from positions in the wilderness to prepare for further operations as soon as the Gabonese started their reaction to rumors of an Athenian invasion and a loss of power.

 

The loss of so much electronic equipment and power supply came as an unexpected shock to the military command and civilian authorities, no one had expected a strike so soon and with such capability against the homeland. When reports surfaced, though unconfirmed, suggesting it was the Athenians many were quick to believe them as it was the Athenians who had built the power centers providing the nation with energy.

 

With one possibility being the entrance of Athens against Imperial Gabon, Operation Hawk was announced and all forces were ordered to cease military actions and only fire if they were in turn fired upon. In the homeland security at all important military installations was increased and all military personnel were put on higher alert for enemy infiltrators. To help with this roving patrols would be sent out to search for any suspicious sightings and reports.

 

In the meantime reserve military installations would be brought online to replace the ones knocked out in the attack with power being supplied by older more conventional back up power centers. Civilian facilities would unfortunately be left to their own back up power supplies if they had them. 

 

"Sierra Leone will consider peace negotiations once Gabonese forces are either destroyed or withdraw completely from Sierra Leone. Until such time as either of those conditions are met, Sierra Leone will continue fighting against the foreign aggressors in their illegal and unprovoked war."

 

------

 

With missiles being launched at the offending missile emplacements, one last salvo of forty would be launched, again with emphasis on the cruisers. This, however, would be the last such salvo from the Freetown-based defenses as counter-strikes from Gabonese craft would annihilate or heavily damage the positions.

 

In the air, pilots expected the jamming from Gabonese forces and EWC-09 craft moved closer to begin their own jamming campaign. If missiles on the F-16SL and F-200SL planes were jammed beyond ability, then Sierra Leonean pilots, both bloodthirsty and perhaps slightly insane, would close in as fast as possible and engage in dogfighting with their 20mm and 30mm guns. Should any Gabonese missile lock onto any plane and be launched, however, flares would be dumped to trick the Sidewinder missiles. Should their missiles be operational, both F-16SL and F-200SL would begin launching their weapons as soon as possible, with locks acquired of course. Twelve planes, mostly the older F-16SLs, would be lost in the initial opening moves of the dogfight. As this happened, the six Tu-22M naval bombers would rev up their engines and head straight for the remaining cruisers, focusing their fire on the one that had escaped damage. They would launch their Sunburn missiles at their most extreme range of 120km, and given their speed the crew of the cruiser would have, at most, 50 seconds to respond.

 

On the ground, word was received that the Gabonese had landed. The order handed to the 1st Armored Cavalry Regiment was simply "Hold them at the gates." and they began to drive for the aptly-named Destruction Bay, where most of the military port facilities lay. In addition to these numbers, two regiments of infantry would head to the port as well. Once arriving, the M120 Panthers would swing around and flank the Gabonese defenses, had any been built. The dual-cannoned M105 Lions would hammer the defenses from the front and open holes in any structure believed to be occupied by enemy infantry. The infantry that arrived with the tanks would soon dismount and begin sweeping and clearing any and all structures, firing on anything that came within sight. A call would come for close air support, but given that both the Gabonese had begun cratering runways and that air superiority had not been achieved, this request was denied.

 

The salvo of forty coastal defense missiles would be met with a much smaller defensive counter battery though the fast attack craft threw themselves almost at the incoming missiles in the attempt to save the larger cruisers. Eight more fast attack craft would be lost for the slightly impressive sum of fourteen enemy cruise missiles. The Kraken would take crippling damage from the missiles strikes and developed a heavy list though most of her crew were able to get off before she rolled over and sank beneath the waves her hull coming to rest at the entrance to the dockyards which was bound to cause mayhem for the Sierra Leone people in the short term. The undamaged cruiser Naga sustained heavy damage being the focus of the attack from the coastal defenses and enemy bombers, which would escape unharmed as no ship could engage them, and the Chimera was further damaged though she remained afloat.

 

In the air the ECM were rendered moot by the Sierra Leone EW planes and the Tornado's would take severe losses from not having the skill or training of the Eurofighter crews. Seventeen GR4 Tornado planes would be shot down and another four forced to withdraw due to damage. The Eurofighters would escape harm their superior craft and training keeping them safe.

 

On the dock sides the soldiers of the Imperial Gabon military had secured the roads in and out of the docks as well as nearby buildings but otherwise had built no defenses. When the first Sierra Leone ground forces attacked they responded with man portable missile launchers for enemy armour and small arms for enemy infantry. Vicious house to house fighting would develop which would most likely take a heavy toll on both sides infantry as each room would need to be cleared out. Imperial Gabon light armour would attempt to use their smaller size and faster speed to outflank the Sierra Leone tanks and engage from the more vulnerable sides and rear.  

 

It was at this point that all surviving Imperial forces received orders for Operation Hawk and the Sierra Leone troops would find their Gabon counterparts suddenly holding their fire and withdrawing back to their landing ships, leaving their small amount of offloaded supplies behind.

 

The bomb equipped Tornado planes of the second aerial wave would only come in range to attack a handful of airfields before being ordered to withdraw as per Operation Hawk as did the second landing wave which withdrew back to the docks of Gabon.

 

The Sierra Leone government would be contacted by the Council and given an offer of a ceasefire to come into immediate effect so that all Imperial Gabon military equipment and personnel could be withdrawn from their territory. A request was also put in that any Imperial Gabon military personnel too wounded to be withdrawn be left in the care of Sierra Leone.         

 

 

Imperial Decree from the Athenian Federation

 

The Athenian Federation has observed the situation and its escalation with strong concern. Regardless of who started it the African continent now faces a war with the high likelihood of involving foreign powers. This is unacceptable, as such the Athenian Federation hereby issues the following ultimatum. The governments of Sierra Leone and Gabon submit to immediate peace talks under supervision of the Exarch of Africa. If in 24 hours one or both sides do not agree to these talks the Hellenic Forces will be authorized to engage those who resist. Furthermore we confirm our obligation to preserve the independence of the African continent and will engage any non-African party providing military support against either party.

 

---

 

As soon as the declaration was made public the entirety of the Athenian Federation moved to AlertCon Alpha, in line with this every element of the Hellenic Forces anywhere in the world was brought to maximum readiness. To provide quick response capabilities the First, Fourth and Sixth Armies of the Hellenic Army in addition to the First Army of the Hellenic Marine Corps were redeployed to the African continent. Additionally ten F-1 squadrons, twenty F-2 squadrons, five F-5 and two EA-18 squadrons were redeployed to Air Bases inside the Exarchate.

 

Finally Task Forces 1, 3, 9, 10 and 11 would be redeployed to the Southern and Central Atlantic to provide a naval strike capability.

 

In the Atlantic Free State, still remembering the last war fought against someone from South America, additional preparations would be taken as citizens were ordered to prepare for emergency protocols and additional air and naval support would be provided to the more southern islands to quickly respond to any incursion. 

 

In Sierra Leone the elements of the Hellenic Forces still stationed there in line with UNSC resolutions were ordered to dig in and await either an order to stand down or strike.

 

 

The Council of Imperial Gabon will agree and abide by the Athenian Federation ultimatum. Lord Karrid Skotia will represent Imperial Gabon as she is one of the current standing Council members. She will place faith in the Athenian Federation and travel to the peace talks without any guard leaving that up to the Athenians. 

[Centurius]

Lady Skotia would be directed to Port Elizabeth inside the Exarchate where under the protection of the High Guard and the Hellenic Air Force she would be further escorted to the Exarch's Palace. 

[Markus Wilding]

With the loss of about two hundred and four infantry soldiers and 8 M105 Lions damaged, one beyond repair, the ceasefire was followed only once it was confirmed that it was legitimate. Gabonese wounded would be taken as POWs and transferred to a military medical camp - under strict guard, of course.

 

Foreign Minister Richard Hartfield would be sent to the peace negotiations.

[Captain Enema]

 

To: Government of Sierra Leone
From: Legion

We request permission to act as impartial observers to watch over Gabonese prisoners and to bear witness to the ceasefire. 

-Denard

 

[Markus Wilding]

 

To: Legion

From: Sierra Leonean Government

 

The observers have been permitted. They are free to land in Freetown.

 

- President Maximilian Ionaster

 

[Captain Enema]

A detachment of medical officers from Legion Armed Forces are sent directly to Freetown. They are flown in on several Legion C-130 Medical Transport Planes. They come bearing several tonnes of medical supplies to be distributed to Sierra Leone's civilians and military who have been injured in the fighting. They also come bearing an offer to give treatment and aid to Gabonese prisoners and to transport them back to Gabon if it is acceptable to Sierra Leone.

 

For the cease fire observers, a detachment of camera equipped National Policemen are sent. Once on the ground they would make their way to the front lines of Freetown and take up positions between the Sierra Leone forces and Gabonese Forces. Once in place, they will commence foot patrols between the two forces wearing their Legion National Police Uniforms and armbands that identify them as international cease fire observers. Their cameras will be with them at all times but not in use unless violations of the cease fire are observed. 

 

 

To: Sierra Leone, Gabon
From: Legion

We have dispatched several medical transport aircraft to Sierra Leone. They are carrying several tonnes of medical supplies, doctors, and nurses. They will provide aid to both Sierra Leone and Gabonese wounded. Once the fine points of a permanent cease fire have been worked out, or before, depends entirely on your governments, Legion would be willing to fly the Gabonese wounded back to Gabon. 

Further, we offer the use of Legion Hospitals for intensive trauma care for Gabonese prisoners who need advanced medical are and will hold them as guest of Legion, with the permission of Gabon, until a permanent peace can be reached.

We have also sent, with the agreement of Sierra Leone, a detachment of National Policemen to patrol between your two forces. They are equipped with cameras, dressed in their police uniforms, and wearing armbands to identify them as international ceasefire observers. Their cameras will be used only to record ceasefire violations. Please notify both of your forces of their role and presence.

- M.G. Denard

[Markus Wilding]

 

To: Legion

From: Sierra Leonean Government

 

The Sierra Leonean Army has been notified of the unarmed observers. In addition, the House of Representatives has greenlit the transfer of Gabonese prisoners of war back to Gabon should it be deemed necessary and once practical to do so.

 

[Captain Enema]

 

To: Government of Sierra Leone

Regarding: Prisoners

Understood.
 

 

The medical supplies are turned over to Sierra Leone's Logistical Department for distribution. The medical officers are dispatched directly to the camp holding the Gabonese wounded. The National Policemen place themselves directly between the forces from Gabon and Sierra Leone. 

 

Once in place, a direct connection is made to Legion and Athenian authorities. The purpose of a direct connection to Athens is to keep them constantly updated as to the conditions on the ground to ensure they aren't surprised by any "problems" during the talks they demanded both parties attend. 

Edited May 6, 2014 by Tidy Bowl Man

[TheShammySocialist]

With the situation in West Africa clearly now on the road to stability, the [i]Dahromo[/i] battle group was ordered back to Trinidad City, along with any additional assets that had been dispatched when the situation in Sierra Leone had come to light. The [i]Grockall[/i] battle group would continue its normal patrol station east of the Catatumbo Commonwealth, shielding the east coast due to the continuing conflicts within the Atlantic theater. Stormlands Air Forces' assets were stood down in lieu of the ongoing peace talks and the situation appearing to be under control. Several tactical and operational commanders would be lauded for the readiness shown by their units and vessels in light of the crisis, and would be appropriately commended in their service files.

[Kevin Kingswell]

The soldiers who had landed on Sierra Leone soil withdrew all the way back to the docks and boarded their transports taking all those wounded who could be moved. Those unable to move were left in the hands of the Legion medics to be cared for. Once loaded the landing craft would leave Freetown in one convoy covered by the Imperial naval ships still a float. As long as they were left untouched the whole force would withdraw back to Imperial Gabon itself as would all remaining airborne forces.