A Great Uprising: The Nation of Nod

[Executive Minister]

OOC: Well, I've included the NDII Thrasher SPAAG a lot in my war RPs... so I should really outline it in its own post, also mods, sorry if this is a grave dig...this is only 1 of my only 2 threads, so please dont lock it

the current RP war and its various threads have kept me away from my prize, finishing this thread... i still intend to finish it

IC:

An excerpt from "The Great Divide: The Differences Between BoN and NoN Armour and Military Doctrines"

...while Heavily armoured tanks and other fighting vehicles dominated the ground, all MBTs share a glaring weakness. Despite having the heaviest armour and weapons available, Heavy tanks were susceptible to air incursions, be they the relatively quick, but deadly strafe-runs of Close Air-Support Jets or the lingering menace of Heavy Attack Helicopters...

...line after line of tanks would go up in smoke when faced with a roaring nose-mounted 30 mm minigun, or the launches of several anti-tank guided missiles from the numerous ordinance racks of an assailant. Tankers would have to resort to hiding behind a temporary blanket of smoke from their grenade launchers, their inadequate pintle-mounted .50 cal guns their only defence.

Under these circumstances, the concept of a tank that was specially armed and equipped to deal with airborne threats, while being sufficiently armoured to accompany their heavy brethren into the heat of battle was created - the self propelled, anti-aircraft gun or SPAAG.

Due to the historical Russian-sent aid of Ethiopia, the NoN had several older SPAAG models, most notably the ZSU-23-4 'Shilka' model.

The 'Shilka' was a light tank armed with an array of quad 23 mm autocannons and radar. It served the Brotherhood well in Africa, where its guns could unleash torrents of lead at air threats with respectable accuracy... it was also used to annihilate enemy light infantry and vehicles.

Although initial success with the 'Shilka' system was great, the system had glaring weaknesses when faced against modern enemies. First off, the ZSU-23-4 provided minimal comfort for the crew. Whereas the driver's compartment had a good, self-contained air pump with an electric air-conditioning system, other crew members suffered from stiffling heat from the harsh Ethiopian sun.

The short range of its 23 mm autocannons and relatively low explosive effect of its small-calibre projectiles meant it was less able to engage threats such as jet attack aircraft and cruise missiles than modern systems.

The NoN realized that it would need an upgrade or complete overhaul of existing SPAAG systems to be a contender on a modern battlefield.

NDII set to work on a new model, code named the 'Thrasher'. A tank that could 'thrash' the sky clean of enemies, while also giving ground targets a pummeling of their own.

The NDII 'Thrasher' SPAAG, was a medium tank armed with dual, rapid fire 40 mm autocannons, twin 'oversized' SAM/ATGM armoured boxes and a powerful, 3-D radar system.

Because jet aircraft had shortened the duration of attack that ground forces would face, the NoN required a gun that could get enough rounds into the air to counter the threat before it flew out of range. The dual, rapid fire, 40 mm guns of the 'Thrasher' had a longer range and higher rate of fire than the 'Shilka' and its individual 23 mm guns. The cannons are fired alternatively with a combined rate of fire of between 3,900 and 5,000 rounds per minute (1,950 to 2,500 rpm for each gun) unusually high for such a large round, and have a muzzle velocity of 960 m/s. Bursts of between 83 and 250 rounds are fired as determined by the target type, with an engagement range between 0.2 and 4.0 km and to an altitude of 4 km.

These devastating main guns would often spell then end of enemy air forces. However, they also had a horrifying effect on infantry, the large rounds and their accompanying shrapnel would destroy entire squads in seconds, the powerful 40 × 364 mm shells and the high RPMs also capable of destroying Heavy MBTs!

The Thrasher was also supplemented by its missile pods. Whenever the guns could not hit their mark (which was rare), the tank's dual-purpose surface-to-air and anti-tank missile/rocket system would finish the job, forming an Air Defense Anti-Tank System (ADATS). The Thrasher's direct fire with the 'Stabber' Anti-tank/helicopter guided missile switched to dumb-fire or the cheaper 'Spiker' 90 mm unguided rockets was designed to be able to take down direct targets at an 6+ km range with an astonishing damage effect as it could fire multiple shots on target.

Its second ground-fire function featured a guided 'Stabber' missile, with an 8+ km range that is guided onto the target. This could be used to engage long-range targets such as artillery or targets that the 'Thrasher' crew needed to keep at a distance - enemy heavy tanks. The non-line-of-sight capability allows the 'Thrasher' crew to use sniper spotter teams or later on, UAVs, to spot targets under cover and fire the laser-guided missiles over any obstacles.

The boxes also featured the regular ADATS air defence system which can fire at a 10 km + range to engage helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft with either the 'Stabber' or longer ranged 'Spangle' SAM.

The SPAAG also utilized a dual-radar system. The main dish was a '3-D' Radar system. 3D radar provided for radar coverage on three dimensions unlike the more common 2D radar. While the normal 2D radar provides range and azimuth, the 3D radar provides elevation information with range and azimuth. A secondary dish was used for the above 2-D radar system, which was sufficient for ground targets.

This lethal mix of rate of fire, power, accuracy and multi-use weaponry meant that the 'Thrasher' could successfully defend against all enemies that could threaten its charges. However, the 'Thrasher' was still a SPAAG, thus it faced the same inherent limitations of its niche.

The 'Thrasher' was lightly armoured, and would not last long against enemy fire. Its relatively high speed allowed it to shoot n' scoot quite effectively, although it is very vulnerable to enemy anti-tank missiles, cannons and heavy machine guns; the armour is thin compared to other enemy AFVs and the exposed wheels, tracks, radar, and gun barrels can easily be damaged in combat. Firing positions of these SPAAGs are thus typically placed near the forward edge of the battle area but behind the main forces, usually 600-1000m behind objectives when on the defensive or 400-600 m behind the leading tanks on the offensive.

This tank played crucial roles in the many wars and battles the NoN faced, clearing the skies and sometimes, the streets!

[Executive Minister]

OOC: The header of my Infantry Section when my FB is complete

IC:

An excerpt from "Peace Through Power: A Compendium of Facts on the Brotherhood of Nod"

...when the Brotherhood of Nod of yesteryear was a prominent force in the world, its armies were a mix of masses of poorly trained militiamen that fought beside and were led by highly trained, heavily-armed and armoured, sophisticated and disciplined technology-backed guerrilla fighters. Huge waves of men brandishing AK 47's, obsolete armour vests, RPG 7s and other 'crude' war materiel were often at the beck-and-call of the elite super-soldiers of Nod. If these men were the scalpel of the BoN, designed to strike precisely, with great lethality, then then its millions-strong force of irregulars were the massive war hammer or battle axe, destined to throw themselves into the fray, battering the enemy with sheer force and strength of will...

Nod militants fought bravely, despite the rudimentary arms and equipment given to them by the Brotherhood under Kane against technologically advanced adversaries...

..these militants were men and women that were disillusioned - suffering from harsh lives in war torn sectors and had been attracted to service in the BoN armed forces by its intentional relief efforts in these zones. The use of these waves of militia often causes a multitude of casualties and played an important part for Nod, as Kane's Inner Circle secretly coveted the idea that they were expendible...

...here was one of the many places the Nation of Nod differed from its parent...like a rebellious teenager, the NoN relied on tactics that shunned such heavy losses as 'unacceptable' and quickly made a name for itself within the war rooms of Nod.

The NoN relied on advanced tactics and equipment being supplied to ALL of its forces, not just a limited few...this was justified by its ruler with the obvious fewer number of military personnel and citizens available to the NoN, compared to the vast war-torn nations and cities the Brotherhood recruited their fodder from. The NoN could not afford to throw away lives and equipment so readily, as there was not as much that could be brought to replace them...

...for years, the newest of the NoN's warfighters would endure grueling training sessions and both physical and mental punishment so as to incorporate a sense of discipline, confidence, and the Nod ideology into everyone who chose to follow the path of Militancy. Combat veterans installed as instructors taught new recruits the arts of weapons marksmanship, vehicle piloting, hand-to-hand and martial arts, explosives handling and deployment, leadership, chain-of-command and battlefield tactics...

All NoN Militants are required to graduate to at least the level of "Light Infantry" in order to recieve combat certification, however more serious individuals graduate to the level of "Heavy Infantry". The highest echelons of military command are limited only to the "Elite Cadre" and "Fate Team Assassins", giving the best-of-the-best the reigns.

These graduates were authorized to train new recruits in the NoN's basic training courses, with more "qualified" commanders able to instruct higher levels, as well as command a greater array of soldiers and carry more advanced equipment with which they use to defeat their enemies.

Each NoN Militant earns his place in the Brotherhood through combat performance, increasing his notoriety while on the field and being paid and promoted based on the number of kills he scores and damage he inflicts. Some veteran NoN combatants have been seen wearing grisly concoctions of ad-hoc necklaces, bracelets, and weapon ornaments made of chains composed of dog tags looted from the bodies of dead enemy personnel.

...harsh training, rigid command structures, formalized equipment and weapons outfitting coupled with the Brotherhood of Nod's notorious expertise in Mental Conditioning and Indoctrination have created an armed force composed of an individual combat soldier that is considered a significant threat by all who oppose him.

[...]

...throughout Nod's history of war and conflict until the Great Divide, the precursor to the Nation of Nod, the Brotherhood of Nod: Ethiopian Chapter, suffered from the same command and control defects of its parent entity.

Nod's infantry ranks were previously broken down into an extremely simple (some would be dangerously so) chain-of-command of having a series of veteran commanders and officers controlling one or two lieutenants each, who were in turn responsible for leading large platoon-sized groups of subordinate soldiers.

Discipline was strict and punishments for failure were harsh - some would say overtly Draconian - which was deliberate, in order to keep Nod's battle ranks in line in the face of the enemy. The majority of these officers were veterans of many months or years of hard fighting, uprisings, and tribal warfare in various international hot spots. As such, they were knowledgeable of warfighting doctrines, and under Nod's influence, they were better educated in the measures of both allied and enemy tactics and weaponry. To physically display their authority on the battlefield, Nod officers were issued red berets marked with the iconography of Nod, superior armor protection, and had access to more advanced weaponry from Nod's armories rather than being confined to the standard-issue assault rifles of their subordinate counterparts.

However, serious problems and glaring oversights with this system led to costly penalties on the battlefield. With one officer being in charge of several squad-sized elements without the benefit of having junior leaders under his control, the loss of that officer would lead to a complete collapse of discipline and battlefield coordination for that element, causing several units to scatter in disarray and confusion. In some cases, entire Nod bases fell to coordinated enemy attacks when the senior officer was assassinated prior to the assault. Additionally, the overbearing weight of the extreme physical punishments and discipline on some conscripted units or forced soldiers led many Nod platoons to surrender or flee from battle in the face of the termination of their senior officer.

Now, with the Brotherhood's fledgling pariah, the Nation of Nod aiming to be upon the forefront of world-wide recognition and conflict, they were forced to learn from their parents' mistakes and has made significant corrections to the manner in which their officers and subordinates are deployed.

To correct for their weaknesses the NoN has restructured their entire chain-of-command to mimic that of established armies of world superpowers. All Nod leaders, from squad leaders to battalion commanders, are put through a rigorous officer training program which further solidifies their knowledge of the battlefield elements, their leadership capabilities, and their loyalties to the Nation, its peoples, and their collective ideals.

Today, the NoN utilizes a unique approach to battlefield hierarchy...

The smallest coherent group in the NoN's military is the "Militant Cell". A "Militant Cell" is comprised of the NoN's most numerous Militant Body, the Light Infantry. An opponent can expect to face 8 to 40 of these men, with one being designated the "Light Infantry Sergeant", who is directly in control of the Cell unless attached to a higher-level body, where Battle Command is relocated to a "Heavy Infantry Auxiliary Leader".

It is in the next tier that things become more complex. The "Militant Squad" is a body composed of the workhorse of the NoN's surface military operations, the "Heavy Infantry". Better trained, equipped, and protected, these men are taught to show no mercy upon their enemies, becoming mindless killing machines, while simultaneously taught to protect the NoN and its citizenry with their lives if need be. A typical Squad is composed of 50 to 250 of these battle-hardened men, accompanied by 0 to 10 "Militant Cells". Although the Heavy Infantry's combat performance allows for the Squad to be deployed without its escorts, most squads are usually tasked with leading several of their "lesser" brethren. A "Heavy Infantry Sergeant" or "Elite Cadre Auxiliary Leader" is required to lead the Squad.

The third tier furthers the NoN's intricate solution to Battle-Command in a theatre where many can become casualties in an instant. The "Militant Division" is the cornerstone of the NoN's hostile environment entity. These Divisions are manned by the NoN's most ruthless, cunning and dangerous Militants, the Elite Cadre. 250 to 1000 of those NoN soldiers who prove themselves again and again to be a cut above the rest create this fearsome component of the new Brotherhood's war machine. A Division can be utilized with only its Elite Cadre members, serving as a "Black Ops" or "Special Forces", however a formal Militant Division includes 0 to 20 Militant Squads - accompanying each individual Militant Squad in its escort of the Elite Cadre is their own 0 - 10 Militant Cell retinues. Only an Elite Cadre Commander may lead a Militant Division, however, Highly Decorated Commanders not of the Elite Cadre have been known to lead in a time of crisis, most being a Heavy Infantry Commander.

Using the above components, a Militant Cabal is made of 10 Militant Divisions and a Militant Contingent is made of 10 Militant Cabals. Only the most qualified, battle-proven commanders can even hope to lead one of these battle groups...

The obvious "Exponential" aspect of this Hierarchy grants the boon of almost always having a competent, knowledgeable and fully-qualified leader at the Brotherhoods beck and call should the horrors of war claim a commanding officer's life. Having a strict military chain of command has been vital in ensuring that each and every soul knows their place within battle.

The Nation of Nod is fully confident in its military citizenry. These men and (rarely) women are guardians of the NoN's peoples and are model soldiers and followers of the teachings of Nod. They are respected and held in high regard for their battlefield prowess and loyalty to their Nation and Brotherhood. Undeniably, they are the enforcers of the doctrines, ideologies, laws and foreign policies of the NoN, carrying their Battle Standards forward to wherever peace and their fellow brethren may be threatened.

The transformation from lowly peasant militia to fully functional and motivated armed force is one that is readily apparent to any who oppose the Nation of Nod...

Edited September 13, 2010 by Executive Minister

[Executive Minister]

OOC: The NDII 'Hunter' Light Reconnaissance/Fast-Attack Vehicle

IC:

Excerpt from "The Great Divide: The Differences Between BoN and NoN Armour and Military Doctrines"

...during the tumultuous early years of the Nation of Nod's formation, its armed militants relied on the same Technicals used by lesser and unscrupulous militant regimes in Africa to perform their patrol, reconnaissance and fast-attack and response duties...

...These improvised fighting vehicles - civilian pick-ups and vans modified with ad-hoc defence and offensive abilities originated from the NoN's neighbour, Somalia, where local warlords and other groups held the Technical with high regards, often relating the number of available vehicles under a Warlord's command to his own personal charisma, power, and prestige...

The lightly armed, and even lighter armoured Technical served as the humble workhorse for the NoN's Mechanized Infantry Divisions

... as the Executive Minister and the citizens under him wanted that same status and capability, a new, domestically produced and standardized vehicle would be required. The fledgling Nation of Nod would need to combat rogue elements such as pirates and bandits within its rightful sphere of influence with a vehicle that was light, fast, and adequately armed and armoured...

Soon, scattered reports of a new, bizarre-looking vehicle patrolling the NoN's streets and surrounding country side reached the various pirate militia leaders and bandit Warlords... the vehicle was actively persuing their raiding parties, the report said, and severely outclassed any attempts to engage the new assailants. It became readily apparent that the hunters had become the hunted...

The Hunter is designed with high-speed, mobility and relative offensive capability while simultaneously boasting high modularity, survivability and flexibility.

The NDII 'Hunter' Light Reconnaissance/Fast-Attack Vehicle was designed specifically for the hostile combat environments the NoN jurisdiction contained - the narrow streets, wide-open plains, deserts, plateaus, hills and mountains of Ethiopia. A newly minted 'Hunter' came with a wide variety of built-in defence mechanisms against hostile environments.

The Hunter's built in monocoque reinforced steel/aluminum alloy v-hull provides protection against small arms fire, artillery shell shrapnel, anti-personnel/tank mines and IEDs, explosive weapons that usually spell the end for similar vehicles. Wheel arches are also designed to be blown away to free blast forces and their damaging overpressure.

The Hunter and its innate modular design formed a common platform - adaptable for various roles and mission requirements including: Armoured Personnel Carrier, Anti-tank Launch Platform, Advanced-Position Reconnaisssance, Ground Surveillance Radar, AWDLS network hub, Armoured Ambulance, Fast-Attack, Combat Engineer and Armoured Command Post.

...depending on mission parameters, the Hunter's turret can house a standard 'Torrent' 9.55 mm machine gun, .50 caliber 'Knee Capper' machine gun, 20 mm light autocannon, 'Stabber' Guided Anti-tank/helicopter missile launcher or mobile Spangle SAM site....indeed, although deemed a reconnaissance vehicle, is at best an understatement; the 'Hunter' is fully capable of both offensive and defensive capabilities. All of these turreted weapons may be traditionally manned by a gunner. With the proper modifications, however, the weapons can become fully automated under a weapons control officer residing within the vehicle's superstructure.

The Hunter is undeniably the workhorse of light ground infantry vehicles, and is adaptable to almost any role and situation and is arguably the most customizable vehicle in the Militia's fleet. It is fast - able to reach top speeds of 78 MPH and more importantly, swing around rapidly to allow a gunner a better angle on a prospective target. Its unparalleled manueverability makes it an impervious scout, transport and fast-attack platform, able to make a smooth getaway or a rapid striking infiltration.

The Hunter GSR, AWDLS system hub, Fast-Attack, Combat Engineer, Anti-aircraft (20 mm) and SAM platform variants

The most useful feature of the 'Hunter', however, is its standard Active Weapon Discharge Locating System or AWDLS. While more specialized variants of the Hunter have a much more sensitive and thus effective system granted to them, all other variants have the same basic premise.

The unit is located near the rear of the vehicle and uses an array of specially placed microphone sensors. These sensors are tasked with detecting and measuring both the muzzle blast and supersonic shock wave from a speeding bullet as it flies through the air above the speed of sound, as most enemy ordinance does. Each sensor picks up the sound waves at slightly different times - using sophisticated algorithms, the system can compute with relative accuracy the direction the bullet is coming from, how high it is above the ground and how far way its source (the shooter) is from the protected Hunter in less than a second.

The crew of a protected vehicle is simultaneously alerted by visual and auditory stimulous from the onboard system. For example, if an enemy sniper fires at the Hunter's window from the right, the system will say "Shot, 3 o'clock" followed by the enemy's range, elevation and azimuth, in the voice of a well known celebrity chosen by the vehicles crew, while also lighting up an LED at the 3 o'clock position on the vehicles dashboard with the relevant information.

The system works in extreme weather conditions, open fields, and urban environments, where the system is arguably the most valuable. The sensory array is tuned to work while the Hunter is static or moving. Manufacturers have stated that false shot detection are less than one per thousand hours of system operation at vehicular speeds under 50 mph. Thus, Hunter crews have developed a grim sense of expectation regarding the system. As one operator put it:

"Once you hear the fat lady sing, you better put the pedal to the metal unless you want your show to be over!"

In addition to these boons, the system has been calibrated to detect incoming mortar, ATGM and aerial fire. Entire strafe runs have been avoided thanks to the AWDLS, as evidenced in the recent East African War - several potential losses of entire convoys were averted or significantly lessened thanks to the early warning advanced variants of the system provided. The Hunter has become a staple for convoy and VIP escort duties.

The Hunter unfortunately has several inherent limitations, however. Being the light vehicle that it is, the Hunter is extremely vulnerable to any High-Explosive or extremely concentrated enemy fire. Dedicated Anti-tank weapons will surely destroy or at least critically disable the transport, albeit survival rates of the Hunter against grenade-based weapons are significantly higher than the standard HMMWV.

The Hunter is a huge, unwieldy, difficult to steer vehicle – until a user learns how to drive it properly. With proper application of the hand, or “e-brake” the vehicle can actually turn on a dime. Massive disc brakes and its automatic braking systems, allow the vehicle to come to a near immediate, but controlled stop should the driver be ejected, or choose to leave the vehicle. However, improper use has shown the Hunter's inherent tendency to roll over or "fish-tail" should the driver be careless in his travel routes and turning speeds. The oversized shock absorbancy systems and suspension renders the hunter slightly top heavy. Several peace time deaths have been attributed to driving the Hunter while highly intoxicated.

Nevertheless, the NDII Hunter continues to fulfill its given codename. Rogue sand pirates and bandits are no longer safe within the confines of Ethiopia's dunes, villages or forests. If fired upon, the Hunter WILL find you and claim your hide for the Brotherhood.

Edited January 14, 2010 by Executive Minister

[Executive Minister]

OOC: Finally John Michaelson's epic continued!!!!!

IC:

...we didn't know at that time that we were living in what is now called the Pre-Split Era... for all I knew, the Brotherhood was going strong as always, it was going to stay united forever I foolishly thought. Years of training and being told this settles in eventually... soon, everyone believes everything thrown at them, no matter how repetitive or absurd the news may be.

Suddenly, on a fateful day at camp, Konig summoned me to his private chambers.

I walked down that same corridor that years I ago I was dragged down. Opening the door to Konig's Office, expecting the darkened room with the naked bulb and stool, I instead saw a desk, a chair and light. Adorning the walls were various was trophies and other memorabilia. I saw the Ethiopian Standard, given to those who served during the Ethiopian Wars, the Serbian Brand, given to those who served as Kane's Bodyguards. Of particular note, I saw a placard containing Several Legions of Merit, the highest honour bestowable upon a military man of the Brotherhood.

Walking briskly across the room, I stood at attention infront of Konig, seated at the desk.

"Sir? What do you wish from me?"

"Son, be seated... I need to have a talk with you..."

I did what I was told, and soon was only a meter or so away from the man I used to hate, but slowly came to respect and admire.

Konig sighed as he continued, "John... as always, your cell has proven itself to be quite capable - it is remarkable that not a single one of your subordinates has failed their PETs and none have challenged your leadership..." his voice trailing as he stopped his speech.

Konig smiled and nodded his head, as if assuring himself of something before going on, "by this time, you should have already been challenged... Don't get me wrong, you've performed your duties admirably and your combat abilities are amongst some of the highest calibre Elite Cadre I've ever trained."

I was taken aback by Konig's kindness and strange behavior, but nevertheless I remained silent.

"Why have none of your men challenged you yet? In the NoN military, only the fittest and most lethal survive to hold positions of power... you are not the best in your cell, yet they tolerate your leadership!"

Ignoring the slight, I answered, "Sir, perhaps they haven't found the right moment yet?"

"No, no no no no," Konig shook his head. Leaning forwards and pointing a finger at my chest he said,

"Your men trust you with their lives... they do not challenge you because they believe under your command that all of them will survive anything thrown at them... the believe that you will not throw away their lives unless absolutely necessary, unlike other NoN commanders... I have always suspected this....remember that march through the Ethiopian desert? When your men foolishly tried to come to your aid? It was at that moment I was sure this was the case!"

Leaning back, he uttered yet another sigh - it was funny, Konig had become soft, sighing like a lovesick school girl.

"I'm sorry, but they have been sadly mistaken... Nod's glory days are behind us. Were you aware that Kane was killed last month?"

Although not having any particular fondness for the man, my jaw dropped, I had not been told of this at all!

"I thought so," Konig whispered. Speaking up he said, "The Brotherhood is in shambles... the Nod media has been heavily censored, no one knows what to expect... mark my words, Kane's death will spill more than just his blood!"

Turning his back to me Konig flipped a switch on his desk. As his personal media viewing screen dropped into place, I could see that this wasn't the normal State run media outlet. Being the high ranking individual Konig was, I was being shown raw, unadulterated footage.

"We have a situation on the ground," the Executive Minister was shown to be standing infront of the usual Armoured audience, however there was not loud and brash adulations coming from the men, but a restless fervor, "... that is revolving rather quickly. Kane is dead, and we are going to have to act, if we want to live in a better world..."

At this, the crowd's murmuring reached a cresendo. As the Executive Minister pleaded for silence, a lone man stepped out from the crowd.

"Liar! You can't kill the messiah!" the desperate man bellowed as he reached for his sidearm, his intentions clear. Before the others near him could react, a single shot rang out, followed almost instantaneously by a second, louder report.

The Executive Minister was clutching at his previously thought of as ceremonial faceplate. Its resilience was fully apparent, the .400 round was lodged firmly in the armour, the giant's visor covered circular cracks. The assailant's training was true and the bullet was aimed at the space directly between his eyes.

The second shot came from one of the Minister's Elite Cadre bodyguards.

His Guardian's (Elite Cadre Weapon) barrel still smoking, the man lowered his rifle. The Guard's superior aim, reflexes and weaponry instantly neutralized the man, however it was the EM's armour that saved him, not the guard. Slightly unnerved, the man put a finger to the side of his temple, recieving an apparently urgent order and nodded in silent affirmation as he proceeded to whisk the leader to safety.

"The Executive Minister has formally ceded the Ethiopian Chapter from the Brotherhood of Nod... he has officially declared Kane posthumusly a Heretic, liar and traitor to the Brotherhood... we are now citizens of the Nation of Nod..." the voice of the always stunning Arianna Wright continuing the coverage of the speech. She looked deeper into the camera and continued.

"The Executive Minister only asks for your continuing faith in his leadership. It was HE that led us to safety and prosperity, and it will be HIM that will continue to ensure our safety in this world. The Government of the newly instated Nation of Nod is asking all her faithful citizens to report any and all Anarchist, Anti-government and Pro-Kane developments immediately to the National Policing Bureau or NPB. These people are our enemies and only seek to bring ruin and chaos to our paradise. Round the clock patro..."

Promptly shutting the monitor off, Konig swivelled his chair back to face me.

"While you have been training, blissfully unaware, a brutal civil war has engulfed Ethiopia... Your father is leading the Separatist movement under the Executive Minister. Although we," Konig stressed the 'we' heavily, "have been almost completely successful in the uprisings, there is still a strong Kane loyalist base in the fringes of our nation..."

I was totally taken aback... Konig's words were absurd. My head was reeling from all of this information being shoved at me at once.

"Sir, I flatly refuse to believe what you are telling me," I thought that this was perhaps a test of sorts, to prove my loyalty to Kane.

"My father is a devout servant to Kane, as am I... Again, with all due respect I urge you to stop this talk at once! I rather enjoy being under your command, you are an extremely capable instructor..." I lied straight through my teeth regarding my loyalty to Kane, although I was surprised my father had become a Separatist.

"Son, you're lying through your teeth and you know it..." as if reading my mind, " this is not a loyalty test John... your year is fully combat certified... You are the last Cell Leader to be asked to pledge allegiance to your Country, not a madman that is already dead! See reason and stop your facade!"

I paused, not knowing what to say...still unsure about Konig's truthfulness.

"You will be under the command of the Separatist forces whether you like it or not. Your Cell will be attached to the 21st Militant Cabal... If i am wrong, which I pray I am not, you will be summarily executed if you show any signs of hindering this revolution... you are dismissed."

Turning his chair around, Konig put his back to me. Still reeling from the previous statements, the thought of actually being deployed to a combat zone sailed straight over my head.... it was not until I retired to bed with the rest of my Cell did I ponder Konig's last words...

OOC: To be continued...

Edited January 14, 2010 by Executive Minister

[Executive Minister]

IC:

... my Cell was a small part of the larger 21st... a day after Konig's announcement, all of my year's graduates were ordered to assemble before the armory in the courtyard, where we would receive our equipment, Heavy Infantry Combat Armour-Carapace systems and weapons. My cell was to be promoted to a Heavy Infantry Squad!

Konig stood at the forefront, chest swelled out infront of him like a proud rooster overlooking his chicks... in small increments, we formed an ordered line, recieving in pairs our equipment, role, and rank.

"Adobei, private, rifleman, congratulations son!" Konig said passing an NMI Sentinel and other gear to one of my Squadmates.

"Oshibutu, Private 1st Class, Designated Marksman!" Oshibutu recieved his equipment and the large NMI Perforator Sniper rifle in silence and walked totally upright to the line of men already equipped where he would be suited up in the armour by one of the various attendants present.

"Browning, you'll be second in command to Michaelson! Heavy Anti-Tank Support!" Kevin was joyous, as he recieved his 'Stabber' Anti-tank/helicopter Missile launcher and NMI Piercer PDW.

"Michaelson!" Konig said my name with obvious praise, "Heavy Infantry Sgt! Lead your men well!" Konig handed me my armour and NMI Guardian Assault Rifle. As I walked over and proceeded to get suited up, I looked at the strange looking weapon.

It appeared to be a regular NMI Sentinel, however there was much shrouding about the frame, making the weapon look like it was stamped out of one whole piece. Like the NMI Ripper, there was a Digital Ammunition Display and underslung 40 mm launcher...

"Like it?" Konig had stolled up behind me, delegating the equipment handling to Romano the Weaponsmith.

"Top of the line, fires the same SAP-HE 9.55 mm rounds as the Sentinel with a supremely reduced recoil...issued only to commanders!" walking away, Konig stopped as a messenger hurriedly rushed towards him. After a hushed dialogue the man left, Konig looking slightly distressed before addressing the congregation of graduates.

"After you are suited up and fitted, retire to your barracks! You will be permitted to leave and reunite with your family members before you are immediately sent to the frontlines!"

A great murmur over took the graduates, stifling the previous jubilation...

[...]

Entering the final elevator to the surface, Kevin, Oshibutu and I mused on what we had heard previously...

"Frontlines...jeeze! To think that a number of years ago we were greenhorns!" Kevin mused out loud.

"Indeed," Oshibutu answered, "these are trying times..."

"Guys," I wanted to stop their deary conversation at once, my focus was on something else, "this'll be the last time we're civilians and I intend to fully enjoy it!"

[...]

My mother rushed over to me as the three of us split up to meet with our respective families. In a mirror of that first day she greeted me farewell, my mother was again a mass of sobs, hugs and kisses. After several minutes of enduring my mother's heart aches and joy at being reunited with her only child, my father stepped behind a marble pillar, flanked on both sides by Elite Cadre bodyguards. Their armour was ornate, Eagles embossed on their shoulderpads...these were the elite bodyguards and protectors of the newly formed Nation of Nod I later learned.

"Son, you've made it... I'm proud of you"

My chest bursted with pride at this exclamation of fatherhood. Finally, at long last!

"Do you still have my present?" my father was referring to the sidearm he gave me a long time ago.

"Yes sir! It has never left my side, sir!"

"At ease Sergeant," my father said with warmth, "call me father..." he whispered, his voice straining.

"Son, I want you to know that what ever happens to me," he said, eyes welling up, "I love you and have always loved you. Take care of your mother if I cannot..."

Moving forwards, my father embraced me at long last...I was shocked at this display of emotion. Sad to say I did not know how to react to this. Hugging my father felt so strange and alien...but nevertheless, we embraced.

Suddenly, my father looked to his left, a figure was waiting nearby.

"Son, someone else is here to see you" he said with a wink, before dragging my mother away despite her fervent protests. That was the last time I ever spoke to them again...

Ashley stepped forwards and stood there. She was beautiful, her pale skin and willowy appearance stunned me.... she had an ethereal look to her, and her white uniform contrasted sharply with my black formal attire and armour.

"My, you've grown..." she said, with the air of awkwardness I had grown accustomed to know and love.

"So have you..." I said as I held her fragile hand and the two of us walked away.

[...]

The alarm clock rang. I jumped out of bed with a start, Ashley remained still beside me in her gown.

I hurriedly brushed my teeth and started to organize my uniform and armour that lay strewn about the bed. What a struggle that was the night before!

Slowly opening her eyes, Ashley spoke in her airy and whispy voice, "Here, let me help you with that..."

Soon I was fully dressed and prepared to head back to base. We were going to be shipped off soon, and were to undergoe a final "once over" by the suits higher up in the chain of command and link up with the leader of the 21st...

[...]

The entire square of the training ground was restless as the armoured graduates that composed the several Militant Squads accompanying the 21st Militant Cabal assembled. Konig was once again at the helm, beside him were several officers and guards accompanying them.

Speaking up, a rather seedy looking individual stood beside Konig, "You lot are the newest indoctrinees to the Nation of Nod's armed forces! You will be tasked at destroying the righteous crusade of our fellow Kane Loyalists!"

Several murmurs resounded from the formation of graduates, I turned to Oshibutu and Kevin and said, "What the hell did he say?"

Konig looked equally surprised. With eyes wide open he turned and stared at the official even as two armed Elite Cadre moved behind him, towards his exposed back.

"Here, let us give you a warm welcome to Kane's 21st!" the man yelled as the guards previously at attention moved into a combat stance, leveled their weapons at the assembly and opened fire!

"TAKE COVER!!!" I yelled, pushing Kevin and Oshibutu towards the sidelines as bullets whizzed past and impacted several of my fellow graduates... we were helpless against the infiltrators as our weapons were still in lock-up.

"Adobei NOOOOOOO!" I cried as several rounds impacted my friend's skull, red mist billowing out of the wounds.

The congregation became a mob as several men dashed to the sides, taking cover. Several more attempted to charge the line of assassins, only to be felled by automatic fire.

"Knives!!!!" Kevin yelled to the now raging mob of graduates. Konig had been wise to teach us knife fighting. Even as the assailants continued their automatic barrage, the majority of graduates had reached cover, flocks of thrown blades whizzing through the air, several impacting the armoured men, some with deadly effect.

Reaching to my holster, I removed the pistol my father had given me. With a loud roar I bellowed, "DIE LOYALIST SCUM!" as I stepped out from behind a pillar, firing the specially designed armour-piercing .400 slugs. I was the only one who had a gun!

"Aaaauggggh!" Konig roared, blood visible from his uniform. Lying on the ground in a pool of blood, he wrapped his legs around a nearby man's ankles, bringing him down before delivering a powerful strike to the back of his spinal cord.

Grabbing the man's weapon, he pressed a catch on the side of the rifle's stock, a wickedly curved blade flashing amongst the muzzle flashes.

Several of the men surrounded Konig, and attempted to subdue him, no doubt for propaganda purposes... televised executions were the norm amongst our people. Konig was a blur of strikes, kicks, punches and slashes as he felled several of his wannabe captors.

Taken up by Konig's ferocity I roared to my squad, "CHARGE! THEY ONLY HAVE SO MANY ROUNDS BEFORE THEY RUN EMPTY! THEY CAN'T KILL US ALL!"

Before the vengeful mob I created reached the front, several tracers streamed from above, riddling the assassins with bullets... looking up a saw the Ornate armour of Elite Cadre troopers. The real 21st had arrived!

In a pile of bodies and wriggling men, Konig emerged unharmed by the barrage, the Elite Cadre's aim unmatchable. Walking towards me, he spat on the official, who was coughing up blood.

Several more of the 100-strong Cabal emerged from side exits, surrounding the dead and dying men. Several recruits were still alive on the ground, and were rushed to medical services, although many men died in the attempted slaughter.

"Those !@#$%^&*!" Konig roared. "Michaelson, congratulations, they killed the 21st's real leader. You are now a Heavy Infantry Commander!"

As Konig spoke, several bangs were heard behind him. Looking over his shoulder I saw an Elite Cadre walk up to each body, writhing in pain or not and fired single rounds into each of their heads, taking no prisoners....

OOC: To be continued...

Expect me to edit this frequently...it was a speed run

Edited August 16, 2009 by Executive Minister

[Executive Minister]

OOC: I'm going to start posting snippets in this thread again. My Omega Imperium thread has taught me it is impossible to complete a factbook that does not completely consist of copy pasta and filler from start to finish, without getting extremely bored first. All of the exciting/interesting stuff tends to end up at the ends of said factbooks, and I don't want to slog through the annoying parts before i get to them.

Also, OOC is welcome as usual. Better to air out any grievances about an article here than in the full blown factbook when it gets created

Edited February 26, 2010 by Executive Minister

[Executive Minister]

An excerpt from "[i]The Technology of Peace: Nod Military Industries (NMI)[/i]"

[quote]The Nation of Nod, our sole proprietor, is not a neutral nation. Indeed, at times it acts with a wanton recklessness, or an infuriating complacency when regarding the sometimes obscure goals of its de facto leader, the Executive Minister. Such a demeanor is for both good and ill upon the world stage- while many have come to a semblance of admiration for our nation's free spirit, unconstrained by international politics, many more wish to see us burned and trampled beneath our own hubris.

Who can save us from such a plight? It is out of necessity and a fervent desire to retain our unique cultural and societal characteristics that the national military or rather, the [i]Militancy[/i] as it is widely known enjoys its position within the upper class of society. Often times, it is placed upon us, Nod Military Industries, to reinforce that position with our wide array of high quality products...

... the most striking part of a member of the Militant order of the Nation of Nod is his Battle Dress Uniform. Not only does his BDU protect him from the elements, the enemy and often times, himself, but it also reflects his stature within the hierarchy of the Nodic Militancy and as a result, his 'worth' within our society.

The TACtical ARMour Ballistic Combat System or TACARM BCS is the cornerstone of the hostile environment personal protection for each and every Nodic warrior. Be him a lowly Light Infantry man, the workhorse Heavy Infantry or a member of the prestigious Elite Cadre, this system has been implemented in some form or another- often times serving as the main basis from which his signature armor is derived.

[center][img]http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww106/mofailla/MarineArmoredUniform.jpg?t=1279825763[/img]
[i]The TACARM BCS system in its pure form- standard configuration for the Nodic Militancy's Light Infantry pre-modernization era[/i]
[left]
Consisting of ubiquitous armor plating in strategic areas over standard Nodic Combat Utilities (fatigues) the TACARM BCS also incorporates a high level of modularity. An individual soldier, barring any restrictions from commanding officers, may choose to wear certain elements of the BCS separately. Care is often given, however, to ensure that such choices do not result in an overt deviance from members of his unit- blatant attempts of individualism are shunned if not punished severely.

The BCS consists of armor plating on the Head, Shoulders, Torso, Thighs, Shins, Forearms and Feet. Care is given to ensure that the high protective collar is inherent in every possible incarnation of the BCS, as it serves as a reliable neck protection and anti-whiplash mechanism. The armor pieces themselves share the same unique design. They consist of several layers of titanium-ceramic composite- some of which include a ballistic recoil-dampening gel layer and head reduction gel layer to reduce the velocity and shock felt from ballistics, shrapnel and explosives.

Embedded within the armor itself is a miniature temperature regulation unit designed to keep the wearer at optimum exertion levels while lessening the need to change dress depending on the combat environment. This system has the primary function of protecting the wearer from heat-induced fatigue while also incidentally reducing the enemy's ability to track an individual wearer via thermal energy as it greatly reduces perceived body heat under the plates.

The BCS has closed cell foam in both the shoulders and upper torso regions to relieve load stress on the operator's back and shoulders. Quick release mechanisms are present on most elements of the BCS allowing for quick adjustments and modifications as loads, clothing or positions from walking to sitting in a vehicle change. Such mechanisms are also adjustable to allow for Chemical-Biological-Radiological-Nuclear (CBRN) suits to be worn underneath.

Older versions of the TACARM BCS, previously identifiable with the reserve forces and the Light Infantry, incorporated a primitive version of the Cranial Protection Suite (CPS) then only identified with the Heavy Infantry and Elite Cadre. This reduced capacity version of the CPS consisted of a reinforced ballistic helmet, tactical eyepiece, helmet recorder and microphone. This system created a basic Heads Up Display (HUD) incomparable to the more advanced versions of the higher tiered infantry with built in Friend-or-Foe (FoF) identification system, wireless communications, realtime data uploading (downloading is not present in this primitive system) and an Executive Ministry approved relgious scripture and audio entertainment data base. Coupled with the CBRN capabilities outlined earlier, Gas Masks may be worn as a standalone element or worn in conjunction with a sealed suit to fully protect the wearer from unconventional attacks...

The TACtical ARMour CArapace System or TACARM (CAS) is the natural progression of the forerunning TACARM BCS currently in use with the Nodic Light Infantry. A notable improvement in almost every conceivable way from the BCS, the Armor Carapace system builds upon the BCS' emphasis on personal protection whilst cementing the wearer's role in Nodic Society.

[center][img]http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww106/mofailla/CNCTS_Nod_Combat_Armour.jpg?t=1279907824[/img]
[/center][center][i]The TACARM CAS was a widely displayed sight during the tumultuous 'Great Divide' era of the Nation of Nod. Notably, the CAS was associated with the Heavy Infantry during this period. Advances in Nodic capabilities reverted the CAS to the lowlier Light Infantry, as a means to bolster their already adequate war-fighting abilities

[/i][left]The most striking difference between the BCS and the CAS is the thick ballistic body glove which is integral to the CAS' improved survivability and durability under fire. The ballistic glove is a form-fitting, full bodied underarmor that supplements the Carapace plating purposefully molded from the earlier BCS by dispersing the kinetic energy of oncoming projectiles in a wide space and resisting lower-velocity ricochets and blast shrapnel damage. Impregnated through out the glove's super structure is a fine layer of metallic 'ink'. The ink consists of a carrier material loaded with a soft metal, typically copper or nickel in the form of very small particulates.This ink layer produces a continuous conductive layer of metal, which is electrically grounded to the operators boots, thus providing effective shielding against electromagnetic attacks.

The glove is insulated similarly to the BCS' closed cell foam concept, adding its own temperature control unit to give the CAS an unprecedented reduced-Infrared signature, as well as comfort for the operator. The glove protects the wearer from very harsh environments as well as projectile and kinetic weapons to a limited degree whilst remaining extremely flexible. The 'whole-body' concept of the CAS completely encased the body and typically had no individually distinguishing marking outside of rank- a boon to the urban warfare operations the CAS has found itself subjected to time and time again, as enemy marksmen have difficulty in singling out high priority targets from the lowly grunt.

The Carapace plates themselves remained on the whole unchanged from the BCS apparatus, however the ceramic titanium plating was specifically molded around a users form- improving flexibility and ease of movement. The armor itself is treated with cubic Boron Nitride nanotube layering, a substance whose hardness is inferior only to diamond, yet retaining superior thermal and chemical stability. Typically used as parts of high-temperature equipment, the boron nitride is comparable to carbon nanotubing yet is infinitely easier to manufacture and produce. c-BN offers the added security of being a strong electrical insulator with a wide energy bandgap of ~5.5 eV, the same as diamond, but independent from tube chirality and morphology. The result of this overall treatment is an armor system that is resistant to chemical corrosion, electrical attacks, millimeter wave propagation and open flame. The operator may choose to wear all components of the CAS' plating, or pick and choose which elements he considers suitable to his personal needs giving the CAS a high level of modularity.

The suit is powered via a number of [url="http://www.npowerpeg.com/personalenergy/personalenergy"]kinetic energy conversion cells[/url]. Via walking, running or other various forms of movement, kinetic energy is dissipated from the body. These cells, prominent on several points of the CAS' superstructure act as a constant source of power, used to run the various routines and electronics the CPS utilizes. Lightweight and remarkably rugged, the high-strength polycarbonate framed and titanium cased cells retain a unique and adaptive control system that is fully automated, adjusting to an operators activity to capture maximum power. These cells, compact and recyclable, use lithium polymer batteries to store captured energy for long periods of time- necessary for sniper and force reconnaissance operations.

The Cranial Protection Suite, or CPS is an all encompassing protective helmet that incorporates advanced passive protection (against ballistic threats and impacts) as well as electronic assistance in a small and complete package. The CPS is essentially a clam-shell design incorporating a distinctive "coal-scuttle" shape similar to the Germanic Stahlhelm and a prominent structure starting at both sides of the head, near the mandibular notch and flowing down towards a chin guard. It is within this clam-shell that a distinctive 'T-shaped' visor, flanked by two facial guards of centimeter thick bullet resistant composite similar to the CAS' plating that cover the cheeks and facial structure of the operator. The visors' distinct profile optimizes peripheral vision and sensory awareness, not leaving the operator disadvantaged in hostile environments. In addition, the CPS incorporates a built in [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Night_vision_device#Omnibus-VII_.28GEN_III.2B_or_GEN_IV.29"]GEN III+[/url] night vision suite for low-light operations. All components of the CPS perform in all environmental conditions anywhere from -40F to 160F. Also included are advanced breathing filters which act as protection against chemical and biological attacks, as well as airborne toxins. If airborne threats designed to 'replace' local atmosphere are present, the CPS is connected to an emergency supply of oxygen, rated to last for 20 minutes.

The CPS' physical advantages over the obsolete BCS helm include superior ballistic, fragmentation and impact protection by utilizing a multi-layered approach to structural integrity. Spall liners adorn the inner most layer of the helm itself. The visor and facial guards themselves may be flipped up into the superstructure above the crown of the operators head, locking in place near the back of the head to allow the wearer to expose his face easily if necessary. A ballistic collar finalizes the CPS' structure, acting as an anti-whiplash measure as well as drawing a portion of recognizable weight, reducing head borne weight by a significant margin. As with the rest of the CAS system, the helmet is also modular- light duty operators can opt to remove the upper portion and face plate leaving only the bottommost pieces in place. Care is given with the CPS to interface with the rest of the CAS package, allowing the user to have a full range of motion, even in the prone position. A pad suspension system is utilized- the highly engineered removable pads dramatically increase and operator's comfort level via molding and conforming to the contours of the human head, also minimizing shock loads from ballistic, fragmentation and blunt trauma, dramatically reducing risk of non-ballistic injury and eliminating pressure points.

While the CAS' CPS system has formidable physical defenses, the inclusion of a personal Electronic Voice Assistant, or EVA is the greatest boon to a CAS operator. Essentially a weak and highly redundant virtual intelligence, even the V 1.001 versions of this suite incorporate some of the best personal combat aides the NoN has to offer its warriors. EVA is responsible for the built in automatic polarizing and anti-flash blinding properties of the T-visor, protecting troopers against intense glare and offering a variety of different visual spectrums to choose from including Infrared and ultraviolet. EVA also acts as a Multi-frequency targetting and Acquisition System, also helping a Light Infantry man's perception in smoked and other visually obscuring conditions. 'She', as most operators tend to choose feminine voices as the unit's human/machine control interface, also creates a multi-functioning HUD, displaying targeting reticule and weapons information.

EVA had limited capabilities in moderating a user's physical well being, detecting incoming threats (including hand held ordinance) and a means to 'communicate' with medical response personnel should the wearer be injured severely. Communications between the wearer, immediate Operations Command personnel and other wearers of the TACARM CAS are facilitated with a frequency changing transponder that also acted as a high-priority Friend-or-Foe identification and broadcast system. EVA may create visual aides upon a wearer's HUD, outlining incoming friendly support via red chevrons that are traced over topographic stimuli seen by the wearer. EVA uses the CPS' built in encoding sequences to rotate frequencies every few seconds while keeping all troopers in the unit synchronized. The communications system would not work if the helmet is removed without an operators express consent, the visor is flipped up or the EVA unit transfers into termination protocols.

If an operator is incapacitated for a set amount of time, EVA will prompt the wearer to respond and verify his combat and situational awareness. If no response is given, or if the operator wishes, EVA transcends into a final termination protocol. There, she terminates all onboard data, including operations software and communications frequency coding routines, resulting in a virtual suicide of the unit. If a helmet is not removed via the proper sequences, said termination also takes place if an all clear is not given by the wearer.

Despite all these boons the CPS employs, the most notable, and most prominent in our society is the facelessness the CPS creates. It is through this facelessness that all who look upon wearers of the CAS know that the man beneath the suit is not an individual, but one working towards our combined goal. One who dons the CAS will not attain fame or fortune, but would be remembered for his deeds, not his persona. Such is one of many reasons the Nodic Militancy is so revered by Nodic society as a whole. It is a constant reminder of the cost of freedom, individuality and security amongst a tumultous world.

While the TACCOM CAS is a formidable protective and offensive package, gaining much acclaim with its previous users, the Heavy Infantry, advances in Nodic warfighting capabilities have relgated the CAS' usage to the Light Infantry. Complaints of the ballistic glove's coverage of key joints including the back of the knee, the armpit and the region underneath the ballistic collar becoming major concerns, as the Heavy Infantry operated in close proximity to enemy forces, where they experienced the fiercest form of combat known to man- melee combat. Reports of the concessions the glove made in these key parts in the name of mobility being taken advantage by stabbing weapons were an insufferable flaw. A newer version taken from the Elite Cadre has thus taken the CAS' position in protecting the Heavy Infantry. Nevertheless, the Light Infantry have become all the more deadlier and as stalwart as ever in the face of enemy oppression. This 'hand-me-down' is nothing for an enemy to scoff at.

The TACtical ARMour Advanced Carapace Suite, TACARM (ACS) is the most advanced non-powered (able to operate for extended periods relying solely upon high-yield, yet essentially similar kinetic wave energy converter units to previous generations of the TACARM line) protection suite available to current Nodic militants. An advance of the precursor TACARM CAS, the ACS is superior to said system in every sense imaginable - with all design features taken from the CAS, made better and implemented in reverence to the (then) determined users of the ACS - the Elite Cadre.

[center][img]http://i710.photobucket.com/albums/ww106/mofailla/HeavyI.jpg?t=1297441373[/img]
[/center][i]The ACS was a formidable, and ultimately successful design - eventually propelling the Nodic Militancy to allow NMI to pursue the 'powered' strength augmentation TACARM PCA. Usage of this formerly 'elite' and 'upper tiered' system has since been reverted to the control of the Heavy Infantry, the PCA serving as the main BDU of the Elite Cadre.[/i]

Sharing an overall similar appearance to the comparatively common CAS superficially, the ACS had an operational emphasis on increased flexibility and survivability compared to its forerunner, addressing the Elite Cadre's tendency to be deployed in extreme-risk operations such as frontline shock troop duties, often involving brutal close quarters battling, paratroop operations, as well as numerous clandestine and paramilitary tasks.

A fundamental difference between the CAS and ACS was its ballistic body glove. Reports from Elite Cadre utilizing the CAS prior to the ACS' development griped concerns over the CAS' performance in close proximity to the enemy. Elite Cadre would find the (commendable for its classification as medium armor) flexibility afforded by the CAS' carapace plating to be lacking in the frantic and bloody clashes they often took part in, while the body gloves themselves offered acceptable performance, but were vulnerable to bladed piercing weapons in key locations such as the armpit, popliteal fossa (back of the knee), medial epicondyle, neck and areas where plating would overlap to allow freedom of movement.

NMI's response to these grievances was a radical change to the CAS' body glove system and plating. Much of the more prominent carapace plating would be scaled down, while the improved glove would serve to counter these reductions with the addition of an interweaving layer of Boron Carbide - much like the scales of a reptile or links in medieval chain armor. The result would be a smoother, more streamlined design that served to subtly enhance the visual 'sex-appeal' of the armor.

Many provisions were given to the ACS in terms of the integrated weapons grafted unto its structure itself. Operators enjoyed the use of a compound armored gauntlet on favored hands - hybridization between weighted knuckle gloves, and knuckle dusters - with provisions for a doubled edged katar variant. The gauntlet itself consisted of a thinner layer of unreinforced body glove synthetic material and powdered steel sewn into compartments above the knuckles, back of the hands and fingers. This 'weighting' serves to add mass and consequently, kinetic energy to the operator's punches, back-hands and other strikes, while also distributing impact more efficiently - transferring greater concussive force to an opponent's head or other vitals. A built in handle and cross brace housing is located above the back-hand, with a quick-projection system to emit a six-inch long blade resembling the south asian 'katara' push dagger. A double-edged blade, this weapon is used naturally with the punching motions of the user. A kevlar lining protects against laceration damage to the operator should the blade fail. Some variants have forked blades opposed to the single piece standard, in which case there may be two or three blades mounted on the projector, the blades are movable, allowing users to penetrate a victim with a single blade and then trigger a mechanism which causes the blade to split, causing formidable internal injuries. Defensively, the gauntlet protects the wearer from common hand injuries as a result of unarmed combat. Properly executed strikes with the gauntlet have been demonstrated to punch through glass or concrete without injury or pain.
[/left][/center]
The Cranial Protection Suite (CPS) of the ACS has further been improved with an advanced version of the EVA system capable of download capability over the Nodic battle net, citing the elevated nature of the Elite Cadre. This allows the wearer of the ACS to properly designate tactical aid on the battlefield, while also seeing it coming. Available aid is listed on the operator's HUD, where it can be selected and 'placed' upon a topographical display of the immediate area - similar to the TERCOM system utilized by Nodic long-range guided munitions. There, a red reticule is displayed, simulating the co-ordinates automatically given by the EVA unit to Tactical Command- accurate to 10 meters. The reticule also serves are a tertiary 'blast-area warning', the diameter roughly coinciding with the requested support's effective radius. Common sense and training have been stressed by the Nodic Militancy when judging the minimum safe distance required by the operator and adjacent friendly forces to ensure safety and minimizing unintended collateral damage.

Additional improvements to the ACS' CPS include a comprehensive medical treatment and diagnostic upgrade to the EVA. This system enables EVA to detect when an operator is 'salvagably incapacitated to a certain degree', where it will initiate a lockdown system used to stabilize wounded soldiers and prevent misfires on weaponry. The suit begins pumping narcotics that pertain to the current situation - anything from synthesized adrenaline to stimulate operational performance under duress to sedatives to immediately calm or immobilize wounded warriors.[/left][/center][/quote][center][left]

OOC: To clear up any mix ups. Currently, no one uses the BCS any more, as it is the forerunner to the three armors my three infantry classes use. The CAS is what the Light Infantry currently use and is thus the most commonly seen, I still have the Advanced Carapace Suite (ACS) used by the Heavy Infantry and the unnamed power armor i posted in the GM thread for my Elite Cadre to write up.

EDIT: The BCS is complete as is the CAS. I will start the ACS soon. Finally, the TACtical ARMor Powered Combat Apparatus, the most advanced package i have will come soon after that.
[/left] [/center]

Edited February 11, 2011 by Executive Minister