Andy and Rob took the hint, and borrowed the Jeep to go have a look at the sniper team's position. Rob had set it up and a police marksman was riding shepherd so there wasn't much worry of anything going wrong. They were driven out in a Jeep, then dropped off several deserted blocks away to make their way on foot, unnoticed.

The OP overwatching the Arthur Lang bridge was on top of a 20 story building pretty much at the foot. Most floors was a luxury hotel, the Airport Plaza, but there was an Environment Canada weather station on the roof. The office portion was undamage and unlooted, for obvious reasons, and the team had set up in relative comfort behind intact smoked glass overlooking the bridge/checkpoint and the Airport.

Fox and Mac decided to do some maintenance on the LAV, as this was the first combat test the Lovin' Spoonful had received since being thoroughly overhauled.

At the team billet, Belanger continued the discussion about upcoming plans with whoever wanted to continue.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:52, Mon 25 Oct 2010.

Like usual, Kelsey was optimistic and hopeful that some kind of negotiated settlement could be reached. "I have a friend in there, he works the radio for the Bridge Trolls. I think he could help us make contact, maybe even see if there are any dissidents willing to take over if this Basil guy doesn't want to talk."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg #2):

"I would like to think that's possible. The problem is, we don't have time to wait them out, and we don't have the manpower to seal off the island for an extended period if we did. From what your friend said about this Basil, he has no or little potential allegiance to us, and in fact probably sympathises with the Angles. They certainly seem to want to forge some kind of alliance against us."

Belanger looked unhappy with the options, as he also preferred a miniumum of bloodshed.

"Taras, you said you have some kind of contingency? I think we need to hear about that. Kwan is likely to authorise some kind offensive action, as long as there are no other options and it can be done with a minimum of force. If possible" His expression said he didn't think that may be too realistic. "You know how politicians are."

First things first, Fox started cleaning and servicing the main weapon while Mac looked at the Co-Ax.

"Mac, what do you say we have a look at that recoilless next? Seems like a nice little weapon. Hats off to the HAs or whoever managed to score that baby."
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:51, Mon 25 Oct 2010.

Mac nodded as he pulled the C6 out of the mantlet.

"There's HEAT rounds there, anti-armour. A little heavy for bandits, eh? Wonder if they were expecting us?"

Sitting with Belanger, Tars and Kelsey, enjoying a cup of coffee, Rachel checked her watch.

"Well, the prisoners should be in lockup by now, the ones not in the hospital. I'm going to go over and assist in the interrogation of the two who were conscious."

"If it comes to it, I would be glad to conduct any negotiations on behalf of UBC."

See you guys later! Dinner?"

She picked up her hat, and departed.

Kelsey beamed at her. "Yeah, dinner would be great! We'll meet the rest of the team at the cafeteria, sure thing."

A contingency indeed...infiltration, decapitation of leadership and comms, river crossing and final assault with physical occupation of the airport. If anybody remembers Kabul '79, that's the idea. Bloodshed? Well, "you cannot make omelette without breaking some eggs..."

Used by Lenin regarding the killing of thousands of Russian citizens during his push to produce a better, more wonderful Communist state the proverb was used ironically by Sgt Taras as most of Soviet Union citizens most often did.  When somebody proposes a dubious course of action, justifying it with the claim that the end justifies the means, an onlooker might dryly observe, "You can't make an omelet without breaking eggs". A bold action against a well defernded objective will be more than likely to translate into casualties.

"So you're talking about some kind of Commando raid," interjected Seth in response to Taras, "to take out the Bridge Tolls leadership?  Would it be worth doing that and then waiting to see what happens to the rest of them?  They might well collapse as an organisation once their leadership is dead.  Probably best to have the full assualt lined up and ready to go but if the decapitation is successful then it might be best to offer them the chance of surrender before launching it.  There might well be some good people on the island that are worth recruiting once they know which way the wind's blowing!"

Keith smiles, "I'm up for a commando raid!"

The centre of gravity of the Billy Goats turns around the Control Tower. This provides an outstanding observatory post and alert centre from where reaction forces are dispatched if intruders are detected on the island. To take this Command and Control facility is imperative. Since we do not have an Air Assualt capability to quickly take them out and we have to rely instead on slower moving mechanized forces we have to make a surgical removal using long range, precise artillery. Here is where Capt. Bezhov and his SA-8 Air Defense combat vehicle will make an impact. The starting point will be the destruction of the Control Tower with those missiles that apppeared to be able to be targeted with radar and and electro-optic system. Upon consultation, Capt. Bezhov feels confident about this task.

Taras already thought of many other ways to destroy the Control Tower but only through sheer application of seriously precise and powerful firepower couyld be achieved.

Then we will conduct a river crossing, my military specialty in the Red Army as a Combat Engineer, the purpose will be to move combat power in the fporm of a re-inforced mechanized platoon consisting in:

- 1 LAV III with crew and 6 troopers.
- 1 BMP-2 with crew and 6 troopers.
- 1 BTR-70 with crew and 8 troopers.
- 1 "technical" in the form of a SUV with a .50 cal HMG and a crew of at least four.
- 1 "technical" in the form of a SUV with a Mk-19 and a crew of at least four.
- 2 ATV's with a crew of 2 each.

This will be followed by Comat Service Support and a follow-up force in the shape of a full company of Military Police made up fo RCMP and militia that will be tasked primarily as a reserve force during the mech. assault and then as a consolidation force once the take over the airport is complete.

Sgt. Shevchenko moved to explain on to the fire support:

I'm counting with the formation of an artillery battery under the command of Capt. Bezhov and composed by the SA-8, two Cougars armed with 76 mm guns that are currently in the North Shore militia hands and our 60 mm mortar. In PacWar style, I'd rather mass the artillery firepower and put it under the main effort rather the divide it piecemeal. Seems like the Cougars are not mobile but that does not matter much as long as they can shoot.

A lot of logistical effort would be required but Taras was a pragnatic man and knew well what could be achieved or at least expected with the contribution of professionals of the arms and enough political back up.

If this arty capacity can not be completed as such we can count with going shopping to the Hell's Angels island and get a couple of mortar tubes or whatever we can get. As I said this will be a combined arms operation and as such will be conducted

Before I run into more detail about the crossing here are some facts to matter to understand this operation:

We rely on SURPRISE, the enemy will not be expecting such an effort. When they do, it will be too late for them. We will build a deception plan as well as not to give out our location of crossing with false preps, fires, etc. I must encourage SECURITY and respect noise, cammouflage and concealment at all times. I'm expecting a decent spring weather to conduct the crossing. This will be done by snorkeling and ferry. We may be do that in low light conditions as well.

Extensive preparations will be conducted including heavy reconnoissance, maskirovka and detailed rehearsals for the units to fully understand the plan. We will be flexible with contingencies but I'd like discipline and stick to the plan. Again, I come from a heavily disciplinarian background and this type of operation is demanding enough to require certain rigidity and observance of the rules.

There will be traffic control. From the University to the Indian Reserve and from there to the river crossing shores and beyond. This will be conducted by RCMP and militia especially trained. The units taking part in the operation will be organized through command and control cells.

Finally SPEED. It is of the most importance to cross the river quickly, assemble the force and prepare the assault quickly, without losing command.

Before I go more into the detailed phases of the operation I will like to make sure that our Commander Belanger feels confident with this plan and we can count with the approval and support of the other representatives of the forces that will be required in the operation: Members of the Canadian Forces, RCMP, militia, ex Soviet combatants, survivalists, etc.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #11):

"This sounds like more than a commando raid, but if that's what's needed... To make an omelette you do have to break some eggs but let's keep in mind that we want to break as few as possible."

"I think that a strike will be necessary, and I will recommend this course to Angela so we can begin preparations immediately."

He paused a moment.

"A couple details. MacArthur has a couple of Grizzlies we can probably have ready in less than a week. Those are APCs armed with machineguns, not 76mm cannons. I don't know if that changes things.

"Second, I'm not sure we can get mortars from Annacis Island, or we'll have to work undercover so they're not aware they're selling to us. The criminals here don't like working for or with the authorities, it's probably more adversarial than you're used to in the Soviet Union. Even so, I feel that dealing with the HAs, their clients or even just black market arms dealers in general puts us in a compromising position, especially if we have to move on them later."

He considered something for a moment. "Of course, we can frame any buying of mortars as part of an "ongoing investigation", so I'll ask Khandola to look into it. On the other hand, I'll also ask the Island if we can get some tubes and ammunition through channels."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:33, Sun 31 Oct 2010.

Inspector Khandola nodded in agreement.

"It is a good idea to start gathering evidence now. The Emergencies act is very strict about black marketeering and profiteering, especially of war goods. It's time to open an investigation!"

In reply to Alain Belanger (msg #12):

Keith raised his hand when he thought it was appropriate 'not' to interupt Alain in his briefing.  "Excuse me Mr. Belanger!  If it will help the cause out sir and it would appear that you've accepted my help so the least I can do is offer up the use of my ERYX  launcher & HEAT missiles.  I've got some other stuff I don't mind sharing with the unit so if there's anyway I can help, please let me know!"

Sgt. Taras addressed the authorities. There was a clear concern about the use of force. A political risk in need to be tackled:

There is a way of avoiding unnecessary casualties...My plan is based on a North Vietnamese concept called "Blooming Lotus":  This is a tactic where the defences along the objective’s perimeter are avoided and instead fast moving units are driven into the airport centre. The critical Command & Control is attacked and destroyed. The lotus then blooms outward, defeating the perimeter defences piecemeal.

I am confident that the decapitation of the leadership and assault and occupation of the main terminal will be likely facilitate the surrender of the perimeter forces that in this case are located in the bridges. Once the centre is occupied the perimeter units are left to their own devices and nothing to defend for.

This is good for us because we don't have that many troops. So far I would be happy if we can get at least a mortar battery and a couple of boats to ferry vehicles across the river. The rest is already here

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #15):

Belanger nodded. "Okay, I can see this working. Taras, do we have a use for the Eryx?"

Who's Erick?

The ukrainian seemed to be puzzled, obviously unfamiliar with the term.

Out on the roof of the Airport Square office building*, Rob and Andy checked up on the sniper element. Everything was fine, they had the desired areas of the airport under surveillance.

http://tinyurl.com/392nzkq

Below them was the Arthur Laing Bridge, which carried Grant MacConachie Way to Sea Island, the dredged parcel of land that was the airport. On the bridge was the sandbagged position on the bridge, and a second one on the overpass above it. All foot and vehicle access via the bridge was cut off by liberal use of concertina wire attached to posts and concrete anti-vehicle blocks. There were signs warning of minefields but it was hard to see where they could be hidden on the concrete.

Off to the left was the Oak St. Bridge which crossed the North Fraser to Richmond proper. Richmond (another larger island in the river's mouth) and YVR was separated by a canal wide enough for small and medium-sized river traffic to pass.


*Incorrectly identified earlier as a hotel, the Airport Square building is actually an office tower.

The briefing seemed to be turning into a general discussion meeting rather than a formal military briefing so Seth interjected with a comment regarding something that was obviously troubling him.

"Sir," he said generically addressing Taras, Belanger and Khandola as well as anyone else present who seemed to be in charge.  "I'm new here so my apologies if I've misunderstood something but I thought that one of the key things that we wanted access to at the airport was the comms gear in the Control Tower.  The plan on the table calls for a massive destruction of the Control Tower and that's fine by me but it sounds like it's against one of our primary objectives for gaining control of the airport.  Or am I wrong?  Additionally if you need someone to go and negotiate at the HA controlled market for mortar tubes or other munitions then I'll put myself forward as a candidate for that job.  I'm new here and I don't look much like a smartly dressed soldier!"

In reply to Seth Joseph Delaney (msg #19):

"Ah, good point. There are actually two control towers. The new one was built just before the war, and they hadn't taken down the old one. We're pretty sure that the electronics on the new tower were wiped out by EMP so we're not as worried by damaging them. The old tower had been retrofitted to be a radio broadcast studio and should be suitable for our purposes. If not, we'll deal with repairs and so on."

"So we're talking about destroying the new control tower with artillery rather than the old one then?  Just to be certain!"

In reply to Seth Joseph Delaney (msg #21):

"The Gecko's SAM missiles can be visually targeted with a line-of-sight link, for use in ECM-heavy environments. The warhead is proximity-fused, it's not a HEAT round or fragmentation warhead. Exploding the warhead nearby will probably not destroy the tower. There are no windows or antennas, the electronics are shot... basically, until we rebuild it it's just an observation post."

Taras listened with interest to the exchange. He couldn't but jump-in:

I do understand that the Government might be interested in salvaging some electronics. From a military point of view, and I was a Senior Lieutenant with the 62nd Motor Rifle Division, I can say that it also constitutes the largest airport in Western Canada. The place is probably holding thousands of litres of aviation grade fuel and sits strategically at the mouth of the Fraser river and in between the cities of Vancouver and Richmond. This is a high value target as you can imagine. One that the current occupiers seem to be aware as they also have a military background. We all have seen those bunkers and even armoured vehicles covering the approaches.

The burly Ukrainian didn't have any doubt that the military people present would question his statements. It was the political aspect of the operation what troubled him most. Nonetheless he tried to pitch his sale to the provisional Government figures.

This strategic value that I'm talking about might well justify the use of "force majeure"* to regain control over.



*Force Majeure literally means "greater force". These clauses excuse a party from liability if some unforseen event beyond the control of that party prevents it from performing its obligations under the contract. Typically, force majeure clauses cover natural disasters or other "Acts of God", war, or the failure of third parties--such as suppliers and subcontractors--to perform their obligations to the contracting party. It is important to remember that force majeure clauses are intended to excuse a party only if the failure to perform could not be avoided by the exercise of due care by that party.

"It's an anti-tank weapon system Taras.  I think the Frog's make 'em, no offense to anyone of course!"

Ah! An anti tank weapon! Of course, it would be useful. In our military doctrine we stress the elimination of armor threat before the assault. Frogs? French? I know I shouldn't been so surprise but I didn't expect french weapons in Canada. The truth of the matter is that even the almighty Red Army borrowed some foreign designs as well. In Engineering units we have a Czech design improvement of a scissors bridge...

He realized that he was derailing the conversation:

Sorry! Sometimes I get carried away. The plan is something beyond a raid. It would be a true combined arms operation. Raids are usually conducted by highly trained Spetsnaz troops that we do not have at hand. Neither they use armoured vehicles or retain terrain. For the contingency plan regarding the assault we are going to need good squad leaders.

We are attacking at reinforced platoon level with 3 mounted squads, one per vehicle: LAV-III, BMP-2 and BTR. Bulat will be one of the squad leaders. Artillery support will be a mortar battery and the Gecko, of course. I'm counting with Capt. Bezhov. 2 technicals armed with heavy machine gun and grenade launcher will support the assault platoon. The sniper/recce element will ride on the quad bikes...

Further information and detailed planning will depend on approval of the operation.

Rob checks over the positions which had been set up and then asked to see the surveillance logs that the teams were supposed to keep. Mainly looking for shift changes, patrols, in and out traffic and any stops the bridge trolls had made during his absence. He also asked the men about their equipment to see if there was anything else they might need. Lastly he asked if anything odd or out of the normal had happened.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #25):

"That's good input, Seth. Although it would be nice to capture the new tower intact at this time the telecommunications equipment that is at or near ground level is more important to our efforts, and is more vulnerable in the long term to flooding if the river breaches the dykes."

"Taras, I will go ask Angela now if we can proceed on a strike option on YVR. Being a politician she may insist on trying to have it both ways: holding out hope for negotiation while at the same time having a contingency put into place. I don't think that would be the best course, but I am not discounting that may be what we have to deal with."

In reply to Robert A. Conklin (msg #26):

The ERT marksman briefed Andy and Rob when they met then on the top of the Airport Square building.

"We have logged the Troll patrol and shift change patterns. There was one "toll" stop of a fishing boat, out of New Westminster. There's a section (squad) total manning both of the two sentry posts on the bridge and overpass above. There's a couple more Trolls that are manning the "customs" dock in the river itself under the Arthur Lang bridge, just a basic wood platform with barrel floats and a plank walkway out. There's an M113 parked on the bridge, too."


OOC: Information on YVR and map link is posted to Reference Information thread.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:55, Thu 04 Nov 2010.

Going off, Belanger made a call to Kwan, and quickly returned with an answer.

"She doesn't like it, but she agrees that a strike may be our best shot. Go ahead with planning, Taras. She may decide later to go with a negotiated settlement but that's something we can discuss tonight."

Taras nodded to Belanger:

Very well. I'll put my papers in order and we can have a briefing regarding the operation after dinner. I would rather have a peaceful resolution but we have to have options.

Perhaps I don't have a clear picture of the Government intentions. If the idea is just to recover a bunch of electronics I say sit and wait for the whole Island to dissapear. The Bridget Rolls will jump ship like rats on a sinking boat and, later on, a motor boat can go and pick up the electronics. After all they are sitting 60 meters above the surface!

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #31):

"No, it's not really the radars and radios we're worried about but telecommunications... telephone switching and routing equipment. That's all at ground level, and it will be destroyed if YVR floods, which it very well could."

A telephone exchange? Is that all?

The look was suspicious. Perhaps the civvy Government knew something. Or was sheer madness by the politicians as usual.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #33):

Belanger returned the look with a smile. "No, not all. Our priority is restoring communications for the city. So telecommunications is most important at the moment, and it's a big job. The radars and radios are higher up so they're not vulnerable."

"Taras, you mentioned something about having a plan for controlling or influencing the electromagnetic spectrum when it comes to the airport? Care to elaborate?

"Also, my friend wants to make contact tonight over the radio. We should be ready for that, too."

We have an Electronic Warfare capability that we must use to our advantage. We did that before and was a terrific force multiplier. Remember our little van.

The urban edifications in the downtown area gave us some trouble with proper triangulation and line of sight. For the airport it should be that difficult. The whole place is seating on a very flat island. It should not be difficult to listen to their frequencies since they use military equipment. I believe the prick/ series? In that matter we can reach your contact at the bridge.

Taras was losing faith about a full military operation to just recover communication equipment that could be there and in which shape or...not.

The contingency plan is sound but it involves a good deal of force and the ultimate goal is the entire control of the airport as an strategic asset and not only retrieving telephone stuff. In any case we can start setting up an ELINT station of that building under recce by the sniper team as early as tomorrow.

Taras turned to Kelsey. She was the real expert.

Kelsey. We need an inventory of the electronic equipment that we have available for the airport mission. I would like to have a briefing including capabilities, size and power requirements. With that information we can commit a technical and security element to man the station.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #36):

"Aye, Taras. I'll do that right away. You'll know tonight. Anything else?"

Nah...That's just the first step. As usual, build up intel on the airport guys and be able to open a channel of communications with them if possible.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #38):

"Fine, I'll get you that list. Plus, I'll be able to contact my friend tonight. Anything else you need?"

"Otherwise, briefing with you, me, Belanger and so on in a few hours.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:35, Wed 10 Nov 2010.

Seth continued listening to the plans being outlined by Taras and developed in discussion with everyone.  He didn't have much to contribute - his only thought was that the plan sounded like it needed a significant number of troops and he wasn't really aware of how many troops they had available.  Not one to hold back he therefore decided to ask.

"Just so I know how many troops do we have available?  This op sounds like it's going to need quite a few."

Yes my friend, we are going to use a lot of troops. Look at the size of the objective. Not only that, is also defended so we need a good deal of mobility, firepower and also support to win this battle.

The Soviet Army doesn't have anything under a reinforced battalion for maneuver. Granted, there are Spetsnaz but they do not hold the ground. We will have to.

How many troops? Crew for the three armored vehicles around... Bulat provides a BMP with his men. Then there is the CF, ex US soldiers and RCMP to fill the ranks in the LAV and BTR and 2 technicals. The rest of RCMP and militia will provide the bulk of traffic regulators, follow-on troops and rear echelon. Capt. Bezhov and his men will be in charge of the artillery support.

A Command Post and Rear Area will be located in the Musqueam reservation. They will be asked to help with securing and helping with the site. The idea is to involve as much part of the local population to identify themselves with the current government and somehow take side with us. Is our limited numbers that need to rely on the citizens. Same as the partisans of the Great Patriotic War.

"Have we really got that many troops available?" replied Seth, his tone obviously surprised.  "Regardless it sounds like the operation you're proposing is going to involve a lot of casualties on both sides.  Your plan sounds good but could we be in danger of using a hammer to crack an egg?  Would we be better to send in a commando raid with the objective of killing or capturing the enemy leadership?  Cut off the head and then offer a diplomatic solution?  It's risky but you'd be putting maybe a dozen guys at risk rather than the much larger number the full plan involves.  My concern is that if the current plan gets screwed up that we'll take losses that we can't sustain and that the government's hold in Vancouver will be weakened.  Do you see my concern?"

I see that. And is a possibility. Will it work? Is a gamble. Moving in with a dozen people without support to a big airport and then hope for the best...That will really put in danger the position of the government.

On the other hand a demonstration of power will not only make the job easier and less likely to fail but also send a strong signal to the population. Including our enemies. In the end we will have to negotiate with everybody at some point. Is better to do that from a position of strength.

We already mobilized a lot of people while conducting the cordon and search operation after the Chinatown incident. But I agree, my plan is certainly too violent. We can try a demonstration of force and parade all our armor for them to see and wait for their response. We will always have the last word.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #43):

It was now later on, and the various personnel were returned from their duties and free to discuss upcoming operations. Fox came by and joined in the discussion while Kelsey prepared her report. Rob and Andy were also back now and could join in if they desired, as could Keith.

In reply to Seth Joseph Delaney (msg #42):

"I think Seth's idea has merits. As a commando, I know special operations are not "magic" like most people think, and are best used in conjunction with some other overall effort. Eliminating the leadership to effect the surrender of the rest of the elements falls under that requirement, more-or-less."

It wasn't surprising that Fox was sympathetic towards a commando strike, that being his training and experience.

"I also believe that fundamentally, the two options are similar in that they use force to compel a favourable outcome, and rely on gathering information about the Trolls' top echelon (in particular: Basil Wright, their leader) through various means and rely on a lightning operation. The key to success in both operations is effective intelligence, surprise and interdiction of enemy communications and surveillance; if we assume these factors are in effect for one, they will be in effect for the other so they even out between those options, if you follow."

"The pros of a commando strike are it uses an economy of force and only risks (say) a dozen lives. A small team has a better chance of remaining undetected and has at least a fair chance of avoiding detection and escaping considering the current overgrown nature of the airport (1-2 years, with long grass and small trees growing in the open areas). Andy and I are commandos, while Seth is Light Infantry and Chris (Mac) is a Ranger, Rob is a Marine sniper and Keith is a Marine, too. So we have a good cadre to start with regards to skills and training.

"The cons are that a smaller team has less firepower at its disposal and thus a far less chance of fighting their way out if they are cornered. If casualties are taken, it's important to realise they will all be by definition key personnel on the DRI team here at UBC (URAEL) and consequently more valuable on an individual level to regional operations.

"I think people elsewhere in the city will be relatively impressed if we pull a commando strike off and like the park, it will show a measure of restraint. Overall, I give the chances as at least moderate and the risks low. If there is a failure, it will not be catastrophic."

Fox paused, thinking of Taras' plan of an amphibious strike. He seemed to like that idea as well.

"For pros, a larger force has more firepower at its disposal; if our intelligence (say) is off then we at least have a chance of winning a conventional engagement against the Trolls. What we give up in stealth we make up in shock. Regarding the pool of expertise, we have 2 US Marines, a Soviet, sorry, former Soviet assault engineer and both Andy and I have experience as commandos in maritime and littoral operations.

"For cons, it's possible that casualties could be very high if we are intercepted mid-crossing or ambushed at the river bank. If we get across, I don't think casualties will be more than a dozen unless things go really wrong, and again with a bigger force we have more options and more firepower. While we do have people experienced in amphibious operations, but our expertise is going to be spread thin among a lot of other people, plus special equipment to prepare, and not a lot of time to do it, a week at most. It's a tight schedule and difficult to maintain operational security.

"The results will be spectacular, if successful. I think our job here would become significantly easier. Worst case could be very bad indeed, if we take high casualties."

As an ex Officer of the Soviet Army like Senior Lt. Shevchenko did have the oportunity to learn from combat and now from working shoulder to shoulder the efficiency of NATO training and military doctrine accentuating personal skills and decentralization of decision making. Short of theSpetsnaz, the almighty Soviet miliatry machine didn't have anything close to the level of the USMC and Canadian infantry. The NCO corps was the missing link that kept the whole machine well greased. Under the Red Banner everything was different. Planning of the military operations was painstakingly elaborated and worked out by officers to the point where no much thinking room was left for subordinaters. Sergeants in ground forces were nineteen or twenty years old kids with six months of training and maybe a couple of years overall max of experience. That distinctive concept of doctrine seemed to be out of thought in their Western counterparts. Detailed combat orders and massive use of firepower was the counterbalance to this handicap.

With all due respect, Mr. Fox: I believe you are not very familiar with the planning of a water obstacle routine! Ambush? A river crossing is preceded by engineer reconnaissance of the river banks for enemy presence and also to secure the right conditions for troops and vehicles. We already have designated a landing site to be secured and it appeared to be a discreet beach. If casualties are to be avoided that's why I am suggesting to give the troops the protection of Infantry fighting vehicles and artillery support for the assault!

I do appreciate your good soldiering but who's going to set a rescue if our elite troops get stranded in the island? This reminds me of that american ship kidnapped in Cambodia at the end of the war in Vietnam.*

Completely convinced of his own thoughts he added:

The CIA Army didn't do too well without ground support in Cuba or Iran.



* Taras is making reference here at the Mayaguez incident, the Bay of Pigs episode and Operation "Eagle Claw" . Most likely a propagandistic oportunity to be exploited back in the days in the Soviet Union.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #46):

Fox smiled, wincing at the mention of the Magauyez and Bay of Pigs.

"Ohhh, touche. Those operations were not properly planned, more spur-of-the-moment affairs. Regardless, I'm speaking hypothetically. It's unlikely that we will be ambushed while making a crossing if we take elementary precautions, but I'm not discounting the possibility for the purpose of discussion. Maybe that's another con for the amphibious operation: there will be more of a preparation phase that could be detected."

He paused for a second, thinking it through. "Although I guess that will be difficult with the control tower in flames. Still, can't be ruled out."

"But I do see your point about the commando strike; if a small team gets isolated and stranded on the island, escape-and-evasion will be difficult and annihilation or capture almost a certainty. If it all goes bad, where will they go? Swim the river? Perhaps we can pre-arrange different pickup points, as we do have several small fast boats and so on."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:20, Sun 14 Nov 2010.

Taras understood that Fox was moving in circles. There was no after thought about a possible rescue operation for the raid and mounting it would be the equivalent of Taras mobilization plan.

Anyone else has an idea?Added in a nonchalant manner.

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #48):

Fox laughed in amusement. "Just a damn second, Taras! What kind of casualties would we be looking at for an operation this size? Do you know?"

"If it is acceptable to our leadership," Seth interjected rather formally, "would it be ok for several of us to put together a plan for a commando style raid with the objective of taking out the enemy leadership at the airport?"

In reply to Seth Joseph Delaney (msg #50):

Belanger sipped his tea.

"Certainly, you can draw up plans and I encourage you to do so. In fact, all we have decided at the moment is diplomacy alone may not solve this impasse in a timely manner. If you can present alternatives then that would be appreciated, Angela and I will go over them tonight or as soon as possible."

He poured himself another cup, and offered the pot around.

"Also, the adoption of any plan shouldn't be seen as a rejection. I hope that whichever way we choose, you all will still continue to contribute as the plan evolves. For example, if we choose a commando operation, then Taras' expertise will still be required in effecting a crossing and possible demolitions of objectives. If we are to attempt a riverine crossing, then it's likely some kind of special operations should be planned in conjunction to disrupt land-line communications and leadership."

"If it's all right with you, I would think that the commando raid might be a little bit more practical.  As much as I've been trained in amphibious assaults, if we get caught out there, we stand to not only lose personnel but also the vehicles transporting those troops.  I'm just saying," Keith says when the floor opens up for suggestions.

In reply to Keith Michael Tremblay (msg #52):

"It'a good point about an ambush, and it has already been brought up.

"The key to avoiding any ambush is reconnaissance. It's also the first thing you do in any amphibious operation, which you are no doubt aware as a Marine! I think there are even special Marine units for this."

"We currently have the landing sites under direct observation (from the top of the Airport Square) and we don't believe there's anyone there now. We can land a team (any volunteers?) to perform a recce (recon) of the area beforehand."

"Still, as a former commando myself, I can't say I wouldn't like to see some kind of special operation. But what happens if this team gets into trouble? You'll be isolated on an island, fighting at maybe 8-1 odds. If rescue is needed, we might well still have to rely on, well... an amphibious operation. Or force the bridges."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:01, Mon 15 Nov 2010.

"I'd be up for a recce," volunteered Seth simply.

I'd love to have some tea Mr. Belanger. Will you pass the pot s'il vous plait?

Taras helped himself to a hot stream of fragant, freshly brewed tea.

For those defending the idea of a raid I'd suggest to take a look at the map. The terminal is a big place, actually there are three of them*. Never been there myself, of course, but you can imagine its size. Not only that, the terminal is located in the middle of the island and any approach from the shore will take at least a couple kilometers of very flat land with little room for cover. But I would like to hear details about that raid.



Domestic, International and the original South terminal that still in use.

"Count me in," Keith says to everyone present.

The ukrainian took a folder out of his leather satchel and produced a sheet of paper. It seems that it was an aerial picture of the Airport. It had some marker and notes written over. It was crude but somehow effective.

I cut out this picture from one old magazine in the library. The lines indicate the march approach for my plan. The main target is the control tower at the heart of the international terminal. Take a look!

Taras put the picture on the table, He was more keen to show the size of the objective rather than going into detail but that was the only good picture that he could find and already had worked upon.

img src=http://img703.imageshack.us/i/yvrw.jpg
This message was last edited by the player at 06:31, Wed 17 Nov 2010.

As they talked, Kelsey came back in.

"We have a fair amount of equipment available, most of which we brought with us. The University has radios for communications but they are tied up and won't be allocated for our use."

She put up the list she'd made:

---

Audio Recorder, Advanced	                 x1	
Audio Recording Cartridge	                 x50(Unlimited)
Broadcast Monitoring Equipment	                 x1	
Bugs, stage II, VOX	                         x3
Bug Detector Kit	                         x1	
Bug Monitor	                                 x1
Hidden Microphone	                         x3
Laser Microphone	                         x1
Motion Detector	                                 x2	
Parabolic Booster	                         x3	Kelsey
PRD-303/SV Surveillance System (sensor)	         x2	
PRD-303/SV Surveillance System (receiver)	 x2	
Radio Direction Finder	                         x1	Kelsey
Sound Amplifier	                                 x2	
Special Vision Adapter	                         x10	
VHS Video Cameras (small)                        x2	
VHS Cassettes             	                 x10	(Unlimited)
VHS VCR                                          x1
Wire-Tapping Tools (phones, static comm-lines)   x2
Electronics Repair Kit                         	 x1

---

"Does that help the situation? We have enough to keep track of the Trolls, even tape them. If we can get onto the island, we can wire tap their phone lines."

1830

Clear and cool.

The afternoon wore on, it was getting time for supper. Workers came in from the fields. Word filtered through the soldiers of TF URIEL that some of the commandos from over on the Island that had been operating up north (and escorted Bezhov and his SA-8 down from Lillooet) would be in town that night or the next day.

At dinner, Kelsey remarked, "Taras, you have the list of electronics. Do you need anything else from me?"

"As well, I'm going to talk to my contact later tonight. Taras? Seth? Anyone else have any ideas what you want me to ask him?"

"I mean, we have the raw numbers. Want me to ask about some of the things you wanted to find out?"

"Be specific as you can, I never done anything like this before."

Very good job, Kelsey. The list is quite impressive. We will need to set up the listening post as soon as possible. I guess you will be busy organizing the hardware but I will make sure we get the right logistical support. Also, Khandola should be able to provide an escort for the truck as well as a security detail for the building, that abandoned Meteo station. I guess we will have to put a rotation due to the sensibility of that place.

Taras reached again for the well worn out leather satchel. Shuffling between the paperwork he rescued some sheets that actually belonged to a previous mission:

It is important not to miss any possible Intel. Here are the basic questions that we need to address regarding the Bridget Rolls;

Please write it down:

The Sgt. pushed a fresh block of notes with a cheap advertising pen of a long gone insurance company.



a) Where are the Head Quarters located? Have they any prisoners with them?
b) What are the shortcomings being experienced by the trolls in their violent campaign?
c) What is the trolls operational and political planning?
d) What are the trolls numbers, organisation, deployments, training, weapons and communications means?
e) How are the relations with the Hells Angels and other communities?
f) What is the magnitude of involvement of the trolls against other communities including plans against UBC?
g) What is the trolls morale like? How are the conditions in their bases?
h) What are the troll's intelligence network details and priorities for operations against other citizens?

It was a rather long and comprehensive list. Some bits of information were already known but there was a need to provide a clear intelligence picture that will provide the settings for a succesful operation once their strenghts and weakness were exposed.

Tomorrow at first light we should start building the listening post. As soon as we get word on the intel we can double check it with our own means: Humand and electronic. Does anyone have a cigarette?

Kel copied it all down. When she was done, she dug out a pack of Player's Extra-Lights and offered the pack around."Sounds good, Taras. Here, have a smoke."



She lit her own, then anyone else's. "Seth, anything you wanna add?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:13, Mon 29 Nov 2010.

Seth had tucked into the food with gusto.  He still couldn't get over the freely available food here at UBC and he ate everything he was offered.  He passed on the cigarettes however, it was a habit he had luckily never picked up, but he helped himself to a beer if one was available.

As the subject turned to intel they need from the Bridge Trolls Seth listen while Taras outlined the information he was interested in.



"I think that Taras has summarised the main points," replied Seth, still feeling rather awkward called an officer by his first name, "but there are several points that could do with some specifics outlining.  Firstly we need to know considerably more about the Bridge Trolls themselves, their organisation, their command structure beyond Basil Wright, their identifying insignia if any, whether they have any boats, where their HQ is and what other buildings they routinely use.

Secondly we need to know about their patrol routes and frequency.  Do they have fixed routes or do they have a relatively random schedule?  They seem to be well organised so I doubt that it is completely random.

Next what fixed defensive points can we identify and mark?  Burkeville seems to be well defended and fortified and the same is true of the remaining bridges onto the island but what else are they attempting to defend securely?  The island is massive as Taras has previously raised and it's going to be impossible to patrol that area thoroughly with only ninety men in total available.

Lastly what parts of the island have they mined?  If I was them I would have invested in some minefields to secure their rear areas.  At present I can see at least half a dozen routes onto the island for a recee or commando team but they're not stupid so they may have closed some of these off themselves and mines would be an obvious way to do that.

That's it for starters but I'll keep thinking of anything else that we could do with knowing then I'll let you know Kelsey."

The ukrainian took the cigarette offered by Kelsey:

Thank you!Taras proceeded to light it up with a common "Zippo" with Canadian motives:



This kind of lighters became quite popular during the war among the Soviet Army personnel due to the reliability, easiness of refill and charismatic value.

While puffing away, the man from Odessa will listen to the suggestions of the rest of the team.

"Actually Kelsey I've thought of another question for you to ask your contact," added Seth.  "Are they expecting to be attacked and are they increasing security and defensive measures?  I reckon that they will be reacting to our actions even though those actions weren't against them and they may well realise that they are on our list of priorities."

Seth then turned to Alain.  "Mr Belanger.  You said previously that diplomatic efforts would be made first towards the Bridge Trolls.  Are those underway and how receptive are they to our advances?  Do they just want to be left alone or are they open to discussions?  If we have significantly better medical care than they do then that might be a lever to use to get them to cooperate.  With that many dependents someone is bound to be ill or pregnant and could do with modern medical help.

Actually that raises another question about the layout of the facilities on the island.  What medical facilities were located there prior to the war?  That is bound to be an important location to them, though it's one that we should avoid attacking!"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:53, Tue 30 Nov 2010.

They way I see it...Well, look, this guys are not in a "war footing" mode. They have military experience that gives them an edge in their job that happens to be a wrong choice from our Government: That of being bandits.

Numbers will matter a lot. Conventional wisdom for an attack is a 3:1 ratio and even bigger in our Soviet manuals, therefore the importance of support units like artillery, etc. Going under strength is very risky because is their turf and they will easily regroup and deliver a mortal blow to a potentially stranded force.

If we go straight for the main terminal we get the brain and we don't need to fight the arms and legs. It is easy to see that a good deal of control and communications is taking place in the Control Tower. We saw them there, watching and even dispatching a force that evicted the junk hunters.

I'm all for negotiations. I don't like to risk my life, of course. But...the way I see it...They are holding their ground and their structure seems to be solid due to their training. In this solid arrangement also lies their weakness. A quick delivered blow in offensive maneuver to the head and they are toasted. There is also a time limit regarding the amount of Intel that we can get. Still, I don't hear yet of an alternative operation to mine.

"As I have said several times," replied Seth, unsure whether Taras was having trouble understanding him or simply ignoring his suggestions, "I believe that a commando raid is another option that should be further considered.  I'm not saying that it is the best option, only that it is an alternative option that should be considered before we decide on a frontal assault.

Before any operation is decided on however a good deal more Intel needs to be gathered and at that point a decision between options can be taken.  We shouldn't decide on the frontal assault because that is the only option that has been planned in detail so far!  Additionally you talked about the necessity of a recee prior to a frontal assault, well the same is true of a commando raid so lets do the recee and gather Intel and then make a decision.

Therefore I suggest that we postpone a decision on which particular operation is most appropriate until we've gathered more Intel.  For example you've stated that one of the objectives of your frontal assault is to capture the main terminal because there is information that that is a focus of the Bridge Tolls operations.  You've also emphasised just how big a building the main terminal is and so I think that it would be prudent to let Kelsey extract what Intel she can from her friend before we decide on the next course of action.  That way you might well know more about which particular parts of the main terminal are key and which bits can be left for mopping up!

Lastly Kelsey's Intel gathering could turn up something unexpected and useful.  For example it could turn out that Basil Wright's wife is heavily pregnant and that the baby is breech making him interested in talking to us about our medical facilities.  By all means start preparing for the frontal assault but let's hold off on a final decision to launch it until as much Intel as possible has been gathered and we can decide whether it is the best option.  It may well be the right course of action but in my professional opinion it's far too early to say that for certain."

Andy returned from checking on the OPs and then sat and listened to the disscussion for a while. He looked over at Taras and cleared his throat before speaking.

"Your plan is doctrinally sound," he agreed, "but still only theoretical. If it is to work then we need to scout the routes out carefully. An amphibious assault across an uncharted body of water is very risky so we'll need to scope out teh LZ and the channel we'll be using. To do that we'll need to see if there are fishermen that use the area so we can use them for INTEL or pose as them to do our own surveys. If we can't do that we'll need to use swimming teams at night so as not to show our hand."

"As for the plan itself, it is an elegant force majeur set piece attack," Andy continued, "an alternative would be to take the Black Ops approach, identify key players, bribe those we can and assassinate those we can't bribe. We could start operations that played on any fractures in the community and work on breaking it down bit by bit rather than smashing it in a winner takes all battle."

Andy paused for a moment and smiled, "I guess what we have here is a clash of cultures. You're from the Deep Battle school where all or nothing tended to be the way people played the game," he smiled disarmingly, "an obscene generalisation I know but I'm only a lowly non-com. Most of us however wre from the Commonwealth tradition where oblique battle and striking at the peripheries is the norm. It doesn't win as big but it minimises the chances of losing big too."

"In some ways, what you are proposing is a miniature version of what the Soviets did in invading Alaska and Canada. If we win in the first grand gesture, great, if one thing goes wrong we're screwed. By attacking at the edges and striking into angle we don't win in a big showy way but we don't lose either."

"I'd suggest that we prepare for your outlined assault, the INTEL gathering and RECON is essential either way but that we also look into wether we can expedite measure using stealth and assassination. After all, a few rounds of 7.62mmN can sow as much damage as you planned battery, if the bullets are placed in exactly teh right place."

In reply to Seth Joseph Delaney (msg #65):

Kelsey took more notes.

"Sounds good, Andy, Seth. I asked my contact about opening possible negotiations, maybe he'll have some additional information on what Wright wants? At least I can ask him what the odds are Wright will negotiate or be bought out."


She looked uncomfortable for a moment. "If I may speak freely, I'm not in favour of outright assassination. We didn't give Cryus a bullet even though we could, and the Trolls are a gang of criminals, not terrorists."

In reply to Kelsey Sarah Champlain (msg #69):

Belanger looked thoughtful for a moment, then sighed and shook his head as if admitting something that was painful to him.

"I think the Master Corporal is right. It's the government position that the principal aim of any operation using force against the Bridge Trolls is to apprehend Wright for trial, no extra-judicial killings in this case. These are deserters and criminals, not enemies of the state. We haven't made a move on negotiations but we can do that now through our contact, if we're subtle. Kelsey, we'll talk later. If this ends up biting us in the end, I'll take full responsibility."

"Andy, the Musqueam fishermen and scouts have been keeping a constant eye on the airport for weeks now, which is across the river from them. So far the proposed landing site shows no activity and seems clean except for a lot of logs, which will have to be cleared. Wwe can roll the LAV out tonight and scan the area with thermal imaging."

"Some things I need to point out for the idea of an amphibious operation, riverin or otherwise: the LAV Kodiak is not amphibious, although it can be adapted by retrofitting flotation chambers and water propulsion. Also, the two Piranhas that are being loaned to us from the North Shore are amphibious but aren't yet ready (they need to have engines, suspension driving gear and wheels remounted). Also, they are not the Cougar 76mm fire support vehicles but the Grizzly APC types."

Belanger held up his hands in a placating manner in case anyone was getting out of sorts.

"We have a saying in the army: a good plan today is better than a perfect plan tomorrow. In this case, we won't get all our answers until tonight or probably tomorrow if the contact needs to get back to us, maybe wait for more information. We go on the 26th of April, so that leaves us five days to put this plan into action, assuming we don't wait on better information. "

"I believe we have enough information to come up with at least a back-of-the-envelope plan for a commando operation. It doesn't have to be perfect but it does have to be tonight. We can fill in the blanks when more information comes in, not everything needs to be nailed down."

"For reasons I can't divulge, we need to roll in no more than seven days. We need to get going ASAP on this."
This message was last edited by the player at 05:44, Wed 01 Dec 2010.

Sitting not far away, Rob had listened in on some of the conversation. He knew his services may be needed but his view on things was from a very different angle then most. He usually planned for solo or two man teams. Not the platoon sized force they were going to field. After thinking for a second he stood and walked over.

"Mind if I chime in here a bit gents?" Rob said as he sat down not really waiting for a response.

"There is a few things I may not have heard but I feel need to be addressed.
   First what kind of weaponry can they field, especially anything that is a threat to our armored vehicles.
   Second have they done anything more to defend the bridges then simple roadblocks. Like mines, are they rigged to blow them if the need arises etc.
   Lastly have they ever really done anything to defend their western flank. The bay is wide open and there is a huge expanse to cover which might give them a feeling of security but if they have little or nothing to counter our armored vehicles it's a weakpoint we can exploit."

Rob looked over at Kelsey and nodded. "If you can get your contact to comment or find out about those things along with everything that was stated then we should have enough working knowledge to make a firm plan of action."

"As far as the frontal assault goes, I have no issue with it but a diversion or flanking attack just before the main thrust would likely clear the way a bit.

"They seemed to be spread pretty thin defending such a large area. If we could further divide their forces just before the main assault went in then it would cut down on our casualties and hopefully theirs aswell. By splitting our forces we force them to split theirs which means they can not concentrate fire or forced to a single area."
"If we can engulf them quickly then we will have a much easier time taking the terminal which for me is a whole separate operation. That is when we will have the leverage to dictate terms and try our best to keep this from becoming a bloodbath on their part." Rob stops for a second to look around the at the folks gathered

  "So a two pronged assault. One by sea and the other by bridge or river crossing. Engulf their outer defenses and try our best to deny them a retreat to the terminal buildings. Then we stand down and let their situation sink in. While we restage for a siege. We don't want a siege but they don't know that. Demand they turn over their man and stand down or everyone suffers. Let's see how strong their ties to their leader really are. During all this we keep our vehicle at range to keep them safe and to use our superior armor and their range to our advantage. Also during the assault and siege we station sharpshooter to suppress or take out key positions like the M113s and to discourage the perimeter from falling back to the buildings to quickly. These sharpshooters are also our best counter to any AT weaponry they may deploy."

"Mr. Belanger gave us five days. 7 max. I say we do a night or two recon and get our final intel and then start setting up and organizing for the assault. Right now I don't see us as having much leverage for serious diplomatic talks to get them to surrender. But once their perimeter is breached, their island is now a no-mans land of MG fire from armored vehicles and their only real means of support, their tolls, is gone their tune might change rather quickly."

Rob let that settle in on folks while he waited for comments or questions.

"The Gunny's got a good point about a recon on our own.  We should have our own eyes out there looking in and around.  The people going in should have an idea of what's around, depending on which way we go in, instead of relying on someone else's intelligence we might be on the fence about trusting instead of seeing it for ourselves, if that makes any sense?"

In reply to Keith Michael Tremblay (msg #72):

"It does make sense, Sergeant.

"Basically, a reconnaissance conducted in advance of the landing, perhaps a day or so, in order to verify the intelligence is correct.

"As well, I think a commando-style operation in support of any assault is warranted to disrupt the Trolls' response in terms of reinforcements and communications."

"Taras, can you work one or both those elements in? This would be in the nature of Spetsnaz operations, rear area disruption."

Regrettably I don't have any Spetsnaz experience. My duties in the Soviet Army were conducting Engineer Support to a Motor Rifle Regiment advance as a part of the 62nd MRD. I do have some experience in Engineer Recon, though.

I suggest starting with possible landing sites. The first one that I see is this little Marina...And then recon the McDonald Road. I'd like to hear from the contact that the place has no mines before we go in, of course!

In reply to Taras Vladimirovich Shevchenko (msg #74):

"Mines at the landing site. We'll add that on the grocery list for intelligence. That's an excellent point."

"Of course, you wouldn't have experience with Spetsnaz, but you can understand the concept. I take it for granted any river landing site will be personally recced by our personnel ahead of time, and they can then proceed to disrupt the Trolls command, control and communications during the operation."

He made sure everyone was familiar with the map for planning purposes: http://tinyurl.com/2fkhhnl
This message was last edited by the player at 10:15, Thu 02 Dec 2010.

The native member of the team, who lived with the Musqueam on their reserve and acted as their liaison answered something Gunny Conklin and Taras asked.

"The Musqueam say that the entire western area of Sea Island (where YVR is located) has minefield warning signs. That includes the mud flats, the foot of the dyke, the top and rear side. Rumour has it there are AT mines, AP mines, claymores with tripwires. Also, there is concertina and razor wire, bunkers, for all I know sharks with frickin' laser beams attached to their heads. The Musqueam never go there.

"There no minefield warning signs or wire on all the other beache. Just on the western side of the island."



This message was last edited by the player at 10:54, Thu 02 Dec 2010.

"Yes, those signs have been there since the war. They're not new, thankfully, but if there are mines they are almost certain to be dangerous."

"As well, the fishermen from here at UBC report the western approach also has concertina wire and razor wire all along the western side of the island, plus bunkers. None of it's in good repair, seems like leftovers and the Bridge Trolls have been letting it rot."
This message was last edited by the player at 10:46, Thu 02 Dec 2010.

I know that the airport was attacked by the VVS* in the early stage of the war. From what I heared from the locals they did some damage there. I believe they would be targeting the runways. Our forces were coming down from the North and reached all the way to a city-town called Hope. Still, that's 150 clicks from Vancouver: Too far for our divisional artillery support to hit it. Since the Red Sun was coming closer I guess the Canadian Forces would have implemented a defensive plan for the airport. Eventually it could be put on service again. I am a Combat Engineer and I know that craters can be easily overcome. Our aviation didn't have much of special weapons, mostly iron bombs. In any case it would be nice to have access to those CF defensive plans and see what we can do.




*VVS =  Voenno-Vozdushnye Sily, Literally, "Military Air Forces".




Belly of the beast before delivery. Tu-22M attack on YVR.

"Rob, I like the sound of your tweak of Taras' plan," commented Seth, "but there are a couple of other places besides the western beach that we could look to land a diversionary force on."

Seth pulled over the map and indicated a couple of other locations.  (OOC - please see my post in the OOC thread)

"Mac, thinking about the minefield on the western beach can you ask the Musqueam when they last heard a mine go off?  I imagine that there are lots of birds and other wildlife around Sea Island and if there are tripwire mines then something is bound to have set one off at some point."

In reply to Seth Joseph Delaney (msg #79):

Looking thoughtful, Mac replied, "no one mentioned something to me. It's not like they've landed there personally so who knows what's really there? I'll ask tomorrow."

"Okay, fine. We can't delay a decision. Please accept my apologies."

Belanger looked at the map and nodded at the assembled personnel.

"At this time we're going to go with a riverine crossing, as that's the only plan we have. This may change if, say, a creditable alternative is proposed. I'm not going to rule out a commando mission instead of a riverine crossing but I can only go with what's been presented."

"We'll tentatively plan on a reconnaissance mission in three days from now to get some eyes-on information if needed, then a full-scale operation (whichever way we decide) in six days, seven on the outside. Any riverine operation will also include concurrent special operations to take out the Trolls' command, control and communications, at that time."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:25, Sat 04 Dec 2010.

"If we're going to do the recee in three days time," Seth interjected, "then can I suggest that we do some other non intrusive Intel gathering over the next couple of days.  It would be worth setting up a couple of obs points to study activity at the seaplane terminal and the Coast Guard hovercraft station to get some idea of whether there really are no manned defences at either of them.  Possibly one on Swishwash Island and the other in the City of Richmond Recycling Depot.  Just to sit there and study those two landing points to be certain that they're unoccupied."

Access to the terminal or final objective using the Western board of the Island means to conduct a breach in a typical defensive arragement including mobility obstacles (wire, mines) and possible manned stations with classic interlocking fire sectors (bunkers) that may or may not be manned. In any case is possible but I feel that we don't have time, personnel and means to do it in a effective manner. But before we get there there is the problem of how to get there. No serious landing craft is available to sail down the Fraser River turn around the large Iona Park peninsula and then sail around the breakers. Same goes for any Southern approach. The current bridge is occupied by the trolls and any detour would take several kilometers and will still represent the need for a river crossing in this case far away from a Command and Control centre and support elements and a wider span (Southern Arm of the river). Comms would be more spotty and the dispatch of reinforcements or a rescue team would require would be difficult.

As a secondary landing site I would go for the Sewage Plant. Still close enough and the presence of a transited avenue (Fergusson Road) guarantees automatically speed of entry and lack of mines.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:28, Wed 08 Dec 2010.