Thursday, Sep 2, 1988
Dear Mum,
Tomorrow I will be finally back in the war, this time in command of an Australian Mechanised Infantry
Section. Sure, we've got ancient American equipment, but at least the ol' battalion is
finally going to get a taste of action for the first time in 15 years.
Tomorrow morning there will be an amphibious assault on Malden, and strait after I will be
air-lifted in to join my boys. Hope the last few months in hospital haven't dulled my
leadership ability!
Malden is a small island in the vicinity of Indonesia, and was originally occupied by the Russians last
year during the early stages of World War III. My platoon has the honour of conducting the
first strike against Lolisse tomorrow morning. The russians are apperently withdrawing north, so I
hope there are still some left to massacre!
Anyway mum, until next letter...
Love Axe
Welcome back, Axe. I hope your trip over from the mainland was comfortable. I know you have been out of the war for awhile now, so I'll take it fairly slowly...
- Read about the mission concept.
- Go to the map reference.
- Receive your detailed orders.
...and if there are no questions, I will summarise the main objectives to be acheived by 1200h today as follows:
Lolisse is to be secured, and a firm base established to prevent enemy counter attack.
Wilsons Point must be clear of hostile forces.
Mission Concept
- From The Designer
This mission has been designed around doctrinal tactics for a platoon level
mechanised infantry assault. For example, in the real world, doctrine states that a squad
of infantry is rarley assigned the task of assaulting a squad of infantry of
the same or larger size. Generally, NATO forces will attempt to acheive a force
ratio of 3:1, eg. if the enemy has a squad, NATO will attack with a platoon.
This mission, the first of a series, utilises a number of such concepts that will seem
unfamiliar at first to the regular OFP warrior. Other examples include holding a
unit in depth (Charlie section in the mission) and debusing under the cover of fire support. Many of these concepts
are visually represented on the map and are defined in the map reference section.
Utilising real word tactics in an OFP mission increases realism and immersion -
the player's squad is part of a platoon which is part of a company and so on.
Building such scenarios in operation flashpoint is time consuming to say the
least; OFP is essentially a squad-level shooter which works against attempts
to easily coordinate larger-scale battles.
The platoon represented in the mission is based upon an Australian mech inf
platoon, where M113s are organic to the unit. This means that the M113s will participate
in the assault with the infantry, and are manned by infantry soldiers (rather than
simply carrying the infantry to the form up point and being manned by armoured corp
troops). More specifically, the section and platoon commanders are the commanders
of the M113's. Throughout this mission 'section' and 'squad' are used interchangeably (there are no 'squads' in Australia).
If there are any comments on this mission, either design or tactics related,
please email me at morpj97@hn.ozemail.com.au.
This is my first attempt at an OFP mission, and if the feedback is positive
then I will continue to add real-world tactical concepts to my OFP missions.
And yes, I do have better things to do than script missions for a computer game
but OFP is just SO DAMN GOOD!
Finally, if you use any of my briefing information please acknowledge
-=snYpir=- as the source.
Back to the plan...
Definitions
We will begin by examining the markers on the map and what they
represent for this mission.
- Colouring: Green represents friendly markers, red is for enemy and artillery targets.
- Start: Defines the starting location for a group.
- Waypoint: Highlights an area that the players squad must pass in order to complete the mission (marker normally used to represent a 'pickup').
- End: Defines the final (mission-complete) positions for various squads.
- Flag (green): Location held by friendly forces.
- Flag (green with arrow): Indicates movement of friendly forces
- Exclamation mark (red): Location held by enemy forces
- Cross: Indicates an observation post (OP). An OP is a location where friendly
or enemy units conduct observation onto opposing forces for whatever reason, be it
for sniping, recon or artillery spotting.
- Thin line (green): Indicates a boundary.
- Shaded ellipse: Indicates the forming up point (FUP) for a squad.
- Target indicator (red): Identifies a pre-designated artillery target.
You can return to the plan if you wish, or examine one of the following tactical concepts:
The concept of depth.
Explanation of the assault.
Return to the plan.
The Assault
This section explains the assault in the real world context. An understanding of what comprises an assault will aid you in achieving your mission. The definitions given in this section are not textbook, rather they are from
a soldiers understanding of how mechanised infantry combat is fought in the
real world.
An assault can be either quick or deliberate, with the distinction between the two being
the amount of time taken to recon and plan for a given attack. A quick attack will
be used if the enemy is unprepared, while a more deliberate approach would be suitable
when assaulting a prepared position.
The stages of an assault are as follows:
1. Recon of enemy positions (map recon and actual recon) and battle preparation.
Involves building an accurate depiction of the enemies disposition, planning the assault,
and ensuring troops are capable of performing the assault. May include the placing of OPs to ensure flank protection (to limit the chances
of a counter-attack from the flank during the assault).
2. Move to forming up point.
Accomplished quickly to acheive suprise. Assault squads shake out in attack formation. The
amount of time spent in the FUP should be limited, as the close proximity of friendly units
will make an ideal target for enemy artillery.
3. Cross the Line of Departure (LD) at H-hour.
H-hour is time at which the assaulting units will commence the assault. The LD
is an imaginary line drawn across the front of the FUP.
4. Advance towards the enemy position under the cover of fire support.
Fire support will supress the enemy during the assault. Fire support may
come in the form of artillery or heavy machine gun fire from a flank. Fire support
must be effective in supressing the enemy whilst friendly forces close for the kill.
However, fire support must not become a danger to assaulting forces.
5. Debus (dismount) from APC's at the appropriate distance.
If there is an enemy anti-armoured threat, the debus point should be short of the
enemy position to allow the assaulting infantry to supress enemy anti-armour forces. If artillery
is being used as fire support then the debus may occur closer to the enemy position
to protect infantry from danger until the last possible moment.
6. Fight through the enemy position.
Blood and guts warfare, bayonets fixed as enemy pits are cleared. Effective fire support
will cut out just as friendly forces enter the enemy position (to keep the enemy supressed as long
as possible).
7. Exploitation.
The distance past the objective that friendly units will expoit.
8. Reorganisation.
Adopting a defensive posture to defeat any possible enemy counter-attacks. Also
processing of POWs and tending to friendly or enemy wounded.
This explanation is adequate only for the simulated environment within OFP, and
is not to be used as a guide for real world operations.
The concept of depth.
Examine the map reference.
Return to the plan.
Depth
Depth is simply a force held in reserve during an attack. This provides a commander
with a 'card in his sleeve' in case additional combat power is required. A unit 'held in depth' is
the same as a 'unit held in reserve'.
Depth can also be used in the context of 'depth by fire'. Depth by fire refers
to the varying accurate ranges of different weapon systems. In defence, artillery
may have the longest range, and then .50 cal machine guns, squad M60s and finally
M16s. Such use of a number of different weapon systems in defence indicates good
depth by fire.
Examine the map reference.
Explanation of the assault.
Return to the plan.
Orders: Alpha Section
Ok, Axe. Grab your notepad, and prepare to receive orders for a two phase assault
on Lolisse and Wilsons Point...
1. Situation
2. Mission
3. Concept of Operations
4. Administration and Logistics
5. Command and Signals
Follow your orders, Axe, and this operation will go off without a hitch. There are, however, a few additional things.
- In an Australian mechanised infantry squad, the section commander (you) is the gunner of the squad's M113. For the assault, order your
troops to disembark and keep them in formation with your M113. This gives you control of the .50 cal machine gun and ready access to the platoon radio net.
- In the first phase keep level with Bravo squad. This doubles the firepower onto the Russians and keeps your section safe from friendly fire.
- There are times when an M113 makes a big target. If you feel this compromises your mission, proceed on foot.
- Use the 'move to next waypoint' (key 1 then 9) when you are commanding an M113, rather than giving specific directions.
- Your troops have stocked your M113 with some extra anti-armour weapons, just in case. Don't be afraid to use them!
Examine the map reference.
Return to the plan.
Situation
Firstly, examine the situation overview.
At 0400h this morning, 5/7 Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment
invaded Malden. Alpha Company has been tasked with securing the eastern edge of the island
to prohibit a Russian attack from the east while the rest of the Battalion is landing.
Our platoon, 1 Platoon, has been ordered to conduct a platoon attack to capture the strategic village
of Lolisse. This will also involve clearing Wilsons Point which is the location of numerous defences, a forward supply depot and at least one anti-aircraft
system.
The enemy is withdrawing north to Houdan, presumably to buy time in order
to form a sizeable defensive position. The enemy are currently in the middle of moving supplies and
troops from the supply depot to Houdan. There is at least a reinforced platoon
of infantry troops remaining in the area to act as a holding force to slow down our advance. The level of enemy armour
in the area is unknown, but it is unlikley that the Russians will waste heavy armour on defending Lolisse. Recon confirms
that there is at least one ZSU-23-4 anti-aircraft system covering the withdrawal, located on the northern tip of Wilsons Point.
There are also numerous fixed emplacements, mostly facing out to sea, along the eastern edge of Wilsons Point. They may or not be manned.
The enemy do not have air support at this stage, however there is an enemy artillery threat.
Friendly troops in the area consist of our platoon (Alpha, Bravo and Charlie sections),
and an anti-armour attachment. A sniper team and an artillery forward
observer (FO) are manning two OPs in the hills overlooking the eastern coast. Alpha Company headquarters
is currently located here.
Artillery fire support is currently being provided by remnants of the US Pacific Fleet,
until Battalion howitzers are unloaded later today.
Civilians in the area are friendly to our cause. Be aware that civilian drivers
are being utilised for transporting supplies between Wilsons Point and Houdan.
Civilians are not to be harmed. We believe that Lolisse is clear of civilians, however
there are numerous small ports around the area where fisherman still live.
Return.
Overview
On the 3rd of Febuary, 1987, the KGB coordinated
a revolt in the USSR and overtook the Russian government. After diplomatic negotiations failed,
the USSR invaded Poland and began World War III. Due to the United States refusing to aid Europe,
many Western countries fell under communist control.
The United States was destroyed in a suprise
nuclear attack late last year, leaving the Russians in control of every corner of the globe. Everywhere except
Australia, of course, who was soon the only country in the world resisting the aggressors. Aided by various surviving
US combat forces, in March of 1988 Australia invaded Indonesia, which had by this time become a major
staging point for Russian attacks on soverign Australian territory. Due to Australia being a multi-cultural
society, there were so many Russians living in Australia the Soviet forces could not utilise nuclear weaponary without risking an uprising in Mother Russia.
At the current time Austalian forces, utilising American equipment, are locked in stalemate across South-East Asia.
Australian command believes that one tiny island, named Malden, is the strategic key to unlock the Russian front...
Return.
Mission
Alpha Section, as Part of 1 Platoon, is to clear Lolisse and Wilsons Point of
enemy forces by 1200h in order to secure the eastern approach to the southern
ports of Malden.
Return.
Concept of Operations
This will be a two phase operation. Firstly the securing of Lolisse, followed
by the capture of Wilsons Point.
Phase 1 - Assault on Lollise.
This will be a two sections up, one section in depth assault supported by
naval gunfire. A textbook assault, with M113s debusing late to ensure we get
as close as possible before unloading our diggers.
Phase 2 - Alpha Section assault on Wilsons Point.
Alpha section will be the assaulting section with Charlie section and the anti-armour team available
on request. Axe, you have command of this phase, as I will be busy ensuring
the road to Houdan remains defended in case of an enemy counter-attack. Naval gunfire
on the 26 feature is at your command. Remember, there is a 300m safe distance from artillery so call
in the fire support early, before you debus!
You will also command the progress of
Charlie section, who will be providing depth for your assault. Charlie will assault the 26 feature,
the enemy supply depot and the northern tip of the point on your order. Do not
hesitate to call for their support if enemy defences are heavier than expected!
The anti-armour team can be attached to your squad via a radio command. You may need
to order the team to resupply from your vehicle, if they are low on ammo. It is up to you how you
employ the anti-tank specialists, if you employ them at all.
In addition, I advise that you clear the last waypoint on foot
as a Shilka can turn an M113 to scrap metal in seconds!
Coordinating Instructions:
Fire support: Each pre-designated artillery target has been adjusted by the FO.
Each target will by crumped with 79 rounds over a 40 second period, Tgt 01 and Tgt 03 on my command,
and Tgt 02 on your command, Axe.
Snipers: Snipers will move into position to act as cutoff once the artillery fire
onto Lolisse ceases. ('Cutoff' means to kill any enemies fleeing north from Lolisse). They will also support Bravo section's
move to the firm base.
Anti-Armour team: At H-hour the anti-armour team will advance towards the enemy position and destroy
the Russian armoured assets. This will occur prior to our arrival at the debus point. The anti-armour team
will then move to Lolisse to await further tasking.
Timings:
Depart Le Port on a jeep to meet up with your section:
- 0830h
H-hour (the time that the platoon will cross the LD):
- 0836h (may be brought forward on my command)
Lolisse to be secured by:
- 0845h
Wilsons Point to be clear of enemy forces by:
- 0900h
Mission to be complete by 0920h.
Return.
Administration and Logistics
During the re-organisation following this mornings amphibious assault on Le Port,
the Platoon Sergent conducted a full resupply of ammunition and rations. Your troops have three days
rations and first line ammunition.
I know you just arrived, but don't worry, your section took no casualties this morning
and are looking forward to this attack. Your second in command, Corporal Harrison, did very well
this morning while acting as section commander. There will be no resupply or repair vehicles available
for this assault, as the trucks are still being unloaded. If your M113 breaks, get out and walk. Do not
hesitate to leave your driver with the M113 if you feel that a more stealthy approach is appropriate.
Return.
Command and Signals
I will be in overall command for the operation. You are second in command of the
platoon, Axe, and if anything happens to me you are to report to the Company Commander
for further orders following the successful completion of this assault. Radio
frequencies are as follows:
Alpha section commander: Alpha 1
Bravo section commander: Bravo 1
Charlie section commander: Charlie 1
Platoon headquaters: Zulu 1
Naval gunfire support: November Blue 1
Anti-Armour team: Yankee Red 1
Sniper team: Yankee Black 1
During your assault onto Wilsons Point, you will have available the following
radio channels:
Alpha - Call naval gunfire onto Tgt 02
Bravo - Request Charlie assault the 26 feature
Charlie - Request Charle assault the supply depot
Delta - Request Charlie assault the northern tip of Wilsons Point
Echo - Charlie halt/move on
Foxtrot - Request anti-armour team
Listen into your radio at all times Axe, because the situation may change at any
minute. If a company of T-72's comes rolling down from Houdan we may have to
retreat at VERY short notice!
Return.
Well done, Axe.
The platoon has cleared Wilsons Point and Loslisse of all Russian presence, securing the
eastern approaches to the Battalion's main defensive position.
I did not expect such strong enemy presence on the point, and you did well
given the determination of the enemy commander to hold that supply depot.
We will consolidate our position tonight, in case Ivan decides to send an attack our way.
Report back here at 1300h for your defensive orders.
You incompetent loser. Charlie section is gone.
I leave you in command of a squad of my troops and you get them all killed!!!
I bet you sent Charlie alone into the attack, not caring whether or not eight of my soldiers lived or died...YOU COWARD!
I thought you were supposed to be good at this? Turn the skill level down if the mission it is too hard! You suck!
Get out of my sight. Dismissed.
You incompetent loser.
Is the mission to hard for you? Want a tissue? YOU SUCK!!!
You started out with eight, that's right EIGHT men and now you have
just yourself. HOW HARD IS IT??? Turn the skill level down if you can't hack it. LOSER!
Or, you could go and get some other pussy mission and stay in your comfort zone. Get out of my sight, soldier!
You are not fit to be in the Australian Army! Dismissed.
Hi there.
This has probaly come as a shock to you, you poor little thing! There you were running around having fun making bang-bang noises and all of
a sudden poof! you get told that you failed! Did you think that you were some tough special forces gringo who was going to win all on his own?
Now I know you are only playing in cadet mode, so i am going to say this nicely...
GET OUT OF MY SIGHT YOU LOSER! DISMISSED!
You lost. Bad Luck.
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