Varaka: Focus on mass production of a scale so large it's wasteful and produce more than we will ever need. I want a tank for every ten men in the army and a plane for every tank. Use our sheer mass of men and equipment to utterly destroy each enemy city as we go. Our navy is to do coastal patrols only.
Sign a peace with the Panto and retreat out of all lands south of the Nayota territory, except for most of Florida. This peace will free up even more ships to go to other fronts. The main naval front will be in the Mediterranean, where the Aarut will do their best to decimate their enemies.
Stay on good relations with all dependencies.
Send weapons to the Nemarthian rebels, the Nacubians, the Argine, and the Rosk.
Try to throw our industry into a weapons-producing frenzy. Enlarge our armed forces (and create a decently-sized land army), mostly using propaganda and paying soldiers well. Enlarge our air-force, and perhaps start using aircraft carriers.
Attempt an invasion of Tezan, hoping to quickly make them capitulate. This will be expected to be a quick easy victory by the generals, and many will volunteer, although it may be far from that. If the Argine seem about to crumble, divert troops there.
Use our immense navy to great effect, as always.
Rosk:
Recruit massive amounts of soldiers, most of them emboldened by propaganda. Although many Rosk divisions will be equipped with Aarut arms, the Rosk will choose to renew their age-old struggle to subdue the Amestrians and will not send troops to any other fronts.
Poneb:
The Poneb will see an opportunity in this war. They will spend the first few years increasing the size of their armed forces. Then, a few years into the war, they will suddenly invade the Sezvyr in an attempt to reclaim their lost lands, and start supporting the Aarut-Varakan alliance. They will not enter the general war quite yet, unless forced to.
Sign a peace with the Panto and retreat out of all lands south of the Nayota territory, except for most of Florida. This peace will free up even more ships to go to other fronts. The main naval front will be in the Mediterranean, where the Aarut will do their best to decimate their enemies.
Stay on good relations with all dependencies.
Accept these terms, and focus all efforts on ridding the [US West Coast] of suraji influence. Publicly condemn any terrorist/guerrilla uprisings that may continue
(more insane OCD overkill - the stuff in spoilers in basically spam and/or things you might already know)
Era 18: The Road to War
Map 1940:
Map 1957:
TECHNOLOGY TIMELINE:
Spoiler:
1940 onwards: Varakan chemists lead progress in synthetic materials and plastics, many of them offshoots from the oil industry.
1941: Colour motion film invented by Furotocan corporation. Radiotherapy and improved X-Ray methods in Varakan hospitals.
1942: Two Yanshi scientists publish a theory covering the theoretical equivalence of energy and mass.
1943: Radioactivity research - Several new radioactive elements are described.
1945: Varakan government begins serious funding of jet engine research. Saikarans invest in first major liquid-fuelled rocket research programme.
1947: Yanshi scientists demonstrate the fission of Uranium atoms under bombardment from neutrons. Meanwhile a United Furotocan physicist with Makantaw (native North American) ancestry kick starts the Furotocan programme, and publishes articles describing the possibility of launcing rockets into space and placing satellites in permanent orbit around the Earth.
1949: Sketchy details of Varakan jet engine programme are leaked to the Furotocans, who begin an experimental rocket-powered interceptor program as a response.
1950 onwards: new generation of fast (propeller) aircraft and radars developed by the major powers.
1951: The Aarut navy develop improved sonar. A Yanshi-Thessen collaboration produces the first re-programmable electronic computer.
1953: Varakans build high-altitude, four-propeller-engine bombers with pressurised cabins and onboard radar / radio navigation. Meanwhile, the Furotocan rocket fighter tests achieve revolutionary speed and climb rates, but seem unsuitable as gun platforms. The Furotocans switch their focus to jet technology.
1954: Yeshegi physicists working in the Varakan Empire build (secretly) the first fission chain reactor as proof of concept. The device is too small to be of any practical use. Meanwhile, Physicists around the world begin to discuss the possibility of useful nuclear power and even nuclear bombs. While some are worried, few think such things are actually possible, at least not with several more decades' worth of innovation.
1955: The Varakans develop a fairly reliable jet engine with superior power output to all known propeller engines.
1956: Experimental television system developed by Huiyan-Yanshi corporation
ROAD TO WAR: The East
Spoiler:
The Varakan imperial ideal had suffered a blow during the 'Great War' with the rise of the new eastern Furotocanist countries (as they were collectively known, though some did not exactly fit the category), and more recently with the loss of Yansala and the rise of the Krashenists in India. By 1940 there is a great variety of terrorist and separatist groups spread throughout the empire and the Marzhung territories - these things are a sign of the times, but the Varakans suffer from them more than others. The biggest pain of all is the Garakal resistance in [Arabia]. The Varakans do what they can to turn groups against each other, or direct them against foreign neighbours (as in the case of the Yeshegi).
One school of thought is that a few short, successful wars to gain and re-gains territory (especially those lost in [Turkey/Lebanon]) will restore prestige and erode public support for terrorists and separatists. An alternate suggestion is the construction of great new public buildings, and a new centrepiece for the empire, the great new capitol city of Vesakarai. Although the military is modernised during the 1940's and early 50's (alongside another surge of industrial growth), it is the building of Vesakarai that receives the personal backing Emperor Gavanael II and the support of most of the empire's officials.
The Tiandishi are inspired to renovate their own capitol - Tiandijing - with large new buildings including the 'Hall of Ancestors', a fine piece of traditional imperial architecture and cultural reinforcement, as well as two controversial modernist 'Skyscratchers' designed by Yanshi architects.
The 'Triple Alliance' of Yanshi, Huiyan, and Tiandishi is formally declared as mutual defence and deterrent against Varakan-Takaraji aggression, but the allies are not easy partners. Tiandishi's methods for dealing with Shynist unrest are met with disapproval by their northern allies, while Huiyan leaders try to distance themselves from Yanshi influence.
The Yanshi-Tiandishi and Saikaran-Takaraji resume their 'Gentlemen's War' across the [western Pacific Rim], from [western Indonesia] to the shores of [New Zealand]. Although the fighting does not spread back to mainland Asia or [Japan], it nonetheless involves the deployment (and loss) of battleships and aircraft carriers by both sides. Thousands of casualties are suffered in a series of naval battles and raids on island bases. But invaluable air/naval combat experience is also gained, which is particularly important as new generations of fast monoplane fighters and dive-bombers arrive on the scene. Tensions increase, and there is a steady escalation in the amount of force involved, as well as the level of harassment suffered by merchant shipping.
The Tiandishi and Yanshi conspire to sow unrest in Saikara's island territories, even though their own colonial ambitions are little different. A major flashpoint occurs in Dai Gedeba, where the Saikarans are forced to call off a punitive invasion against Mingeduist fanatics after losing several ships and over a hundred aircraft. Tiandishi is keen to show its support for the southern Mingdebuists, even if the importance of the religion has been eroded in mainland Asia.
The Tripartite Accord of [Australia] is honoured by all three sides. That continent is spared any fighting except native unrest.
Yanshi armament and vehicle manufacturing companies help to push their government on a more militaristic path, against opposition from anti-war and pro-Huiyan parties. Overall, the Huiyan economy has overtaken the Yanshi by this point, but the Yanshi military remains by far the strongest of the Yanshi-Huiyan partnership, and every increase in military spending favours the Yanshi industrial corporations more than the Huiyan ones. The Yanshi-based corporation known as Shai Khe has a notable rise to power during the late 1940's. The iconic Shai Khe 'Saikhr' car is mass produced in various forms, including a military model for the Triple Alliance armies and a rugged 'countryside motor' for the civilian market. Shai Khe sets up foreign production lines across Tiandishi, and also in the United Furotoca prior to 1955.
The Shyin-Tiandishi conflict continues. Tiandishi's north-west provinces see more ethnic-Shyin immigration and Shynist fanatical terrorism. Tiandishi military expeditions lead to the acquisitions of more Shyin land, including the sacred capitol of Shyin itself, but this doesn't do anything to stop the fanaticism. The Tiandishi find themselves in a guerrilla war similar to the Varakans fighting against Grajaj Krashenism, although less intense and spread out over a much larger area.
Syhin leaders flee eastwards, and try to gain Varakan support. But they now appear weak and helpless in the face of Tiandishi armies and aircraft. Local leaders begin to take up real power across the Holy Empire, and although they still swear undying loyalty to the holy Shyin Emperor, nobody is taking much notice of the Emperor's officials anymore. The Holy Emperor and his court eventually relocate to the Hayata Kingdom [Nepal].
The Varakans are not really interested in helping the Shyin Empire, for fear of a difficult war in the [Tibetan] mountains, and the risk of stirring up Shyin fanaticism in their own borders. But special 'volunteer' forces, actually well-trained mountain troops, are sent to harass the Tiandishi and test their strength, under the cover of supposed anti-Krashenist operations.
In fact, Gavanael II shows little interest in eastern Asia altogether. It is left to the emperor's officials to bear out the Varakan-Takaraji pact. Saikaran assistance proves very useful in India. Despite ongoing unrest in the Zhulhara territory, the Saikarans maintain a presence there in alliance with a few select local leaders. Thousands of militia are recruited from Zhul peoples and armed by Saikarans to help fight the Krashenists. At the same time, the Varakans launch pioneering airborne offensives against Krashenist strongholds, using paratroopers dropped from the latest heavy bomber aircraft. Some of these offensives go badly wrong, but valuable experience is learned. The cost in lives is heavy on both sides, and the Varakans suffer a much higher proportion of material losses, but by 1950 the Krashenists are contained in difficult terrain of north-west India, away from main industrial areas.
The Varakan and Saikaran fleets conduct joint training exercises in the [Indian Ocean]. Aside from updating their ships with new electronic equipment, the Varakans make no attempt to match the growing navies of the eastern powers, however their shipyards do build a number of ships (including a couple of large modern aircraft carriers) for the Saikarans.
Meanwhile, the Tiandishi restore order in Dharaj and gain greater influence there following the annexation of Yienvai [northern Thailand/Laos], but otherwise tolerate growth of Krashenist groups in the southern provinces. There are even rumours of Tiandish support for some Krashenist groups fighting against the Varakans.
The influential Shynist-Litarotang movement in the Siyaga kingdom tries hard to keep that country neutral and to turn it into a safe haven for Shynist refugees. But there is resistance from other parties, including both traditionalists and Krashenists. The kingdom eventually it finds itself loosely allied with the Triple Alliance.
By 1950 most of eastern Asia is split between the two opposing forces, the Triple Alliance and the Varakan-Takaraji pact. But the fragmenting Shyin Empire and the Grajaj-Krashenist lands form a kind of no-mans-land in the south, while in the north, the Sezvyr Covenant is plagued by division and has an ambiguous stance towards its neighbours. Even the Marzhung state seems to be distancing itself slightly from the Varakans, both militarily and in terms of its oil and mining industries. Marzhung leaders turn to militant Marzhung nationalist factions to crush pro-Furotocanists/democrats and other dissenters.
However, in the central-east Asia, there are series of frontier wars where Varaka's north-east territories meet Huiyan territory. Huiyan-Yanshi influence is blamed for causing unrest among local Ihrzul and Tuizen peoples, and the Varakans send in a selection of their modern weapons and vehicles. In 1951, Yanshi responds by sending elements of its elite Yuen Army. The Varkans come off worst in the chaotic tank and air battles which follow, although lessons are learnt for the Yansalan campaign seven years later. Both sides soon disengage from the border, although elements of the Yuen Army remain close by, and there are more skirmishes in the years ahead.
In 1954, at the initial opening ceremony in Vesakarai, a small biplane piloted by anti-Varakan fanatics is deliberately flown into one of the large passenger/propaganda airships owned by the Varakan empire. The biplane ploughs straight through the lower part of the airship before crashing in flames. The airship, filled with Helium (one of the products of the Varakan-Marzhung petrochemical industry) does not ignite and is able to land safely, nonetheless the Varakans are outraged and blame is pinned on the western Sarvonian-Furotocans for backing such terrorist acts…
ROAD TO WAR: The West
Spoiler:
Initially, with all the problems and rivalries in Asia, it seems like Europe will not be the source of any 'big' war. Since Curias and Orimudan territories had formed the United Furotoca in 1935, tensions had been decreasing again. Religious and anti-war groups had been gaining influence across Europe. After 1940, there is another economic slump and all sides have shared problems. A series of centrist/moderate-nationalist revolutions happens in Nemarthia [Spain] and the Argine Union [France], while mass demonstrations and uprisings force the Rosk Empire to retreat from most of the ethnic-Amestrian territories it had held since the end of the Great War. Meanwhile in the east, the Poneb Empire peruses a policy of neutrality and as much modernisation as it can afford. This leaves the two traditional opposing spheres of Europe - Aarut-Rosk, and the Furotocans - separated by a wide stretch of apparently centrist, neutral and/or harmless states.
However it is not long before the Furotocans and Aarut-Rosk attempt to gain or regain influence among the new regimes. This, combined with ongoing social and economic problems, a surge of Krashenist/Jurancist socialism and a reactionary surge of nationalist zeal, is hardly a recipe for stability. Centrism soon turns to militant nationalism, firstly in the Argine Union, where the centrist government collapses to a military-nationalist overthrow in 1945. The new Argine nationalists begin a much-publicised campaign of modernisation and re-armament, and for a while seem like a threat to both spheres of Europe. Nemarthia [Spain] soon has its own nationalist revolution, but there the Furotocanist/socialist opposition is stronger, and the country is plagued by unrest and anarchy for over a decade afterwards.
Meanwhile the eastern Amestrian lands, following fruitless negotiations about uniting together, are split into several states or pseudo-states which differ greatly in ideology and stability. The most stable part - 'Vauslo Amestria' - discusses a union with Thessen Union, which declines (at least for now) because of its desire to remain fully neutral in the eyes of Europe. The other Amestrian states squabble with each other and with Rosk Empire, which tries to regain territory with Aarut backing in order to 'restore order'. Another Rosk-Amestrian guerrilla war takes shape, and again threatens to drag in Poneb and other neighbouring states.
The Pan-Sarvonian movement is an example to the Amestrians. There are discussions on uniting the remainder of Zevon [Romania] with the Thereska Sarvonia, led by upcoming politician Pyoti Resveryk. But this enthusiastic Pan-Sarvonianism encourages other ethnic groups assert themselves for other reasons, notably the Yeshegi, who begin to unite against perceived Sarvonian dominance. Yeshegi settlement is conveniently spread across border into Varakan Empire - the Varakans grant freedoms to Yeshegi on their sidem and try to incite violence amongst the Yeshegi on the other. At the same time, Poneb loyalists and Marzhung-backed nationalists stage new protests in the north of the Thereska. A new civil war is only narrowly avoided. Further expansion of the Thereska is postponed but close links and maintained with Zevon and other neighbours.
The Furotocans have some success in influencing the isolated 'Eastern Kingdoms' [Bulgaria], although these states remain officially neutral.
The Varakans and their Manzuru allies clash with Tezan in central Africa, where both sides carve up the last remaining 'unclaimed' tribal territories. Tezan is also accused of stirring up the 'barbaric' Timuru armies to attack Aarut and Saikaran-held territory in southern Africa. The Mazuru, emboldened by supplies of modern Varakan weapons, cause more problems by attacking Saikaran troops on several occasions, their supposed allies. Meanwhile the Aarut are accused of helping Hom resistance groups. Nonetheless the Aarut, Saikaran-Takaraji and Varakans eventually agree to focus their future efforts against Tezan.
The building of Yansalan [Suez] Canal is one of the great projects of the era. Work begins in 1945 and involves the best engineers of the Furotocas and Tezanian Empire. For a while there are hopes that trade between [Indian Ocean] and the [Mediterranean] will ease relations between Varaka and the west. But the Varakans, who not so long ago held joint authority over Yansala, and now emboldened by promised Aarut and Saikaran support in Africa, make a series of demands for a presence in the planned canal zone and a share of the profits. The most serious standoff occurs in 1952. The Furotocans back up Tezan, and the demands are refused. The Varakans seem to back off, but their forces never move far from the Yansalan frontier. Partly as a result of the border tension, Yansalans accept even closer ties to the greater Tezan empire.
The Imperial Aarut Republic undergoes more reform, but again things are hampered by violence in North America. By 1946 the 'Aarut Federation' is declared, and most of the former Territories become Regions with a little more autonomy. But a more hawkish government soon takes power (ironically, inspired by the dynamic ruling party of the Furotoca led by Firio Teselico in the 1930's) and quickly goes back on some of the more enlightened promises made to native-majority territories in North America (referendums on full independence in some places), supposedly due to ongoing violence - though of course, more violence is the end result. In 1947 the controversial 'Oklai Temple incident' occurs, allegedly a massacre of native and mixed-race civilians and priests in a Lantan temple by Aarut colonial police. Whether true or not, this incites massive unrest. European Furotocanists are accused of supplying Panto 'terrorists' and aiding attacks on Aarut coastal shipping with mines and torpedo boats. The Xanto Empire, the last 'strong' state in north America still free of foreign control, inspires more unrest around the [Caribbean] and allegedly receives clandestine support from the United Furotoca.
Various terrorists acts across Europe and onboard Aarut passenger liners in the [North Atlantic] are blamed on convoluted Panto-Furotocan conspiracies. The United Furotoca struggles to counter the propaganda. There is a tradition of brave Furotocan citizens taking up the cause of liberty overseas, especially against the traditional oppressive enemies of the Aarut-Rosk sphere, with or without official blessing of the Furotocan government. After 1950, following years of threats, the Aarut take the opportunity to 'inspect' and otherwise interfere with Furotocan shipping in the [Atlantic] as much as it suits them. The Furotocans retaliate with similar measures in the [Mediterranean].
In 1952, a famous Aarut-Geldut passenger liner - the Prince Konnahr - suffers a mysterious explosion en route to New Aarut [Quebec], and ensuing fires kill nearly a thousand passengers. According to the Aarut version of events, a Panto-Furotocan conspiracy is again to blame.
Tensions rise further in late 1954, when Aarut Federation, Rosk Empire, and the Argine Union sign a formal and public military alliance, the so-called 'Northern Alliance' or 'Alliance of Nations' (as it is intended to include the whole extended Aarut Federation and its allies eventually). The hard-line militarism of the Argines is out of step with more conservative Aarut system, even under the hawkish Aarut ruling party, but this proves no obstacle.
In early 1955, Argine forces roll into Tarechia [northern Spain] (which had originally split from the Argine Union following the Great War) with Aarut backing and support from local pan-Argine nationalists. Despite the mountainous terrain, there is no real resistance. The Northern Alliance then begins to put pressure on Nemarthia [Spain] by offering support for the nationalist factions there. Furotocan forces move to defend Cheguia [north-east Spain] against possible attack and promise support for the Nemarthian moderates and pro-Furotocan factions.
The straights of [Gibraltar] are mined by anti-nationalists and Furotocan navy ships. The Aarut deploy specialised minesweepers (benefiting from long experience on the North American coast) in advance of a huge battle fleet, and there are naval skirmishes around southern Nemarthia while the combined Furotocan fleet gathers off the coast of [Sardinia]. Rival airforces clash in the skies over Nemarthia, although quite unspectacularly at first, since both sides lack experience and neither is willing to risk large numbers of aircraft.
Months pass and neither side wishes to declare war. There are divides of opinion on both sides, and it is unclear how far the NA is willing to go, or if the Furotoca and its allies will agree to abandon Nemarthia. Tezan shows signs of mobilizing its own small Mediterranean fleet and airforce (mostly built by Furotocan industry in the first place) to aid the defence of the Mediterranean.
In the end, a secret meeting between Aarut and Varakan envoys decides the issue. The Alliance of Nations and Varakan Empire agree to a joint declaration of war on the Furotocan Alliance and the Holy Empire of Tezan, to end the 'corruption and terrorism' of these nations and reshape the western world as they see fit. The Aarut hawks have already engineered the Northern Alliance agreement to allow them to sidestep any painful debate in the Aarut parliament. Varakan Emperor Gavanael II, although initially hesitant, soon agrees to this plan and Varakan tanks roll back towards the border with Yansala…
Formal declarations of war are made. Most of the United Furotoca's traditional allies, including the Thereska Sarvonia, honour the call to arms. The world prepares for the first major 'mechanised' war.
A huge mass of Varakan tanks, armoured cars, mobile artillery, engineer vehicles, specialised canal-bridging vehicles, ambulances, command cars, radio cars, halftracks, trucks, cavalry, camel troops and infantry is ordered across the [Sinai] border into Yansala, supported by roughly a thousand aircraft overhead. It is the first operation of its kind. There is confusion, and breakdowns, accidents, delays, friendly fire and jammed roads. Tezan-Yanasalan troops hold out fanatically in some places. Nonetheless, within days the Varakans reach the unfinished Yansalan Canal and overwhelm the defence. Varakan army engineers have spent much time designing ways to cross this obstacle. Tezan and Yansalan commanders are surprised to find Varakan forces pushing swiftly on into [Egypt].
Meanwhile, air battles are fought over the eastern states allied to the Furotocas. Although benefiting from superior fighters and radar equipment, Furotocan air defences are stretched thin. The small Hannurrian Republic [Lebanon/Cyprus] is attacked by a surprisingly large number of Varakan bombers and dive-bombers, followed by a swift ground invasion. Varakan paratroopers then make a costly, but successful airborne attack on [Cyprus].
The Varakans seize key valleys and mountain passes on the border with the Thereska Sarvonia, with help from allied Yeshegi guerrillas.
A small but well-equipped Furotocan force is sent to [Libya] and begins to form up alongside the best of the Tezanian army.
A large Aarut fleet enters the Mediterranean, but finds it to be a nightmare of mines, torpedoes and air attack. The Furotocan fleet is smaller, but is more modern overall, benefiting from recent investment. The Furotocan fleet splits up and uses hit-and-run tactics. The Varakans can offer little help, as they have little more than gunboats and destroyers stationed in the eastern Mediterranean.
The Aarut fleet nears the coast of [Italy] on several occasions but loses several capitol ships in the process. Cautious air attacks against Furotocan cities run into heavy air defences. Efforts to incite uprisings in the Furotoca (with shows of force, and agents on the ground) fail utterly. A patriotic spirit rallies the Furotocan people as it does elsewhere. The opposing fleets then go on the defensive, leaving the central [Mediterranean] to be roamed by torpedo-boats, subs and aircraft.
The main Varakan fleet, with some Saikaran assisatance, takes control of the [Red Sea], while taking some losses to Furotocan-built mines, submarines and aircraft of the Tezanians.
Varakan aircraft and elite troops help the Manzuru to advance further into central Africa over the course of the next year.
Southern Africa remains relatively quiet at this point.
The rest of the Aarut fleet moves to impound all Furotocan shipping in the [Atlantic], and begins to harass the African coast. But a handful of Furotocan-Tezanian fast cruisers and submarines are already at sea, and are able to cause havoc with Aarut shipping in response. The Aarut send powerful task forces to track them down, with little success.
The enemies of the Aarut in northern and central America become bolder, expecting Aarut troop withdrawals to Europe. There are rumours of secret supply runs by Furotocan and Tezaninan ships and subs to aid the uprisings.
Back in Europe, the first real battles between the Northern Alliance and Furotocan forces happen in Nemarthia. Unlike [Egypt], the fighting is more sporadic, often in hilly terrain with far fewer tanks and vehicles involved. Both sides also conserve their airforces for possible use elsewhere. The Aarut are eager to avenge their defeat in Nemarthia during the Great War, and to cut off Furotocan influence from the [Atlantic]. Furotocan forces are overstretched and cannot prevent the NA/Nemarthian-nationalist forces overrunning the capitol and major cities within weeks. Furotocan troops and their Nemarthian allies retreat to Cheguia.
The front along the United Furotoca's border with Argine Union is surprisingly quiet. The feared Argine nationalist attacks into Cheguia and [northern Italy] fail to materialise. Despite the propaganda, the Argine army is in fact still suffering shortages of equipment and suitable leadership, and is generally not up to the same standards of the Aarut of Furotocans. Furotocan commanders begin to realise this from experiences in Nemarthia. Kasev Thalnur, a Furotocan general in the bold Krilik tradition, convinces Furotocan command to allow border forces to go on the offensive.
Winter, 1955:
Spoiler:
All across the [Atlantic] and [Indian] Oceans, the Furotocan-Tezanian raiders continue to sink dozens of Aarut and Varakan freighters every month. The Aarut reluctantly employ a convoy system in the Atlantic, while continuing to track down the raiders and attack Tezanian ports along the west coast of Africa, including the occupation of some islands. The Varakans attempt similar convoy measures in the Indian Ocean, but don't have enough destroyers/escorts to give adequate protection.
Leaders of the Panto resistance meet with the Aarut and announce a peace treaty, to the surprise of all. Aarut troops begin to withdraw from parts of [southern USA]. But the shared hatred doesn't just disappear - guerrillas and irregular forces on both sides continue to fight. Some of the former Panto troops and allies now begin to fight for their own states, free from Panto or Xanto control (the Free Natahu and Hokian alliances), while immigrants on the coast refuse to leave and declare the 'New Geldut Republic', acting against Aarut's wishes. Over the following year, across the area evacuated by the Aarut, there is an exodus of natives and immigrants to respective safe-havens. People of mixed background suffer at the hands of both sides. The old Panto leadership is discredited in the eyes of many, and seems at risk of being overthrown by forces still fighting against the Aarut.
The Aarut take some troops to Rayulatal [Colombia/Venezuela] and put down an Anti-Aarut uprising there. But the Aarut can only keep control of the coasts. Rayulat guerrillas move to the inland areas. Rayulat's king is forced to accept Aarut 'protection' and exile as his country is split up by rival warlords.
The Xanto army defeats an incursion by the Suraji and their native allies, and threatens to free a stretch of coast from Suraji control which would hopefully allow in aid from the Triple Alliance. By this stage the Xanto have reverse-engineered some of the foreign tanks and aircraft they have acquired, and set up limited production lines of their own. Although these vehicles are largely outdated, the same can be said for much of the Suraji colonial forces facing them.
The Zanac Kingdom [southern Chile/Argentina] honours its friendship with Tezan and bravely declares war on the Northern Alliance and the Varakan Empire. The Zanacians have some Furotocan-built destroyers and aircraft, with which they harass Aarut shipping and colonial forces, until Aarut reinforcements arrive to contain them.
Supply shortages and unexpected heavy rain slow Varakan's advance into [Egypt]. They do however manage to cross the [Nile] in several places.
Furotocan troops halt probing attacks by the Varakans into Pelonar [northern Turkey] and the Thereska Sarvonia. Although the Thereska is held together by [president] Resveryk, the Thereskan army is stuck guarding borders with two other possible enemies, the Marzhung and Poneb. Turun [west Turkey] remains officially neutral.
Another front opens in [southern Germany] as Furotocan troops help some of the moderate Amestrian factions fight against their more hard-line opponents as well as the Rosk Empire.
The rest of the Northern Alliance encircle the last pockets of resistance in Nemarthia and prepares for advances into Cheguia and landings in [Morocco/Algeria] in the new year. The Aarut fleet and airforce strangle supply lines to Cheguia.
General Thalnur's 'winter offensive' takes Argine forces by surprise. After a heavy air and artillery barrage, Furotocan tanks and motor divisions begin to carve a path into the heart of the Argine Union, doing much to boost morale on the Furotocan side. With a smaller force to command than the Varakans, the Furotocans are able to conduct the first 'elegant' example of mobile warfare. NA generals call off the invasion of Cheguia and move to counter the Furotocan advance. This front attracts a large chunk of both side's airforces.
Spring-Summer, 1956:
Spoiler:
Furotocan troops secure a land route to Cheguia, hold NA troops behind the [Pyrenees] mountains.
Argine troops continue to retreat, but now it is an intentional retreat. Finally, a counter-offensive is carefully planned and executed with Aarut support, driving Furotocans back to the Mediterranean coast. Argine losses are heavy and their army is crippled for some time, although their most talented commanders have now been singled out for future roles.
The Rosk Empire recaptures large parts of Amestrian territories, but suffers heavy losses in confused fighting with the Amestrians and Furotocans. Morale sinks and another wave of public unrest threatens to cripple Roskian war effort, despite a determined propaganda campaign by the government to boost army recruitment. The Aarut divert forces to strengthen Rosk's position in the east.
A stalemate gradually forms across the front in [northern Turkey/Armenia].
Varakan forces only make half-hearted attacks into southern Yansala. Their next main attack is along the north African coast, where the joint Furotocan-Tezan army of Africa is waiting for them. Although outnumbered and outgunned, the defenders are able to frustrate and confuse the Varakans. The latest Furotocan tanks prove able to tear through some of the older Varakan tanks, especially given the problems of supply and maintenance that the Varakans are facing. Furotocan air and amphibious raids threaten Varakan supply lines, as do desert guerrillas opposed to Varakan presence in Africa. The Varakans advance and retreat several times before reaching [Algeria]. There the Varakans pause to set up airbases for an extended bombing campaign against [Italy].
Aarut landings in [Morocco] go ahead, but face determined resistance despite the attacker's firepower.
The Aarut seem to be losing control of the situation in the [North-West US]. The rebel Free States (Saargat and New Rithland) push Aarut Federation forces backwards, deep into the Hulebern Territory. Aarut garrisons are pinned down fighting a new wave of guerrilla attacks in the east. The Free States try to associate themselves with the war in Europe, especially as many Amestrian immigrants make up their population, but the Furotocans take little notice. The reputation of the Free State forces is still tarnished by rumours of atrocities committed against native Americans.
In the Pacific, Saikaran forces launch a major carrier strike against a Yanshi fleet docked at [Guam]. The Yanshi lose several big ships and suffer thousands of dead. For now this is seen as another episode of the so-called 'Gentlemen's War', retaliation for similar attacks by the Yanshi against Saikaran targets, but the Yanshi people are outraged. Fighting also intensifies between Tiandishi and Takaraji forces in the [Philippines].
The Saikarans divert some ships to help guard Varakan shipping against Furotocan-Tezanian cruiser and sub attack. Freighter losses are only reduced slightly.
Autumn-Winter, 1956:
Spoiler:
The Northern Alliance finally invades Cheguia after cutting its land route to the Furotoca. Heavily-guarded Furotocan convoys run the gauntlet of air and naval attack to supply the defenders. There are more sea battles between the big ships of the opposing fleets, and again the Aarut come off worst. But ultimately the Furotocans cannot get enough supplies through. The last convoy/task force is sent with the goal of retrieving as many troops and weapons as possible.
The Varakans begin a heavy bombing offensive in Europe. A particular target is the oil industry in southern Urgury [central Romania], a major supplier of the Furotocan war effort. This brings Urugury into the war and showcases latest Varakan long-range bombers, as well as the latest radar and radical rocket-powered interceptors on the Furotocan side. The Varakans also focus on the industrial centres of [Northern Italy]. Although the Furotocan war effort is slowed down, the cost is high for the Varakans, with hundreds of aircraft and thousands of aircrew lost to Furotocan air defences that have been preparing for decades.
Varakan war industry begins to overstretch itself. Lack of manpower and resources slows down some production lines. More supplies and spare parts are needed at the front.
The Aarut struggle to expand their beachheads in [Morocco], but have ambitious plans to advance and join up with the Varakans in [Algeria].
The Grajaj Krashenists remind Varakans of their existence with a well-planned simultaneous attacks on several cities in north-east India. Tiandishi involvement is alleged.
Skirmishes resume along the Huiyan-Ihrzul border between Varakan and Yanshi forces.
In response to the 'blatant aggression of the Triple Alliance', the Saikaran and Suraji factions begin talks to officially reunite as the Empire of Takaraji. But with their combined forces spread out across the eastern Americas, southern Africa and the [Pacific], they still seem unwilling to start a full scale war with the Triple Alliance.
Still, paranoia grips the Yanshi and Takaraji peoples, far more so than those actually at war in the west. Both expect to be bombed by poison gas and alleged 'radioactive' gas bombs. The Yanshi begin mass producing anti-aicraft guns and gather squadrons of fast modern interceptors around their major cities. The Takaraji focus on heavy bombers as a deterrent and as a means of retaliation.
Spring, 1957:
The Triple Alliance and Takaraji officially remain neutral in the European fighting, although the Saikaran-Takaraji have been aiding Varakan forces in Africa.
The situation in North America remains troubling for the Aarut in particular.
To some obersvers, the name 'Triple Alliance' takes on a double meaning as a symbolic alliance of the three 'spheres' of the 'Free' world, namely the Panto/Xanto, Furotocan-Tezanian alliance and the actual Triple Alliance of East Asia.
Across rest of the Americas, there is ongoing native resistance to Aarut and Suraji-Takaraji colonialism, with varying degrees of violence and enthusiasm. A chaotic war along the [Amazon] has grown to involve the Suraji and Aarut, although this was first sparked by expansion efforts of the Matac Kingdom against other natives. This has continued for years with little interest from the outside world and is considered just another tribal war, although the Matac have artillery, modern rifles, and even a few foreign-made aircraft.
With the Argine army almost back to full strength, the Northern Alliance plans a land campaign into [northern Italy], alongside an aggressive air-naval war to claim the central Mediterranean and support the Varakan bombing campaign.
The Furotocan strategy at this point is one of conserving their strength and wearing down the Varakans, hoping that rebels or other allies will join the fight, allowing another major counter-offensive in the west. The neutrality of the Republic of Serezyl [Czechoslovakia] is an obstacle to further progress in Amestria, as is the increasingly extreme racism and Krashenist/Jurancistist ideology of some of the Amestrian factions.
With Emperor Gavanael II apparently satisfied with the Varakan army's gains in North Africa at this point, Varakan generals prepare for a campaign into Thereska Sarvonia. Some of the Varakan navy's biggest ships relocate to [Gibraltar], with Aarut escort, to aid in the coming battle for the [Mediterranean]. The Varakan heavy bombers have now switched to night attacks to reduce losses, but continue to cause damage. The Varakans can boast the first combat-ready jet fighters (of twin-jet design), which are deployed in defence of the north African airfields.
-Its now 1957 AD-
Notes:
Ummeehshhasdahdhadadhadzxczczxczxcz
Also, you may note the map has some strange features, like red/pink lines for active battle/fronts and strange transparent colours for some of the recently conquered areas.
Cultures and Factions Ownership:
Spoilershow :
Please feel free to ignore stuff, and only send orders/input for anything you are interested in. For unclaimed cultures, please check the first post in this thread.
Lord_Iggy: (Sarvonian culture)
Major influence: The United Furotoca, Thereska Sarvikova, Keyzad of Urgury.
Lesser influence: Holy Yansalan Kingdom, Garakal Katanates, Holy Tezan Empire, Great Keyzad of Marzhung, Thuratica of Zevon, Sezvyr Covenant, Zanac Kingdom, Keyzad of Sariv (Poneb vassal)
Ninja Dude: (Kramtob culture)
Major influence: Holy Shyin Empire, Kajir Ketada, Grajaj Krashenists
Lesser influence: The United Furotoca, Furotoca of Cheguia, Kingdom of Tarechia, Varakan Empire, Argine Union, Keyzad of Urgury, Siyaga Kingdom, Dharaj Alliance
Charles Li: (Hsin-Yuan culture)
Major influence: Yanshi Republic
Lesser influence: Huiyan Allliance, Great Sarih Katanate, Zayan Kingdom
Luckymoose: (Agrian culture)
Major influence: Varakan Empire
Lesser influence: Zulhara Alliance, Great Keyzad of Marzhung
mythmonster2: (Zul cutlure)
Major influence: Hom Protectorate, Manzuru Empire, Great Dagon Kingdom, Ulayasamat Kingdom, Zulyan/Zuli Tribes
Lesser influence: Takaraji Empire, Garakal Katanates, Zulhara Alliance, Zayan Kingdom, Dai Gedeba, Ceyloni Kingdom
human-slaughter: (Mavan culture)
Major influence: Republic of Pelonar
Lesser influence: The United Furotoca, Sumetche Katad, Eastern Kingdoms, Turun Republic
LightFang: (Tianshi culture)
Major influence: Tiandishi Empire
Lesser influence: Siyaga Kingdom, Dai Gedeba
Next Era:
OK no more messing around. Not much progress I know, but this war is going to end next turn/era even if there happen to be huge sweeping continental battles.
Ideally I will break with such bad habits and cover it from a more zoomed-out perspective, instead of every little episode. Yeah.
Anyway, some things to consider for each country may be:
-> Conditions for entering the war if currently neutral (if the war has any interest).
-> Any social/ideological changes to impose during wartime.
-> Any Technologies/tactics to be perused at the expense of others.
-> Goals to achieve in the war, what would be considered victory?
-> How much are you willing to risk, will you fight on to the end or be willing to accept defeat etc?
*IMPORTANT:* -> Goals and agendas to push for the post-war world? (perhaps even different versions for victory or defeat?)
-> THANKS for any more interest after all this spam/delays/confusion
In order to remain in the war we must work to get more resources from Manzuru and Marzhung, plus any other materials we can gather in India. We will begin switching our entire airforce into jet aircraft at great expense to the treasury. These financial losses will cause the economy to take a down turn with the people slowly beginning to see how ridiculous this war is. Gavanael II will address his people via radio in an attempt to keep spirits high. Talking of our success in Africa and highly exaggerate our successes.
Manzuru will be called up to send more troops into north Africa, and will be given help in building new factories to make our style of weaponry to better help both of our war efforts.
Marzhung cooperation will be sought after in a campaign into Sarvonia. With plans to cut them off from Caucasus oil supplies. Making steady and well thought out slow steps into fighting their army.
Send a diplomatic letter to Poneb and request they join the war on our side with great benefits and land grabbing opportunities.
One of Gavaneal's sons will participate in the jet program and be a test pilot. He will be killed in an air raid by Furotocan fighters in the Israel area. Causing national mourning and a resurgence in enlistment.
Turn our paratroopers on Greece and Anatolian portions of Furotoca in attempts to capture naval and air bases with night drops.
With control of the canal we can move our navy from the Red Sea into the Mediterranean. We will use our ships to keep Furotoca naval raids away from our coasts.
Willing to risk: If the war effort turns around into our lands, seek quick peace.
-> If Taraji expands influence over too far start submarin: HUGE BLOCKADE
-> Yanshi grows slightly less militaristic but new pixle games by independent producers and paintball wars increase basic quality.
-> No basic tactics but submarine warfare and huge naval landings blocked by rings of supporting ships.
-> Try to get more northern dependencies, decrease friction in the alliance. Stop Taraji influence and expand own with allies.
-> Fight until Taraji agrees to stop expanding influence.
*IMPORTANT:* -> Goals and agendas to push for the post-war world? (perhaps even different versions for victory or defeat?)
Oh my goodness, that was really awesome and well worth the wait. I'll have to think about what I want to do...
What the heck, our Triple Alliance counts as part of the "Free World"? I never would have suspected that...that's funny. I guess, in a roundabout way, although I wanted to be a veritable Empire, I'm still fighting for freedom!
Expand and modernize the navy. The Furotocans will never again be allowed to destroy our ships!
Stop fighting against New Rithland and Saargat and allow them to colonize native lands.
Secretly ship supplies to New Geldut and in general factions that seem able to destroy Panto unity (how ironic that a peace treaty is what finally brought them to ruin).
- Social/ideological changes brought on by war: the Aarut government will continually try to make democracy sound bad.
- Technology to be sought: better naval technology, nukes.
- Goals of the war: make the Furotoca collapse into a myriad of non-democratic states; try to make the Panto collapse by covertly shipping supplies to their enemies, and then swoop in and reclaim some territory if possible.
- Amount willing to risk: not the unity of the Aarut Federation itself.
Rosk
- Social/ideological changes brought on by war: the Rosk people will get over their imperialism and start campaigning for a more republican government, much like the Aarut's.
- Technology to be sought: poison gas.
- Goals of the war: destroy Amestria, destroy democracy, destroy all enemies, kill everything, etc.
- Amount willing to risk: everything; the government is stupid/insane.
- Continue to particularly focus on increasing the airforce.
- Research ways to effectively evade radar and then develop a viable Heavy Bomber which has the new radar evading tech.
- A new tactics to pursue, is with the new heavy bomber, bomb anything of military valueble to Furotaca in Northern Italy and the surrounding areas.
- Continue to use to same message, that this World War is the great apocalypse and age of terror which will come from the east.
- We are willing to risk everything, becuase if this war is lost, we will be a hollow shell of our previous selves.
- If we can annex Northern Italy and the surrounding areas, then we will seek peace.
Grajaj Krashenists and Dharaj Alliance: Push east, taking advantage of the chaos caused by the Shyinist fanatics' attacks in the area. Many alliances will be made with the Shyinists, although the Krashenist side of these bargins may not be fufilled. Guerilla warfare will be our primary weapon. Encouraging the common people to take up arms and seize power for themselves, large areas of the Tiandishi Empire will be taken under Krashenist control, or rendered a chaotic mess of warring factions.
Shyin Empire: No more official aggression against the Tiandishi Empire will continue, and peace will be encouraged. However, fanatics will likely continue their opperations. The Shyin Emperor will proclaim that he has no control over these Shyinists, and therefore is not responisble for their actions.
Encouraging the common people to take up arms and seize power for themselves, large areas of the Tiandishi Empire will be taken under Krashenist control, or rendered a chaotic mess of warring factions.
->The moment Poneb enters Sezvyr I'm to at the invitation of the Sezvyr Government or at least my puppets/sympathizers there help defend the Covenant against the eternal enemy.
-> The government of Marzhung is to adopt some of the "progressive elements" of the Covenant in preparation for war.
-> The Marzhung should focus heavily on Blitzkrieg style campaigns, heavy in tanks and ground attack aircraft supported by a strong interceptor arm at the expense of heavy bombers. Skis and trucks should convey the infantry into battle alongside the massed Armour and ground attack aircraft, while the enemies planes are being shot out of the sky, and there troops are being crushed by armored spearheads.
-> Annexation/Incorporation of the Covenant, into a Greater Progressive Union of Marzhung-Sezvyr [GPUMS]. And if our Western cousins in Thereska-Saravonia get uppity, or attack our nationalist-progressive brothers over the border we can invade them to.
-> The Marzhung are willing to risk alot, but we will be content with a white peace at pre-war borders with the Poneb Empire if they recognize our interest in the Covenant, and don't interfere with our Union.
-> Victory Goals and Agenda:
Devour Sezvyr.
Ignore Poneb nobody is going to like them for drawing an otherwise sympathetic Marzhung State away from Varaka and her allies.
Push for a partial annexation of Thereska-Saravonia and balkanise the rest. We shall deal with those shattered hulks later.
Try to get Poneb punished, with the loss of some territory...
-> Allied Defeat Goals and Agenda:
Devour Sezvyr.
Apologize to Thereska-Saravonia, I should be much to large to invade, and a potential collapse of Varakan will cause them enough problems, notwithstanding invading an industrial powerhouse with a huge amount of space to trade for time.
Be content with white peaces with Thereska-Saravonia and the other allies, seize if possible ethnically Marzhung territory in a possible collapse of Varakan under the guise of restoring order.
Special Note: Even if we don't invade our Western cousins and they are on the ropes, invade them to seize territory, and restore order, even if it is at parallels to Varakan desires.
The United Furotoca
Continue to work and maintain our technological advantages- one of the advantages of our free system is a greater potential for open thinking and advancement.
Support pro-democracy or anti-authoritarian movements in the lands of our enemies, throughout the world.
Help to liberate Tezan Territories.
Our goal is to maintain our territorial and democratic integrity, while supporting the allies of our enemies in as many places as feasibly possible.
Thereska Sarvikova
The Yeshegi are an integral part of our nation, counted amongst the Sarvonians of our nations. They are unique and different, like every other group in our nation, but they remain an integral and valued part of the Thereska.
Focus intensely on developing defensive technologies- powerful and accurate anti-air guns, fast-climbing defensive fighters, and a variety of mobile and static defenses for land forces.
Heavily fortify the Caucasus mountains, and provide anti-air defensive guns for our threatened neighbours and allies.
Sign nonagression pacts with the Poneb Empire, guarantee the independence of the Sevzyr Covenant and exert heavy diplomatic pressure against the Marzhung to not invade our Sevzyr bretheren.
Encourage internal unrest in the ethnically diverse Varakan Empire.
Keyzad of Urgury
Develop a highly trained elite army, and use it to support the Furotocan and Thereskan Empires. Maintain fierce independence, matched only by our strong allegiance to the democratic forces of the world. Kezy Tevosc IV, ascending after his father falls severely ill, will act as the figurehead of Urgury, while our democratic leader is Reveis Tevursck.
Lesser influence
Holy Yansalan Kingdom
Fight guerilla war however we can against the invaders, and support any attacks against them.
Garakal Katanates
Continue a long tradition of freedom-fighting. Accept help from our brothers in the Thereska Sarvikova, and try to help other downtrodden minority groups overthrow the oppressors of Varaka.
Holy Tezan Empire
Throw out the invaders from our homelands, and turn the battle back upon them!
Great Keyzad of Marzhung
Maintain neutrality and prosper from it.
Thuratica of Zevon
Maintain a very close relationship with the Thereska Sarvikova, accept anti-air defenses.
Sezvyr Covenant
Maintain our independence and stability, giving nothing to help the cause of the nationalists- but prepare to fight if the Marzhung become aggressive or try to intervene in our domestic affairs.
Zanac Kingdom
Keep on supporting our allies, but fortify our homelands, to prevent conquest from enemies.
Keyzad of Sariv (Poneb vassal)
Try to work to broker friendship between our neighbours, to prevent war from ravaging our lands.
Amasa: Support Aarut unless their land comes at risk. Get all enemies of Aarut off of SAmerica. Give up unwillingly if their nation's soverignty comes at risk.
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