Operation Yellow Ribbon

[Kingdom of Reitzmag]

This thread is reserved for all actions to be conducted by the Kingdom of Reitzmag in its war against Svarna Surya.

Current Status: AT WAR

Foreign involvement:

Nation	Status	Side
Gadalland and Aspern	Humanitarian	Reitzmag
United Duchies	Combat	Reitzmag
United Kingdom	Combat	Reitzmag
Yosai	Humanitarian	Reitzmag

(under development)

[Kingdom of Reitzmag]

December 25 2022
GCHQ "The Doughnut"

In the war room, the tension is high as plans for the invasion of Svarna Surya are laid out. The chiefs of staffs of the 5 branches of the Armed Forces gather to discuss the concerted effort to retrieve the ships seized and rescue the crew, and to initiate a change in regime. Although still awaiting approval from parliament, plans on how the operations will go have already been slowly developed and finalized in anticipation that the approval will surely be granted. Constant communication was also maintained with the United Duchies, who will be part of the joint operations.

Preliminary preparations have already been ordered for units of the Coastguard and Navy being the first to be deployed.

5 of 10 Pioneer-class Offshore Patrol Vessels (ex-Sentinel-class Corvettes), 8 of 20 Warden-class Offshore Patrol Vessels (ex-Royal Navy Patrol Vessels), 3 of 10 Bird-class Offshore Patrol Vessels, HMS Agile (V129), HMS Fast (V133), HMS Punctual (V136), HMS Strathe (F111), HMS Cambridge (F113), HMS Gloucester (F118), and HMS Edward Thurne (D164) were deployed in various parts of the Caspian to monitor the movements of Svarnan Navy vessels and patrol for possible refugees that may be rescued. No. 27 Carrier Strike Group (HMS King Richard) was also placed on high alert with its Air Wing already operating at full Supercarrier capacity. Maritime Patrol Aircraft from No. 255 Squadron RAF in the form of Dauntless L.17P of the Coastal Command were deployed on regular patrols over the Caspian Sea for possible enemy submarines and ships along with No. 254 Squadron RAF using the same planes and operating from the same base.

Arrangements were also being made on possibly deploying more aircraft in the United Duchies to easily conduct the operations and cut logistical costs of operating from a very long range, which includes the deployment of 4 squadrons of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for tactical reconnaissance and surveillance over the target areas. No. 248 Squadron RAF is also preparing for possible temporary redeployment to the Gulf Command with their Executioner F.11R Interceptor Reconnaissance Aircraft to aid in target acquisition for precision guided munitions on targets as well as intelligence gathering deep into Svarnan territory. And the Royal Space Force also began to focus some of its satellites to aid in navigation and reconnaissance on Svarna Surya.

The Royal Medical Corps also began to prepare for humanitarian missions and aid on possible casualties that may occur, with help from the Army Air Corps in the transportation of patients from the battlefield to a safe location. Other corps of the Royal Army on the other hand were tasked to prepare but remained on hold until a new instruction is given for their part to play in the operation. Everything was already being set, all that was left was the Duchians and the Parliament's approval.

[Kingdom of Reitzmag]

December 26 2022
GCHQ "The Doughnut"

The pressure in the war room increases, Parliament finally gave approval for the operations. As soon as the news came, the Chiefs of Staff of the Armed Forces arrive immediately along with the Prime Minister, Defence Minister, Duchian Ambassador, Yosainese Ambassador, UK Ambassador, and ECON Representatives. Everything was being set into motion, more refugees were found in the Caspian and rescued by the Coastguard and Navy's joint forces. Plans were slowly being coordinated and finalised for the first few days of the invasion, with the United Duchies, United Kingdom, and Yosai joining in the effort.

Before the announcement, HMS Nightfall (S150), HMS Vacuum (S155), and HMS Murk (S157) were sent to silently join the patrols in the Caspian. Anti-Submarine Warfare Helicopters were also dispatched to counter enemy Attack Submarines that may threaten the ships participating in the Operation. The Coastguard also put its Territorial Defence Force, composed of Coastal Patrol Vessels and Fast Interceptor Crafts, on high alert for any possible enemy infiltrations to the coast.

As soon as everyone was ready, the meeting was set. The plan was laid out to the Prime Minister and the foreign dignitaries, emphasizing on the first phase of the operation.

In the plan, Reconnaissance Units such as UAVs, Satellites, and Reconnaissance Aircraft would be sent to patrol the Coastal Areas of Svarna Surya. During the reconnaissance phase, a blockade would be enforced to prevent Svarnan Navy ships from reaching the other sides of the Caspian Sea and rescue refugees to safety. A temporary Joint Tactical Operations Center would also be set-up in the United Duchies to easily coordinate the movement of units from all the participating forces. Supplies would also be airlifted to the United Duchies to serve as the first jump point in preparation for the first wave of attacks. All this would be the first part of Phase 1 of operations.

Once the necessary intelligence is gathered, the first attacks would begin. During which, the RAF would be sent to begin striking on coastal targets and military installations. Likely this may make use of Cruise Missiles launched from Swan B.11 strategic bombers stationed in the United Duchies. Anti-air assets would also be disabled with help from the United Kingdom and the United Duchies, to pave the way for a no-fly zone to be enforced over the Svarnan Airspace and Air Superiority to be achieved. It would only be after the SEAD operations would the first Fighter Squadrons be sent to patrol the skies and take down enemy fighters. This would be the second part of Phase 1 of operations.

After air superiority is achieved, the first batch of Royal Marines would begin to land on the coast of Svarna Surya. These Marines would be tasked at securing a limited area to build temporary outposts where logistical support would be provided before aiming to secure a larger area with the facilities to accommodate heavier transport aircraft. Mainly, the troops should be able to secure 3 locations with at least 1 sq km of land each to build temporary bases. Once secured, more support and reinforcements would be sent to further secure the bases and build up forces and fortifications.

That was all for Phase 1, which aimed at securing the beaches and disabling key military infrastructure that were easily within range of the forces. The Prime Minister looked at the plan, with a grim face before responding.

SB: "Reserve this plan in the future, we should give them a little scare first."

Everyone was in awe, maybe he had something interesting in mind.

SB: "Admiral Radakin, is it possible that we send some preemptive strikes on key military installations in Svarna from any of the ships currently deployed? Preferrably, guided missiles if possible."

AR: "Sir, HMS Edward Thurne is currently armed with Cruise Missiles during its patrol. All 3 frigates currently deployed are also armed with Cruise Missiles. They are ready to engage under your directions sir."

SB: "I would like a selection of targets within reach of these ships' missiles. Preferably, those belonging to the military and the government of Svarna Surya. I'd want to pressure them first and see their reaction before we proceed with the invasion plans. However, keep all the units planned for deployment under Phase 1 prepared at any moment's notice if we have to proceed further."

AW: "Sir, I think it would be best if we conduct some reconnaissance missions with our UAVs to give you a better selection of targets. Although we could suggest the following if you wish to strike now."

In the list provided were the following installations:

• Visakhapatnam Naval Base
• Visakhapatnam Air Base
• Naya Dillee Air Base
• Mumbai Air Base
• Amritsar Air Base
• Raipur Air Base
• Bhopal Air Base
• Sarghoda Air Base

The Prime Minister looked at the list, together with the Defence Minister, and then pointed at 3 locations to target. It was time for the first strikes of the war to occur.

SB: "Do not fire at once, I would want to make a statement just in time after the missiles hit one by one to demand the release of the crew. If they do not comply, I will point out more targets to strike. But if they resort to killing even one of those crew, we'll have to proceed with the plan. Keep monitoring the movements of their units while we wait for their response. Begin firing 5 minutes before I appear on television tonight."

Simon left the room, and immediately went to the Black House to prepare for the evening address.

5:30pm
Black House

The cameras were set up at the Prime Minister's Office, Simon comes into the room with his speech at hand and begins to rehearse before the actual take at 6:00pm.

5:45pm
HMS Strathe

The crew all prepare for the launches. 10 minutes before the salvo begins, a General Quarters alarm rang across the ship in preparation. All the crew clear the bow deck for the launches to begin, readily in anticipation for the first wave.

5 minutes later, the missiles were ready to fire. The crew await the orders to begin firing while the rest keep guard for possible enemy vessels nearby. The three targets were locked in, with help of Satellite Navigation.

And finally, it starts.

CI: "Begin firing."

As the order drops, the weapons officer order the launch of the missiles.

LCE: "Cruise Missiles, first salvo, engage, engage."

The men at the trigger pushes the buttons to launch, without hesitation.

At 5:55pm, the first salvo begins with 6 Cruise Missiles aimed at Visakhapatnam Naval Base, Mumbai Air Base, and Amritsar Air Base. They travel rapidly to their targets, closing in as the speech begins just minutes later.

6:58pm
Black House

DC: "Cameras, rolling, cue."

The opening sequence appears, and the title slowly fades to the scene at the PM's residence.

SB: "Good evening ladies and gentlemen, fellow citizens of our great nation and those watching from around the world. It is my honour to address you all this evening from the premises of my office here at Hampton City. Recently, it had come to our attention that our nation has being constantly provoked by an aggressive and erratic dictatorship into a violent conflict. And it is for this reason, that we have officially declared war on the State of Svarna Surya to allow our military to conduct operations with permission from Parliament. I am disappointed that we will have to resort to this in order to ensure the peace and stability of our nation, our citizens, and of our neighboring nations and their citizens. At this very moment, I make my final call to the Svarnan Government to release unconditionally our people in good shape and health as they were when you held them captive. And to return the commercial vessels they served in, without damage nor anything less than they had before you seized them. This I urge you to respond to within 24 hours, for at this moment a salvo of Cruise Missiles is making their way to several military infrastructure in your nation, and more will come if our demands are not met. I guarantee you, that we will do anything to give justice on our citizens whom which were hurt from your erratic actions, and that we will not simply stand aside when our citizens' lives are in danger. We are not bowing down to your demands of extradition and will continue to protect those innocent persons who seek refuge and peace in our nation. Thank you, and have a pleasant evening to everyone."

The closing titles show and the address ends. People watching are filled with mixed feelings of fear, sadness, and joy. There was no going back, the situation had become dire. Just as the address ends, the missiles hit their marks, although met with shoot down attempts from Svarnan Anti-Air Installations, destroying some of the buildings in their targets. The missiles were simply too fast for the interceptor missiles to respond, the detection range of the Svarnans' defense systems were too short for a successful intercept. All that was left was for the Svarnan Government to respond, the ball is now in their court.

[BrumBrum]

Svarna Surya
The Svarnan military took the ships and the crew. It had been hoped Reitzmag and Duchies would bend right away. However it didn't work out like that and got worse .
While taking one of the ships three crew members of Reitzmic and Duchian origin resisted , the military shot them. The generals knew right away this was going to be a problem.

Operation Haathee
The missiles and jets from the Duchies were just too much for the defense as they overwhelmed the defences. They were surprised at the speed the attack came with alot of the military still on the grounds. The bombs reigned down destroying the runways at the bases. However a few still remained in action. Despite the hits 60 fighters launched with the anti-air taking out 3 air superiority fighters and 2 attack aircarft.

Meanwhile in Naya Dillee the military command and Neha evacuated to the secure mountain bunkers. They would fight on from there.

[Kingdom of Reitzmag]

8:00pm
Caspian Sea

Reitzmic vessels patrolling the large lake wait vigilantly for any refugee, distress call, or enemy vessel that may appear. The news of the cruise missile strikes already reached the other ships in the fleet, and a counter-attack from the Svarnans was a huge possibility despite the pressure from the Government.

Just then, HMS Agile was on its way to rendezvous with HMS Cambridge when the radar picked up a signal just 50nmi away. The vessel was not identified by the AID (Alliance Identification) System and therefore is not an ECON vessel, and therefore may be an enemy ship or a Telum vessel. Further readings and calculations were made, and the conclusion was that the ship is a lone Svarnan Navy Frigate.

Anticipating a possible encounter with the foreign vessel, the ship rang General Quarters. Soon, they would learn that this was the best decision they ever made. On the other side of the battlefield was a Svarnan Navy Frigate, the exact same ship that helped seize MV Lucious and MV Hwarang. Cruising at 20kn, the ship already had HMS Agile in its sights. It kept closing in before firing two Anti-ship Cruise Missiles at the lone Corvette. The two missiles speed to their target, but are immediately detected by the missile warning system aboard the stealthy ship. Countermeasures were launched, and 2 Maverick SAMs try to intercept the oncoming danger. The intercept was only partially successful, only one of the missiles were shot down while the other continued on its way to the target. The threat was serious, the only hope was on the onboard CIWS to shoot the last one down. At transonic speeds, the other missile approached closer and closer and was met with gunfire from the Goliath CIWS. At 1.5nmi, an explosion was heard from the distance. The missile did not make it, it was shot down by the ship's defence systems.

After the threat was cleared, the crew remained on alert in case more were on their way. The ship's commander was not happy with what happened, he ordered to contact the headquarters at Manchester to inform them of the situation. Aside from that, he also sought permission to engage the ship in retaliation. The war had actually begun.

HMS Agile deviated from its rendezvous course after it informed the other ships in the fleet on its new mission, DNS Wuppertal (F155) of the Duchian Navy (operating under Operation Tiger) also approached in to join in engaging the lone SNS Agra to retaliate after it also got attacked just minutes after the attack on the Royal Navy. Quickly, the VLS cells were prepared from both ships. The Reitzmics were preparing to launch 2 CM-12 Expander Cruise Missiles while the Duchians were also arming 2 Exocet missiles, both of which had the range and speed to likely hit the already aged target.

Once the missiles were prepared, both went on a coordinated salvo with the Reitzmics launching in alternating order with the Duchians. At 8:45pm, everything was set. HMS Agile was around 40nmi from the target while DNS Wuppertal was around 60nmi, and both were around 80nmi apart. From the bridge, Comm. Frank Ulysses ordered to begin firing and notified his Duchian counterpart that the salvo is about to begin. The weapons officers initiate the launches with the first missile being released, the Duchians then followed suit in the same manner agreed.

The 4 missiles closed in, and due to the distance and speed difference it seemed like all would hit at once. Inside SNS Aga, the incoming threats were detected, and all crew remained alert in their battle stations. The opposing ship fired a salvo of 4 Aspide SAMs in a bid to intercept the threats, before then firing another salvo of 4 to ensure a successful intercept. Only 1 of the Exocets were intercepted, while both Expanders remained on their course at supersonic speeds. Like a karma, the only hope for the Svarnans were their countermeasures and CIWS. Once in range, the onboard systems began to engage and rain bullets on the coming missiles. But it was too late, the Exocet of the Duchians hit their marks just below the bridge. The CIWS was partially successful by taking down one of the Expanders, but the other hit its mark right in the middle near the smokestack. It wasn't enough, although the damage was massive to disrupt operations. However, the final fate was decided. The order had already been dropped by the Prime Minister himself.

SB: "Sink it."

That was the order from the already furious Simon Bridges. And in in compliance with the order, another salvo was ordered for both ships under the same sequence. However this time, SNS Agra already ran out of SAMs. The crew inside fought on fiercely, firing their last two Cruise Missiles in a bid to hit DNS Wuppertal whom which responded with evasive maneuvers and launch of countermeasures to avoid the threats. However, both were easily taken down by the more advanced Duchian ships. In a last-ditch effort, the ship cruised in an attempt to at least score hits on any of the two vessels with its main gun. But it was too late, the salvo was coming, and the countermeasures were not enough to save the day. Again, one of the Exocets hit their marks this time at the center of the hull while one of the Expanders hit the hangar at the back of the ship, piercing through armour and killing the crew desperately preparing the on-board helicopter for a flight, the other missed. It was too much, the men were ordered to abandon the slowly tilting and sinking ship. A distress signal was sent out to all other ships for rescue, the first battle had come in favour of the Reitzmics and Duchians.

GCHQ "The Doughnut"

At the headquarters, the Prime Minister rapidly sped into the war room after being notified of the attack on HMS Agile. With anger, he did not hesitate to approve a counter-attack and asking to sink the ship and rescue the survivors. News of the Duchians losing aircraft in Svarna after an unsuccessful attempt to achieve Air Superiority also came, the situation was very complex. It seemed like the Svarnans really wanted war, but the lives of the Duchian pilots was also important and so the decision had to be made carefully. Then, he spoke.

SB: "Rescue the sailors and send a communique to President Neha, I want to meet with him. We're offering a trade of prisoners of war and of critical equipment."

In his mind, the angered Prime Minister thought that maybe a Diplomatic approach could still be done to give an end to the war. War wasn't something good for him, especially as the Conservatives ramp up efforts for the next election which might be catastrophic for his party. Reappropriating budget to a foreign invasion was simply not appealing to the masses.

SB: "I don't want news of the sinking to come out just yet, we have to wait for their response to our meeting offer. Other than that, I also would like to meet the revolutionary factions in Svarna. If it is possible, bring them in the United Duchies so they could organize a unified front and establish a government to replace the current regime once we liberate Goa. And finally, I want an announcement from the Ministry of Defence and Foreign Affairs thanking and accepting the generous offer of humanitarian assistance from various nations in recognition of our limited capability. That's all for now."

As soon as everything was cleared, Simon left the room and went back to continue work in the Black House. A lot of people, had some explanations to make. The first days of the war had finally actually begun, and the first battle was in the Reitzmics' favour.