>>20685810
By wrong hands you mean not them I assume.

File: 1347391156924.jpg-(22 KB, 810x273, Achievement Wing commander.jpg)

>Oh hey it posted finally!

The day before all of the officers and Knights in the House Expeditionary force were to be given their medals you had to make a decision regarding your future in the fleet. When given the choice between the Battlecruiser squadron or command of the Third attack wing you didnt hesitate. You will stay with your friends and the pilots you know best while seeing if you can get all three squadrons up to your standards.
As a result of your decision the Battlecruiser Gungnir has been reassigned by order of Commander Winifred. To say that you're unhappy with this would be putting it mildly. It's the low point of the week by far.
Despite it all you maintained your composure until making it to the nearest gymnasium to blow off steam.
The next day following the promotion of Daniel Sylvan to command of the battlecruiser squadron you were promoted again, now to Knight Lieutenant.

You leave the medals ceremony along with your wing mates, dress uniforms loaded down with new decorations.

>>20685846
Yeah. OP stated in an earlier thread that the Terrans are either the only or on of the two major powers which can produce SP torps. It's one of their major bases of power. They've funded multiple shadow wars to keep that tech away from everyone else.

>>20685908
We should probably talk to our ex CO. Get his advice on what to do with the unit. And take each other on tours of the ships we are swapping.

>>20685846
Pretty much.

Answering questions I either missed or didn't have time for last thread.

>Medals
>March 19 2024
That was supposed to be 4024

>Pay recalculated for increased rank
Knights recieve 52k a year. Its not ludicrously high but its enough. Close to ten times more than most regular pilots. Most Knights earn their real pay by capture or destruction of any ships and vehicles. Errant Knights are comparatively destitute with no House to provide for them.

>Out of curiosity what were the final numbers on the vote to stab the jump jets?
It was tied with Leniency of charges. As there were also votes for Bargain for release I added the 2 together.
>and what would have happened if we had?
She probably would have tried to get clear of you then run for the door, attempting to escape using the remaining undamaged jets.

>The whole (salvage) system is a way to get pilot in better vessel on the cheap in a house sorely in lack of manpower all the vessel are first and foremost the property of the house, the other utility is to ration resources more or less equally amongst every pilot.
This, or at least that's how it was intended.

>>20686008
>SP Torps and Mass driver platforms
Most orbital mass driver platforms the Terrans build are capable of also firing torpedoes in addition to solid slugs. Slugs themselves are cheap to produce and with a sufficient number of drivers firing at the same target can still be used to good effect. SP torpedo weaponry can be fired from mass drivers, though the use of a sabot may be necessary.
As the torpedo warhead can provide considerable punch the Terrans have made little effort to produce dedicated SP solid slugs. In addition, because the platforms can use and store the same weapons as starships they can act as secure munition stockpiles making theft more difficult.
There would be little point in producing SP slugs as their damage levels can varry widely and would mean having to produce specialist ammunition starships wouldnt be able to use.

>Competition among the marines for the jump jet suit.
>Does Ki have any interest in the armor or are his awesome Sergeant Major muscles too large to make use of it?
Actually he's a bit on the short side, he could use it but he has agreed to a competition

Actually i am uncomfortable taking Sylvans ship for our own. It should stay with first Squadron, they are weak enough on firepower as it is.

Is there a way to get additional Attack Cruisers, possibly some fresh Aries from the shipyards back home? We have more than enough RP to get them, its just a question if they want to give them to us.

So, talk to the guy we replaced, then a talk with the leaders of the other two squads. See what their needs are, how they can help each other out, ect. Also, Delicious salvage! I wonder what we got from the last battle.

>>20686053
Best bet would be to use our RP to grab some yummy salvage from the last fight.

>>20686053
Let's hold off on spending RP on new ships until we get the salvage situation figured out.

>>20686125
Actually i just want to know if there even is a possibility to get new ships. We are far away from our homebase, and up to now we weren't allowed to buy Aries Attack Cruisers. But since Sylvan somehow got one, i figured our recent promotions might have given us more clearance to buy ships.

Other than that my point still stands, If we take Sylvans Ship out of first Squadron (and i dont suppose we will want to emulate him by hanging around only with first squadron) they will be a lot weaker than second or third.

>>20685951
You approach Captain Sylvan and salute him. "Congratulations on your new Command sir."

"Thank you Lieutenant, though I'm going to miss the sort of speed and maneuverability my Attack Cruiser had. I put a lot of resources into customizing it. Other than that idiotic move I pulled at Gesaur it hasn't let me down. I can only imagine you put as much work into that battlecruiser."

The Gungnir may be under repair but large sections of the ship are still accessible. You offer to give him a tour and he agrees.

After a couple of hours you've covered most of the important areas.
"The range and firepower of the main guns is certainly impressive and with these launch bays there's a lot of options for ship to ship or even ground assault. It's a nice ship Reynard. Sorry you had to lose it the way you did."

As you head over to check out his attack cruiser you ask for his advice about the Wing.
"Well I think you'll need to do some more practice for large scale deployment. While you were off doing who knows what secret missions we spent a couple of weeks with the full fleet on maneuvers. The pilots didn't have as much combat experience then though. Who knows what they might try now that they know their limits."

Sylvan has upgraded his cruiser with best quality Aries drives and anti-proton injectors. These afterburners will let it outrun just about anything at sublight. When active they will increase fuel consumption by 200% and you will be unable to fire energy weapons. Thankfully the ship has a powerful torpedo armament.
Inertial compensators have been upgraded to deal with the increased power.

>>20686053
>possibly some fresh Aries from the shipyards back home?
>But since Sylvan somehow got one, i figured our recent promotions might have given us more clearance to buy ships.
Sylvan already had one. His ship which was half destroyed at Gesaur was rebuilt. Until then he had to use a Light Cruiser.
Just before the Smugglers Run campaign the House bought 5 Aries attack Cruisers to bolster the new attack Wings. To do this they payed extra up front to get priority for delivery. Because of this, and the resultant pissed off other customers the House is cut off from Aries ship purchases until the end of the year.
It may still be possible to buy other attack cruiser classes. Salvage will be coming up soon.

Salvage time!

>>20686325
>afterburners

Well hey maybe this isn't so bad after all.

What kind of armaments is it kitted out with? Seems well suited to crazy damage short range kinda stuff. Burn in, unload, burn out.

>>20686325
>>20686436
Indeed it is a very fast ship. With main torp armament we could simply strip energy weapons, put more ballistic PD on it and weld two fusion guns on it for a mean one two shield killer + devastation shot, since they use a buffer system. Don't know if they fit or will be more vulnerable if the shield falls, and will need over hull accommodation, but it should be one mean pursuer.

Although we would be better served with more EW and dedicated CnC, and spread the two fusion guns between the other squadrons, so as in a deployment we can try encirclement with the whole wing and pummel anything to big for any individual squadron to dust and run down other formations, or simply run away. (we need some mine option for the last part )

>>20686415
I add to this: Detailed Wing Status Report Time!

>>20686522
I like the idea of a pursuit ship for wing and squad level combat, but it becomes a relatively easy to kill priority target in a fleet level engagement.

On the other hand, no one ever made Baron by running EW, probably.

>>20686522
actually what we should look into is doing Newtonian manoeuvres with the ship, as i dont know if we can, and if engine placement allows it.

complimentary adverts:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJqH9jmmnU0

>>20686576
Actually, if your command constantly rakes in more kills and reaches and exploits objectives with more speed, precision and consistency than others....

You might prove to be the superior leader. Sure there may be better crack shot pilots, but crack shot pilots run themselves into a dead end, while the ability to lead...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yNyfI4dv1dg

Aries Attack Cruiser
Weapons: 2x Spinal mounted Heavy pulse cannon
4x torpedo launchers
2x phase cannon
Shuttles/Starfighters: 2x Assault Shuttles
0-2x Starfighters


Salvage
Large scale recovery operations are still underway at the site of the larger battle, additional salvage may become available. Teams have begun large scale scouring of the ship graveyards through the Run. Thanks to capture of the ice dwarf planet in the graveyard system near the FOB the local Houses are able to more easily piece together new ships out of the scattered ship pieces found. Expect to see more non-standard designs as a result of this.

Note: Negotiations at Kaartinen are still underway, but with a fleet hanging overhead progress is proving to be swift. Mass driver based point defense systems should be available in the near future.


Starfighters (Default RP 30 due to damage but ease of repair)
37x Z5 Starfighter
14x V-688 Enforcer (Interceptor)
3x V-600 Marauder (CAP and CAS fighter)
20x Arrow
16x Arrow-T (Modified with 2 torpedo hardpoints)
17x Type 4 Attack Bomber
3x Z5H Attack Bomber

Hey, OP, so what happened to the LTSC that we captured? Was it reassigned to the House fleet back home, or sent to join the main Expeditionary Force or what?

>>20686682
Need stats on V-688 and V-600

Torpedo Arrow mite b cool for hit and run stuff because 'Suprise! 4 SP Torps outta nowhere!' sounds like a good tactic.

Do we have room in a cargo bay or something to store our Needle Fighter? and do we have a kill marker for an ICBM painted on the fuselage yet?

>>20686706
Kept secret most likely as a ace in the shirt wrist, to pop up in the hand, if needed.

you are talking about the station that is in fact a sueprheavy, right?

>>20686682
>delicious starfighters

Hopefully we can start grabbing those pocket carriers soon. Or making our own.

>>20686682
Well, seeing those Starfighters doesnt mean much if we dont know what carrier capacities we have.

>>20686753
I think he is talking about the Wayward Treasures.

>>20686753
No the carrier that we just captured from Crayton in the last thread.

>>20686706
>LTSC
It's being moved under heavy guard to the FOB where it will be inspected more thoroughly by House forces with Terran Observers present. After that it will undergo repairs and any refits deemed necessary before being crewed and sent to the front lines with the rest of us. Outfitting the fighter wings may tame time though.
>>20686721
V-688 is the mainline Kavarian Starfighter. The body is a straight wing aerofoil with 2 engines above and below each wingtip.
Weapons 4x micro phase cannon
(Varies)xMissile hardpoints
1x torpedo hardpoint
Heavy but fast, good in atmosphere

V-600 are built off the same frame at the 688. Have 2 engines, 1 on each wing but can mount heavier ventral armour, and has mounting points for more ground attack weapons. Not as good in space.

>>20686786
>>20686789
The LTSC Wayward Treasures is a Medium Carrier.

>>20686816
Lets take a pair of the Arrow-Ts for our ship for now

Did Sylvan's ship already have a name?

>>20686682
Oh, wow, this thing is definitely a downgrade. Should we just go back to the Bittenfeld?

>>20686870
It has potential.

We could make it the fastest ship in the fleet if it isn't already.

>>20686870
We already passed it on to Kat. In my opinion, taking it back would be a dick move, just like command forcing us to give up the Gungnir.

Let's just use our insane RP budget and equipment salvage to make it more awesome.

>>20686870
I still think we should sick it on the squadron leader of first wing and search ourselves a new ship from the salvage.

>>20686896
I think the cruiser is still "ours". She never paid for it, if I remember correctly.

What's the status of our fried needle fighter? Since space is going to be at a premium on the attack cruiser do we need to find station parking or would command scrap/reassign it? (or did I miss "it's damaged beyond all repair...")

>>20686930
They can't cost that much. If that one is toast we'll buy another one and paint it to look the same.

>>20686930
Why do you want to keep it when it sucks compared to other fighters we could have?

>>20686889

Far too small launch bays for my taste. We wont get much capturing done with only two shuttles of marines.

>>20686930
>Did Sylvan's ship already have a name?
Yes. It is currently named Shakara.

>>20686916
>>20686870
>>20686896
You could always ask her.

Also, how do you turn quick reply off? I keep accidentally deleting what I've written when I refresh the page.

>>20686870
I'd rather push it to the limit. We have a ton of RP and cash we can pour into it to make it an attack cruiser that can outrun modified corvettes and engage battlecruisers without immediately exploding everywhere.

Plus any time we do something ridiculous people will be like 'dang she pulled that off in an attack cruiser?' but won't know what we have under the hood, so to speak.

>>20686978
The Bittenfeld is an attack cruiser as well, just better than the Aries models.

>>20686963
I think we should definitely ask her.

File: 1347396751179.jpg-(130 KB, 1024x791, Battletech , taihou_assau(...).jpg)

Thanks to the capture of the Carrier and retrieval of the vessels previously docked to its hull you've gained new support ship options!

Ships like the Scarab and Delta light attack ships along with other vessels such as FTL capable yachts and Constellation class transports are often grouped into the or sub-corvette category. These are the smallest vessels that can mount shields and FTL systems leaving little room for other equipment. At this size designers can either build for cargo space or starship grade weaponry severely limiting options. Given their lower surviveablity in a ship to ship engagement most manufacturers produce them for transport roles. Many smugglers use ships of this type.

While most starships carry shuttles able to land a few squads of Marines, larger scale planetary operations require more troops and ground vehicles. Normally this means deployment of division level Heavy Lift Vehicles landing thousands of troops with tanks and APC's. Standard Frigates and corvettes can also be converted to fill this role but this is often at the expense of some of their ship to ship ability. Landing corvettes like the one you encountered on Loran II are expensive to produce and limited in their utility.

>>20686990
I thought the Aries/Vengeance thing was more or less a toss up

Also I have no arguments against that name and would rather keep this ship for now than bother Kat

>>20686963
If you're using the standard 4chan extension, click settings and turn off the Quick Reply option, then click save.

>>20686978
You know that there are some things that are just not possible with an attack cruiser? We couldnt get the Gungnir to keep up with corvettes, and we wont get the Shakara to win in a slugfest against a battlecruiser.

Besides, any extensive refits (like ripping out the main guns and replacing them with fusion guns) would likely take far more than the two weeks we have.

File: 1347396950002.gif-(28 KB, 400x297, Broadsword 80 meters.gif)

Landing Support Transport AKA LST
Smaller and cheaper to produce than landing corvettes LST's normally fall into the size range of less than 100m. Able to carry more troops than assault shuttles along with a tank detachment, these ships have weaponry able to clear a landing zone and support the ground forces as they disembark. While LST's are large enough to mount short range FTL systems most do not, preferring to divert more space to shield, weapons and troop capacity. Non FTL capable LST's like many other Light Corvettes are small enough to piggyback on larger starships to get to their destinations.
NOTE: Many purpose built LSTs are very similar in size and shape to Battletech Aerodyne Dropships. The Leopard or Broadsword are good visual examples.

Conversions: Smaller ships and those with excess cargo space are easier to perform hull conversions on. Sub corvette size transports can be converted into makeshift LST's or to carry a small starfighter compliment. You can also simply hand them over to the House or hold them for sale to Mercenary outfits.

>>20687028
Also, if you're using the standard 4chan extension, you no longer have to F5. Just press "Update" at the bottom of the page on the left edge.

>>20687033
>and we wont get the Shakara to win in a slugfest against a battlecruiser.

We will if we massively increase its missile and torpedo armament. Of course, this will increase ammunition expenses.

>>20687033
I didn't say we could win a slugfest. I said we could engage without immediately dying.

>>20687035
We need pocket carriers and boarding/landing craft

I don't know how many LSTs/similar sub-corvettes are available but a few to carry some fighters and one or two fulla marines attached to our attack wing as support vessels would be a help.

8x LST (Requisition cost 0) + 500 for troops and vehicles
*12x Constellation transport (or equivilant)
*7x FTL Yacht

1x Centurion class Jerik-Dremine Custom (Estimated RP cost 6000) 14 days (April 2)

1x Rapier Class (Requisition cost 2000)

1x CCD Attack Cruiser Mk 2 (Estimated requisition cost 4700) repair time 12 days (Mar 29)
1x CCD Bulk Cruiser (Estimated requisition cost 5200) repair time 8 days (Mar 27)
1x Jenning (Estimated requisition cost 700) repair time 5 days (Mar 24)
2x Smuggler Frigate (Estimated requisition cost 700) repair time 4 days (Mar 24)
1x Firestorm class Frigate (Estimated requisition cost 2100) repair time 7 days (Mar 26)
*2x Blockade runner Cruiser (Estimated requisition cost 2100) repair time 7 days (Mar 26)
*1x Variable Module Conveyor AKA "U - Haul" (Estimated RP cost 2000) repair time 7 days (Mar 26)


* =Can be converted with relative ease

>This list would be longer but command wanted 2nd wing to actually get some cruisers.

>20687028
No we wont. We dont have the armor or shield generator capacity to do that. An Attack Cruiser is smaller and has less structural integrity than a battlecruiser and you also cant just stick unlimited torp-launchers on it.

Even if we managed to upgun and armor the Shakara like that it would just make the ship reclassified as a battlecruiser, meaning we loose it.

Its far more efficient to use our RPs to buy some attack cruisers for the Squadron than to blow it on a ship that is ultimately still a fragile Attack Cruiser.

>>20687113
>and you also cant just stick unlimited torp-launchers on it

You can just weld racks to the hull. External missile pods are vulnerable, but they add a great amount of temporary firepower. There's no reason to take the Shakara head-to-head with a battlecruiser, given its large acceleration advantage, but if we did it anyway, it would help if we could dump enough torps quickly enough to do severe damage.

>>20687108
I am interested in the Centurion. What does J-D Custom mean? Can we upengine it to keep up with the Squadron? It would make for a fine new ship for us.... PLASMA CANNONS HO!

Also, we need to know the same about the U-Haul and the Bulk Cruiser.

>>20687108
Which of the larger ships are our best option for light carrier conversions? I'd assume the bulk cruisers and the blockade runners could have starfighter/shuttle bays added, as well as docking points for landing craft.

>>20687108
Convert U-Haul to pocket carrier. Load it up with a mix of starfighters.

Get 3 LSTs and outfit them primarily for planetary ops, and get one kitted out as a dedicated boarding craft.

Let anyone who wants to buy a ship buy a ship.

Sell off the rest, give priority to the merc groups that helped with the LTSC fight, otherwise the House or whoever.

Beyond that,
>1x Centurion class Jerik-Dremine Custom (Estimated RP cost 6000) 14 days (April 2)

Catches my eye. It has a plasma cannon right? How big of an engine can it fit?

>>20687166
To add to that we might also want to turn the Blockade Runners into pocket carriers. With 3 of them we would be pretty stacked concerning fighters.

Also give priority on the big ships to first Squadron, they need it if i remember right.

The only thing i think we dont need is LSTs. I dont think Attack Squadrons are supposed to do planetary assaults. Better leave them to the specialists.

>>20687221
>I dont think Attack Squadrons are supposed to do planetary assaults

Well no one told the Attack Squadrons that then.

>>20687238
Well, the knight commander stated that our job will be flanking enemy units and chasing down stragglers. We are basically the cavalry, so we dont need to be able to take stationary targets. Let the specialists do that.

>>20687148
Its a custom modification 1st Wing came up with after finding some Centurions whose drive sections have been destroyed. Normally they carry smaller fusion drives, these are a House customization with larger more powerful drives replacing the smaller destroyed ones. They can keep up with an attack unit but are much less maneuverable.
>>20687164
>Which of the larger ships are our best option for light carrier conversions?
Blockade runner Cruisers are being tested for use as escort Carriers by the House. The first one should be ready for field trials in a couple of days. Given their simplistic construction they could be converted in 10-12 days.
Constellations can be converted to carry ground forces or 12 starfighters.

FTL yachts could be converted into troop ships but would take a bit more work than other ships.

The U-Haul could be converted into a Carrier or attack cruiser. 3rd Squadron with their motley collection of converted smuggler ships has one such ship.

>>20687278
Both blockade runners and the U-Haul made into Carriers, attach one to each squadron.

3 LSTs converted to boarding/landing craft, perhaps one to each squadron or maybe just held in reserve and sent out as needed.

See if anyone else wants the Centurion. The big gun is attractive but as Wing Commander we need to be able to stay in the fight as long as possible, which makes maneuverability a priority. Sylvan may have been on to something with his choice of ship.

Lastly if it isn't too much trouble, could you provide a breakdown of the relative strengths of the Bittenfeld vs. the Shakara and their respective potential for upgrades?

>>20687278
Hm, U-Haul Carrier and two Escort Carriers sound like a solid Carrier support force to me.

And if we make the Centurion our private project it should be easy (if perhaps expensive) to reinforce the superstructure and stick some additional thrusters on it to enhance its manouverability.

I still stick to my opinion that we dont need anything to transport ground forces. Thats not our job.

>>20687368
I can sort of see the merit in that, but if we end up on another campaign like the Run where we don't have the whole fleet to rely on for specialist support, we may end up doing planetary ops.

One or two landing craft won't exactly break the bank.

>>20687368
Here, if you do the comparision of Bittenfeld and Shakara could you please include the Centurion in it?

Um, dumb new guy question, but given we're running the wing now can we requisition new personnel (essentially new pilots/crews) and if so is there a hard cap on the number of active ships a wing can hold?

>>20687422
Yes. There are currently 9 pilots in reserve that will arrive at Forbearance in a couple of days. They're available to the 3rd Wing in case of casualties or in case you want to expand the unit.
An Attack Wing normally operates at 3 squadron strength, this can be raised to a maximum of 6 squadrons, not counting support elements.

>Dinner break, Back in 20 minutes at which point I'll post comparisons of the 3 cruisers requested.

>>20687397
You are right about the Landing Craft. It just peeves me. Command took away our Battlecruiser to pack it into a specialised unit, so i dont see why we would be allowed specialised ground attack forces that will likely just sit on their asses while we almost never use them.

It also confuses me.

I wonder if we could convince R&D to make an assault coverte varient with a spinal mounted plasma canon. It would be the ultimate mobile gun and be able to punch far above its weight. Bit of a specalized unit tho'

>>20687487
Then let's go out and salvage a battle cruiser.

>>20687606
Probably be slow as shit and only get two shots before needing to RTB

We have SP Torps for punching above our weight.

>>20687620
You know, thats actually a good idea. We get it, upgrade it as far as we can and then sell it to command. With the Gungnir we got far more RP back than we put into upgrading her.

And if we can keep it, even better!

>>20687166
>Get 3 LSTs and outfit them primarily for planetary ops, and get one kitted out as a dedicated boarding craft.
>>20687238
>>20687266
>I dont think Attack Squadrons are supposed to do planetary assaults
>Well no one told the Attack Squadrons that then.

They probably would have come in handy at Kaartinen. If you want to you can add ships to the 3rd Wing's ship reserve. These were not the only LSTs recovered btw. The 1st attack wing took some as salvage as well.

>>20687363
>>20687368
>3 Carrier conversion
Until or unless this is disputed by other anons those 3 ships will begin conversion.

Aries vs Bittenfeld vs Centurion Custom.

In terms of Firepower the Centurion has the edge at most ranges. Its light phase cannon arrays are numerous enough to keep the pressure on and have good coverage except for directly behind it. The Plasma cannon has incredible punch and range but has a limited number of shots per engagement before exhausting its fuel cell. It also has a long cycle rate.
The Aries is dependent upon torpedoes for much of its punch, meaning when equipped with SP's it can do far more damage in one salvo than most ships, possibly enough to threaten battlecruisers. Its ammo limitations mean it is necessary to get in close quickly where pulse cannon can be used. Its 2 phase cannon turrets provide full coverage and torpedoes can be fired over the shoulder style to hit targets behind if necessary but only at close range.
The Bittenfeld has 4 light phase cannon and 1 torpedo launcher for at range in the forward arc. It is necessary to quickly close on targets to utilize the 2 heavy pulse cannons and 2 light pulse cannon turrets. With the primarily energy based weapons there is little risk of running out of ammo.

>>20687887
The centurion being essentially a large jug of a ship has a cross section to match, making them easy to hit. This can be somehwat mitagated by the larger rounded surface area. Most of us should be familiar with the Bittenfeld's cross section problems. Appearing as an x from in front or behind but with the wings clearly visable and providing a large surface from the sides. Its the classic right angle problem.
The Aries has the smallest cross section from the front, back or sides but a large one from above or below due to its more flat shape.

Worst maneuverability goes hands down to the Centurion. Its new larger engines have added a lot of mass to the design, something it didnt need more of. Shakara can almost match the Bittenfeld for maneuverability, but not quite. Engine placement and the number of them give the Bittenfeld the advantage.

>>20687905

Okay, i supported the Centurion before, and i still think it is a great ship, but we need survivability since we are Wing Commander now. Loosing us could throw the entire Wing in disarray, and the Centurion has a big target painted on it, has a huge cross section and isnt going to evade much.

I think it is out for flag ship if we cannot reinforce the superstructure and add a hell of a lot of thrusters to it for increased maneuverability. We simply cannot afford to be the first ship to die in a engagement.

>>20687984
To add to that, i think the best choice would be the Aries for now. I dont like the ship, but it would be awkward to explain to Sylvan why we sicked his Ship on someone else and i dont really want to take the Bittenfeld from Kat. She has earned it.

Looks like we should look around for a better ship in the future though. The Aries is lacking in a lot of fields, like Launch Bay Capacity and sustained firepower.

>>20688158
>She has earned it.
We gave it to her because she didn't have a proper ship. She didn't even pay any RP for it. It's a loan.

File: 1347403820510.gif-(39 KB, 1287x1075, Meeting location.gif)

The organization setup I'm working on is taking forever, moving on.

You have a pressing appointment with the Knight Commander the day after you're promoted and ships change hands.
What ship(s) are you taking there and who is coming with you when you deploy to the surface? Do you have any plans for security preparations before deploying? Are you going to physically bring the scan data with you?

Get our co's ship and slap lots of gun turret things. Keep an eye out for battlle cruisers

>>20688203
>ship
The ECM boat and the Bittenfeld.

>security
I'm sure we have a few marines we can trust. Bring those. We can't really do much more than that.

>data
Nope.

>>20688203
If possible hitch a ride on a ship that doesnt belong to our attack wing. A blockade runner or something. Anonymity is key. Noone should know we are on board untill we land. And of course we bring the scan data. Also, we go alone, maybe with some of our most trusted marines.

>>20688342
We should also create a back up of the scan data, just in case. And destroy it before allowing it to fall in anyones hands.

>>20688158
>>20688170

Perhaps we should ask Kat if she'd prefer a torpedo ship or a gun ship? In the end, she is a flight leader and we need to have all of our flight and squadron leaders comfortable with their ship's capabilities and do our best to get them into ships that enhance their natural tendencies and skills for combat.

If we must suffer a ship that doesn't personally play to our preferences for a bit, I say that is a fair price to pay.

as far as the centurion goes, ask if anyone wants it. Personally, I think its a big SHOOT ME sign that will get someone killed.

Could we get a write up of the ships in each of our squadrons? I still think first was severely undergunned, so we might need to shuffle some pilots around...

>>20688451
You can shuffle around ships, but mixing pilots would be a lot more problematic, I think.

>>20688285
>>20688342
>>20688385
Ok, some people are saying we should take the data with us, others not.
Also a ship. You could pay one of the various smugglers who have been cleared and hired on, or take one of your own.

>>20688285
Voting for this.

>>20688468
Taking pilots from their ships is bad form. I'd rather shuffle them together.

>>20688597
I would vote, but i already voted for taking the data with us and taking a non Attack Wing affiliated ship. Its more anonymous, the terrans are likely still tracking us to find out if we managed to smuggle anything from the LTSC

>>20688658
Breaking up squadrons without good reasons is crap as well.

>>20688203
>The organization setup I'm working on is taking forever, moving on.

I can almost hear the shuffling of the spreadsheets.

Take the data. Go in an unassuming ship, don't really care which one

Bring a copy of the data, Duncan, Ki, and other trustworthy marines.

Hitch a ride on an anonymous non-House vessel.

Leave a backup copy behind and be ready to destroy the copy we have with us at the first sign of trouble.

Also I support sticking with the Aries for now.

>>20688597
Make a copy of the data, and fit it with a self-destruct mechanism, or something like that, and bring it along.

>>20688451
>Could we get a write up of the ships in each of our squadrons?
Yeah I've been working on it. The list is a little messed up. Spreadsheets havent even entered into the equation yet.


At the time I started typing things seemed to be in favour of taking the ECM boat and a small number of marines but not the data.

>unassuming
You should be able to get away with the Blackbird. Its a newer acquisition needing more shakedown.

What do you want to copy the data onto?

>>20688982
thumb drive. It goes nowhere near the main computer net.

>>20688982
Little babby storage unit that can be hidden in one of the marine's rifles again.

ECM boat is fine, and probably the best thing for running away from trouble in.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_kGVedZw9hI

After telling all three squadrons from the wing to wait in reserve for the day as ordered you head aboard Nabow Hafnar's Blackbird and tell him your destination.
He doesnt ask questions, and has the crew prepare for departure, claiming they'll be conducting instrumentation drills. Taking a slightly round about route the ship drops into the target system three hours later and takes up a high orbit of the planet.

An abandoned colony world still more than habitable some Frigates, HLV's and LSTs from another House are conducting excercises well away from where you're expected to land.

"Can you put us out of sight of the other ships before we launch the shuttle?" you ask.
The veteran pilot nods.
"Should be easy." After changing orbit to head to the far side of the planet he rolls the ship so it's underside is facing the surface.
"Sensors, I want you to take all of the ventral sensor arrays offline for a full diagnostic." Hafnar orders befoe turning back to you. "You have your window sir."

You, Ki, your bodyguard Valeri Fusaro and one of the shuttle pilots that had been aboard the Bittenfeld are the only people aboard when the craft drops from the small bay on the ship.

"Rig the shuttle sensors and flight recorder on a loop. I'd rather the cause of a crash be unidentifiable than people know we were here." If the Terrans have followed you this far only to shoot you down now you're already screwed you figure.

The shuttle sets down on a wind swept beach, with rocky eroded outcroppings dotting the landscape. Most of the inland area for several kilometers are rock and desert, the sand being blown down across the beach creates a haze, reducing visibility.

"This is it." The other pilot tells you. "I'll stay here and keep the engines hot." The rest of you step out the hatch and reconnoiter the area.

"Not seeing anything." Ki reports, sighting down the scope of a high caliber bolt action sniper rifle.

After twenty minutes of waiting the Sergeant Major spots an incoming craft. "V-600 coming in across the water."

The wide winged ground attack fighter lands farther down the beach, its pilot pops the hatch revealing it to be the Knight Commander.

"Lieutenant I expect this to be bloody important!" She shouts from two or three hundred meters away before hopping down onto the sand and trudging your way.

[ ] we've taken all precautions, tell her.
[ ] everyone else wait in the shuttle
[ ] super paranoid. Every item you can think of waits in the shuttle.
[ ] Other

>>20689250
[x] super paranoid. Every item you can think of waits in the shuttle.

Crayton Mode.

>>20689250
[X] super paranoid. Every item you can think of waits in the shuttle.

With the exception of Ki and his rifle.

>>20689250
>[X] super paranoid. Every item you can think of waits in the shuttle.
"Yes, Ma'am. I felt like wasting some of your time for taking my ship away."

>>20689250

[other] Ki and Valeri to the perimeter
[paranoid] Everything that isn't Ki and Valeri into the shuttle, unless we are certain it isn't bugged.
[Cautious] "This likely makes us both targets to 'friendlies' sir."

You hand every possible thing ou can think of over to the Marines and tell them to wait in the shuttle.
>>20689308
"Very droll." she replies. "I never should have allowed you to keep that ship as long as you had, but I suspected quite correctly that you might need the firepower. Good work at Kaartinen by the way. Some members of the House felt you should have let the missiles find their mark. That would have been a mess."

The Commander waves to you to follower her slightly inland to where some sand dunes block line of sight to the fighter and shuttle.

"There is little point is taking measures only half way I suppose. Still I am getting far too old for this sort of nonsense. What did you find, the location of a ship or outpost? Or some other piece of information?"

You tell her. You almost wish you could risk activating the systems in your eye implants to risk recording the look on her face. Shit, those arent a security risk are they? They should be linked directly to your nervous system now with no wireless access unless you authorize it.

She asks where the data is and her face hardens when you tell her.
"We need as few copies as possible. More increases the risk of detection, and it will only take one to set off a witch hunt. Your Intrusion expert, he's to be transferred some time in the near future. Intelligence already wanted him moved to R&D to assist in the development of new hacking systems. He has more experience with the module you recovered from Rovinar Intelligence than anyone. Crayton will be shipped out soon. The Terrans have already requested her termination but I've been stalling because of what was already in your report. I'll likely have to fake her death.

>>20689527
"So, let me get this straight. I keep delivering information worth far beyond anything our house has, and you take my ship away. You sure do know how to make me feel appreciated."

>>20689527
Well hey if you're faking her death anyway why bother shipping her out?

Third Wing has an opening for Carrier pilots after all.

>>20689588
Quit whining about that, it makes strategic sense and I'm sure we'll get something shiny for this eventually anyway.

>>20689588
Stop whining. The best way to deal with that is to say nothing to her. Then salvage another battlecruiser later.

"Don't start." she tells you then sighs, sitting down on one of the dunes.
"You do enjoy finding difficult work for me it would seem. Give me one copy of the data. I'll find a way to hide it somehow. Perhaps until the other project you discussed with me some time ago can be put into effect. Take any remaining copies you have, destroy all but one and find some place where it will never be found. Do I make myself clear?" She asks, staring at you intently.

She blinks and look more closely at your eyes.
"Lieutenant, I didn't notice at our last meeting and there wasn't time when I was awarding medals but what in blazes did you do to your eyes?"

>>20689647
>>20689627
You could put a tiny bit more work into your samefagging, dude.

>>20689649
Experemential medical procedure. Didn't quite work out as inteded.

>>20689662
Not a samefag

>>20689662
>>20689696

What I-

he said.

>>20689527
"We do have quite a few ships to secure, Commander."

"Have they given a reason why they want her Terminated, Commander?"

>>20689588
>>20689614
oh hell no.

>>20689765
We can make Kavos watch her. He seems to like playing commissar.

>>20689649
"I apologize, Commander. If I knew of a safe way to get the information to someone above you, perhaps someone I didn't like, I'd have done so. As it stands... what happens if one of us were to be incapacitated under questionable circumstance."

[Eyes] "Probably something stupid, in retrospect, sir." Smile.


Guys, I hate to admit it, but I'm starting to think the Knight Commander is fairly awesome about she shit we pull her into. We should start getting her gag gifts from random missions.

>>20689860
>what happens if one of us were to be incapacitated under questionable circumstance.

The other should buy a bottle of vodka, and hope the Terrans are kind enough not to make it hurt.

>>20689903
>The other should distribute the data publicly to everyone everywhere.

If someone has information that you want kept hidden, killing them is unlikely to solve your problem, and will likely only make it worse.

"I certainly hope they were not recording or this conversation may result in our eventual death."
After assuring her that they were not you head back to the shuttle and search through your gear until you find a thumb drive.

When you return to the commander she's holding an odd stone in her hand and trades it to you.
"What's this?" you ask her.

"Your alibi should it be necessary. The real reason you came out here."
You look at it. At first you thought it was a chunk of quartz or other crystal. Its a diamond bigger than your hand.
"One of the other Houses have bought the rights to this world. You were here exploring it to illegally mine diamonds, as was I. Your data is worth enough to warrant cutting you in."

You're dumbfounded for a brief moment.

>>20689765
"Despite being one of our prisoners the Terrans petitioned to have an observer present while she was debriefed. They don't believe her story and want her killed to prevent any potential information she might have leaking out. They're also willing to pay a great deal to see it happen. I was hoping to delay long enough to get her to the Homeworlds."

>>20689966
>Your data is worth enough to warrant cutting you in.

It's worth a good goddamn more than that, but we should NOT say this.

Just accept it and move on. It's a good cover, really.

>>20689966
Okay, time to have a meeting with our squadron leaders. Talk about squadron composition and what they need from us, whether we should cross transfer some flights to spread the wealth ect.

>>20689966
I'd guess it's worth a lot more than that, but I'm sure selling it on the black market would be a lot more dangerous.

>>20690059
and treasonous.

>>20689966
"Commander, I have the strangest feeling I'll never hold a candle to you."

>>20690087
oh hell no.

>>20690036
>>20690059
I figured you guys wanted some more immediate rewards. If you want though it could be banked to your family name who would eventually be rewarded whenever the project pays off. Assuming you or any family members are alive at the time of course.


The Commander points inland slightly and you glance over top of the dune. Three more rocks like the one you were just handed are in plain view.
After stowing the diamond in your uniform you head back to the shuttle and return to the ship.
You see the Commander climb back into her fighter and don a flight helmet before lifting off.

After returning to the ship you're informed by the bridge that the crew should be done sensor and instrumentation checks within a few minutes.
The Blackbird returns to base without incident.

>>20690204
Are we still on semi-vacation? If so, go shopping or boating with Linda.

>>20690204
check up with our squadron commanders. We need to a conference

>>20690248
we could also find out who in our wings wants/needs to scour ship graveyards for parts and organize group outings to do so. Possibly a good chance for some of the people we trust to get impressions of the unknowns in the other squadrons.

>>20690204
>If you want though it could be banked to your family name who would eventually be rewarded whenever the project pays off. Assuming you or any family members are alive at the time of course.

This makes sense to me. There's no telling how long-term this project could be. It's not like we're in the safest career, either.

>>20690204
Well, what's the life expectancy for somebody of Sonia's station. If she survives her military duty, that is.

>Are we still on semi-vacation? If so, go shopping or boating with Linda.
That remains to be seen. Hang on.
>Okay, time to have a meeting with our squadron leaders. Talk about squadron composition and what they need from us, whether we should cross transfer some flights to spread the wealth ect.

This is a good idea. 1st squadron does need more cruisers, though the ones you've decided to assign from salvage should help that quite a bit. Another issue is that Sylvan's ship was often counted as part of 1st squadron itself after they lost a couple of ships. You'll have to decide what to assign to fill that gap.

Knight Verilis Rah'ne commands First Squadron
Knight Arthur Moton Commands Third Squadron

Do you wish to remain in direct command of second squadron or let Daska take that role?

>>20690395
I think remaining in direct command is best. I wouldn't want to choose between Daska and our buddies.

>>20690395
I say let Daska have it. We now have three squadrons under us and we don't need to micromanage one.

Though, if we want to have direct command of a squadron, we can just make a Fourth.

>>20690395
We are in command of the Wing and Daska commands squadron. First we talk to the squadron commanders and ask them what they want from the salvage list. Then talk squadron commanders about transfers.

>>20690395
Let's keep the second squadron under Sonia's command.

>>20690427
yeah, micromanagement is bad

>>20690425
>>20690427
>>20690445
>>20690456
This quest is haunted by deadlock as well as horrible dice.

>>20690425
Most likely, Sonia commanding from somewhere other than the front? Hard to imagine.

>>20690485
We can command from the front without having direct command of a squadron.

>>20690395
We don't want to be Sylvan.

Daska commands the squadron, we command the wing.

>>20690395
I don't want to promote Daksa over Alex and Mike, so I guess my vote goes to remaining in direct command.

>>20690395

Daska should take command of Second Squadron. We can't pull a Sylvian and overshadow independent leadership of Second Squadron.

We should make a Fourth Squadron if we want to keep command of a squadron.

>>20690527
we can earmark them for the next two squadrons we buid.

>>20690527
We could give Alex and Mike their own squadrons, while we build up Fourth, giving us a total of the maximum six squadrons.

We'd have to move a lot of ships around, though.

>>20690556
I'm okay with that.

>>20690556
Come to think of it...

>An Attack Wing normally operates at 3 squadron strength, this can be raised to a maximum of 6 squadrons, not counting support elements.
>not counting support elements

We could tack some light carriers onto the Wing without having to put them into the squadron, maybe...

Ships in 3rd wing. I'll have a pic up in a bit to make recognition easier.

*1st Squadron -Verilis Rah'ne
[!Aries!] <-Warning Ship traded
[ACRV]
[SFRG+]

[K E-T ACRS]
[A-FRG]
[EX-CRV]

[Clarent CRS]
[ACRV]
[ACRV]

[SFRG+]
[A-FRG]
[ACRV]

*2nd Squadron -Sonia Reynard
[EX-CRV]
[K C-T ACRS]
[R-FRG]

[SC ACRS]
[Clarent CRS]
[V-T ACRS]

[SD ACRS]
[SFRG+]
[N FRG+]

[C/FRG]
[V-T ACRS]
[C/FRG]

*3rd Squadron -Arthur Moton
[N CRS+]
[K J-T ARCS]
[SFRG+]

[MARAUDER]
[ACRV]
[SFRG+]

[ACRV]
[U-HAUL]
[J-R CRS]

[V-T2 ACRS]
[N FRG+]
[C/FRG]

*ECM Squad
[Blackbird]

>>20690581
A separate support detachment with carriers, the ECM bird, us, and whatever other specialized craft we get could work. Send or attach assets to Squadrons as needed.

Much like your weapons section in an infantry platoon.

>>20690630
Promote Daska, combine Sonia and ECM into Command Squad.

Yeah, I have to support promoting daska. Not sure if we should give her squad two or put her in charge of squad four as we build it

>>20690716
Give her Two.

First impressions mean a lot and we have to show One and Three that we aren't Sylvan.

>>20690556
I second that. Or third, or however many supporters that idea has.

Plan for expanding creating squadron 4:
1. create an extra flight in squadron 2
2. create an extra flight in squadron 1
3. create an extra flight in squadron 3
Draw one flight from each squad to make squadron four, fly with it until you create the final flight.

>>20690795
I don't.

Promoting three flight leaders out of Second Squadron without even getting to know the ones in First and Third is preferential bullshit that will make the rest of them dislike us, and with good reason.

>>20690825
This sounds good. We shouldn't promote Alex and Mike yet, but we should go out for beers and find out how they feel about what's happening to the Wing.

Daska's acted as our second in command long enough (and successfully enough iirc) that she's earned the promotion squad leader. Mike and Alex are tied at next in line...

>>20690825
>>20690851
I agree with both these posts

>>20690630
Can you just get the survey link out, please?

File: 1347416317381.gif-(25 KB, 1772x1098, 3rd Wing.gif)

For the short term, Daska is promoted to command of 2nd Squadron. You plan to talk to Alex and Mike about the idea of forming additional squadrons as well as investigating to see if there are other pilots qualified for the job. It might be a bad idea to just thrust them into command with raw new pilots without even talking to them.

Verilis Rah'ne from 1st Squadron agrees that 2 Cruisers would be enough to bulk up the 1st squadron.

>>20691089
list of acronyms please? And make sure to let everyone take a look at the salvage list.

>>20691089
Why are there still so many corvettes around?

>>20691118
>>20691089
We're going to need either a wiki or a pastebin which lists all the ship types and a description/stats.

I can just imagine your face at all the bookkeeping, TSTG.

>>20691118
This could take awhile.

>>20691146
The Attack Corvettes traded out from each squadron have been held in reserve to act as replacements should ships be lost in combat. They can also be used to bulk up newly formed squadrons.

>>20691089
I'm pretty impressed by how good this looks.

>>20691155
Yeah I know, I've got a complete listing of all the ships types in a file but have never put short forms for even half of them before now. Been meaning to upload a starship pastebin for awhile now.

>>20691089
>Dat picture

Holy fuck that is cool as hell.

Anyway,
>9 Reserve Pilots
>Buncha ships in reserve

All the frigates and cruisers that are in reserve should have pilots assigned ASAP. Either add a flight to each squadron or make a new squadron and shuffle some ships around to balance them out.

Maybe split off a cruiser flight from 2nd, replace with frigates/corvettes, and use as a separate heavy hitter unit.

Yay! Dominion is back. Just finished catching up on the entire archive.

>>20691118
This is jumbled as all fuck but there.

[A-ACRS] Aries Attack Cruiser
[ACRV] Attack Corvette
[SFRG+] Smuggler Frigate Upgrade

[K E-T ACRS] Kavarian E-Type Attack Cruiser
[A-FRG] Attack Frigate (Firestorm Class)
[EX-CRV] Experimental (Assault) Corvette

[Clarent CRS] Clarent class Cruiser

[K C-T ACRS]Kavarian C-Type Attack Cruiser
[R-FRG] (Republic Frigate) Pandora class

[SC ACRS] Scorpion Class Attack Cruiser

[V-T ACRS] Vengeance Type Attack Cruiser

[SD ACRS](Shallan) Dusk Class Attack Cruiser
[N FRG+] Norune Frigate

[C/FRG] Custom Frigate (ArcherFish)


[N CRS+] Norune Cruiser Upgrade (Blockade runner)
[K J-T ARCS]Kavarian J-Type Attack Cruiser

[MARAUDER] Marauder class Blockade runner (Technically boarders on being a battlecruiser)
[U-HAUL] (Converted Attack Cruiser) Variable Module Conveyor AKA "U - Haul"
[J-R CRS] Journeyman Cruiser (Exodus/Remora hybrid)

[V-T2 ACRS] Vengeance Type 2 Attack Cruiser

[DCRV+] Dagger class Corvette
[CRV] Standard Corvette

[R-LCRS+] (Republic Light Cruiser) Centurion Class Light Cruiser Custom
[P2-ACRS] (Pandora Cluster Civilian Warship) CCD Attack Cruiser Mk 2
[P/CRS] (Pandora Cluster Civilian Warship) CCD Bulk Cruiser

[J/ACRV] Jenning Assault Corvette

[E-CAR] Escort Carrier (Converted Smuggler Cruiser)
[E-CAR] Escort Carrier (Converted Smuggler Cruiser)
[L-CAR] Light Carrier (Converted U-Haul)

As we have nine reserve pilots and many ships in reserve, I think we should add in a new flight to each squadron. This will allow the rookies time to gain experience, we'll get to see how they fly and who among them have leadership potential, and the squadrons as a unit will have more punch.

>>20691393
Alright, take Sonia and the Blackbird as a separate flight, trade a few cruisers over to 1st, Assign the reserve pilots to reserve ships and distribute them evenly, and let the bloody Squadron leaders figure out how they want to organize their Squadrons.

Forced to work a double so I can't read. But I highly recommend adding a 4th ship, Corvette sized with max ecm, eccm, and recon probes. It flies in support with each group. This should help the horrid defense dice we've seen

Speaking of defence dice. How much squadron RP do we have? It might we worth it to try to max out the number of point defence turrets on every ship in the squadron. Even our piddly little starting corvette could mount two. Later on we could double up with flak guns once those become more widely available. Finding enough projectile engineers might be problematic but the ones we have should be able to train others.

It just seem really silly to me when we ran into that other squadron who said "we don't have point defence, like, at all.".

>>20691439
>>20691419
>>20691231
>Reserve pilots into ships ASAP
Done. As expected they're all green as hell, but competent or they wouldn't have made it to the Attack squadrons. Evidently Dayton and whoever remained back home to help train them are doing their jobs.

The cruisers being repaired will be moved into 1st Squadron as they become ready.
After talking to Katherine Drake she says she would be willing to try out commanding the Shakara for a few days.


You have 12 days remaining until the end of the allotted down time. At that time House forces will return to active combat.

How to you want to use the time available?

While all of the experienced pilots who have been in active combat lately would prefer some downtime the rookies could use more training. The Wing as a whole needs some practice in large scale operations.
Simulators are available at either the FOB or Forbearance.

>>20691655
>How to you want to use the time available?
Read the files of our new subordinates.
See what command wants us to do after our down time is over.
Now that the offensive is mostly over, try to get a proper call with our family.
Check the balance of our accounts.

>>20691655
offer downtime to veteran but tell them to keep some time to help us drill the blue blood

>>20691655

Stick at the Forbearance for the time being, run some small scale sims with the rookies and Kat and anyone else who recently got a new ride, then run with the whole wing in sims against similarly sized formations.

Get some real sleep, do assorted power armor and close combat training, spend at least one night drinking with the other pilots, and at least one drinking with our bridge crew.

>>20691655
Balance downtime and drilling. We need to have an efficient, effective wing by the time we're back in combat.

You call the squadron together along with the new rookies and brief everyone on your plans for the next week. The plan is to get the less experienced pilots up to par as quickly as possible while waiting for new ships to become available. Part of the training will be actual maneuvers, others will be in the simulators. Current Flight leaders from all 3 squadrons will be given turns commanding the rookie squadron in simulations, while experienced squadrons act as aggressor squadrons.

Everyone who hasn't already done so does their teleport training. You want a majority of the crews to be able to escape the loss of their ship. Kavos also brings up the importance of drilling ship crews and pilots in resisting boarding operations.

Do you want to standardize crew and Pilot training with boarding and survival exercises, ask each squadron leader to consider it or leave it up to them?


Also roll 4d12 for ship combat training

rolled 9, 1, 6, 6 = 22

>>20691958

Here goes

>>20691958
Ask for input from squadron leaders on how far they want to take it, but make at least a minimal level of boarding and survival training standard.

rolled 1, 2, 5, 11 = 19

>>20691958
Hm, okay.

rolled 12, 5, 5, 11 = 33

>>20691958
Ask them to consider it, as it is something that will generally be assigned and carried out at the Squadron level. Standardize a minimum just to be sure.

rolled 2, 6, 5, 2 = 15

>>20691958
>ask each squadron leader to consider it
This, please.

>>20691958
Wait, wait, wait... Pilot training DOESN'T have mandatory survival training? What the... Ok, standardize it. There's no reason for any of our pilots to not be undergoing this training.

>>20691712
>Read the files of our new subordinates.
There's the usual mix of upper and middle class pilots with the occasional lower class thrown in. A few stand out as having exceptional training scores but most of those look to be Nobles who have spent time at private academies. Sometimes years. They have a well rounded skill base but haven't fought against real enemies before. They might prove to be the weak link either by expecting preferential treatment or charging ahead for glory. You hope not.

>See what command wants us to do after our down time is over.
Currently the parts of the main pirate fleets have been fighting a protracted rear guard action as they pull the last of their super heavy cruisers from the Nav point. In the process they've also been carrying out scorched earth tactics, destroying infrastructure, stations and stockpiles they cant steal or otherwise repurpose.
Depending on how thing progress we may be used to break through their lines or in pursuit
>Call family.
You schedule an life feed call for early next week. Audio only unless you want to upgrade to video for a couple thousand.
>Check balance of accounts
Your accounts are starting to rise a bit more steadily. House Posat is starting to pay off its debts. Its still not going up as fast as it could but its only been a week since the pirate convoy was defeated.

>>20692347
Upgrade to video. It'll make mom's day.

>>20692382
Do you really want to scare her with our new eyes?

>>20692396
Yes. She'll probably just say "Now what have you gotten yourself into this time," or something of that sort.

>>20692466
She'll probably say exactly what the Knight Commander did, and have the exact same expression.

File: 1347423826347.jpg-(88 KB, 790x409, 1336292443996.jpg)

BTW Captcha ate this pic multiple times back when you were on the beach talking to the commander. I dont know why.

>>20692261
There is some survival training but it doesn't include getting a pilot up to Marine Corps entrance levels.

>Eyes. Checks survey
Why cant I hold all of these 2's?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LcEAs7UKIAc
Training gets off to a solid start. Maneuvers through some of the nearby graveyards is treated as a joke by some of the new recruits until you order them to start increasing speed. There are the usual problems with minor collisions but its nothing the shields on an attack corvette cant handle. If they'd been using older standard corvettes without upgrades it might have been a different story and most of them treat their craft as such. That can be a good thing with the sort of damage real firepower out here can do to even a fully upgraded ship.

You have Alex and his wingmen lead "green squadron" against first squadron in the simulators. While they ultimately lose its close enough that you're satisfied.

>>20692517
Geez, mom, it's just that I was always misplacing my laser pointer...

A few days into the training you run into Mike who has just returned from a requested 2 day leave.
"I sure hope that 2 days was worth it Mike we've got a lot more work to do." you half joke to him.

"Don't worry, I haven't been slacking off. I spent most of yesterday going through channels to get this!" He hefts a weapons crate.
You resist the urge to facepalm until you find out what it is exactly he's been after.
"The Shallans are too far away to offer much assistance against the Warlords especially since they dont have the logistics to send out expeditionary fleets. Instead they've started selling weapons on the cheap to any of the mainline Factions. Check it out."

He pulls out a weapon with a boxy barrel ten centimeters across and sixty centimeters long. It has a seam towards the back where Mike shows it can split open to be breach loaded.
"Recognize this?" He holds up one of the large shells. It looks like the fuel cell from an anti-tank plasma gun.

"It doesn't pack anywhere near the punch of the republic weapons but its not meant to. The best way I can describe it is that it acts like a short range fusion shotgun."

"Tell me you're not going to fire that in here." you ask nervously.

You now have the option of purchasing Shallan Fusion Guns for some of your Marines. House requisitions will only act as a middle man in this regard as they cant afford to buy them due to budget constraints.

>>20691655
>You have 12 days remaining until the end of the allotted down time. At
Do at least one of the activites Sonia promised Linda to do with her.

>>20692707
Let the marines run a few training exercises with the fusion guns. We'll see how many are even interested in using the weapons, and can decide then.

>>20692708
Agreed.

Also make time for personal combat and knight training.

You ask Mike if the marines can borrow his new gun long enough to evaluate it. Instead he pulls out a datapad from the box.
"Simulator data. Now everybody can test them without having to worry about breaking my gun."

Flight leader Biran Edah leads green squadron against Daska and second squadron in the simulators. Its a bit of a massacre for the trainees. You consider scaling things back but decide that would only give them false confidence.

After a day spent on boarding drills and another with time off everyone is back at it. Mike takes his turn, using his newly patched up Attack Cruiser to help against Three squadron. While defeated again its not quite as bad. Third squadron's patched up ships proving to have less maneuverability.

"That one was kind of iffy." States Mike. "I knew we could out maneuver them if we could get in close but they just had too much firepower to get there. I'm thinking I should have just called a retreat."

Siri Thal proves to be a good all around pilot and commander. Using the speed of her converted U-Haul and corvettes she drags out the fight against first squadron longer than it had any right to go. After withdrawing then splitting the unit she's able to pincer half of the aggressor squadron, and take out the Cruisers in that half. They must be learning.

"That was just embarrassing." says Verilis Rah'ne after getting out of the simulator room.

File: 1347427225521.jpg-(126 KB, 1024x554, 1251145805051.jpg)

With the simulator cleared out for the time being you contact Linda and ask her about this kayaking think she was talking about.
The shopping scene around Forbearance isnt that great and the few places you could buy stuff are zones where security is still trying to displace the more dangerous locals. Which are all of them. Attempts to confiscate or buy off their weapons have been met with violence. Ships are still routinely loaded up with refugees and civilians from the station and sent off to the various previously abandoned colony worlds.

"So have you ever gone canoeing before?" Linda asks you before starting. "They're similar enough." She drops her voice to a whisper. "You do know how to swim right?"

You grew up in the market district. There's water nearby but...

>Do you know how to swim?

>>20693114
Yes, but we're not good at it. Enough to keep from drowning only.

>>20693114
Considering we tried sneaking into a pool a few threads ago, I'd say yes.

rolled 8 = 8

>>20693114
scale of one to ten, one being a hammer ten being oh my god why do olympic not exist anymore

>>20693140
Yeah I honestly forgot about that. "Wait, swimming, that should have come up before." oh well.

Yes, you tell her you're a strong enough swimmer, you just haven't had a chance to do much of it since you entered the service.
>rolled 8
Must be all that working out you've been doing. The simulation seems straight forward enough, you just sit down carefully in the oddly shaped boat and and try not to overbalance yourself. Piece of cake, you're a little tippy though when using the paddle for the first time.
"Linda this thing seems kinda unstable. Are you sure I'm doing this right?"
"You just need to get used to it that's all, and don't panic if you turn over." the other woman assures you, paddling around you in a circle.

roll 2d20 for skill development!

rolled 16 = 16

>>20693242
Well, here goes nothing.

First roll.

rolled 17 = 17

>>20693251
Neat.

And the second one.

... looks like we aced it!

>>20693251
>>20693259
Non-combat roll? Must be good.

What would have happened on double ones?

>>20693324
The water in the simulation is replaced by spaghetti.

>>20691479
Couldn't really explain myself while posting on my phone. I suggest ordering 12 new pilots, each decked out with an electronic warfare corvette to aid each squad. They can sacrifice most of their weapons since the vettes are agile and they'll be a rear guard/support role for the other 3. Maybe it's just my experience in Eve Online that's making me want ECM support so much... But I think we need more than one blackbird and our CO can pay us those in exchange for the battle cruiser we lost. Speaking on our ship I'd suggest we find the biggest shield/armor tank with max range weapons to command from. We don't have to fly as wingmen anymore so we can snipe from the rear while commanding. (I'm thinking battleship.. But that's just my love of the Hyperion and its design)

Turns out we are better at white water rafting than flying starships. Quest converts to outdoor activities guide rp as we take people down rapids in exchange for tips.

After some more advanced instruction Linda shows you how to roll the kayak.

"You have got to be kidding me, I'm not doing that." Is your initial reaction.

"Its holographic water Sonia, you're not going to drown." the other woman points out.
Thats true, if it were real you would be busy repeating your last sentence to her.

Somehow after some coaching you manage to roll the thing yourself and get back up out of the water. Not so bad really, you would have hated to learn that in real water though.

As you gain in confidence with the water craft Linda leads you off to another side of the course, following the sound of rushing water.
"This can be a little tricky." She tells you before leading the way through some light rapids. You keep your head and follow her through, managing not to roll the kayak but confident now you could do so if needed.

"Hey you made it! Good job! If things stay slow we should try some real water some day this week. There are some colony worlds in the run that have the right terrain."

You continue to practice for the next two hours before calling it for the day.

File: 1347429723048.png-(77 KB, 310x134, 20100108022736!Knightboat.png)

>>20693451
And there always has to be a river nearby, so we can follow the bad guys in our kayak.

>>20693429
Supporting our need for more EW. I don't think Sonia is a "snipe from the rear" kind of person, though.

>>20693478
>>20693451
Don't forget we're also a good starfighter pilot... as long as said starfighter soesn't use VTOL

>>20693514
>>20693429
>12 ECM boats.
Spit take.jpg
Thats a lot of ECM options that just aren't available. Blackbirds are rare even among the Terran fleet. If you want though you can requisition Electronic warfare pods for some of your starfighters, specifically the attack bombers.
I will see if there are any other ships that would be suitable for ECM systems though...

Hey wait. There's a modified version of the Remora that's built up with parts from busted Exodus battlecruisers so they're tougher. 3rd squadron has 1 and I was looking at another becoming available through salvage right about... now.
Its ventral cargo hardpoint is still usable and while I was going to suggest equipping them with a spinal mount heavy phase cannon it could also be fitted with additional ECM pods. There aren't any other starship grade ones available though. You want to try your luck in one of the Grave yards?

>>20693644
Yes to getting another Remora and fitting it with ECM pods, and yes to hunting for better pods. We always enjoy gravedigging.

Definitely do whatever it takes for more recon and ecm fittings. One ship won't be able to cover our now numerous assets, especially if they move into separate systems like everyone liked doing for the recon. Having the ecm could prevent any jamming blackouts in communications or sensors. It could also help them escape should they stumble into a Lvl 4-6 area without support.

>>20693644
I'd love to see how much the modifid Remoras would cost and how much fire power we would lose by using them in that capacity.
Oh, and how much the ECM modified attack bombers would cost.

Going to need 2d100's to see if you can find some for both ships.

rolled 68 = 68

>>20693706
First one.

rolled 80 = 80

>>20693712
And the second one.

>>20693712
>>20693717
"Squadron Leaders prepare your units for immediate departure. We have treasure to find and not so much time to do it in."

You board the Bittenfeld, Katherine still testing out the Shakara. While she enjoys the speed its capable of she is less pleased with the need for torpedo munitions. Thankfully command has issued a memo stating torpedo requisition should be lowered soon with a steady supply becoming available. Half of the attack cruisers in the squadron have now been outfitted with mass driver point defense guns, though the coverage remains poor. Time will fix that.

After checking in with salvage command you head out for the nearest graveyard system. They're still having trouble with some automated defenses in the system leaving it as one of the few places left where equipment you're looking for might be located.

You hang back to cover Nab as he attempts to scan down equipment. All three squadrons parol parts of the system destroying any active sentry guns that take shots at them. Your search uncovers two pieces of ship wreckage you could use. The first is a spinal mount heavy phase cannon, the second is an ECM array. Both are a bit damaged but it should be easy to repair them.

Ecm bombers would be to squishy, that's why I was suggesting the highest quality Corvettes we have so they can have the room for the hardware without having to miniaturize. Obviously 12 is a bit much to build during our vacation but we can get a start and have or CO look out for pilots. If we get at least 3, one for each wing, then our survivability jumps up. Now we just need to start researching portable gravity Wells to pull targets out of ftl. Maybe black holes or singularities. Imagine if we could have used one to trap the fleet in or last OP... Our left one behind to pull the Terran fleet out of ftl on "accident" and prevent their interference.

>>20693852
If the enemy has the capabilites to to actually get a shot off at our ECM bombers, I think we're in deep trouble anyways.

>>20693861
we have been using flak cover to protect against missiles and fighters.. All it takes is a random flak round to pop you're expensive ecm bomber and its over. Then again I'm speculating the bomber (being smaller hardware) would require staying closer while a Corvette could stray in formation with the cruiser +2 and have shield to last anything except mass focus fire or the super heavy stuff

After getting back to base with your new gear you request the assignment of another pilot with ECM experience to the Wing.

New Ships added to Salvage List!

[J-R CRS] Journeyman Cruiser (Exodus/Remora hybrid) (RP Cost 2750)
Note: Equipping the ECM array you recovered will likely reduce ship speed by 10-20%. Keep this in mind and deploy it at a safe distance.


>>20693852
House R&D is currently overextended by 50% due to work on other projects. Do you wish to push any of these requests?
Requisitioning transports fitted with long rage jamming equipment is also possible, but they tend to be slow. Just making you aware that's possible but they're not ECCM focused.

Speaking of R&D, you've received a message from command regarding an experimental ship. A Kavarian attack cruiser has been rebuilt from salvage and is being used as a testbed for new DHI afterburners to be used in the Assault Corvette program. Aries and GE are the few modern producers of anti-proton injectors and DHI is attempting to replicate the system.
Here's the catch: the commanding officers of the Attack Cruiser Wings will have to fight for it in mock combat.

I'm out for the night.

>>20694039
Depends on it. Would they consider some kind of mobile or 1-shot jump jammer feasible, or would they laught so loud or parents could here it a galaxy away?

>>20694039
Getting more cruisers is always apreciated, as is getting some training against other good pilots. If we still had the Gungnir that wouldve been a cakewalk i suppose...

We should use the Shakara for this battle. I dont think it will be protracted so the lack of ammunition of the Ship shouldnt be a problem.

>>20694039
Spaceship battle, or some kind of mock duel?

>>20693818
Mass drivers for everyone! What is the limiting factor for particle beam point defence turrets? I take it that each ship has a limited number of hardpoints with the right power connections and such? In that regard railguns have other advantages in that they can be mounted anywhere without needing holes in the hull, though that does require self contained magazines. Once we eventually max out on railguns and particle turrets the whole squadron will be able to bunch up and catch any incoming object in a crossfire.

Something I want to know is why no one seems to be using anti-starfighter and anti-torpedo missiles. That is usually the standard defence in situations like this, using smaller cheaper guided projectiles to counter bigger and slower targets.

>>20694720
I'd guess because particle beams don't have the ammunition problems today's kinetic defence weapons have. And most likely because targetting computers are much better.

>>20694075
>mobile or 1-shot jump jammer
Say, like deployable jamming probes or buoys? That could work.
Larger jammers like those used on Y-Type transports take 30 seconds to unpack/repack. Wait. Constellation class ships. They could be outfitted with starfighter grade jamming/ECM/ECCM whatever. I wouldn't recommend dragging a dozen of them around but it would provide some bonuses.

>>20694314
>>20694322
It would be done in the simulators to avoid any accidental collisions. Each pilot flies a copy of the ship being fought over.

>>20694720
>something I want to know is why no one seems to be using anti-starfighter and anti-torpedo missiles.

I've repeatedly made missile batteries with anti-starfighter missile options available to you. Most anons have decided against them because of ammunition problems.

>>20696261
Also, until the most recent fight our massed PD batteries have been more than ample to deal with the fighter threat. The only time we ran into trouble is when we were with that cruiser squadron that had no point defense. Any way, put the rookies as a squadron 4 announce a competition to decide who leads them. Each squad leader selects two flight leaders. They and their flight engage the other candidates in a free for all simulated brawl.
We'll assign the rookies as close escort for our escort carriers until they are combat ready.

>>20696318
Did you want this to take place while you're off competing with the other wing leaders for that ship?

It will take place shortly after your call through to your parents.

>>20696393
Yep. Might subility imply to our old wingmen that more than being the number 1, they really want to be in the top 3. After all, we never said what else we were going to use the ranking for. (Numbers 1-3 might be our squad leaders down the line, and I don't believe we ever said there was a rule against temporary alliances.)
*evil grin*

>Call mom
Its well into the second week when you put your call through to home. You're glad you spent the extra money for the live video call, even if it does cost more than some people make in a year.
Everyone seems to be present, your sister with the day off and Dad having returned home on his short stretch of leave.
He immediately salutes on seeing your dress uniform then smirks.
"Sorry, Force of habit kiddo." You can tell he's noticed your eyes but doesn't say anything, probably not wanting to worry mom.
"Well, you've racked up quite the tally of medals. My old bronze and noble citations don't exactly compare but then again I wasn't commanding starships."

Mom shakes her head while smiling at that remark then holds up some hard copy photographs, one of you in your dress uniform, the other of your power armour. "Don't try to compete against your daughter dear you're twenty years older and haven't been to the rifle range in ages."

After some small talk your sister cant sit still any longer.

"Sis! Sis! Did you get me a sword?"
"Definitely maybe!" you tease her.
"Aww. Tell me what you got me, pleasepleasepleaseplea-"
"You're acting half your age dear, quit it." Your mom interrupts, grabbing your sister by the back of the shirt and forcing her to sit down.

Do you tell her? Also, what did you want to talk to everyone about?

>>20696318
I think this is a bad idea. The rookies should stay attached to squadron 1-3 until they have some battle experience. Staying with the vets will help them survive and prosper and THEN we can turn them into squadron 4.

>>20696441
I think we got her one, right? A holosword, if i remember right. Talk to them about our recent promotion, about our friends in the ranks (nothing too embarassing), then ask them how they are doing.

>>20696441
Stuff. Our navigator and former wingmen. Joke a bit about the jar-head competition for the power armor. Try to make it clear to our sister that its not all fun and games while avoiding giving our mother a panic attack. Maybe a bit about that insane governor?

>>20696490
er I suggested we assign them as close escort to the carriers first, not immediately throw them into the thick of combat. We can slice a few of them off for easy missions to build combat experience.

>>20696558
With the carriers they are not going to see the heavy combat up close, also the carrier Crews are newbs too. If we want them to learn from our veterans we should keep them with the established squadrons for at least a few major battles.

>>20696512
>>20696545
>I think we got her one, right? A holosword, if i remember right.
Yes.

You tell the family about your friends, be it pilots or members of your ship crew. Crazy stuff you've gotten into with their help. Dad is happy to hear you're not discriminating against class like some people do.
At the mention of the competition for the Jump Jet suit your sister informs you that you could always let her have it with promises to pay you back. This gives you the perfect opportunity to stress to her that yes it is dangerous out here and that its necessary to take every precaution.
"Don't worry mom, my squadron has taken some of the lowest casualties yet. We even had emergency teleporters installed."

"Those aren't the ones where they kill you and assemble a copy somewhere else is it?"
She calms down after your assurance that isn't the case.

Mom tells you about things in the city slowly changing as more people head out for the war. Her acquaintances are not convinced her daughter is a Knight to which she will soon prove them wrong.
Your sister reports that she hasn't been suspended from school since the transfer to the new one.
Dad will be shipping out soon. Probably for one of the Logistics bases in the Smugglers Run but he isn't sure.

>Headed out to work. Will return in slightly over 6 Hours.
>If you have more topics of conversation with the family post them. If you want to roll for the ship duel roll 1d20.

>>20696571
>>20696558
guys, there is no rule that we have to make them entirely from noobs. Just stiffen them with some vets that deserve a shot at flight leader status. Bam! instant combat ready squadron.

rolled 17 = 17

>>20696719
well, someone has to

rolled 16 = 16

>>20696719
Yes, i dare rolling. I really want this ship.

>>20696891
Also, that guy talks wisdom, listen to him.

>>20696914
holy shit i am glad i didnt completely ruin the earlier awesome roll.

>>20691089
How about we fold the escort carriers into the command squadron. to make it at least a flight + commander, so as to truly be the extra support unit that can get in where it is most needed and lead in that area with extra kick, and direct the others accordingly to said situation.

Plus it allows us to stay far, far away, with ECM and Drone boats, and do theatre command, or jump in with it all and and put the muscle into the needed area (faster fighter resupply, more powerful EW, and our own guns)

>>20696891
Indeed a good idea.

>>20696926
and this one too.
There was that suggestion that we patent the adaptation and solution to solid slug PD so as to get some revenue form our eccentricity and provide a negotiable entity that can bit or present a formal offer to House Military Acquisitions in regards to such a system.

It seems to have been forgotten but it was rather well worded when we hired those arty guys on the Bittenfeld, so that after we provide it free of charge to our friends and underlings and through demonstration of its effectivity we can get some money and increase performance dramatically for our House and aid it on the road to Major house, since even with our super awesome findings that we will get some percentile winnings and possibly some ranks and titles, the house will need some intermediary stepping stone to be able to survive and rise bit before that huge leap in the very hostile and internecine environment of the dominion, considering the fact that we have enemies who want us to fail and may move against us as soon as the armistice ends.

cpr

>>20697730
again

>>20696904
>>20696914
so, always in non mission critical we roll very well and really mediocre in combat, how comes?

>>20696719
>If you have more topics of conversation with the family post them.
Have they actually been to the land we've been rewarded with?
Ask if they need anything.
And tell our family we miss them.

>>20700415
>Have they actually been to the land we've been rewarded with?
Not yet, though they've all seen the pictures. Your father plans to take the rest of the family out to take a look before he ships out again.

>Ask if they need anything.
"You've sent more than enough money. We could buy a larger appartment if we wanted to but there wouldnt be much point right now. We just want you to come home alive."
"Thats an order young lady." Says Dad.
"Dad I outrank you."
"Not as a parent you dont."

>And tell our family we miss them.
"We miss you too!" Yells your sister before the call has to end.
Money or not, there are bandwidth limitations everyone has to follow.

>>20700659
combat time!

You, Kavos and Arron show up for the scheduled duel. Simulation or not you'll need their help for ship operations with something like this.

"So uh sir, with the Wing expanding is there any chance I could get some simulator time in?" Arron asks. You inform him this isn't the best time to talk about it and each of you step into the open booths. The holographics activate and you find yourself standing in what appears to be deep space surrounded by the other pilots and their crews.
A representative of Dremine Heavy Industries appears in the center wearing a business suit.
"Thank you for attending everyone." He says before holding out one hand. A wireframe of a fairly average looking Kavarian Attack Cruiser appears above his palm.

"This is the ship you will all be piloting. The objective of the exercise is to not only to defeat your opponents but to show you can bring the vessel back with as little damage as possible. This is a prototype testbed and we need as much of the equipment onboard to return intact as possible. Something you will note is that this design uses the more common cylindrical drive systems unlike the rows of vertical thrust accelerators found on Iratar designs. This change is due to the engines planned for use on the corvettes being this type. They're far easier to build, repair and replace with our technology.
This is a free for all. Use any tactics you wish and expect anything."

You find yourself inside an unremarkable bridge mock up, the vessel already speeding in towards a Lagrange point asteroid field.

"Kavos what are we armed with?"
"Four torpedo launchers, aft phase cannon turret and four... spinal mount phase cannon. This is an upgrade!"

>>20700972
Uh boy, that ship packs a punch in the front. Would be a nice addition to first Squadron.

>>20700972
Its a three way free for all right? Well, they only give points for being the last one alive, not for kills.

>>20701009
Ours, I think.

"Contacts. We're all equidistant to the center of the field." Red markers pop up, headed for cover.
You crank up your engines and test out the afterburner, wanting to see what kind of speed the ship is capable of.
Within seconds a damage readout pops up on your systems display. Your engine power drops precipitously, going well below the normal maximum. "What the hell?" you exclaim.

Kavos shuts down the anti-proton injectors. "They're been rigged to fail, they gave us a faulty ship! Engine power is only available at seventy percent. Also it doesn't look like we have emergency thrusters."

"Oh, what the shit. This must be a worst case scenario test." you conclude.
Arron reports that the other ships seem to have suffered similar failures just before entering the asteroids.

>Your tactics?
>Your roll is good, the tactics will determine just how good.

>>20701112
What's the environment we're in like?

>>20701112
do we have anything on board, small sensor drones, missiles that can be converted to act as such per computer.

I am thinking periscope and hiding between asteroids, popping up and alpha down the kilt.

>>20701112
Do we have Missiles to use as ECM? We will need it. Other than that circle the other ships in the asteroid field, make sure to use cover as good as possible and not to keep an eye on both ships. Be passive and keep our distance, it would be better if they attacked each first, but if we see an opening, like a possible attack from behind or the sides, launch nukes and go in guns blazing while their sensors are blinded. We can also make use of the afterburners for this if they are still online.

I cannot stress the importance of cover enough, without the Emergency thrusters we will be easy prey in the open.

>>20701212
Derp, i meant to keep an eye on both ships.