DRAFT #4 NOTES
NORTHERN LIGHTS - OPERATION PLATINFUCHS – 29th June, 1941
MAP
Zapolar’e Summer Murmansk – Red / Blue contested
VICTORY CONDITIONS
This is rather unimportant in the scheme of things. The campaign is an often discussed vehicle that I’ve devised to explore concepts in regarding a highly detailed and realistic battlefield environment. Personally, I’m not too concerned as to “who wins or who loses” in the scheme of things. For me, it is much more for the experience in the playing out of the thing. If the Axis can capture Murmansk or cut the railway line running north to the city, then they’ve done better than what happened in real life. Moreover, if this does eventuate, it’s more an indicator of a flaw in my template design in the interests of achieving historical accuracy. My goal is for “bloody stalemate”. That is, the German attack gets bogged down and goes nowhere.
The campaign takes place in the extreme north of the Eastern Front. It is summer and starts a few days after the completion of Operation Renntier, the bloodless occupation of Petsamo by Axis forces. The 29th of June, 1941 can be considered as the historical launch date for this operation. It is designed to be “open ended”, where circumstances such as the Royal Navy attack and Arctic convoys can be written into the equation if things progress that far along. Unofficially, the victory objectives can be set at the capture of Murmansk and the cutting of the main railway line by Axis forces. The campaign is ended by mutual agreement, stalemate or total defeat of an opponent.
FREQUENCY OF MISSIONS
The campaign commences at 4.00 AM, 29th June, 1941. Each day has eight daylight missions and a single nocturnal mission. The time length for each of the eight daylight missions is set at two hours. The single nocturnal mission is of eight hours length.
Daylight Missions
These missions take place at 4.00 AM, 6.00 AM, 8.00 AM, 10.00 AM, 12.00 PM, 2.00 PM, 4.00 PM & 6.00 PM for each day. There is no restriction upon the types of units which may be plotted for these. Human flown aircraft will be restricted to the hours between 4.00 AM and 8.00 PM
Nocturnal Mission
This is a mission run once per day. It starts at 8.00 PM and finishes at 4.00 AM. This mission is specifically allocated to things such as ships, vessels, trains and logistical supply units that would be expected to be continual running through the night. All plots must be AI. No human flights at all. Any aircraft in an aerial shuttle supply point must be an AI and plotted to directly fly to and land at a friendly air base. Otherwise it is considered lost. Obviously this mission does not require human participation and can be run at any convenient time after the finish of plotting.
SETTINGS
Full switch, HSFX History mods, advanced engine management and all the usual hard stuff. This is a HSFX campaign. Participants must meet the latest HSFX criteria. CRT=2 enforcement requested on this. Realistic navigation difficulty is turned on. Radio communications turned off for aircraft without radios. Human flown aircraft must land at a friendly controlled airfield or base at the conclusion of each mission. Otherwise the pilot and aircraft will be considered as lost. Whilst tanks and vehicles can travel off road, they must use bridges, cannot travel through forests unless upon a road. However, roads do take priority in their plots. Infantry has simplified movement and can ignore bridges and travel through forests. Movement of artillery is dependent upon the availability of a vehicle to transport it.
PARTICIPATION
From the start, be aware that I personally find the AI to be an acceptable game participant. I often find it much more reliable in regards to orders and HSFX does a good job in getting it better with each game revision. Essentially, this campaign is not an activity designed to attract large numbers of human participants or needs to make compromises to allow for this. It is an “invite only” affair. As such, participation is determined by an “acting consulship” of Brandle and myself. Currently, the number of known participants stands at two. Obviously further numbers will include other regular SEOW stalwarts whom are known to have measured up to my colleagues stringent “Anti-Chimp participation guidelines”. Rest assured, my colleague may in due course offer further verbal communication, encouragement, formulation, application, prompting and indoctrination (brain washing) of this policy, which will certainly be applied to other prospective applicants. For my part, I only request that participants attempt to come up to the standards of the AI.
WEATHER AND
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Am not too sure of exactly what the prevailing weather conditions were in the far north on the 29th June, 1941. I do know that on the opening day of Barbarossa, 22nd June 1941, the airfields in the area were fog bound with virtually no flight missions. All I know is that a week later, the conditions for flying were much improved and there was an upsurge of aerial activity which continued throughout the summer. For campaign purposes, please set the initial weather conditions to hazy, with a tendency toward improved flying conditions up to excellent throughout July, August and September of 1941.
CONTROL POINTS
There are control
points in most cities, towns and villages on the map. They do not play a part
in the victory conditions, but do assist when viewing units upon the map. These
points do convey information to opposing players and can be considered as the
local population providing military intelligence. For purposes here, a sole
infantry platoon with undisputed control is sufficient resources to capture a control
point.
NUMBER OF AIR, LAND AND SEA PLOTS
This will be negotiated between participants as we expand
the scope of this campaign. I suspect this will be along the lines of equal
numbers for allied and axis forces and expect that our usual low number of
human participants should work in our favour here. Additionally, with longer
aircraft turnaround times and slow decay of reconnaissance, the campaign is
designed in such a way, to encourage the use squadron strength set piece
attacks or raids, but of low frequency.
INBOUND SHUTTLE FLIGHTS
An inbound shuttle
flight is where an aircraft takes off from an airbase during a mission and ends
that same mission whilst still in flight. For it to be successful, the
following preconditions must be met.
1. The flight must be AI only plot.
2. The aircraft flight is plotted to end the
mission at an “aerial shuttle supply point”.
There is no
restriction on the number or type of aircraft that can be used for this
activity. Essentially this facility allows for the inbound leg of a sortie that
continues by starting in the air at the beginning of the next mission.
OUTBOUND SHUTTLE FLIGHTS
An outbound shuttle
flight follows on from an inbound shuttle flight. In this case, the aircraft
flight plotted to move, must begin its sortie from an “aerial shuttle supply
point”. For success, it must abide within the following parameters.
1. The aircraft flight must be in the aerial
shuttle supply point from the previous mission.
2. The aircraft used must start with a 50% fuel
status.
3. The plotted flight can be flown by human or
AI.
4. The aircraft flight must be plotted to end
the mission at a friendly airbase.
The number and type
of aircraft for this activity is restricted to exactly what was flown into the
issuing aerial shuttle supply point at the close of the previous mission.
Essentially this facility allows for the completion of the outbound leg of a
sortie which started in the previous mission.
AERIAL SHUTTLE SUPPLY POINTS
Aerial shuttle supply
points are specific places on the map where aircraft can be plotted to move to
at the end of a mission, or from at the start of a mission. These points can
temporarily hold aircraft from one mission to another, but the aircraft cannot
be held within that point any longer than one mission. For example, if an
aircraft ends a mission at an aerial shuttle supply point (inbound shuttle
flight), it must be plotted to move out of that same aerial shuttle supply
point in the next consecutive mission (outbound shuttle point). If the aircraft
does not exit the point, then the aircraft is considered lost. Essentially,
these are transfer points on the map for aircraft and the aircraft held within
these points represent assets which are in the air and in transit at the time
that a mission ends. Each side has a series of these aerial shuttle supply
points upon the map. The location of these points, are hidden to the opposing
force but roughly correspond with the frontline of the ground war in the
campaign.
As you might
appreciate, aerial combat does not suddenly stop at a single point in time,
with everybody agreeing to fly back to their respective bases by a certain
period of time. There were often sorties which were underway or already in
progress. This feature seeks to illustrate this and breakup the repetitive
nature of traditional SEOW game play. This should make for more realistic
gameplay. It is conceivable for an attacker to have an offensive force up in
the air and on the way to an attack at the start of a mission. Conversely, it
could allow a defender to position defensive aerial combat air patrols over the
frontline at the start of a mission. The positioning of these points are
considered in regard to when the mission in transit is likely to be spotted,
identified or reported by enemy radar and observers from the ground. Depending
upon the circumstances, this feature could allow an unprepared pilot to be
caught on the runway by an enemy attack or enable a defender to be in a
superior position when repelling an intrusion.
AIRCRAFT ORDER OF BATTLE
This is predetermined along historical guidelines. It is already included within the template. It has assumed that the Germans have received substantial reinforcement over their initial Order of Battle listing at 22nd June, 1941, though it is still well outnumbered by its Soviet opponent.
Red Aerial Units
10th BAP VVS = 18 (6) x DB-3M, 9 (3) x DB-3T, 3 (3) x TB-3 4M-17
39th ORAP VVS = 12 (12) x R-5
50th ORAP VVS = 12 (12) x MBR-2 AM-34
99th ORAP VVS = 12 (12) x U-2VS
118th ORAP VVS = 36 (12) x MBR-2 AM-34
137th BAP VVS = 36 (12) x SB-2 M-103
145th IAP VVS = 36 (12) x I-16 type 10
146th IAP VVS = 18 (6) x I-15 bis, 18 (6) x I-16 type 5
147th IAP VVS = 36 (12) x I-153 M-62
71st SAP VVS VMF = 24 (8) x I-15bis, 12 (4) x I-16 type 18
72nd SAP VVS VMF = 12 (4) x SB-2 M-103, 18 (6) x I-153 M-62, 3 (1) x I-16 type 24, 1 (1) x I-16 type 24 Safonov
Blue Aerial Units
I./KG 26 = 12 (4) x He-111H-6, 6(6) x Ju-52 /
3mg4e, 2 (2) x Ju-52 / 3mg5e
I./KG 30 = 36 (12) x Ju-88A-4
I./JG 77 = 48 (12) x Bf-109E-7/B
I./ZG 76 = 16 (4) x Bf-110C-7, 16 (8) x AR-196A-3
IV.(Stuka)/LG 1 = 36 (12) x Ju-87B-2
(H)1./31 = 12 (12) x Fi-156
(H)2./31 = 12 (12) x Fw-189A-2
(F)3./31 = 12 (12) x Ju-88C-6
AIRCRAFT ORDINANCE
LISTINGS
There is no restriction upon ordinance combinations which an aircraft can use, provided it meets the criteria specified in the “ordinance stocks at airfields” section. This particular criterion is based upon the level of supply and is largely in the participants best interests to keep their principal bomber bases in good supply. Some ordinances are unavailable and should be removed from the relevant database. These are:
DB-3T = 1 x torpedo (no specific details)
Fw-200 C-3 U4 = 2 x Hs-293 (introduced during 1943)
He-111H-6 = 2 x practice torpedos (no specific details)
I-16 type 5 = 2 x PV-1 (phased out before WW2)
Ju-52 3mg4e = 1, 2, 3 x special agents (not used in campaign)
Ju-88A-4 = 2 x Lt-350 torpedos (introduced to service during 1942)
TB-3 4M-17 = 1, 2, 3, 4 x special agents (not used in campaign)
Spies and special agents are not used in this campaign. The German (really Italian) Lt-350 aerial torpedo was not in service at this time and thus excluded. The Soviets use the 45-36 AV-A torpedo for all torpedos. There is no detailed specification for “torpedo” and “practice torpedo” to warrant inclusion.
ORDINANCE STOCKS AT
AIRFIELDS
This is an optional rule, contingent upon future SEOW development. As supplies run low at airfields, stocks of certain ordinances and arms ceased to become available for combat operations. It is assumed that the larger, more expensive load outs, which are the options most in demand and rarest are first to be exhausted. I have applied a formula to calculate this estimation applied against the total percentage the airbase is supplied to.
Formula: (square root of kg’s + 50 as a %) = level of supply where that ordinance type ceases to become available. The relatively modern AB canister or butterfly bomb ordinance uses a +45 modifier in the above calculation.
This rule is dependent upon whether it can be enabled within SEOW. Otherwise, I will devise another method. If this is possible, then the restrictions upon “Aircraft Ordinance Listings” can be ignored and the following guidelines applied. For each ordinance type to be used, the airbase must a supply percentage equal or greater than below.
A-10 10kg 53%
RS-82 10kg 53%
FAB50 50kg 57%
FAB100 100kg 60%
FAB250 250kg 66%
FAB500 500kg 72%
FAB1000 1000kg 82%
AB23 (SD2 canister) 50kg 52%
AB250 250kg 61%
AB500 500kg 67%
AB1000 1000kg 77%
SC50 50kg 57%
SC70 70kg 58%
SC250 250kg 66%
SC250 Incendiary 250kg 66%
SC500 500kg 72%
SC1000 1000kg 82%
SC1800 1800kg 92%
SC2000 2000kg 95%
SD500 500kg 72%
PC1600 1600kg 90%
45-36AV-A Torpedo 940kg 81%
LT F5b Torpedo 750kg 77%
LT F5w Torpedo 800kg 78%
BK 12.7mm gun pod - 90%
PV-1 gun pod - 75%
Drop tanks - 50%
Please note that cargo, paratroopers and default armament are always available. The Soviet Bk 12.7mm gun pods for the MiG-3 were relatively new and rare at the beginning of the campaign. The Soviet PV-1 is an earlier obsolete pre-war machinegun that was widely produced before the war though phased out of service for aerial operations by 1942. It was used as a gun pod for the ground attack model of the Soviet R-5 biplane. Extra fuel ordinance options are considered as drop tanks.
ORDINANCE ON
AIRCRAFT CARRIERS
There are no percentages for ordinance stocks on aircraft carriers. All ordinances are assumed to be available due to the nature of carrier operations. Additionally, reloading and refuelling times are halved due to proximity of ordinance stocks and the presence of specially trained ground crews.
ORDINANCE SUPPLY
CONSUMPTION AT AIR BASES
In SEOW, there is a broad application to what constitutes as supply. It is not just fuel or gasoline, but also ammunition, foodstuffs and assorted munitions. In keeping with this application, aircraft ordinances that are loaded at an airfield will henceforth count against that same airfields supply status. This will be applied on a “one to one basis”, where each kilogram of loaded ordinance weight is counted as one litre of supply. For instance, a Bf-109E-7 has a full tank of gas at 400 litres. If we strap a 250 kilogram SC250 bomb to this fully fuelled Emil for a mission, then the calculation is the 400 litres of fuel, plus another 250 litres for the ordinance it is carrying. A total of 650 litres of supply to be subtracted against to the airfields stocks. Please use the table in “ordinance stocks at airfields” section as a guide. Also note that drop tanks are calculated upon the amount of fuel carried and whilst external gun pods are not part of this calculation, they are still subject to the percentage limitations applied in the earlier section of my notes.
AIRFIELD DEPLOYMENT
RATIOS
All aircraft in the order of battle will be deployed. No airframes are hidden and all have the possibility of being destroyed on the ground. It is up to each commander to ensure that these assets are properly guarded from enemy attack.
AIRCRAFT REFUELLING
AND MAINTENANCE TURNAROUND TIME
A period of time is allocated to readying an aircraft for the next combat sortie. This can involve arming, repairing and refuelling the aircraft. It includes crew briefing and ground staff planning for the next mission. It is my belief that the frequency of missions in past SEOW campaigns was much too high. As a rule, multiple daily sorties were only undertaken under very exceptional circumstances. To this end, I have listed each task and allocated a period of time for its completion. Its calculation uses the two hour mission time block as the basis of the interval. This is my estimated time taken for these things done. It does not assume that everything is done in a superfast manner or totally efficient and am sure that some of these tasks could have been undertaken in conjunction with each other. For this campaign, we will assume that the personnel at the aerodrome have a range of other important tasks and were not unduly rushing about at every hour of the day. Due to proximity of ordinance stocks and specially trained ground crews aboard aircraft carriers, rearming time is reduced by two hours in the calculation for carrier aircraft.
My basis of calculation for turnaround time is as follows:
Refuelling, Repairs
and Maintenance
Two hours for each engine
Rearming
Two hours for default arming
Four hours for aircraft that can carry ordinance up to 500kg
Six hours for aircraft that can carry ordinance greater than 500kg
*each rocket is considered to weigh about 10kg
** cargo is considered to be greater than 500kg
*** time reduced by two hours for carrier aircraft calculations
Mission Briefing and
Planning
Two hours for the pilot.
Four hours for multi-crewed aircraft.
The time for this is cumulative. For instance, the turnaround time for a Ju-88A-4 bomber would be calculated as a total of 14 hours comprising of:
4 hours – refuelling, repairs & maintenance
6 hours – rearming
4 hours – briefing and planning
Essentially, this makes it a one raid per day proposition for most bomber units, which probably reflects the operational standards of the time.
Aircraft Turnaround
Times
AR-196A-3 = 10 hours
Bf-109E-7/B = 8 hours
Bf-110C-7 = 12 hours
DB-3M = 14 hours
DB-3T = 14 hours
DB-3F = 14 hours
Fi-156 = 8 hours
Fulmar Mk I = 8 hours
Fw-189A-4 = 12 hours
Fw-200 C-3 U4 = 18 hours
He-111H-6 = 14 hours
I-15 bis = 8 hours
I-153 M-62 = 8 hours
I-16 type 5 = 8 hours
I-16 type 10 = 8 hours
I-16 type 18 = 8 hours
I-16 type 24 = 8 hours
Ju-52 3mg4e = 16 hours
Ju-52 3mg5e = 16 hours
Ju-87B-2 = 10 hours
Ju-88A-4 = 14 hours
Ju-88C-6 = 10 hours
LaGG-3 series 1 = 8 hours
MBR-2 M34 = 10 hours
MiG-3 = 8 hours
Pe-2 series 1 = 14 hours
Pe-3 = 12 hours
R-5 = 8 hours
SB 2M-103 = 14 hours
Sea Hurricane Mk Ib = 4 hours
Swordfish Mk I = 10 hours
TB-3 4M-17 = 18 hours
U-2VS = 8 hours
AIRCRAFT RECONNAISSANCE ABILITIES
Some aircraft within the campaign are dedicated to this role. They are considered to be equipped with specialised aerial cameras and crews trained in observation techniques. This is often at the expense of carrying offensive armament or weaponry. When an AI aircraft is plotted for use in the reconnaissance role, it cannot carry ordinance. Still, they are valuable machines and the only aircraft which can take photographs. All others must rely upon human pilot reports. By my reckoning, the number of photograph exposures is based upon crew members dedicated to the spotting role. I also consider the number of crew who would be in a position to take the photographs. Crew members, such as the pilot or to a lesser extent, the navigator are normally occupied with their assigned tasks. For single seat aircraft with fixed cameras, it is part of the pilots role to search and greatly dependent upon his judgement of when to take exposures. In other machines, it is normally the observer gunner, armed with handheld or cameras or on a flexible mounts who has the greater opportunity and training to take more exposures. Naturally, some aircraft designs provide downward facing views, extended greenhouses which are protected from the elements, whilst others provide the basic facility of allowing the observer to lean outside the cockpit to track objects.
Navigator, radio operator or co-pilot position with limited view = 2 Photos
Single seat reconnaissance aircraft with fixed cameras = 3 Photos
Navigator, radio operator or co-pilot position with open view = 4 Photos
Gunner in enclosed beam gun and dorsal turret position = 5 Photos
Gunner in enclosed nose, ventral and tail gun position = 6 Photos
Gunner in exposed cockpit position allowing leaning out and tracking = 7 Photos
Gunner in enclosed large glasshouse to allow tracking = 8 Photos
Gunner in enclosed large glasshouse with extended downward views to allow tracking = 9 Photos
AR-196A-3 = Two crew. Pilot and gunner observer = 8 Photos
Fi-156 = Two crew. Pilot and gunner observer = 9 Photos
Fulmar Mk I = Two crew. Pilot and gunner observer = 8 Photos
Fw-189A-4 = Three crew. Pilot and two gunner observers = 15 Photos
Fw-200 C-3 U4 = Seven crew. Pilot, co-pilot, navigator and six gunner observers = 15 Photos*
Ju-88C-6 = Three crew. Pilot and two gunner observers = 11 Photos
MBR-2 M34 = Four crew. Pilot, navigator and two gunner observers = 14 Photos
Pe-3 = Three crew. Pilot and two gunner observers = 11 Photos
R-5 = Two crew. Pilot and gunner observer = 7 Photos
Swordfish Mk I = Three crew. Pilot, navigator and gunner observer = 11 Photos
U-2VS = Two crew. Pilot and gunner observer = 7 Photos
*subject to extended reconnaissance rule
EXTENDED
RECCONAISSANCE RULE
The FW-200 Condor is designed for extended long range reconnaissance. As such, it has the ability to remain in the air much longer than is represented in each mission of two hours. In this campaign, the Condor is the only aircraft that is allowed to start and finish its mission using off map aerial supply points. It can do so for four consecutive missions under the following provisions. The Fw-200 C-3 U4 flight must be AI, carry only default armament and is on a designated reconnaissance mission. It must be plotted for four consecutive missions, with the first mission starting with it plotted for taking off from a base on the map and the fourth ending with it plotted to land at a base on the map. Photographs taken during missions are considered to be highly detailed radio reports.
INITIAL
RECONNAISSANCE AND DECAY
The initial reconnaissance level starts at zero. The activity of past days has been quiet, with both sides busily preparing for future action. Additionally, this campaign kicks off in the dead of night. It is anticipated that the intelligence picture will automatically develop after placement of units and completion of missions, but I expect participants to gradually work on and add to this. Also, with an expected lower frequency of missions, due to increased turnaround times for aircraft and my own intention to place higher value in building an intelligence picture of the battlefield environment, I’d like to set the reconnaissance decay down to the lower echelons or rates.
FORWARD OBSERVERS
These are units, such as spotter aircraft and drivable jeeps which can positively influence the accuracy of artillery and ground fire. Whether in an aircraft or in a jeep, they are considered to be “forward observers”. That is, specially trained spotters who can see things upon the battlefield and relay this back to assist friendly units. Spotter aircraft tend to be the smaller, slower moving, handier and utilitarian types, equipped with morse key or radio set to communicate information. Ground vehicles are the drivable jeeps and kubelwagens. Essentially, these aircraft and vehicles positively assist the firing accuracy of friendly units whenever they pass within a set proximity of that unit.
Spotter Aircraft
AR-196A-3
Fi-156
Fw-189A-4
MBR-2 M34
R-5
Swordfish Mk I
U-2VS
Spotter Vehicles
Willy’s Jeep (USSR-open)
Kubelwagen – (German VW Type 82-open)
Spotter aircraft only carry default armament in this role. Spotter vehicles need to be driven by human participants for them to function properly in the forward observer role.
AIRCRAFT SKINS
Not required. I have carefully selected models where markings and insignias are standardised and uniform. Where possible, I have taken this same approach to ground units.
GROUND ORDER OF BATTLE
Unlike previous templates, ground combat is detailed down to the individual platoon level. That is, each infantry unit represents about twenty five men. As such, my order of battle listings are generally at battalion, brigade or regiment level. This follows on from an old Panzerblitz board game precedent of a past age. Placement of ground units is left mainly to the participants, with deployment on the map being within a designated area set by the campaign designer. Once completed, each unit map will be consolidated to form the entire battle environment of the campaign.
Red Ground Units
Actual numbers of equipment are listed. The figure listed in parenthesis ( ) is the number of single units to be placed on the map in the full mission builder. A multiplier will be applied upon template initialisation to arrive at the number without the parenthesis.
14th ARMY - Lt General V.A. Frolov
1 (1) x GAZ-M1Staff Car (radio, represents General)
(preset by the template designer)
14th Rifle Division, 14th Army - Mj General N.N. Nikishin
1 (1) x GAZ-M1Staff Car (radio, represents General)
(preset by the template designer)
95th Rifle Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
135th Rifle Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
325th Rifle Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
143rd Light Artillery Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
9 (3) x 76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY
9 (3) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY)
3 (1) x 122mm M30 ARTY
3 (1) x Horse Artillery + Howitzer (transporter for 122mm M30 ARTY)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
241st Howitzer Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
12 (4) x 122mm M30 ARTY
12 (4) x Horse Artillery + Howitzer (transporter for 122mm M30 ARTY)
6 (2) x 152mm ML20 ARTY
6 (2) x T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Type 1 APC)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
149th Anti-Tank Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
9 (3) x 45mm M38 ATG
9 (3) x ZIS-5 Truck (transporter)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
3 (1) x GAZ AA Ammunition
Truck
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
35th Recon Battalion, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
6 (2) x T-40 M40 Tank (+scouting)
6 (2) x FAI-M Armoured Car (+scouting)
3 (1) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
3 (1) x ZIS-5 Truck
(transporter)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
6 (6) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
289th Sapper Battalion, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
12 (3) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
12 (3) x ZIS-5 Truck (transporter)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
31st Sapper Battalion, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
12 (3) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
12 (3) x ZIS-5 Truck (transporter)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn Field Kitchen
278th Signal Battalion, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
1 (1) x 90 metre
Observation Balloon (+scouting)
3 (3) x 60 metre Observation Balloon (+scouting)
9 (9) x 30 metre
Observation Balloon (+scouting)
13 (13) x GAZ Bus (transporter for Observation Balloons)
3 (1) x T-40 M40 Tank (+scouting)
3 (1) x FAI-M
Armoured Car (+scouting)
12 (12) x Despatch Rider (radio, use Motorcycle)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
3 (3) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
229th Vehicle Transport Company, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio Truck (radio)
9 (3) x ZIS-6 Fuel Truck
9 (3) x GAZ AA Ammunition Truck
3 (3) x GAZ AAA Supply Truck
3 (3) x Horse drawn Field Kitchen
349th Separate Tank Regiment, 14th Rifle Division, 14th Army
12 (4) x T-26 M39 Tank
18 (5) x T-26 M33
Tank
9 (3) x BA-10 Armoured Car (+scouting)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
3 (1) x ZIS-6 Fuel
Truck
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x T-38 TU Tank
(radio, use Universal Carrier + MG, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army - Act General G.A. Veshchezersky
1 (1) x GAZ-M1Staff Car (radio, represents General)
(preset by the template designer)
58th Rifle Regiment, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
112th Rifle Regiment, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
205th Rifle Regiment, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
158th Light Artillery Regiment, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
9 (3) x 76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY
9 (3) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY)
3 (1) x 122mm M30 ARTY
3 (1) x Horse Artillery + Howitzer (transporter for 122mm M30 ARTY)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
208th Howitzer Regiment, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
12 (4) x 122mm M30 ARTY
12 (4) x Horse Artillery + Howitzer (transporter for 122mm M30 ARTY)
6 (2) x 152mm ML20 ARTY
6 (2) x T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Type 1 APC)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
2 (2) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
62nd Recon Battalion, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
6 (2) x T-40 M40 Tank (+scouting)
6 (2) x FAI-M Armoured Car (+scouting)
4 (1) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x ZIS-5 Truck
(transporter)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
6 (6) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
314th Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
3 (3) x ZIS-5 25mm AA
Truck
9 (9) x GAZ Quad MG
AA Truck
3 (1) x 85mm M1939 AA
3 (1) x T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Type 1 APC)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
54th Sapper Battalion, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
12 (3) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
12 (3) x ZIS-5 Truck (transporter)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn Field Kitchen
411th Separate Tank Regiment, 52nd Rifle Division, 14th Army
15 (5) x T-26 M39 Tank
15 (5) x T-26 M33
Tank
9 (3) x BA-6 Armoured Car (+scouting)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
3 (1) x ZIS-6 Fuel
Truck
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x T-38 TU Tank
(radio, use Universal Carrier + MG, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
429th Separate Tank Regiment, 14th Army
Off map reinforcements from 1st July, 1941
2nd Fortified Region, Red Banner Northern Fleet
Coastal fortification
defences
Large Coastal Fort (multiple of 1)
Small Coastal Fort (multiple of 1)
(preset by the template designer)
23rd Fortified Region, 14th Army
Titovka and Rybachy Peninsula
defence bunker line
Fort (multiple of 1)
Bunker (multiple of
1)
(preset by the template designer)
234th Signal Company, 14th Army
Radio beacon, radio station and landing systems
(preset by the template designer)
208th Separate Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 14th Army
3 (3) x ZIS-5 25mm AA
Truck
9 (9) x GAZ Quad MG
AA Truck
3 (1) x 85mm M1939 AA
3 (1) x T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Type 1 APC)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA Supply Truck
27th Separate Armoured Trains, 14th Army
1 (1) x Armoured
Train No.27a (on map, use Soviet MBV-2 Armoured Train)
(preset by the template designer)
Off map
reinforcements during July, 1941
1 (1) x Train No.27b
(off map, use Soviet Freight Train)
1 (1) x Train No.27c
(off map, use Soviet Ammunition Train)
1 (1) x Train No.27d
(off map, use Soviet Freight & Fuel Train)
1 (1) x Train No.27e
(off map, use Soviet Passenger Train)
3rd Marine Brigade, Red Banner Northern Fleet
12 (3) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
3 (1) x 12.7mm DShK MG
3 (1) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
6 (2) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
3 (1) x T-40 M40 Tank (+scouting)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
12th Marine Brigade, Red Banner Northern Fleet
12 (3) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
3 (1) x 12.7mm DShK MG
3 (1) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
6 (2) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
3 (1) x T-40 M40 Tank (+scouting)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
40th Air Defence Artillery Division, 14th Army
Airfield defences
7.62mm Maxim Quad AA
MG (multiple of 3)
25mm M1940 AA
(multiple of 2)
37mm M1939 AA
(multiple of 2)
(preset by the template designer)
Murmansk Area Air Defence Brigade, 14th Army
Factory defences
76mm M1938 AA
(multiple of 2)
(preset by the template designer)
Blue Ground Units
Actual numbers of equipment are listed. The figure listed in parenthesis ( ) is the number of single units to be placed on the map in the full mission builder. A multiplier will be applied upon template initialisation to arrive at the number without the parenthesis.
Mountain Corps Norway - General Mtn Tr E. Dietl
1 (1) x Staff Car open (radio, represents General)
(preset by the template designer)
3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway - General Lt H. Kreysing
1 (1) x Staff Car open (radio, represents General)
(preset by the template designer)
138th Gebirgsjager Regiment, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
9 (3) x MG42 HMG
3 (1) x 81mm Mtr
12 (4) x SdKfz 10 Halftrack (transport for MG’s & mortars)
6 (2) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
9 (3) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
9 (3) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
139th Gebirgsjager Regiment, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
9 (3) x MG42 HMG
3 (1) x 81mm Mtr
12 (4) x SdKfz 10 Halftrack (transport for MG’s & mortars)
6 (2) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
9 (3) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
9 (3) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
112th Gebirgs Artillerie Regiment, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
18 (6) x 105mm leFH18 ARTY (use Type91)
18 (6) x Horse Artillery + Howitzer (transporter for 105mm ARTY)
6 (2) x 150mm Sfh18 ARTY
6 (2) x SdKfz 6 Halftrack (transporter for 150mm ARTY)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
12th Aufklarungs Abeilung, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
3 (3) x SdKfz 10/5 20mm FlaK38
3 (3) x SdKfz 6/2 37mm FlaK37
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
48th Panzerabwehr Abeilung, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
27 (9) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
27 (9) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck (radio)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
83rd Gebirgs Pionier Battalion, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
36 (9) x Opel Blitz 3700A Truck (transporter for engineers)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
68th Gebirgs Feldersatz Battalion, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
12 (3) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
3 (1) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
3 (1) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
3 (1) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
(includes the 68th Gebirgs Nashrichter & Radfahr)
83rd Aufklarungs Abeilung, 3rd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
3 (3) x SdKfz 10/5 20mm FlaK38
3 (3) x SdKfz 6/2 37mm FlaK37
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway - General Mjr E. Schlemmer
1 (1) x Staff Car open (radio, represents General)
(preset by the template designer)
136th Gebirgsjager Regiment, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
9 (3) x MG42 HMG
3 (1) x 81mm Mtr
12 (4) x SdKfz 10 Halftrack (transport for MG’s & mortars)
6 (2) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
9 (3) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
9 (3) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A
Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
137th Gebirgsjager Regiment, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
9 (3) x MG42 HMG
3 (1) x 81mm Mtr
12 (4) x SdKfz 10 Halftrack (transport for MG’s & mortars)
6 (2) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
6 (2) x Horse Artillery+Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
9 (3) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
9 (3) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
111th Gebirgs Artillerie Regiment, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
18 (6) x 105mm leFH18 ARTY (use Type91)
18 (6) x Horse Artillery + Howitzer (transporter for 105mm ARTY)
6 (2) x 150mm Sfh18 ARTY
6 (2) x SdKfz6 Halftrack (transporter for 150mm ARTY)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1 (1) x Command Post (radio, use Concrete MG Bunker)
11th Reconnaissance Abteilung, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
9 (3) x SdKfz 232 Armoured Car (+Scouting, Radio, use SdKfz 234)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
6 (6) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
47th Panzerabwehr Abeilung, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
27 (9) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
27 (9) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck (radio)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
82nd Gebirgs Pionier Battalion, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
36 (9) x Opel Blitz 3700A Truck (transporter for engineers)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
67th Signals Abteilung, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
1 (1) x 90 metre
Observation Balloon (+scouting)
3 (3) x 60 metre Observation Balloon (+scouting)
9 (9) x 30 metre
Observation Balloon (+scouting)
13 (13) x Raupenschlepper (transporter for Observation Balloons)
3(1) x SdKfz 232 Armoured Car (+Scouting, Radio, use SdKfz 234)
12 (12) x Despatch Rider (radio, use BMW Motorcycle Sidecar)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
68th Divisional Support Units, 2nd Mountain Division, Mountain Corps Norway
15 (5) x Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck
15 (5) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
5 (5) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
14th Finnish Frontier Company, Mountain Corps Norway
12 (3) x Finnish Infantry Platoon (25men, use Panzer Grenadier infantry)
3 (1) x 12.7mm DShK MG
16 (4) x Opel Blitz 3700A Truck (transporter for infantry)
3 (1) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
3 (1) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
3 (1) x Horse Artillery+Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
36th Finnish Frontier Company, Mountain Corps Norway
12 (3) x Finnish Infantry Platoon (25men, use Panzer Grenadier infantry)
3 (1) x 12.7mm DShK MG
16 (4) x Opel Blitz 3700A Truck (transporter for infantry)
3 (1) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
3 (1) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
3 (1) x Horse Artillery+Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Horse drawn Field
Kitchen
1 (1) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
Stab Company, Panzer Abteilung 40, Mountain Corps Norway
6 (2) x Pzkw IIF Tank (radio)
3 (1) x Pzkw IVF Tank (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car (+Scouting, radio, use Panhard 178, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
1st Company, Panzer Abteilung 40, Mountain Corps Norway
24 (8) x Pzkw IIF Tank (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car (+Scouting, radio, use Panhard 178, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
2nd Company, Panzer Abteilung 40, Mountain Corps Norway
15 (5) x Pzkw IIF Tank (radio)
9 (3) x Pzkw IIIG Tank (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car (+Scouting, radio, use Panhard 178, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
3rd Company, Panzer Abteilung 40, Mountain Corps Norway
Off map reinforcements from 1st July, 1941
Kommando Flughafenbereich
Kirkenes, Luftgau Norwegen
Airfield defences
20mm FlaK38 AA
(multiple of 2)
37mm FlaK37 AA
(multiple of 2)
(preset by the template designer)
Flak Regiment 5, Luftgau Norwegen
Industrial defences
88mm FlaK18 AA (multiple of 2)
(preset by the template designer)
Luftaussicht Kompanie 33 z.b.V, Luftgau Norwegen
Radar, radio beacon, radio station and landing systems
(preset by the template designer)
Festung Kirkenes, Kriegsmarine Naval Group North
Coastal fortification
defences
Large Coastal Fort (multiple of 1)
Small Coastal Fort (multiple of 1)
(preset by the template designer)
SEA ORDER OF BATTLE
Red Banner Northern
Fleet
8 x Destroyer (use Soviet Destroyer Type 7)
2 x Minesweeper (use Soviet Trawl Transport)
2 x Torpedo Boat (use Soviet Torpedo Boat G5)
7 x Patrol Boat (use Soviet Hunter MO-4)
15 x Submarine (use Soviet Submarine Tshuka)
1 x Armed Troop Transport
20 x Unarmed Trawler (use IJN Fishing Boat)
(preset by the template designer)
All based at port facilities with heavier units docked in the Murmansk area.
Kriegsmarine North
1 x Minesweeper (use German Minesweeper Type 1935)
2 x Corvette (use Italian Tuffeto Corvette KM)
11 x E Boat (use GermanTorpedo Boat S-80)
3 x Auxiliary (use German Marinefahrprahn Type II)
19 x Patrol Boat (use IJN Fishing Boat armed)
1 x Armed Tramp Steamer
1 x Hospital Ship
(preset by the template designer)
All based at port facilities.
SUPPLY
This is “open-ended”. The level of supply is designated in a table of reinforcements drafted within the campaign design. It generally follows historical precedent, which can arise through ship convoys, rail and road traffic. There are off map air, rail, road and sea supply points which will have substantial resources. Additionally, both red and blue have “on map” resources which contribute to supply within the campaigns guidelines. As to supply usage rates, I expect these to be set at normal or standard rates for moving units, but at about 1% for units which are stationary, not engaged in combat and assumed to be operating in the most economical mode. Also note that each side will have a series of aerial shuttle supply points near their respective frontlines to facilitate the operation of shuttle flights.
UNIT POINTS VALUE TABLE
I seek to use an objects own characteristics to justify its expense. In accounting terms, this could be called at “cost value”. Thus for a tank, the gross weight of the machine is a good indicator of the cost. For instance, it takes much more steel to build a 29 tonne T-34 than say a 9.5 tonne T-26. Additionally, better optics or more refined, larger calibre armaments and ammunition are more expensive to produce and add to the total cost. The points table is an attempt to illustrate this using my interpretation of the historical data available.
Aircraft
Aircraft point value is calculated by the square root of engine horsepower added to empty aircraft weight multiplied by three.
hp ew cost
DB-3M 1710 5373 252
DB-3T 1710 5373 252
DB-3F 1900 5800 263
I-15 bis 775 1310 137
I-153 M-62 1100 1452 152
I-16 type5 710 1120 128
I-16 type10 775 1330 138
I-16 type18 1000 1433 148
I-16 type24 1100 1500 153
LaGG-3 series 1 1100 2680 184
MBR-2 M-34 750 2718 177
MiG-3 1200 2699 187
Pe-2 series 1 2200 5770 268
Pe-3 2200 5730 267
R-5 680 1969 154
SB-2M-103 1920 4427 239
TB-3 4M-17 2920 10967 354
U-2VS 115 773 89
Fulmar Mk I 1080 3143 195
Sea Hurricane Mk Ib 1030 2300 173
Swordfish Mk I 750 2361 167
Bf-109E-7/B 1175 1900 166
Bf-110C-7 2400 5200 262
Fi-156 240 930 103
Fw-189A-2 912 2830 184
Fw-200 C-3 U4 3760 17005 432
He-111H-6 2700 8700 320
Ju-52 3mg4e 2490 6560 285
Ju-52 3mg5e 2490 6600 286
Ju-87B-2 1200 2718 188
Ju-88A-4 2400 9870 332
Ju-88C-6 2800 9000 326
Tanks & Artillery
Calculations based upon.
optics. +1=German, 0 = British, USA, -1=Russian, Other
range attuition. =<40mm = -2, =<57mm = -1
gun calibre length. * = -1, L = +1, LL = +2
tk=to kill
rge= gun fire range
Gun range calculated from ADSL “tk” number plus modifiers multiplied by 100 to get “rge” in metres. E.g. A T-34 M41 “tk” is 13, then apply modifiers (Russian optics) -1 (range attuition) 0 (gun calibre length) +1 gives a total of 13 multiplied by 100, equals a range of 1300 metres.
Range “rge” distance is for direct fire mode. Indirect and AA ranges are stated elsewhere.
Points cost calculated from vehicle weight in tonnage plus “adj” modifier x 5 plus command cost (range/10) if applicable. A special “adj” modifier of 5 to forward observers plus command cost applies.
wg cal tk adj rge Cost
Tanks
T-26 M33 9.5 45L 10 9 900 93
T-26 M39 10.5 45L 10 9 900 98
T-40 M40 6.0 13 5 5 500 55
Pzk.IIF 9.5 20L 6 6+10 600 88
Pzk.IIIG 20.5 50 11 11+10 1100 168
Pzk.IVF 22.5 75* 10 10+10 1000 173
Vehicles
T-38 TU Command Tank 3.5 8 4 4+100 400 138
BA-10 Armoured Car 5.0 45L 10 9 900 70
BA-6 Armoured Car 5.0 45L 10 9 900 70
FAI-M Armoured Car 3.0 8 4 4 400 35
ZIS-5 25mm AA Truck 5.0 25LL 7 6 AA 55
GAZ Quad MG AA Truck 3.5 8 4 4 AA 38
T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor 15.5 78
T-20 Light Artillery Tractor 3.5 18
GAZ AA Truck 3.0 15
GAZ AAA Truck 3.0 15
GAZ Bus 3.0 15
ZIS-5 Radio Truck 6.0 +300 330
ZIS-5 Medical Truck 6.0 30
ZIS-6 Fuel Truck 6.0 30
ZIS-5 Truck 6.0 30
GAZ-M1 Staff Car 1.5 +60 68
Limosine 2.0 +40 50
GAZ-67 closed 1.5 +50 58
Willey’s Jeep open 1.5 5+10 43
Motorcycle 0.4 +20 22
Horse Artillery + AT Gun 6.0 30
Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun 6.0 30
Horse Artillery + Howitzer 8.0 40
Horse drawn Field Kitchen 4.0 20
SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car 8.5 25LL 7 7+100 700 178
SdKfz 232 Armoured Car 9.0 20L 6 6+10 600 85
SdKfz 251 Halftrack 9.0 8 4 4 400 65
SdKfz 6/2 37mm FlaK37 10.5 37L 9 9 AA 98
SdKfz 10/5 20mm FlaK38 5.5 20L 6 6 AA 58
SdKfz6 Halftrack 10.0 50
SdKfz 10 Halftrack 6.0 30
Raupenschlepper 3.0 15
Opel Blitz Maultier Halftruck 10.5 53
Opel Blitz3700A Radio Truck 6.5 +300 333
Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck 6.5 33
Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck 6.5 33
Opel Blitz 3700A Truck 6.5 33
Opel Blitz 36S Truck 6.0 30
Staff Car open 2.0 +60 110
Staff Car closed 2.0 +50 100
Kubelwagen closed 1.0 +50 55
Kubelwagen open 1.0 5+10 40
BMW Motorcycle Sidecar 0.6 8 4 4+30 400 53
Horse Artillery+Med Inf Gun 6.0 30
Horse Artillery + Howitzer 8.0 40
Horse drawn Field
Kitchen 4.0 20
Artillery
12.7mm DShK MG 500 13
82mm Mtr BM 41
45mm M38 ATG 900 45
76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY 1300 76
122mm M30 ARTY 1500 122
152mm ML20 ARTY 2000 152
7.62mm Maxim Quad AA
MG AA 30
25mm M1940 AA AA 50
37mm M1939 AA AA 74
76mm M1938 AA AA 152
85mm M1939 AA AA 170
MG42 HMG 500 15
81mm Mtr BM 40
37mm PaK35 ATG 900 37
75mm leIG18 ARTY 1000 75
105mm leFH18 ARTY 1500 105
150mm Sfh18 ARTY 2200 150
20mm FlaK38 AA AA 40
37mm FlaK37 AA AA 74
88mm Flak18 AA AA 176
Other
Infantry Platoon (25 men) 250 25
Engineer Platoon (25 men) 200 50
Finnish Infantry Platoon (25 men) 250 30
Bunker (bunker type 3) 500 50
Fort (concrete gun bunker) 1500 1000
Small Coastal Fort (6” coastal gun) 15000 600
Large Coastal Fort (15” coastal gun) 37500 1500
Command Post (concrete mg bunker) +1000 500 1250
30 metre Observation
Balloon 30
60 metre Observation
Balloon 60
90 metre Observation Balloon 90
Trains
Point value based on
train tonnage. 1:5
MBV-2 weighs 400t.
Ye (2-10-0) class
loco & tender 155t + each carriage 25t
Armoured Train No.27a (MBV-2 Armoured Train) 2000
Train No.27b (Freight Train, 8 freight carriages) 1775
Train No.27c (Ammunition Train, 8 freight carriages) 1775
Train No.27d (Freight & Fuel Train, 4 fuel 4 freight carriages) 1775
Train No.27e (Passenger Train, 8 passenger carriages) 1775
Vessels
Point values based on vessel tonnage. 1:1 Civilian, 2:1 Military
Protected Cruiser (use Aurora class) 13462
Destroyer (use Soviet Destroyer Type 7) 4000
Minesweeper (use Soviet Trawl Transport) 900
Patrol Boat (use Soviet Hunter MO-4) 100
Torpedo Boat (use Soviet Torpedo Boat G5) 30
Submarine (use Soviet Submarine Tshuka) 1400
Survey Ship (use Icebreaker) 7800
HMS Victorious (use HMS Formidable) 59000
HMS Furious (use HMS Eagle) 45000
Heavy Cruiser (use HMS Fiji) 19500
Destroyer (use HMS Cossack) 3000
Anti-Aircraft Cruiser (use Niobe) 7000
Destroyer (use German Z class DD) 4446
Minesweeper (use German Minesweeper Type 1935) 1748
Corvette (use Italian Tuffeto Corvette KM) 1456
E Boat (use GermanTorpedo Boat S-80) 200
Patrol Boat (use IJN Fishing Boat armed) 160
Auxiliary (use German Marinefahrprahn Type II) 760
Submarine (use German Submarine Type VIIC) 1742
Hospital Ship 0*
Armed Troop Transport 5000
Armed Tanker 5000
Armed Tramp Steamer 2000
Unarmed Trawler (use IJN Fishing Boat) 80
Other Notes
BM = fires only in
bombardment or indirect fire mode
AA = fires only in
anti-aircraft mode, as minimum elevation is adjusted
rge = is this table is for direct fire range.
*= Operation EF delayed to 31st August due to adverse Allied public backlash
FACTORIES
Factory production is set at 20 points per hour and is limited to what can be produced. Only the production of land based equipment and small hulled sea vessels. No aircraft factories. It can be assumed that an aircraft factory or the like is unlikely to be located just across the frontline in Kirkenes or Murmansk. However, minor repair, refurbishment facilities and small shipyards would locally be available to service existing equipment. Hence a nominal small build point allocation. Factories remain destroyed for 120 hours (5 days) and are automatically repaired.
NOCTURNAL RULES
Nocturnal Hours
Night hours apply from 20:00 at night to 04.00 in the morning.
Nocturnal Ground
Nocturnal ground movement is only allowed for vehicle related
class types, such as cars, trucks, infantry and engineers. Armoured cars and towed
or carried artillery also fit within this class. Tanks and self-propelled guns
are specifically excluded from moving. This simulates supply, repair,
reinforcement and consolidation of support forces during the night. Armour is
considered to be largered for the night, with crews
repairing, resting and replenishing their AFV's for next day operations. Armour
rarely operated at night, as reduced visibility invited enemy infantry to close
with satchel charges, ATR's, bazookas and the like with devastating
consequences.
Nocturnal Aerial
At this time on the Eastern front, radar assisted control from the ground was non-existent. For safe night operations an airfield the control tower facilities and navigation aids limited operational numbers. However nocturnal aerial bombing missions were used, as the hours of darkness offered protection against enemy fighters at the expense of bombing accuracy. In this, multi-crewed, multi-engine aircraft were selected, as they normally had the crew, capacity and range to overcome the navigational hazards of flying at night. Factory targets in cities were the norm, as they were easier to spot and hit, then other ground objects. Other ground attack operations were generally on a smaller scale of a single or pair of aeroplanes in the night intruder role. Without radar control, night-fighters operated alone in a “catseye” role and single seaters usually restricted to localised areas. There are no restrictions on what aircraft can fly at night, though the rules below dictate that some are more suitable than others.
Single Seaters
Most fighters where the pilot needs to concentrate on flying
and have limited opportunity to navigate. In this case, plots are confined to
friendly territory, are single flights of one aircraft with default armament
only. Is pretty much a fighter CAP.
Two Seaters
The second crew member assists in navigation in addition to
his gunner and bombing duties. In this case, the plot is not limited to
friendly territory and is allowed to attack ground targets. Single aircraft
flight with no ordinance restrictions.
Three Seaters
The third crew member is able to assist in "station
keeping", maintaining a tally on friendly aircraft within his flight
formation. In addition to lifting the restrictions on plotting and bombing as
with two seat aircraft, three seaters may now be plotted and flown in two ship
flight formations. No ordinance restrictions.
Four Seaters
Same as the three seaters but another crewmember ensures
safer formation flying at night. These aircraft types can be plotted in three
ship formations. No ordinance restrictions.
Five + Seaters
Same as the four seaters, but even more crewmembers ensure even safer formation flying at night. These aircraft types can be plotted in four ship formations. No ordinance restrictions.
COMMAND AND CONTROL
I define this in terms of “battlefield communication”. This can derive from not just radio equipment or telephone / telegraph line availability, but from the influence of unit commanders within a specified area to communicate battle orders. To this end, I’ve taken into account of the limited WW2 radio / telephone range along with my own rough estimates on how far in terms of metres would a field commanders influence extend in terms of getting his messages across. The following units are what I’d expect to see on our battlefield. My radio range estimates are based upon the German Torn. Fu. d2 portable VHF two way communications device. A1 Telegraph = 10km, A3 Telephone = 3km.
Units with “+” command
influence in database. Basic measurement is 100 metres per unit.
Command Post (use Concrete MG Bunker)
Is a fixed and permanent position which would usually take time and effort to be erected. As such, it has superior communication ranges as reliable landlines would be laid allowing easy access to surrounding units.
Range is 10 kilometres = +100
Radio Truck (use ZIS-5 Radio Truck, Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck)
Is a mobile vehicle with extensive wireless radio communication devices, but obviously no facility for a fixed landline.
Range = 3 kilometres = +30
Command Tanks and AFV’s (use T-38 TU Tank, SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car)
An armoured vehicle with space devoted to communication and or signalling devices that can influence units around it to a limited degree.
Range = 1 kilometre = +10
Generals (use GAZ-M1, Staff Car open)
At divisional level, there is usually a general in charge who is often attached to the Signals or Headquarters unit. Not a special radio vehicle as such, but is autonomous and the General’s influence extends further on the battlefield.
Range = 600 metres = +6
Standartenfuhrer (use Staff Car closed)
This position, usually a colonel, commands an SS unit at regimental level. Fully indoctrinated into Nazi ideology, he will seek to ensure that the unit operates at peak fanatical efficiency.
Range = 500 metres = +5, + morale
Commanders (use GAZ-67 closed, Kubelwagen closed)
Where specified, a unit may have a number of specified field commanders. Normally, a German Regiment has three commanders, whilst a Soviet has two, of which one is a Commissar. As above in the General, though influence range extends less.
Range = 500 metres = +5
Commissar (use Limosine)
The Soviets practiced a dual command for much of WW2. The commissar served as a NKVD check on their attached unit, in enforcing orders and boosting morale through party propaganda or intimidation.
Range = 400 metres = +4, + morale
Despatch Rider (use Motorcycle, Motorcycle Sidecar)
These units are sent out to issue commands from Headquarters. They are autonomous and have a command influence range. The Soviet motorcycle is faster than the German motorcycle sidecar combination, but its influence range is somewhat less.
Motorcycle Sidecar range = 300 metres = +3
Motorcycle range = 200 metres = +2
Tanks and AFV’s with two way radios (use Pzkw IIF, IIIG, IVF, SdKfz 232 armoured car)
Whilst radios in these tanks enable them to act independently, it also allows them to transmit orders to nearby units. E.g. receiving a message and shouting it out of the turret cupola.
Range = 100 metres = +1
Forward Observers with two way radios (use Kubelwagen open, Willey’s Jeep open)
Whilst radios in these vehicles enable them to act independently, it also allows them to transmit orders to nearby units. E.g. receiving a message and shouting it to nearby units.
Range = 100 metres = +1
Units with “0” command
influence in database.
All units not mentioned above. These units need to be within the radius of command influence for them to move.
REINFORCEMENTS
Red Railway
Reinforcements
During July 1941 and
every month thereafter, the Soviets have a number of trains which can be
detailed to bring reinforcements onto the map. There is an off map rail supply
point along the southern map edge at AX1. Murmansk’s remoteness and urgent
demands from other fronts dictate that only one train is available each week
within the month. Furthermore, it may only be used once during that month and
will not be replaced if destroyed. Note that the rail line is only on a single
file track. Cargo manifests on the trains are preset
and listed below.
Train No.27b (use
Soviet Freight Train, 8 freight carriages)
15 (5) x 45mm M38 ATG
3 (1) x 152mm ML20 ARTY
Train No.27c (use
Soviet Ammunition Train, 8 freight carriages)
6 (2) x 76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY
6 (2) x 122mm M30 ARTY
4 (2) x 76mm M1938 AA
Train No.27d (use
Soviet Freight & Fuel Train, 4 fuel 4 freight carriages)
200,000 litres
4 (2) x 25mm M1940 AA
4 (2) x 37mm M1939 AA
Train No.27e (use
Soviet Passenger Train, 8 passenger carriages)
32 (8) x Infantry Platoon (800 men)
Red Road
Reinforcements
There is an off map road supply point along the southern map edge at AX1. Murmansk is at the end of road network and there are other fronts that get priority to military resources along the way. There are very limited resources available at the 15th day of each month. These are:
6 (2) x ZIS-6 Fuel Truck
6 (6) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
2 (2) x Despatch Rider (radio, use Motorcycle)
There is an off map road supply point along the eastern map edge at BE2. Reinforcements are assumed to be troop levies raised in the remainder of the Kola Peninsula, east of the map edge. Whilst some troops would be retained to guard valuable tine mines in the area, replacements equivalent to an infantry regiment could be sent to reinforce Murmansk. The following assets are available from the 15th of July, 1941:
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Commonwealth infantry)
6 (2) x 12.7mm DShK MG
6 (2) x 82mm Mtr (use 3” mortar)
12 (4) x T-20 Light Artillery Tractor (transporter, use Universal Carrier)
6 (2) x 45mm M38 ATG
6 (2) x Horse Artillery + AT Gun (transporter for the 45mm M38 ATG)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x GAZ AAA
Supply Truck
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
1 (1) x GAZ-67 Car
closed (radio, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Limosine (+morale, radio, represents Commissar)
1 (1) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
Red Naval Reinforcements
The Soviets have Red Banner Northern Fleet ships are en-route to the area as off map reinforcements from the White Sea. They can enter from an off map sea supply point on the eastern map edge at BE8 from the 2nd July, 1941. They are:
1 x Survey Ship (use Icebreaker)
2 x Minesweeper (use Soviet Trawl Transport)
2 x Torpedo Boat (use Soviet Torpedo Boat G5)
1 x Patrol Boat (use Soviet Hunter MO-4)
Additional vessels, including logistic supply assets based in Arkhangelsk become available from the 15th July, 1941. They can enter from an off map sea supply point on the eastern map edge at BE8 and include:
1 x Protected Cruiser (use Aurora)
6 x Minesweeper (use Soviet Trawl Transport)
2 x Torpedo Boat (use Soviet Torpedo Boat G5)
5 x Patrol Boat (use Soviet Hunter MO-4)
4 x Armed Tramp Steamer
2 x Armed Tanker
10 x Unarmed Trawler (use IJN Fishing Boat)
This following unit becomes available from the 21st July in off map sea supply point along eastern map edge at BE8. The unit was formed and shipped from Arkhangelsk to the Kola Peninsula after the outbreak of hostilities.
429th Separate Tank Regiment, 14th Army
6 (2) x T-26 M39 Tank
24 (8) x T-26 M33 Tank
9 (3) x BA-6 Armoured Car (+scouting)
3 (1) x GAZ AA
Ammunition Truck
3 (1) x ZIS-6 Fuel
Truck
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Radio
Truck (radio)
1 (1) x ZIS-5 Medical
Truck (+morale)
1 (1) x T-38 TU Tank
(radio, use Universal Carrier + MG, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Willey’s Jeep open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
Please keep in mind that as the campaign develops, lend lease supplies will become available from the early Arctic convoys. The early convoys usually originated in Great Britain and terminated at Arkhangelsk, as this port was further from enemy interference. Later, in winter months, the ice free port of Murmansk had to be used, but for this scenario, any supplies and new equipment will depend upon the availability of Soviet vessels for shipment from Arkhangelsk to Murmansk.
Red Aerial
Reinforcements
Upon the outset of the conflict, the Soviet air force was on the back foot and there was much demand for aircraft replacements on the more critical fronts to the south. Even so, I have estimated that the VVS in this northern backwater would have had an estimated replacement rate of roughly fifteen percent in the first month of Barbarossa and much of this with new designs. In following months this rate drops to ten percent in August and five percent for September, as the situation on the fronts further south reaches a critical juncture and factories are moved eastward. From the 1st July, 1941, the following replacement aircraft are issued for the month:
6 x DB-3F +5000 produced, replacing earlier versions
12 x LaGG-3 series 1 +6000 produced,
replacing I-16 series
2 x MBR-2 AM-34 +1000 produced,
factory overrun in fall 1941
15 x MiG-3 +3000
produced, replacing I-15 series
9 x Pe-2 series 1 +11000
produced, replacing SB-2 series
3 x Pe-3 recon
version of Pe-2 series
6 x R-5 +7000 produced
1 x TB-3 4M17 circa 800 produced
6 x U-2VS +32000 produced
From 1st August 41:
4 x DB-3F, 8 x LaGG-3 series 1, 1 x MBR-2 AM-34, 10 x MiG-3, 6 x Pe-2 series 1, 2 x Pe-3, 4 x R-5, 1 x TB-3 4M17, 4 x U-2VS
From 1st September 41:
2 x DB-3F, 4 x LaGG-3 series 1, 1 x MBR-2 AM-34, 5 x MiG-3, 4 x Pe-2 series 1, 1 x Pe-3, 2 x R-5, 1 x TB-3 4M17, 2 x U-2VS
Skill E - 1% Ace, 9% Veteran, 26% Average, 64% Green to all Soviet aerial reinforcements
Blue Road Reinforcements
The roads from Norway to Murmansk could be described as bare rocks, lack of vegetation and swampy permafrost. It was a logistics nightmare, where it was more economical for Axis supplies to come by sea. Despite this, Allied dominance in the Barents Sea sometimes found the road to be preferable. There are two off map road supply point along the western map edge at AA13 and AA17. There are very limited resources available at the 15th day of each month. These each have:
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck
3 (3) x Horse drawn Field Kitchen
2 (2) x Despatch Rider (radio, use BMW Motorcycle Sidecar)
Further south awaits the third company of the Panzer Abteilung 40. With the arrival of Panzer Abteilung 211 for the start of Operation Polarfuchs, it is due to be released for use in Operation Platinfuchs from 1st July, 1941. It starts from an off map road supply point in AA2 along the western map edge.
3rd Company, Panzer Abteilung 40, Mountain Corps Norway
15 (5) x Pzkw IIF Tank (radio)
9 (3) x Pzkw IIIG Tank (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car (+Scouting, radio, use Panhard 178, represents Commander)
1 (1) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
During September, two infantry regiments are sent as replacements from Norway. The first of these is the 388th Infantry Regiment, 214th Division, Mountain Corps Norway. This unit is available from the 1st September, 1941 and can enter the map from off map road supply points in AA13 or AA17 along the western map edge. It can also be transported onto the map by sea, through supply point AA26 on the western edge of the map from the same date.
388th Infantry Regiment, 214th Infantry Division, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
4 (1) x Engineer Platoon (25 men, use Japanese infantry)
9 (3) x MG42 HMG
3 (1) x 81mm Mtr
12 (4) x SdKfz 10 Halftrack (transport for MG’s & mortars)
12 (4) x 75mm leIG18 ARTY
12 (4) x Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun (transporter for 75mm LIG ARTY)
9 (3) x 37mm PaK35 ATG
9 (3) x Opel Blitz 36S Truck (transporter for 37mm PaK35 ATG)
3 (1) x SdKfz 232 Armoured Car (+Scouting, Radio, use SdKfz 234)
3 (3) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (1) x SdKfz 251 Ammunition Halftrack
1 (1) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Horse drawn
Field Kitchen
3 (3) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
The second regiment sent as reinforcement is the 9th SS Totenkopf Regiment, SS Kampfgruppe Nord, Mountain Corps Norway. This unit, though inexperienced, is fully mechanised. It becomes available from the 5th September and enters the map from off map road supply point in AA2 along the western edge of the map.
9th SS Totenkopf Regiment, SS Kampfgruppe Nord, Mountain Corps Norway
36 (9) x Infantry Platoon (25 men)
9 (3) x MG42 HMG
3 (1) x 81mm Mtr
12 (4) x SdKfz 10 Halftrack (transport for MG’s & mortars)
36 (9) x Opel Blitz 3700A Truck (transporter for infantry)
3 (3) x Opel Blitz
3700A Radio Truck (radio)
1 (1) x Opel Blitz
3700A Medical Truck (+morale)
3 (3) x Opel Blitz Maultier Supply Halftrack
1 (1) x Staff Car
closed (+morale, radio, represents Standartenfuhrer)
2 (2) x Kubelwagen closed (radio, represents Commander)
3 (3) x Kubelwagen open (radio, represents Forward Observer)
Blue Naval Reinforcements
Some Kriegsmarine units are being rushed to the combat area. They are expected to arrive on the western edge of map in AA26, after 30th June, 1941. They include:
5 x Destroyer (use German Z class DD)
2 x Submarine (use German Submarine Type VIIC)
1 x E Boat (use GermanTorpedo Boat S-80)
1 x Patrol Boat (use IJN Fishing Boat armed)
Further off map naval reinforcement, including logistic supply vessels, based in Narvik, are available from 20th July, 1941.
1 x Anti-Aircraft Cruiser (use Niobe)
2 x Minesweeper (use German Minesweeper Type 1935)
4 x Corvette (use Italian Tuffeto Corvette KM)
1 x Auxiliary (use German Marinefahrprahn Type II)
5 x Armed Tramp Steamer
2 x Armed Tanker
10 x Unarmed Trawler (use IJN Fishing Boat)
Be aware that the above vessels will form the dominant supply chain and means of transit for further reinforcement from Norway. Later, during September, the 9th SS Totenkopf and 166th Infantry Regiments enter the order of battle, as could the possible mid-October arrival of the 6th Mountain Division from Greece. You may need vessels to get some of these units quicker to the battlefield.
Blue Aerial
Reinforcements
In keeping with the Barbarossa offensive, there has been a gradual build-up of Luftwaffe assets in this theatre. Though greatly outnumbered by the VVS, the close proximity of the quiet Norwegian command has allowed the relatively quick transfer of combat aircraft. The old types that have given good service still remain and the reliable “Emil version” soldiers on as the main fighter type in this theatre. I have estimated that the Luftwaffe can initially replace up to one third of its order of battle strength during the first month of the campaign from aircraft stocks in Norway. This rate is then halved for monthly aircraft replacement allocations as the campaign starts to wind down into stalemate and resources are allocated elsewhere. From the 1st July, 1941, the following replacement aircraft are issued:
5 x AR-196A-3 in production
16 x Bf-109E-7/B replaced by “F” model, E’s sent to Far North, Norway, Afrika
6 x Bf-110C-7 in production
4 x Fi-156 in production
4 x Fw-189A-2 in production
4 x He-111H-6 in production
2 x Ju-52 / 3mg4e in production
1 x Ju-52 / 3mg5e in production
12 x Ju-87B-2 in production
12 x Ju-88A-4 in production
4 x Ju-88C-6 in production
From 1st August 41:
3 x AR-196A-3, 8 x Bf-109E-7/B, 6 x Bf-110C-7, 2 x Fi-156, 2 x Fw-189A-2, 2 x He-111H-6, 1 x Ju-52 / 3mg4e, 1 x Ju-52 / 3mg5e, 6 x Ju-87B-2, 6 x Ju-88A-4, 2 x Ju-88C-6
From 1st September 41:
2 x AR-196A-3, 8 x Bf-109E-7/B, 6 x Bf-110C-7, 2 x Fi-156, 2 x Fw-189A-2, 2 x He-111H-6, 1 x Ju-52 / 3mg4e, 1 x Ju-52 / 3mg5e, 6 x Ju-87B-2, 6 x Ju-88A-4, 2 x Ju-88C-6
Skill D - 2% Ace, 14% Veteran, 39% Average, 45% Green to all German aerial reinforcements
OPERATION EF
In our attempt to simulate historical circumstances, it can be expected that the British Royal Navy will at some point, enter the fray. This is “Operation EF”, an aerial strike carried out by the Fleet Air Arm to assist their Soviet allies. From 30th July, 1941, the Royal Navy strike group force can enter the map from a supply point in AA40. However, the Royal Navy player can choose to delay the time of entry by a day to 31st July, 1941 and additional supply points at AK40, AU40 and BE40 also become available as points of entry to the map. Vessels of this group must form a single task force and movement is confined north of 300.0 or row 30. The time of arrival can be influenced by the status of the Axis hospital ship. Aircraft must remain with the carriers. They cannot transfer to Soviet bases and are considered lost if this occurs. The strike group can remain on the map for a period of five days from the time of arrival. After this, it must start to exit the map due to fuel / ordinance restraints, threat of an overwhelming Luftwaffe attack from Norway and possible U-Boats entering the area. The HMS Victorious and HMS Furious are equipped with radar and radio beacons.
Royal Navy Vessels
1 x HMS Victorious (use HMS Formidable)
1 x HMS Furious (use HMS Eagle)
2 x Heavy Cruiser (use HMS Fiji)
6 x Destroyer (use HMS Cossack)
Fleet Air Arm Aviation
809 Squadron = 12 (4) x Fulmar Mk I based on HMS Victorious
827 Squadron = 12 (4) x Swordfish Mk I based on HMS Victorious
828 Squadron = 12 (4) x Swordfish Mk I based on HMS Victorious
800 Squadron = 12 (4) x Fulmar Mk I based on HMS Furious
812 Squadron = 12 (4) x Swordfish Mk I based on HMS Furious
880 Squadron = 6 (2)
x Sea Hurricane Mk Ib based
on HMS Furious*
*This was a half squadron detachment specially detailed for fleet defence.
Skill B - 3% Ace, 31% Veteran, 50% Average, 16% Green applies to units aboard HMS Furious
Skill C - 2% Ace, 21% Veteran, 50% Average, 27% Green applies to units aboard HMS Victorious
GERMAN REACTION TO
GROWING ALLIED NAVAL MEANACE
With the declaration of an Anglo-Soviet alliance and Churchill’s pronouncements of sending aid to their new ally, it is clear that unwanted intervention from the British Royal Navy is a serious possibility. Whether it be an armed strike, commandos or shipping convoys, the decision has been made to extend Luftwaffe naval search capabilities in the region. The first staffel of KG 40 Condors are gradually being redeployed from Norway.
From 1st July 41:
1./KG 40 = 4 (4) x Fw-200 C-3 U4
From 1st August 41:
1./KG 40 = 4 (4) x Fw-200 C-3 U4
From 1st September 41:
1./KG 40 = 4 (4) x Fw-200 C-3 U4
Skill C - 2% Ace, 21% Veteran, 50% Average, 27% Green applies to these units
TRANSPORTATION AND PORTAGE COSTS
General
My general rule is that transport weight
is 1 point for every 1000kg. For instance, a fully equipped infantry man weighs
about 120 kilograms. Assuming that there are 25 men in a platoon, the portage
cost of that platoon is calculated as 120 x 25 = 3000 / 1000 = 3 portage
points.
Fuel
Given that a litre of aviation fuel weighs
0.72kg, rounding up to 0.75 for extra containment costs. Apply the portage
capacity of carrier multiplied by 1,000 and divided by 0.75 to arrive at the
number of litres it can carry.
Armour &
Vehicles
My estimate is 1 point for every 1000kg
of vehicle weight.
Artillery &
Ordinance
My estimate is 1 point for every 500kg
of artillery weight. The heavier penalty is due to larger allowances for
ammunition and crew.
Aircraft
Single engined
fighters can be carried by ships and unloaded by normal cargo rules. Those
carried by aircraft carriers can be flown off but cannot land unless equipped
with arrestor hook. Capacity is limited by shape & size rather than weight.
Is listed for each ship type as “x" AC value. All
single engined aircraft have a transport weight of
10.
Points cost to
transport weight
Tanks and Vehicles
T-26 M33 10
T-26 M39 11
T-40 M40 6
Pzk.IIF 10
Pzk.IIIG 21
Pzk.IVF 23
Vehicles
T-38 TU Command Tank 4
BA-10 Armoured Car 5
BA-6 Armoured Car 5
FAI-M Armoured Car 3
ZIS-5 25mm AA Truck 5
GAZ Quad MG AA Truck 4
T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor 16
T-20 Light Artillery Tractor 4
GAZ AA Truck 3
GAZ AAA Truck 3
GAZ Bus 3
ZIS-5 Radio Truck 6
ZIS-5 Medical Truck 6
ZIS-6 Fuel Truck 6
ZIS-5 Truck 6
GAZ-M1Staff Car 2
Limosine 2
GAZ-67 closed 2
Willey’s Jeep open 2
Motorcycle 1
Horse Artillery + AT Gun 6
Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun 6
Horse Artillery + Howitzer 8
Horse drawn Field Kitchen 4
SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car 9
SdKfz 232 Armoured Car 9
SdKfz 251 Halftrack 9
SdKfz 6/2 37mm FlaK37 11
SdKfz 10/5 20mm FlaK38 6
SdKfz6 Halftrack 10
SdKfz 10 Halftrack 6
Raupenschlepper 3
Opel Blitz Maultier Halftruck 11
Opel Blitz3700A Radio Truck 7
Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck 7
Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck 7
Opel Blitz 3700A Truck 7
Opel Blitz 36S Truck 6
GAZ AA Truck 3
Opel Kadett Staff Car 2
Kubelwagen closed 1
Kubelwagen open 1
BMW Motorcycle Sidecar 1
Horse Artillery+Med Inf Gun 6
Horse Artillery + Howitzer 8
Horse drawn Field
Kitchen 4
Artillery
12.7mm DShK MG 1
82mm Mtr 1
45mm M38 ATG 3
76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY 4
122mm M30 ARTY 7
152mm ML20 ARTY 15
7.62mm Maxim Quad AA
MG 2
25mm M1940 AA 3
37mm M1939 AA 5
76mm M1938 AA 9
85mm M1939 AA 9
MG42 HMG 1
81mm Mtr 1
37mm PaK35 ATG 2
75mm leIG18 ARTY 3
105mm leFH18 ARTY 5
150mm Sfh18 ARTY 12
20mm FlaK38 AA 2
37mm FlaK37 AA 4
88mm Flak18 AA 15
Other
All Infantry Platoon (25 men) 3
Engineer Platoon (25 men) 3
30 metre Observation Balloon 4
60 metre Observation
Balloon 4
90 metre Observation Balloon 4
CARRYING CAPACITIES
Some aircraft, vehicles and vessels have the ability to
carry or transport other units. Some units, such as aircraft and vehicles are
based upon my own dead reckoning or experience. With vessels, I have developed
a formula for this. The portage cost is measured against the carrying capacity
value to determine transport ability.
Aircraft
Weight and shape is
an inhibiting factor in what and how much an aircraft can carry. Some artillery
pieces could be dismantled but vehicles were generally not transported by
aircraft. Infantry dropped as paratroopers is acceptable. Aircraft can
transport infantry and artillery only.
Air supply drops are allowed. For the purposes of this campaign, 3 =
3000 litres = 150 x 20ltr jerry cans.
Ju-52 3mg4e 3
Ju-52 3mg5e 3
TB-3 4M-17 3
Vehicles
Most vehicles are used to carry/tow artillery, personnel and other ordinance. Others are used to convey supply only. No vehicle can do both.
Vehicles that
carry/tow artillery, personnel & ordinance
T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor 15
T-20 Light Artillery Tractor 4
ZIS-5 Truck 5
GAZ Bus 4
Horse Artillery + AT Gun 5
Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun 10
Horse Artillery + Howitzer 15
SdKfz6 Halftrack 15
SdKfz 10 Halftrack 12
Raupenschlepper 8
Opel Blitz 3700A Truck 5
Opel Blitz 36S Truck 5
Vehicles that only
carry supply
GAZ AA Truck 2000 litres
GAZ AAA Truck 2000 litres
ZIS-6 Fuel Truck 8000 litres
Horse drawn Field Kitchen 2000 litres
SdKfz 251 Halftrack 2000 litres
Opel Blitz Maultier Halftruck 3000
litres
Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck 9000 litres
Vessels
Those vessels strictly designed for
military use have no cargo capacity. Civilian vessels will have this capacity,
whilst some others fit somewhere in between. Like vehicles, this group is further
divided into those that carry artillery, personnel, tanks and vehicles and
those which only carry supplies. My basis of calculation uses the following
example. A Liberty ship has a displacement weight of 14,245t and an empty
weight of 3,389t. The dead weight is 10,856t. Assuming that 25% of this
deadweight is used for ships ballast, etc, have used
this ratio and divided by 10 to calculate relative portage capacities of
transport ships. Half this value for ships whose principally purpose is not a
transport.
Vessels that carry
artillery, personnel, tanks and vehicles
Patrol Boat (80t, use IJN Fishing Boat armed) 3
Unarmed Trawler (80t, use IJN Fishing Boat) 6
Auxiliary (380t, use German Marinefahrprahn Type II) 14
Minesweeper (450t, use Soviet Trawl Transport) 17
Hospital Ship (3500t) 131
Survey Ship (3900t, use Icebreaker) 146
Armed Tramp Steamer (2000t) 150
Armed Troop Transport (5000t) 375
Vessels that only carry supplies
Armed Tanker 500000 litres
Given the weight of fuel, I have
calculated that the 375 carry capacity of 5000 tonne vessel roughly corresponds
with a 500,000 litre manifest of similarly sized tanker.
UNIT SPEEDS
The terrain in this theatre of war was very rough and not the best for mobile ground operations. The following cross country speeds shall apply to a range of infantry, tanks and vehicles used by combatants. Used ASL speeds x 1.5
Tanks
T-26 M33 18 kph
T-26 M39 17 kph
T-40 M40 21 kph
Pzk.IIF 21 kph
Pzk.IIIG 20 kph
Pzk.IVF 21 kph
Vehicles
T-38 TU Command Tank 21 kph
BA-10 Armoured Car 29 kph
BA-6 Armoured Car 28 kph
FAI-M Armoured Car 32 kph
ZIS-5 25mm AA Truck 32 kph
GAZ Quad MG AA Truck 37 kph
T-24 Heavy Artillery Tractor 23 kph
T-20 Light Artillery Tractor 24 kph
GAZ AA Truck 38
kph
GAZ AAA Truck 38
kph
GAZ Bus 38
kph
ZIS-5 Radio Truck 31 kph
ZIS-5 Medical Truck 31 kph
ZIS-6 Fuel Truck 31 kph
ZIS-5 Truck 32 kph
GAZ-M1Staff Car 50 kph
Limosine 50
kph
GAZ-67 closed 50 kph
Willey’s Jeep open 50 kph
Motorcycle 70 kph
Horse Artillery + AT Gun 12 kph
Horse Artillery + Med Inf Gun 11 kph
Horse Artillery + Howitzer 10 kph
Horse drawn Field Kitchen 12 kph
SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car 42 kph
SdKfz 232 Armoured Car 50 kph
SdKfz 251 Halftrack 24 kph
SdKfz 6/2 37mm FlaK37 25 kph
SdKfz 10/5 20mm FlaK38 27 kph
SdKfz6 Halftrack 26 kph
SdKfz 10 Halftrack 27 kph
Raupenschlepper 20
kph
Opel Blitz Maultier Halftruck 27
kph
Opel Blitz3700A Radio Truck 42 kph
Opel Blitz 3700A Medical Truck 42 kph
Opel Blitz 3700A Fuel Truck 42 kph
Opel Blitz 3700A Truck 42 kph
Opel Blitz 36S Truck 42 kph
Staff Car open 50 kph
Staff Car closed 50
kph
Kubelwagen open 45
kph
Kubelwagen closed 45 kph
BMW Motorcycle Sidecar 60 kph
Other
Infantry Platoon (25 men) 6 kph
Finnish Infantry Platoon (25 men) 7 kph
Engineer Platoon (25 men) 6 kph
INFANTRY PLATOONS
As you would gather from the order of battle, an infantry company is comprised of twelve platoons. Of this, every fourth platoon is a designated “anti-tank” or “close support” platoon. These platoons have an anti-tank, rocket firing ability that extends out to a range of 25 metres. This represents the effective range of anti-tank rifles, demolition charges, Molotov cocktails and other defensive devices carried by infantry personnel within the company.
INDIRECT FIRE
RANGES
I intend to keep these the same as in the existing teckniks file, as it seems to be functioning well. My only change is that the mortars use indirect fire only. They should not be able to fire directly at targets, as it serves as a panzerfaust or bazooka team when used in this manner. Unfortunately the minimum range is 3000 meters, but still, the mortars will serve the infantry regiments as ranged bombardment weapons and be of same value in this role.
AAA FIRE RANGES
Again, I intend to keep these the same as in the existing teckniks file. The adjusted elevations seem to working out and the ranges used appear correct.
UNIT SKILL SETTINGS
Aircraft Skill
Settings
This is predetermined along historical guidelines. It is already included within the template. Generally speaking, all along the Eastern Front, German aircraft crews were greatly superior to their Soviet counterparts. The Germans had fresh combat experience from campaigns in the west, whilst the Russians were only just recovering from recent purges. However, some of the VVS fighter units stationed in this far northern theatre, were veterans of the Winter War conflict and put up much more creditable opposition to the Luftwaffe than their brethren further south. The isolation also meant that some units suffered less from political purges. This is reflected in the template.
Borrowing from “Flight Leader” an old board game about jet combat from 1950, I have adapted the skill set categories of this publication to fit this campaign. Essentially, there are five skill set classes ranking from A to F for unit pilot and crew quality.
A 5% Ace, 49% Veteran, 41% Average, 5% Green
B 3% Ace, 31% Veteran, 50% Average, 16% Green
C 2% Ace, 21% Veteran, 50% Average, 27% Green
D 2% Ace, 14% Veteran, 39% Average, 45% Green
E 1% Ace, 9% Veteran, 26% Average, 64% Green
F 0% Ace, 0% Veteran, 28% Average, 82% Green
I have examined the combat and unit histories of the aerial units in the order of battle to then assigned classes of A to F for apportionment in the FMB.
A IV.(Stuka)/LG 1 - Elite demonstration wing, European combat experience
B I./KG 26, I./KG 30, I./JG 77, I./ZG 76 – European combat experience
C 145th IAP, 146th IAP, 147th IAP, 72nd SAP VMF – Winter War combat experience
C (H)1./31, (H)2./31, (F)3./31 – Extensive training and good leadership
D 10th BAP, 50th ORAP, 137th BAP, 71st SAP VMF - Average training and leadership
E 39th ORAP, 118th ORAP – Insufficient training and mediocre leadership
F 99th ORAP – Training school unit and lack of leadership
Ground Unit Skill
Settings
In latest versions of IL2, ground units in the “tank and artillery” classes can now be given skill settings. In ground operations, the German Wehrmacht was much more experienced than the Red Army. Over the course of the war, this would gradually change as the Soviets learnt from the harsh lessons and combat losses made inroads into the German Army. But in 1941, the Germans were undeniably more skilful and potent with their armour. Soviet skill with armour was yet to come to the fore and was rather woeful in some key areas. The core of the Red Army was rugged infantry and plentiful well designed artillery, the traditional backbone of Russian armies. Unfortunately, much of this was let down by failures in communication and leadership, which was often representative of their heavy artillery throughout 1941. Stalin’s great purges of the late 1930’s had dire repercussions at the start of Operation Barbarossa.
Tank Class
T-26 M33 Green
T-26 M39 Average
T-40 M40 Average
Pzk.IIF Veteran
Pzk.IIIG Veteran
Pzk.IVF Ace
Artillery Class
T-38 TU Command Tank Veteran
BA-10 Armoured Car Average
BA-6 Armoured Car Green
FAI-M Armoured Car Average
ZIS-5 25mm AA Truck Average
GAZ Quad MG AA Truck Average
SdKfz P204(fu) Command Car Ace
SdKfz 232 Armoured Car Veteran
SdKfz 251 Halftrack Veteran
SdKfz 6/2 37mm FlaK37 Veteran
SdKfz 10/5 20mm FlaK38 Veteran
BMW Motorcycle Sidecar Veteran
12.7mm DShK MG Average
82mm Mtr Average
45mm M38 ATG Average
76.2mm ZIS3 ARTY Average
122mm M30 ARTY Green
152mm ML20 ARTY Green
7.62mm Maxim Quad AA
MG Average
25mm M1940 AA Average
37mm M1939 AA Average
76mm M1938 AA Average
85mm M1939 AA Average
MG42 HMG Veteran
81mm Mtr Average
37mm PaK35 ATG Veteran
75mm leIG18 ARTY Average
105mm leFH18 ARTY Average
150mm Sfh18 ARTY Average
20mm FlaK38 AA Veteran
37mm FlaK37 AA Veteran
88mm Flak18 AA Veteran
AIRCRAFT RADIOS AND
RULES
In this campaign, realistic navigation difficulty is turned on. Unlike earlier versions of IL2, the repeater compass used in some aircraft ceases to automatically function as a radio navigation finder at each waypoint. It will only work with aircraft equipped with a direction finding (DF) loop which automatically turns toward to the targeted beacon. Other aircraft have special direction finding instruments that serve the same navigation purposes. Most other aircraft may have a radio airborne transmitter / receiver which hold no navigation properties whatsoever and finally, there are aircraft not equipped with any radio sets. I include the Morse telegraph station within the last category.
Aircraft without
Radios
These aircraft are at a tactical disadvantage in combat. Flights have the radio communications turned off in the full mission builder.
Fi-156 Morse key operator and no external aerial
I-15 bis no external aerial or internal evidence of radio
I-153 M-62 no external aerial or internal evidence of radio
I-16 type 5 no external aerial or internal evidence of radio
I-16 type 10 no external aerial or internal evidence of radio
I-16 type 18 no external aerial or internal evidence of radio
I-16 type 24 no external aerial or internal evidence of radio
MBR-2 M34 Morse key operator and no external aerial
R-5 Morse key operator and no external aerial
U-2VS Morse key operator and no external aerial
Aircraft with Radio
Transmitter / Receivers
This is the standard radio communication device that allows communication within the flight / squadron / zveno and to home base.
AR-196A-3 FuG 07 transmitter
Bf-109E-7/B FuG 07 transmitter
Fw-189A-4 FuG 10 transmitter
Ju-87B-2 FuG 07 transmitter
LaGG-3 series 1 RSI-3 transmitter
MiG-3 RSI-3 transmitter
Pe-3 RSB-bis transmitter
SB 2M-103 RSB-bis transmitter
Aircraft with Radio
Direction Finding Instruments
In addition to communication within the flight / squadron / zveno and home base, the aircraft crew can use specialised instruments that monitor transmissions from radio beacons as a navigational aid.
DB-3M RSB-bis transmitter + PNK-2 radio direction finder
DB-3T RSB-bis transmitter + PNK-2 radio direction finder
DB-3F RSB-bis transmitter + PNK-2 radio direction finder
He-111H-6 FuG 10P transmitter + AFN-1 radio direction finder
Pe-2 series 1 RSB-bis transmitter + PNK-10 radio direction finder
TB-3 4M-17 RSB transmitter + PNK-2 radio direction finder
Aircraft with Radio Compass and Direction Finding Loop
In addition to communication within the flight / squadron / zveno and home base, the aircraft crew can use a radio compass in monitoring transmissions from radio beacons as a navigational aid.
Bf-110C-7 FuG 10ZY transmitter + DF Loop + radio compass
Ju-52 3mg4e FuG 10ZY transmitter + DF Loop + radio compass
Ju-52 3mg5e FuG 10ZY transmitter + DF Loop + radio compass
Ju-88A-4 FuG 10ZY transmitter + DF Pod + radio compass
Ju-88C-6 FuG 10ZY transmitter + DF Pod + radio compass
Aircraft with Naval
Air Telegraphy
Fleet Air Arm aircraft were equipped with GP wireless telegraphy system for communication and navigation to and from their carriers. Usually this had three components comprising a 1082 receiver, 1083 transmitter and R1110 or ZB beacon receiver, which uses the YE directional beacon aboard the home vessel.
Fulmar Mk.I GP wireless telegraphy + ZB receiver
Sea Hurricane Mk.Ib GP wireless telegraphy + ZB receiver
Swordfish Mk.I GP wireless telegraphy + R1110 receiver
RADIO STATIONS
Both sides have access to radio stations. This is Radio Moscow for the Soviets and Grossdeutscher Rundfunk for the Germans. Each radio station emits a positive morale modifier out to 100 kilometres. Each faction has one regional station.
NAVIGATION BEACONS
At the outbreak of war on the eastern front, radar stations were almost unknown in this theatre. Navigation beacons were used by bombers. Fighters and ground attack aircraft navigated by visual means. Reportedly, the Germans had single navigating beacons for operations, as opposed to the usual minimum of three used on the western front. Maybe this was due to large scale of this theatre and mobile nature of the war further south, which was not the same in this theatre. There is scant documentation about Soviet navigation beacons at the opening of Operation Barbarossa, they did develop a network of navigating beacons for night bombing in the later part of 1941. It could be presumed that they had the technology, though not as extensive as their opponent. Given the proximity of the Finish, Norwegian and Soviet coastal infrastructure or port facilities with their associated navigational requirements for Arctic waters, alongside the fixed nature of the warfare in the extreme north, I’m prepared to think that both the Germans and the Soviets were using navigation beacons on a regular basis.
RADAR STATIONS
At the commencement of Barbarossa, the only operational radar station along the front was a “Freya” systems used by the Germans in the far north. Later, during 1941, the RAF 151st Fighter Wing arrived in Murmansk equipped with their own set from the United Kingdom and it wasn’t until early 1942 that the Soviets were using “RUS-2” early warning radar to defend Moscow and Leningrad. The Germans have one radar station to the Soviets none. My modelling of the German Freya installation includes several radars and an associated radio navigation counter-measure device. It should be noted that the Royal Navy vessels participating in “Operation EF”, would be equipped with radar. For the purposes of this scenario, it can be assumed that both the carriers HMS Furious and HMS Victorious each carry radar and radio beacons.
BLIND LANDING
SYSTEMS
The Lorenz landing system was developed for civilian use prior to the outbreak of WW2. The Germans were pioneers in its development and its military was an extensive user. During the summer of 1940, British intelligence noted that it was commonplace and extensive at enemy airfields in occupied Europe. Information on Soviet developments in this field is non-existent, though they did develop an “Alpha” system from the British “Consol” system, which in itself was a long range navigations system partially developed from captured German technology. The British equivalent to Lorenz was the “Standard Beam Approach” system which may have been supplied to the Soviets through lend lease at a later date. For our purposes, only the Germans have this system present at airfields.
MORALE MODIFIERS
Certain units have positive morale modifiers to other units. I will need to check with 4Shades about the extent or actual range that this modifier will extend to other units. Also I need to determine whether a unit can have a positive and negative modifier to either side.
ZIS-5 Medical Truck
Opel Blitz 3700A
Medical Truck
Limosine (Commissar)
Staff Car closed (Standartenfuhrer)
Hospital Ship
Radio Stations
SCOUTING MODIFIERS
I’d like to include a scouting modifier where some reconnaissance units have
enhanced abilities to spot objects. If possible, using a distance to horizon
calculation, based upon Pythagoras equation. Something that could take the
viewing platforms height into account and gives tactical value to observation
balloons. I do not propose that everything should be revealed at distance, just
a possible indicator of enemy activity. Please refer to website: http://www.ringbell.co.uk/info/hdist.htm
Scout units at 2 meters height = Unobstructed view distance = 5.1 kilometres
BA-6 armoured car
BA-10 armoured car
FAI-M armoured car
SdKfz 232 armoured car
SdKfz P204(fu) armoured car
T-40 M40 tank
Observation balloons at 30 metres height = Unobstructed view distance = 19.6 kilometres
Observation balloons at 60 metres height = Unobstructed view distance = 27.7 kilometres
Observation balloons at 90 metres height = Unobstructed view distance = 33.9 kilometres
Obviously the above figures are for a clear line of sight, but would be hopeful that some sort of compromise may be possible within SEOW where the above is factored into the equation.
NUMBER OF AIR, LAND AND SEA PLOTS
This will be negotiated between participants as we expand
the scope of this campaign. I suspect this will be along the lines of equal
numbers for Allied and Axis forces and expect that our
usual low number of human participants should work in our favour here.
MISSION BUILDER
This is a campaign that will be built in secret by each of its participants. That is, it will be done somewhat along the lines of the recent Korosten campaign. Naturally, not everything can be done reliably or consistently using the same methods, hence my provision of input in some areas. Eventually, it is envisaged that I’ll be sending out a series of blank Murmansk maps with marked boundary setting out where the respective orders of battle can be deployed. Currently, I am drawing up a “rough mud map” of where units should be on the 29th June 1941, which will form the basis of this task. Once done, all the maps will be consolidated.
PERSONAL NOTES
No doubt, other ideas and discussion will be raised on the above. Breakdown rates, limited fuel loads, etc. were considered but I personally see these as artificial, impractical, overly complex or downright unrealistic. Also note that this document was principally passed onto Brandle for his perusal, a friend and general enthusiast of Eastern Front operations in WW2. Additional copies of this draft were sent to 4Shades, Hawk5, Ikey and Charlie to ascertain their feedback upon “what can” or “what can’t” be done in regard to SEOW and HSFX. Hopefully, I’m pushing some boundaries here, breaking new ground and giving food for thought. I’ll obviously take on-board comments and feedback before general circulation of this document. Please keep in mind that I no longer have Navicat or a working SEOW database and application of this will take that much more time.
Be mindful that I am also liable to be very prickly about the application of this campaign. This has been an undertaking that occupied a chunk of my limited time that I could have applied elsewhere. I do think that my approach to this is quite original and has never been spelled out in such detail or done in such a fashion. If you read closer, you may note that I’ve developed a system which could theoretically be universally applied to all SEOW campaign templates. However, much of this work is of my own original thoughts on how an SEOW campaign should be approached and I’d appreciate that the innovation raised in this document be kept confidential until after application of this particular scenario. Other than this, I am of a half a mind to say that it’s time to promote an Australian & friends versus USA Test match series over this or at a time which suits participants from the great southern antipodes. My apologies for anything that is left out, (and yes there are noted errors or liberties taken, which I’ll keep to myself ) but it is really well past the time that this document went out the door.
Regards,
IV/JG7_Warg