New Command scenario: The Battle of the Turtle Islands

March 26, 2014 · Posted in Command

Database – DB3000
Author – Mark Gellis

In 1988, there was a short period of tension between Malaysia and the Philippines when it was erroneously reported that Malaysia had annexed the Turtle Islands. The Turtle Islands are a group of small islands that are part of the Philippines but located very close to the maritime border between the Philippines and Malaysia.

This scenario assumes that Malaysia did in fact annex the islands and that the Philippines decided to take them back by force.

*** OPERATIONAL: IMMEDIATE ***

ATTN: Commanding Officer, Rajah Humabon

You are instructed to initiate OPERATION BEACH RETRIEVAL.

INTEL/SITREP

A few days ago, Malaysian troops landed on Taganak Island, the largest and most heavily populated of the Turtle Island. The Malaysian government informed our government that they considered those islands to have now become their territory. Protests through diplomatic channels appear to have accomplished very little, and our government has decided to take action.

ENEMY FORCES

The exact number and composition of Malaysian forces is unclear. Intelligence reports that several Malaysian vessels are in the area. Some of these are likely to be armed with anti-ship missiles.

Radio reports from Taganak Island suggest that the landing force that took control of the island is about battalion strength and has a number of artillery and anti-aircraft pieces.

Malaysian air power in your area will probably be limited to their A-4 attack aircraft.

FRIENDLY FORCES

Your task force consists of PF 11 Rajah Humabon, PS 69 Rizal, and PS 19 Miguel Malvar.

Philippine military aircraft in your area and at Matcan Cebu are chopped to your command.

The United States will be observing the situation and sharing intelligence with us. It will be your responsibility to escort and if necessary protect any American military aircraft in your area of operations.

MISSION

1. Conduct reconnaissance of the area around the Turtle Islands. Eliminate any Malaysian forces that may represent a threat to your mission.

2. Eliminate any hostile ground assets on Taganak Island.

3. Move at least one of your vessels to within 5,000 yards of Taganak Island to maintain control of the area. Have that vessel remain on station until you receive further orders.

EXECUTION

None of our maritime patrol aircraft are available to assist you, but two of our N22B Nomads have been pressed into service as observation aircraft and are chopped to your command.

Malaysian warships with anti-ship missiles will have a significant tactical advantage over the vessels in your task force. It is vital that you locate and eliminate them before they can attack your ships.

You are free to attack targets of opportunity if they appear relevant to your mission.

It is possible that Malaysian forces are emplaced in the village on Taganak Island, effectively using its inhabitants as human shields. Where feasible, avoid damaging civilian structures.

COMMAND AND SIGNAL

Command: Rajah Humabon
Signal: EMCON State C (Unrestricted Emissions)

Good luck.

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