US 2nd Fleet Questions

[kalos72]

Hey team! :)

It's my limited understanding that the Us 2nd fleet would have been responsible for Central America / Panama in 1997-1999 timelines.

My team is working on a storyline where the US decides to secure the Panama Canal and reinforce the 193rd with something along the lines of a NMBC, a Ranger Company and all the Puerto Rican National Guard but are stuck on the Naval options.

What might a Naval Task Force look like if they were sent to help secure the Panama Canal?

We were thinking, a couple of Coast Guard cutters, a few LA Class subs and a couple of older Spruance class Destroyers maybe? Would other larger ships be involved, maybe a Wasp class or something? What about support craft?

We would LOVE the Independance Carrier Group but I think that is might be too much, even if I dont understand what a Carrier Group would truly consist of in 1999.

[dragoon500ly]

Well, best source material is "The Ships and Aircraft of the U. S. Fleet".

The Second FLEET consists of:
Task Force 20 (Battle Force)
TF 21 (Sea Control and Surveillance Force)
TF 22 (Amphibious Force)
TF 23 (Landing Force)
TF 24 (Anti Submarine Warfare)
TF 25 (Mobile Logistics Support Force)
TF 26 (Patrol Air Force)
TF 28 (Caribbean Contingency Force)

From Atlantic Fleet Command:
TF 134 (Naval Forces Caribbean)
Carrier Group 2 (CV43, CV66 America)
Carrier Group 4 (CV67 John F. Kennedy)
Carrier Group 6 (CV59 Forrestal, CV60 Saratoga)
Carrier Group 8 (CVN 68 Nimitz, CVN 69 Dwight D. Eisenhower)
Naval Air Force:
CV 62 Independence, undergoing SLEP modernization
CVN 71 Theodore Roosevelt, working up
AVT 16 Lexington, training carrier

For a Caribbean (Canal Zone) operation, TF28 would most likely consist of frigates and cutters and possibly, an older destroyer. It would be reinforced by task groups from TF 22,23,24,25 and 26. If the threat has large enough, either a task group from TF 134, or even the entire task force, this would probably consist of a guided missile cruiser, 1-3 guided missile destroyers, a ASW destroyer and 2-3 frigates. The exact force level for TF 134 would be expected to vary wily (depending on what was immediately available and capable of putting to sea.

A Carrier Battle Group would consist of a single carrier, 2-3 guided missile cruisers, 3-4 destroyers, 3-4 frigates and 0-2 nuclear submarines. Escorts would depend on availability and threat level.

Now Independence, during this period, was Pacific Fleet, Carrier Battle Group 5, this would consist of:
Independence with
Carrier Air Wing 5: VF 21 (10 F-14A), VF-154 (10 F-14A), VFA-192
(10 F/A-18C), VFA-195 (10 F/A-18C), VS-115 (14 A-6E), VAQ-136 (4 EA-6B),
VAW-115 (4 E-2C), VS-21 (6 S-3B), HS-12 (5 SH-3H)

Bunker Hill and Mobile Bay (Bunker Hill-class CG)
Hewitt, O`Brien and Fife (Spruance-class DD)
Curts, McClusky, Thach and Rodney M. Davis (Perry-class FFG)

Carrier Battle Group 6 is Atlantic Fleet:
America with
Carrier Air Wing 1:VF-33 (14 F-14A), VMFA-122 (10 F/A-18C), VFA-82 (10
F/A-18C), VFA-86 (10 F/A-18C), VA-85 (16 A-6E), VMAQ-1 (4 EA-6B),
VAW-123 (4 E-2C), VS-32 (6 S-3B), HS-11 (6 SH-3H)
South Carolina (California-class CGN)
Normandy, Monterey (Bunker Hill-class CG)
McDonough (Farragut-class DDG)
Scott (Kidd-class DDG)
John Hancock, Thorn (Spruance-class DD)
Boone, Aunty Fitch, Jesse L. Taylor, Simpson (Perry-class FFG)
Groton, Alexandria (Los Angeles-class SSN)

Hope this helps!

[kalos72]

For as many questions as I ask, I think I need to buy a copy of that book. :)

So you are thinking any naval support for this operation in 1997 would come from Carrier Group 6 with the America?

Do you think sending a full Carrier Group to support an operation securing the Panama Canal si too much? Would the Carrier Group stay in the Caribbean if the naval loses some have touted were actually happening?

[dragoon500ly]

For as many questions as I ask, I think I need to buy a copy of that book. :)

So you are thinking any naval support for this operation in 1997 would come from Carrier Group 6 with the America?

Do you think sending a full Carrier Group to support an operation securing the Panama Canal si too much? Would the Carrier Group stay in the Caribbean if the naval loses some have touted were actually happening?

I just picked USS America out of the 9 carriers assigned to the Atlantic Fleets. Mostly picked her because she has a mixed USN/USMC air wing.

From what I understand of real Fleet operations in the 1990s, carriers were heavily protected, no less than two AEGIS cruisers for anti-air, supported by DDGs with Spruance/Perry's/nuke submarines for ASW defensive, the carrier battle groups were considered to be tough targets. This doesn't mean that a sub couldn't get in a lucky shot, but it was widely accepted that if you wanted a carrier, you would pay heavily.

Now, for a target such as the Canal, depending on what is defending, it would be more likely that two or more CBGs would be assigned, striking each end of the Canal, with airborne elements seizing the locks and pumping stations. Considering the strategic importance of the Panama Canal to the US, it would be a major effort, unless the Soviets decided a couple of nukes would be a more effective solution.

As for the books, try Amazon, they keep looking up at some very reasonable prices. The 2001 edition of Combat Fleets of the World, normally 900.00, went for 21.00 plus shipping!!!!!! :D

[dragoon500ly]

The USMC during this time frame has an active component comprised of three infantry divisions, three air wings and three force service support groups.

Each Marine division consists of three infantry regiments, one artillery regiment and several combat and support battalions, each infantry regiment is, in turn, made up of three infantry battalions, each with three rifle companies.

Since the mid-1970s, the Marines have stressed the concept of Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) organizations, which provides for combined arms at all levels of force deployments.

As of 1992, the Marines operate three MAGTF organizations:

Marine Amphibious Unit (MAU): consisting of a battalion landing team, a composite air squadron and a MAU service support group with some 2,506 personnel and requiring 4-6 amphibious ships for transport.

Marine Amphibious Brigade (MAB): consisting of a regimental landing team, a composite air group and a brigade service support group with some 15,670 personnel and requiring 21-26 amphibious ships.

Marine Amphibious Force (MAF): consisting of a Marine division, a Air Wing, and a force service support group with 50,600 personnel and requiring 50 amphibious ships for transport.

With the 1992 level personnel and equipment totals, the USMC could field 2-3 MAFs or up to 6 MABs or up to 12 MAUs.

The USMC currently fields the following:
1st MAB for use with Indian Ocean Maritime Pre-positioning Squadron (MPS).
4th MAB at Camp Lejeune, NC for deployment to Norway.
5th MAB at Camp Pendleton and 7th MAB at 29 Palms (both California) for use with MPS.
6th MAB at Camp Lejeune, NC for MPS duty in the Atlantic.
9th MAB at Okinawa.
11th MAU and 13th MAU for rotateing deployments with Seventh Fleet.
22nd, 24th and 26th MAUs at Camp Lejeune, NC for rotating deployments with Sixth Fleet.

[kalos72]

I just picked USS America out of the 9 carriers assigned to the Atlantic Fleets. Mostly picked her because she has a mixed USN/USMC air wing.

From what I understand of real Fleet operations in the 1990s, carriers were heavily protected, no less than two AEGIS cruisers for anti-air, supported by DDGs with Spruance/Perry's/nuke submarines for ASW defensive, the carrier battle groups were considered to be tough targets. This doesn't mean that a sub couldn't get in a lucky shot, but it was widely accepted that if you wanted a carrier, you would pay heavily.

Now, for a target such as the Canal, depending on what is defending, it would be more likely that two or more CBGs would be assigned, striking each end of the Canal, with airborne elements seizing the locks and pumping stations. Considering the strategic importance of the Panama Canal to the US, it would be a major effort, unless the Soviets decided a couple of nukes would be a more effective solution.

As for the books, try Amazon, they keep looking up at some very reasonable prices. The 2001 edition of Combat Fleets of the World, normally 900.00, went for 21.00 plus shipping!!!!!! :D

My campaign has the US defending the Canal, they kept control with the 193rd initially and then moved to strengthen it. in 1997 they were attacked by Anti us protestors in the Panamanian Defense Force and the US moved more forces to the PCZ to defend it.

[mpipes]

I just picked USS America out of the 9 carriers assigned to the Atlantic Fleets. Mostly picked her because she has a mixed USN/USMC air wing.

From what I understand of real Fleet operations in the 1990s, carriers were heavily protected, no less than two AEGIS cruisers for anti-air, supported by DDGs with Spruance/Perry's/nuke submarines for ASW defensive, the carrier battle groups were considered to be tough targets. This doesn't mean that a sub couldn't get in a lucky shot, but it was widely accepted that if you wanted a carrier, you would pay heavily. :D

I think I remember reading at some point at one time that the Soviets, even with the most optimistic assessment, expected to lose at least five subs for each carrier they managed to get a torpedo into.

[dragoon500ly]

I think I remember reading at some point at one time that the Soviets, even with the most optimistic assessment, expected to lose at least five subs for each carrier they managed to get a torpedo into.

With the fall of the Soviet Union a lot of their military publications started showing up in the West. The general opinion for a successful strike on a CBG was for a coordinated strike with 2-3 SSGNs, 2-4 SS/SSNs and 3-4 regiments of Backfires. The intent was to overwhelm USN defended with missile fire and using torpedoes to finish off survivors.

I've wargamed this several times with some navy buddies and the results have been mixed. One game had the Backfires suffering 80% losses. In another game two frigates and a P-3 managed to nail four submarines in a patrol line. In a weekend game, the heroic Soviets managed to attack from an unexpected direction and sank the carrier with minor losses. We even ran the Clancy scenario with two US and a French carrier against a massive 7 regiment attack, an exercise in mutual slaughter resulted.

[Adm.Lee]

My team is working on a storyline where the US decides to secure the Panama Canal and reinforce the 193rd with something along the lines of a NMBC, a Ranger Company and all the Puerto Rican National Guard but are stuck on the Naval options.


I'm drawing a mental blank: NMBC?

A Ranger company could be drawn from the Ranger School in Florida, plus volunteers?

PR Guard might have its hands full at home by 1999.

[kalos72]

This move would have happened in 1997...I am thinking another Brigade might be needed as well but havent though it through much.

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion - Sorry... :)

[dragoon500ly]

Running a few thoughts on the order of battle...

193rd Infantry Brigade was headquartered out of Fort Clayton also assigned were:
1-187 Infantryalso at Clayton
2-187 Infantry at Fort Kobbe
Battery D-320 Field Artillery at Kobbe
518th Engineer Company at Kobbe

Attached were
210th Aviation (Combat) at Howard AFB
114th Aviation Company (Combat Support) at Howard
3rd Platoon, 242nd Aviation Company (Medium Helicopter) at Howard

3-7 Special Forces Group at Fort Davis

Jungle Warfare Training Centre at Fort Amadore

Suggested reinforcements include:
53rd Infantry Brigae, FLNG: 1-124 Infantry, 2,124 INF, 3-124 INF, 1-160 FA,
Troop E-153 CAV, 153 ENG Company

92nd Infantry Brigade, PRNG: 1-65 INF, 2-65 INF, 1-195 INF, 2-162 FA, Troop
E-192 CAV, 892 Engineer Company

Both brigades are standard "pure" infantry infantry units, supported by towed 105mm howitzer.

Other units available include 1-196 INF PRNG, Company G-143 INF (Ranger) TXNG, 1136th INF Detachment (Pathfinder/Airborne) TXNG, Company E-65 (Ranger) PRNG, 1-162 FA, PRNG (155T), 1-265 ADS (C-V) FLNG, 131st AVN MSNG.

US Army Reserve can contribute the 448th ENG Bb (Combat Heavy) to complete an interesting little mix.

[kalos72]

Great stuff Dragoon, thanks!

I was thinking along those lines, just wasn't sure of specific units. One thing that always struck me was the shear number of unaccounted for units in Going Home versus the NATO Orbat guides.

The 193rd on the PAC side, the 92nd on the ATL and the 3rd as patrol between? Thats about 10-12k soldiers or thereabouts?

I was adding the Seebees to help with maintaining the locks, would one battalion be enough for all of them over a protracted period of time?

[dragoon500ly]

The two Guard brigades are standard infantry, their component battalions are the 800 man battalions, their artillery battalions are supposed to be 6 tubes batteries of M-101 105mm howitzer.

The 193rd is a bit of a question mark, I've seen it listed as standard infantry and as light infantry, the attached arty battery also shows as 6 or 8 tubes and listed as M-101 howitzer.

Another big question mark are the Rangers, IRL, 1st, 2nd and 3rd battalions are the line units, 4th, 5th and 6th are the training units. Would there have been enough lead time to create additional line battalions? Grabbing surplus cadre from the training units along with the next graduating class might allow a new battalion, but the NG has independent Ranger companies, that EVERYBODY overlooks, not mention the Pathfinder companies, enough personnel to field another battalion.

As far as the engineer support, what I've listed are an engineer combat battalion and the brigade engineer combat companies, with a SeeBee battalion this should be enough to operate the locks, the big question would then be, how badly are the locks damaged? It maybe necessary for an engineer brigade to be deployed for reconstruction.

One thing that always strikes me are the incredible numbers of independent companies and detachments that the Guard and Army Reserve maintains. The last time I sat down to try to get a total number, I reached over 300 before I gave up. Many resources simply list "numerous". Ah well, the Army does thrive on chaos!

[kalos72]

Do you have anything on the two aviation detachments, I cannot find any details really.

Also, I found these.

US 12th Air Force HQ - Bergstrom AFB, TX: Responsible to provide follow on TAC reinforcement to Europe

24th Composite Wing – Howard AFB, Panama:
1. 24th Tactical Air Support Squadron: A-37
(had various A-7, A-10, C-130 units attached from CONUS)

21st Air Force – McGuire AFB, NJ
61st Military Airlift Group – Howard AFB, Panama
1. 310th MAS: 3 C-130E, 2 C-130H

Would an MP Battalion or even a Marine unit accompany these group?

[dragoon500ly]

Do you have anything on the two aviation detachments, I cannot find any details really.

Also, I found these.

US 12th Air Force HQ - Bergstrom AFB, TX: Responsible to provide follow on TAC reinforcement to Europe

24th Composite Wing – Howard AFB, Panama:
1. 24th Tactical Air Support Squadron: A-37
(had various A-7, A-10, C-130 units attached from CONUS)

21st Air Force – McGuire AFB, NJ
61st Military Airlift Group – Howard AFB, Panama
1. 310th MAS: 3 C-130E, 2 C-130H

Would an MP Battalion or even a Marine unit accompany these group?

210th AVN is an attack helicopter outfit (AH-1/OH-58)
114th AVN Coy (CS) is UH-60
the platoon from the 242nd AVN Coy is CH-47

Cruised Wiki and verifed through the Army Historical site the following:

In 1961, after the abortive Bay of Pigs Invasion and rumors of Soviet assistance to Cuba, Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara decided to bolster available U.S. Army forces in the Caribbean area. The Army replaced the battle group in the Panama Canal Zone with the 193d Infantry Brigade, which was activated on 8 August 1962.

Through most of the period of its assignment to the Canal Zone, the 193d included the following units:

3-5 INF Fort Kobbe
4-10 INF Fort Davis
4-20 INF Fort Clayton
Battery B, 22 FA Fort Kobbe
518th ENG Coy Fort Kobbe
534th MP Company Fort Clayton
549th MP Company Fort Gulick
210th AVN Albrook Army Air Field then Fort Kobbe
1097th TRANS Coy (Medium Boat) Fort Davis

Additionally, there were other units, such as the School of the Americas (Fort Gulick), 3d Battalion, 7th Special Forces (Fort Gulick), and Jungle Operations Training Center (Fort Sherman) that were not assigned to the 193d but had a habitual relationship and rating scheme for their commanders and/or senior officers tantamount to assignment.

There were other units assigned at different times. For example, the brigade had, for most of the 1960s a mixed HAWK missile and M42 Duster battalion, 4th Battalion, 517th Artillery (Battery A at Fort Davis, Dusters; Battery B, Fort Clayton, Dusters; Battery C, HAWKs, Flamenco Island; and Battery D, HAWK, Fort Sherman).[3] The brigade was also staffed heavily enough as to permit it to command the 92d and 53d Infantry Brigades (Separate) from the Puerto Rico and Florida National Guard, respectively. In 1977, in order to improve command and control over the numerous combat support and combat service support units, the 193d Combat Support Battalion (CSB) was activated within the brigade. The 193d CSB commanded a wide variety of units, to include the 193d Military Intelligence Company (Combat Electronic Warfare and Intelligence - CEWI), the 1097th Transportation Company (Medium Boat), and even a field artillery unit (Battery D, 320th FA).


In October 1983, the 1st and 2d Battalions, 187th Infantry were assigned to the 193d Infantry Brigade in Panama as a result of reflagging the 4th Battalion, 10th Infantry and the 3d Battalion, 5th Infantry, respectively. Company A, 2d Battalion, 187th Infantry was on jump status and later this was expanded to the entire battalion. During a realignment of the United States Army's combat forces in 1987 the colors of the 1st and 2d Battalions were inactivated in Panama and reactivated at Fort Campbell, KY. This resulted in 2-187th being reflagged as the 1st Battalion (Airborne), 508th Infantry while 1-187th was reflagged as the 5th Battalion, 87th Infantry.

Although the 193d Infantry Brigade (Light) was, by TO&E, only a small brigade, as a result of various augmentations leading up to JUST CAUSE, in its role as TF Bayonet it ended up being the largest brigade-sized task force in JUST CAUSE. The various units that comprised TF Bayonet on D-Day were:

1-508 INF (Airborne)
5-87 INF (Light)
Battery D, 320th Field Artillery
59th Engineer Company (Sapper)
HHC, 193rd Infantry Brigade (Light)
NIMROD DANCER Augumentation:
4-6 INF (Mech)
Platoon (Sheridans) from 3-73 ARM, 82nd ABN Div

JUST CAUSE Augmentation
519th MP Battalion (week prior), consisting of 209th, 401st, 511th, 555th, 988th, 108th MP Companies
One Company, 75th Ranger Regiment
One Marine LAI platoon (LAV-75s from TF Semper Fi)

Note that TF Bayonet had neither an organic forward support battalion nor normal combat service support units, as was doctrine at the time. Limited support was provided by the 41st Area Support Group (which had theater-wide responsibilities), but lacking a dedicated Forward Support Battalion, the Brigade's logistical support operations were significantly strained.[9] A fifth maneuver battalion had originally been slated for TF Bayonet, for the purpose of having a two-battalion attack at the Commandancia – which was to be the main attack of JUST CAUSE.[10] However, JTF-SOUTH reallocated this battalion to the other side of the Isthmus.[11] Ironically, as JTF-SOUTH was doing this, Noriega was beefing up defenses at the Commandancia. Half of the PDF 6th Company, most of the PDF 7th Company and elements of the PDF Bn 2000 were moved to the Commandancia in the two months leading up to JUST CAUSE, replacing the unit that had led the second coup attempt.

At 1800 hours, 19 December 1989, TF Bayonet received from JTF-SOUTH the order to execute Operation JUST CAUSE, with an H-Hour of 0100 hours, 20 December. Because the JUST CAUSE OPLAN had been classified at the top secret level, only a small number of the Brigade's leaders were familiar with its contents.

After combat operation ceased, a political decision to rapidly drawdown US forces to their pre-invasion levels had an unexpected impact on the 193d; in order to reach that level, USSOUTHCOM directed that the Brigade's field artillery battery be inactivated and its personnel – and their families – be immediately shipped out of country. During this period TF Bayonet became what is believed to be the largest combat brigade-sized unit in post-WWII history, controlling at one period seven infantry battalions – just two shy of what a full division commanded at the time. It managed this task – over the extreme distances noted above – without the benefit of a dedicated support battalion, and the logistical improvisation required was little short of genius.

Within several more months, the rest of the augmentation forces were withdrawn. The 193d Infantry Brigade however, remained in Panama and continued to provide a military presence. On 14 October 1994 after more than 32 years of providing ground defense for Panama, 193d Infantry Brigade was 'honored' as the first major unit to inactivate in accordance with the Panama Canal Treaty of 1977, treaty implementation plan, which mandated U.S. Forces withdrawal from Panama by December 1999.

Don't ya just love the way TO&Es and Orders of Battle change? :rolleyes:

[kato13]

One Marine LAI platoon (LAV-75s from TF Semper Fi)



Assuming those should be LAV-25s?

[dragoon500ly]

Assuming those should be LAV-25s?

You are correct sir.....I truly hate auto correct!!!

[kalos72]

If the locks weren't hit with nukes, and the area was heavily reinforced on the ground, then it seems that air strikes were the only other true option.

I think Patriot batteries were the long range defenders, 2-3 batteries of Patriots along with standard Chaparrals and Dusters maybe?

[kalos72]

If you were to include a Marine unit:

22nd MEU (MAGTF/CE), deployed as Landing Force 6th Fleet (LF6F)
1) BLT 3/8 (GCE)
a) 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment : 1103 men
b) Artillery Battery: 4 M198, 4 M101A1
c) Tank Platoon: 5 M60A1
d) Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon: 12 AAV
e) Reconnaissance Platoon
f) Combat Engineer Platoon
2) HMM-162(Composite) (ACE)
a) HMM-162 “Golden Eagles”: 12 CH-46E
b) det HMLA-269: 4 AH-1T, 3 UH-1N
c) det HMH-464: 4 CH-53E

Carried on the Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group
USS Wasp (LHD 1)
USS Shreveport (LPD-12)
USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41)
USS Yorktown (CG-48)
USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55)
USS Newport News (SSN 750) - Not sure if this is correct
USS McFaul (DDG-74)

[dragoon500ly]

If the locks weren't hit with nukes, and the area was heavily reinforced on the ground, then it seems that air strikes were the only other true option.

I think Patriot batteries were the long range defenders, 2-3 batteries of Patriots along with standard Chaparrals and Dusters maybe?

During this time frame, probably a Patriot battalion split to cover both ends or a reinforced IHAWK battalion to provide the long/medium range SAM protection envelope with a Chaparral/Vulcan battalion to provide the short/point defends protection. By the time of the Twilight War, the only Sisters were in a couple of NG battalions, they were Sisters with no SAM/MANPADS.

[unkated]

If the locks weren't hit with nukes, and the area was heavily reinforced on the ground, then it seems that air strikes were the only other true option.

I think Patriot batteries were the long range defenders, 2-3 batteries of Patriots along with standard Chaparrals and Dusters maybe?

V1 canon tells us (in Satellite Down) that


The Panama Canal was not hit in the initial TDM period (USS Virginia passed through it in December 1997)
The Panama Canal was still operational in March 1999 (USS Virginia was ordered to pass through it to get to the Atlantic).


Uncle Ted

[dragoon500ly]

If you were to include a Marine unit:

22nd MEU (MAGTF/CE), deployed as Landing Force 6th Fleet (LF6F)
1) BLT 3/8 (GCE)
a) 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment : 1103 men
b) Artillery Battery: 4 M198, 4 M101A1
c) Tank Platoon: 5 M60A1
d) Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon: 12 AAV
e) Reconnaissance Platoon
f) Combat Engineer Platoon
2) HMM-162(Composite) (ACE)
a) HMM-162 “Golden Eagles”: 12 CH-46E
b) det HMLA-269: 4 AH-1T, 3 UH-1N
c) det HMH-464: 4 CH-53E

Carried on the Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group
USS Wasp (LHD 1)
USS Shreveport (LPD-12)
USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41)
USS Yorktown (CG-48)
USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55)
USS Newport News (SSN 750) - Not sure if this is correct
USS McFaul (DDG-74)

The only two possible problems are;

The USS Wasp, IMHO it would be more likely for a Tarawa-class or even an Iwo Jima-class LPH to be committed, especially with the lack of Harriers in your air group.

The Aegis ruisers would most likely be with one of the carrier battle groups, if a missile cruiser would be assigned, it would be one of the older ones If not a missile destroyer or two.

Why? The newest cruisers tended to be assigned to carrier battle groups or independent surface action groups, even the SAGs based on battleships made do with a missile destroyer for the AAW slot. At the very least it would be one of the older missile cruiser classes. The Navy tended to place it's more modern and powerful ships to its high priority targets, like the carriers.

[Cdnwolf]

I managed to get my hands on some of the later editions of Harpoon books and would love to run a naval battle using the TWL2000 timeline. See really how well a CV Battle Group stands up to a nuclear strike at sea.

[kalos72]

Were the ESG's not around in the 90'? Wikipedia seems to say that the ESG's were designed to be like a smaller CV Group. Give some presence but not as much as the CV Groups.

For something like securing the PCZ, I think it would be size appropriate.

[dragoon500ly]

The Wasp-class was intended to smaller and cheaper copies of the Tarawa-class LPH, needless to say, the Wasps ended up being the largest amphibious ships in the world.

Major differences between the classes are the Wasp has:
1. Increases Harrier support capability.
2. Movement of the stern elevator to the starboard side of the flight deck.
3. Redesign of the docking well to support 3 LCACs.
4. Less vehicle storage space, 22,000 square feet vs. 33,000 square feet.
5. Less bulk cargo storage space, 101,000 cubic feet vs. 110,000 square feet.
6. Modification for better anti-aircraft defence.
7. Extensive medical facilities, double in size with six operating rooms and room for 600 bed patients.

The Wasp is designed to support MAF/MAB operations. The Wasp will be better as to support VTOL operations in spite of its lack of a ski jump, her larger flight deck is considered sufficiently large enough to operate rolling takeoffs for heavily laden aircraft.

The stern docking well of a Wasp-class can accommodate 3 LCAC or 4 LCU or 2 LCU and 3 LCM-8s or 17 LCM-6s or 45 LVTP-7. In addition 34 LVTP-7s can be carried on the third deck.

The Wasps are intended to replace the Tarawas starting with the commissioning of the sixth ship in mid-1996.

[kalos72]

I am good with moving some of the ships to a previous/older class, that makes sense, but does the size/strength of the unit make sense as well?

[dragoon500ly]

I think so, just to be a tad more realistic...add a couple of freighters to carry the NGs and their gear. Perhaps add several LCVPs and LCMs as deck cargo.

Another possible is to add either the British or Dutch Caribbean Station warship with a company of Royal Marines or Dutch Marines, I do know that both countries do exercise with US Marines on a regular basis, there is even a photo in Armies of NATO`s Central Front showing Dutch and US Marines on a joint exercise.

Just a few more random thoughts.....:D

[kalos72]

Yeah, we were going to add some support ships but those aren't nearly as critical because of all the civilians options out there.

We had talked about adding another DDG and SSN to the mix to cover both ends of the PCZ. Also, some 10 or so Point Class Cutters for patrol duties but we were wondering if they would/could be up armed to meet more of a combat role vs interdiction.

[dragoon500ly]

More likely it would be additional FFG/FFs, if only because those classes were the most numerous ships in the fleet at this time.

As far as the cutters go, the Points normally carry two .50 caliber machine guns and 2 Mark 19 AGLs, it's possible that one or two 20mm cannons might be fitted. As far as them being assigned to Panama...these are 82 foot boats with a max range of 1,500 nautical miles at 8 knots, so they could reach, but these boats are used for port security and search and rescue, they don't have the habitation for extended periods.

Most likely, a small number might be carried as deck cargo into the AO and off loaded in port.

[kalos72]

I still have some modifications to make here ad I think the Air components might be overkill but its the basis I think...

Sixth Army - U.S. Army South (ARSOUTH)


92nd Infantry Brigade – PR NG - San Juan, PR
1) 1- 65th Infantry Battalion (Air Assault)
2) 1- 295th Infantry Battalion (Air Assault)
3) 1- 296th Infantry Battalion (Air Assault)
4) 1- 162nd Field Artillery Battalion
5) E Troop/ 192nd Cavalry Regiment
6) 892nd Engineer Company
7) 292nd Military Intelligence Company
8) E Btry/ 201st ADA Regiment
9) 292nd Support Battalion (Fwd)

193rd Infantry Brigade (Light) - Roosevelt Roads Naval Station, PR
1) 4- 10th Infantry Battalion (Light)
2) 5 -87th Infantry Battalion (Light)
3) 1 -508th Infantry Battalion (Airborne)
4) D Battery, 320th Field Artillery Regiment
5) 2-265th Air Defense Artillery : 24 Hawk
6) E Troop, 193rd Cavalry Regiment
7) 9th Engineer Company
8) 193rd Support Battalion (Fwd)

53rd Infantry Brigade - Tampa, FL:
1) 1-124 Infantry Battalion (Light):
2) 2-124 Infantry Battalion (Light):
3) 3-124 Infantry Battalion (Light):
4) 2-116 Field Artillery Bn: 105mm towed
5) 153rd Engineer Co:
6) Troop E, 153rd Cav:
7) E det/265th ADA:
8 153rd Support Battalion

210th Aviation (Combat) at Howard AFB - 4xAH-1/ 6xOH-58 - Air Cav Troop

114th Aviation Company (Combat Support) at Howard - 15x UH-60 - Air Assault Troop

3rd Platoon, 242nd Aviation Company (Medium Helicopter) at Howard - 8xCH-47

1097th TRANS Coy (Medium Boat) Fort Davis - 6xLCU 1600s and two LCU 2000s

2-162nd Field Artillery (PR): 105mm Towed

1-162nd Field Artillery (PR): 155mm Towed

448th ENG Battalion (Combat Heavy) - PR

1-111th Aviation (Attack) (FL): AH-1

164th Air Defense Artillery Brigade - Orlando, FL:
1-265th Air Defense Artillery – Daytona Beach, FL: Chapparal
2-265th Air Defense Artillery – Orlando, FL: 24 Hawk
3-265th Air Defense Artillery – West Palm Beach, FL: Chapparal


Special Operations Command South (USSOCSOUTH)

7th Special Forces Group- 3rd Battalion in Panama

1st Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) - KY

2nd Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) - KY

1-75th Ranger Battalion - Ft Stewart, GA
711th SOS, 919th Special Operations Group – Duke Field, FL: AC/C-130



U.S. Marine Corps Forces, South (USMARFORSOUTH)

22nd US Marine MEU (MAGTF/CE)
1) BLT 3/8 (GCE)
a) 3rd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment : 1103 men
b) Artillery Battery: 4 M198, 4 M101A1
c) Tank Platoon: 5 M60A1
d) Amphibious Assault Vehicle Platoon: 12 AAV
e) Reconnaissance Platoon
f) Combat Engineer Platoon
2) HMM-162(Composite) (ACE)
a) HMM-162 “Golden Eagles”: 12 CH-46E
b) det HMLA-269: 4 AH-1T, 3 UH-1N
c) det HMH-464: 4 CH-53E
3) Combat Logistics Battalion 8 (CLB-8) (LCE) - Camp Lejeune NC
1x Company, 2nd Maintenance Battalion
1x Company, 2nd Medical Battalion
1x Company, 2nd Supply Battalion
1x Company, 2nd Dental Battalion
1x Company, 8th Engineer Support Battalion
1x Company, 2nd Military Police Battalion

3rd Marine Combined Battalion - Guantanamo Bay Cuba
1x Headquarters & Service Company
Delta Company, 4th Tank Battalion
Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment
Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment
Delta Company, 2nd Battalion, 26th Marine Regiment
1x Battery, 5th Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment
1x Platoon, Echo Company, 1st Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion 1x Platoon, Echo Company, 1st Combat Engineer Battalion
1x Platoon, Echo Company, 8th Communications Battalion
1x Platoon, Echo Company, 2nd Intelligence Battalion
1x Platoon, Echo Company, 2nd Radio Battalion
1x Platoon, Echo Company, 6th Motor Transport Battalion
1x Flight, Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 567

Marine Air Group 26 – New River, NC
i) HMM-261(C) “Raging Bulls”: 12 CH-46E
ii) HMM-264 “Black Knights”: 12 CH-46E
iii) HMM-266 “Fighting Griffons”: 12 CH-46E
iv) HMH-362 “Ugly Angles”: 22 CH-53D
v) HMH-461 “Sea Stallions”: 12 CH-53E
vi) HMLA-167 “Warriors”: 13 AH-1T, 11 UH-1N

Twelfth Air Force - Air Forces Southern (AFSOUTH)
198th Tactical Fighter Squadron - San Juan PR: 24 F-16 A/B

24th Tactical Air Support Squadron: 10 A-37
(had 4 A-7, 2 A-10, 2 C-130 units attached from CONUS)

61st Military Airlift Group – Howard AFB, Panama
310th MAS: 10 C-130H

103rd TFS, 111th TASG – NAS Willow Grove, PA: 18 A-10




Fourth Fleet - U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command (NAVSO)
Wasp Expeditionary Strike Group
USS Wasp (LHD 1)
USS Shreveport (LPD-12)
USS Whidbey Island (LSD 41)
USS Yorktown (CG-48)
USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55)
USS Newport News (SSN 750) - Not sure if this is correct
USS McFaul (DDG-74)
US Navy Additions:
USS Cole (DDG-67)
USS Boise (SSN-764)
US Coast Guard Additions:
2 Hamilton Class - up-armed for combat??
4 Famous Class - up-armed for combat??
10 Point Class - up-armed two Mk 38 Mod 0 weapons systems

Naval Mobile Construction Battalion SEVEN (NMCB 7) – PR

[Adm.Lee]

Sending even a squadron of A10s to Panama seems like overkill when there's hundreds of Pact tanks to shoot in Europe and Iran.

[kalos72]

Sending even a squadron of A10s to Panama seems like overkill when there's hundreds of Pact tanks to shoot in Europe and Iran.

Thats true, Europe is a MUCH more target rich environment. Maybe move that to the A7's to help support the Amphibious capability and give a solid craft to give land forces?

Anyone have thoughts on the rest? All input is welcome as always...

[mpipes]

I put reactivated USMC reservist flying refurbished 12xF-4Ss in Panama in a composite squadron along with 4xC-130s and another 8xA-7Es flown by naval reservists.

I don't think you'ld have a full squadron of active duty 18xA-10s, but more like an 8 ship deployment of ANG or USAFR A-10s. Maybe a detachment of early 6xF-16As or reactivated A-7Ds as well. Everything organized to a composite wing.

Likely you'ld have at least one AC-130.

Never forget, Davis-Montham is being stripped of airframes as fast as they can be refurbished and put back in the air. Panama, being the relative backwater it would be, probably gets those aircraft.

[Olefin]

If you want to look at aircraft for Panama look at things like A-37's - they are a perfect match for that area and actually were the last place the US had them on active duty - with the Cold War going longer they may have stayed there

- but I agree you would need some kind of air superiority fighters there - but they might be survivors from earlier in the war that are still operational - i.e. the last three F-4's out of a group of fifteen or something like that

[kalos72]

Don't the F-16's handle air superiority? I love the A-37's but I wanted something with more punch so I thought the A-10 was the best suited. But I am changing that to the A-7 thinking all the A-10's would move overseas and fast.

Just need to find a suitable A-7 wing as the one I had in mind was moved to F-16's as below.


198th Tactical Fighter Squadron - San Juan PR: 24 F-16 A/B

24th Tactical Air Support Squadron: 10 A-37

[kalos72]

What about adding a Marine AV-8B squadron from the II MEF to replace the A-10/A-7 role and be able to support the amphibious capability? The 22nd MEU is part of the Fleet Marine Forces Atlantic as well...

[dragoon500ly]

What about adding a Marine AV-8B squadron from the II MEF to replace the A-10/A-7 role and be able to support the amphibious capability? The 22nd MEU is part of the Fleet Marine Forces Atlantic as well...

For a MAU, they wouldn't deploy a full squadron, at most 4-6 Harriers.

[mpipes]

You can just make up a wing.

By 2000, you are going to have most air units grounded or disbanded. The way I saw it, from about spring 1996 till early 1998, you had most of Davis-Monthan emptied as they pulled airframes out, checked them out, and threw them back in service - minimal refurbishment for the most part.

A lot of these went to new squadrons. For example, probably over half of the A-10 airframes were in the bone yard. They would be standing up squadrons as fast as they could with every pilot they could get their hands on. Think Germany or Japan in 45 or the Brits and the Soviets in 40 - 41. So just make up a sqdn, stick colorful pilots in and go off to war.

Examples:
MICHAEL DORN
Dorn was an accomplished pilot and applied to a USAF initiative in April 1997 to allow pilots with at least 1,000 hours flight time including at least 250 hours jet time to apply as pilots up to age 40. Despite being older than 40, he managed to waive into the program. He was assigned to a newly formed Reserve F-20A unit in June 1997 and deployed to Europe in July 1997. His unit still actively flies sorties, and he is a quadruple-ace with three MiG-29s, one SU-30, three MiG-21s, two SU-24s, one SU-17, two SU-39s, one MiG-23BN, one MiG-23L, one MiG-23MLD, two MiG-27Ds, one SU-22, one TU-22, an Italian Tornado, an Italian AMX, and an Italian Alphajet credited as of 2000. One of the USAF top surviving aces, and 4th best in the F-20A.
Colt Double Eagle .45, Colt GAU-5/A/B w/4x optic

HARRISON FORD
A pre-war licensed pilot, in 2000 Ford routinely flies DIA operatives and Special Forces teams in and out of Mexican occupied California, Utah, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico using his Cessna 208 Caravan. Also flies an F-100D SuperSabre with a militia unit based near NORAD Headquarters and has one DC-3 kill, an AN-22, a Jaguar, an L-39ZA, as well as a pair of helicopters credited. He has also tangled with MiG21Ms, MiG23BNs, and Mirage F1s, with one Mirage F1 recorded as probable and a MiG23BN damaged. Has been damaged in a dogfight with a Mirage 4000, losing his wingman in the encounter.
Also has flight time in a privately owned and restored MiG-17 and J.2, but has only flown the SuperSabre in combat.
Bushmaster A3 Carbine w/4x optic, Sterling SMG 9mm w/suppressor, S&W SW-380, Seecamp LWS-380, C.96 9mm w/reflex optic (a gift from a local gunsmith who restored a beat up mis-matched Broomhandle and modified it into a near-duplicate of Solo’s blaster from the “Star War” series)

KURT RUSSELL
Russell was a licensed pilot at the start of the war, but his age (45) prevented him from getting into the Air Force program for licensed pilots. However, he owned a P-47N Thunderbolt, and after Mexico invaded, was recruited and ended up flying missions in a militia unit operating near Vegas in his rearmed Thunderbolt (8xM3 .50). He managed to down a helicopter and damage a SU-17D before being recruited as part of an Army initiative to integrate fixed wing prop aircraft for close air support. He eventually ended up in the African Task Force flying his Thunderbolt, dubbed “Negro Lobo” (Black Wolf) with the volunteer group. He considers himself primarily an attack pilot, but often flies top cover for Army A-1 Skyraiders and OA-37s. He has cultivated a colorful reputation, wearing a large handlebar mustache, with nightly bouts of drinking and story-telling at various local bars. Well liked, and considered tough as hell. He has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do as well and can competently handle a katana or sword because of training he has done for films. Also skilled with a knife. He has also scored five other kills in Africa; an Aermacchi SF.260, a Chinese built J-5, a Chinese built J-2, a suspected Russian or Cuban transport, as well as a Mil-17 helicopter, bringing his confirmed total to six. Nominated for Air Force Cross.
HK-53 w/1x reflex sight, FN FAL 50-64, S&W 645, Colt 1911, Springfield M1 converted to mag feed and 7.62mm NATO

JOHN TRAVOLTA
A licensed pilot, Travolta applied to a USAF initiative in April 1997 to allow pilots with at least 1,000 hours flight time including at least 250 hours jet time to apply as pilots up to age 40. Travolta was admitted to the program, and arrived at Davis-Montham 5/97 where he was assigned to an A-10 unit being formed with the Missouri Air Guard and received his jet. His unit was activated and he was sent to Europe 7/97 operating from autobahn auxiliary fields. Awarded the Silver Star and Distinguished Flying Cross. One of the few pilots still regularly taking to the skies, doing so with the same A-10 he received at Davis-Montham - “Blood Ogre.” Credited with over 100 armored vehicles destroyed, and has downed three Mi-24s, a Ka-22, a Mi-8, a SU-22, two SU-25s, a L-39Z, an Italian Alphajet, and a SU-17D, as well as damaging an Italian Tornado. He is considered an exceptional low level attack pilot but maintains he is “just VERY lucky.” He has also been nominated for the Medal of Honor, and he has one of the best combat records of any pilot in Europe.
HK-33A2SG1 w/4-12x optic, Glock 19

QUAID BROTHERS
Randy and Dennis Quaid were experienced pilots at the start of the war. Two of the initial investors in the Heritage Aircraft Manufacturing Corp., they each purchased one of the early replica fighters to roll off the assembly line. Wanting something unusual and unique with panache, Randy selected a slightly modernized version of the Japanese Ki-84, while Dennis went with a similarly modernized American P-38L (GPS navigation, digital flight instrumentation, and autopilot).
Both Randy and Dennis remained active in the film and television business through 11/1997, even though active filming and production operations had largely ceased in the Los Angeles area. Neither had received a draft notice, and their collective families were at Dennis’ Montana ranch (in part to deter roving bands of Russian stragglers from the October fighting causing mischief) on TDM. After TDM, the brothers eventually became part of a militia unit. Both of their fighters have been rearmed (KI-84 with 2xM39 20mm cannon w/250 rpg and the P-38 with 2xM39 20mm cannon w/250 rpg and 2x.50 machinegun w/350 rpg), and they actively patrol into north Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona. Randy has shot down a Mil-24D Hind and Bell 412 helicopter and damaged a MiG-27J, and Dennis has downed a C-130, a DC-7, and damaged an L-39Z. They primarily fly attack missions and are usually escorted by a pair of F-86Hs that are also part of their militia unit.
Both fighters carry an historical paint scheme; Ki-84 in 85th Hiko-Sentai paint scheme and P-38 in 39th Fighter Squadron paint scheme. Randy likes to fly wearing a head scarf like a WWII kamikaze pilot, but instead of the Rising Sun, the scarf has an embroidered snarling tiger head superimposed over green dragon wings.
Randy: M3 SMG .45, Colt M1911A1 .45, Ruger 77 MkII .300 Magnum RSP
Dennis: M/45 9mm SMG, S&W M29 .44 magnum, Detonic Combat Master .45, Savage 110C .270

JIMMY BUFFET
Buffet had a colorful life before the war, and so it should not be surprising that his life after the war began continued to be colorful. After the war began, Florida National Guard and Air National Guard pilots and aircraft mechanics were largely activated, leaving a pronounced shortage of pilots for state service, and state governments requested civilian volunteers to take up the slack, enlarging and expanding the role of the civil air patrol organization. Buffet, an experienced multi-engine pilot, joined the CAP and began flying with them, learning to fly a number of military multi-engine aircraft including C-21s and C-130s. After TDM, Buffet ended up co-located with a Marine Reserve Squadron in north Florida, where during his free time, he fooled around on an A-7 simulator, racking up dozens of hours. In mid-1998, he found himself officially “drafted” as a Marine Corps Lieutenant and deployed flying C-130s, C-8As, C-21s, S3s, and A-7Es in a composite Navy Air Squadron operating from Sweden. Considered a true professional, he has a reputation of taking on difficult challenges. Credited with a submarine kill (in an S3) and sinking a Polish missile boat (in an A-7E) as well as one Polish SU-22 kill (in an A-7E).
KAC SR-16 16” w/reflex optic, SiG-229 SAS .357SiG, Walther P88 Compact 9mm, Astra A-100 .45

Of note: I allowed for a lot more planes flying, but sorties are down for fuel shortages.

Anyway, be a little creative and don't feel limited by the historical aircraft units in 1996. In four years of war; it'll change.

[Olefin]

"KURT RUSSELL
Russell was a licensed pilot at the start of the war, but his age (45) prevented him from getting into the Air Force program for licensed pilots. However, he owned a P-47N Thunderbolt, and after Mexico invaded, was recruited and ended up flying missions in a militia unit operating near Vegas in his rearmed Thunderbolt (8xM3 .50). He managed to down a helicopter and damage a SU-17D before being recruited as part of an Army initiative to integrate fixed wing prop aircraft for close air support. He eventually ended up in the African Task Force flying his Thunderbolt, dubbed “Negro Lobo” (Black Wolf) with the volunteer group. He considers himself primarily an attack pilot, but often flies top cover for Army A-1 Skyraiders and OA-37s. He has cultivated a colorful reputation, wearing a large handlebar mustache, with nightly bouts of drinking and story-telling at various local bars. Well liked, and considered tough as hell. He has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do as well and can competently handle a katana or sword because of training he has done for films. Also skilled with a knife. He has also scored five other kills in Africa; an Aermacchi SF.260, a Chinese built J-5, a Chinese built J-2, a suspected Russian or Cuban transport, as well as a Mil-17 helicopter, bringing his confirmed total to six. Nominated for Air Force Cross.
HK-53 w/1x reflex sight, FN FAL 50-64, S&W 645, Colt 1911, Springfield M1 converted to mag feed and 7.62mm NATO"

Damn love the idea of Kurt Russell being part of the 1st US Volunteer Mechanized Battalion in Kenya - i.e. his plane would be the P-47N on their roster

• Aircraft: two P-47D, one P-47N, three P-51D

[The Dark]

JIMMY BUFFET
Buffet had a colorful life before the war, and so it should not be surprising that his life after the war began continued to be colorful. After the war began, Florida National Guard and Air National Guard pilots and aircraft mechanics were largely activated, leaving a pronounced shortage of pilots for state service, and state governments requested civilian volunteers to take up the slack, enlarging and expanding the role of the civil air patrol organization. Buffet, an experienced multi-engine pilot, joined the CAP and began flying with them, learning to fly a number of military multi-engine aircraft including C-21s and C-130s. After TDM, Buffet ended up co-located with a Marine Reserve Squadron in north Florida, where during his free time, he fooled around on an A-7 simulator, racking up dozens of hours. In mid-1998, he found himself officially “drafted” as a Marine Corps Lieutenant and deployed flying C-130s, C-8As, C-21s, S3s, and A-7Es in a composite Navy Air Squadron operating from Sweden. Considered a true professional, he has a reputation of taking on difficult challenges. Credited with a submarine kill (in an S3) and sinking a Polish missile boat (in an A-7E) as well as one Polish SU-22 kill (in an A-7E).
KAC SR-16 16” w/reflex optic, SiG-229 SAS .357SiG, Walther P88 Compact 9mm, Astra A-100 .45

By 1994, Jimmy already had Navy Survival Training (it's mentioned in the report on his Grumman Widgeon crash in August 1994). I am a little dubious that he'd be flying attack aircraft in the late 90s; by 1998 he's fifty-one years old (turning fifty-two on Christmas Day of that year) and (IRL) he had no jet experience, so he'd either be flying jets after a couple years of off-and-on simulator training or prop aircraft with thirteen years of experience. My personal opinion is he'd more likely remain with prop transport or SAR aircraft, possibly even his personal HU-16C Albatross "Hemisphere Dancer" (which was shot at in Jamaica in 1996 and retired in 2003) to allow younger and fitter guys to take the jet aircraft.

[mpipes]

By 1994, Jimmy already had Navy Survival Training (it's mentioned in the report on his Grumman Widgeon crash in August 1994). I am a little dubious that he'd be flying attack aircraft in the late 90s; by 1998 he's fifty-one years old (turning fifty-two on Christmas Day of that year) and (IRL) he had no jet experience, so he'd either be flying jets after a couple years of off-and-on simulator training or prop aircraft with thirteen years of experience. My personal opinion is he'd more likely remain with prop transport or SAR aircraft, possibly even his personal HU-16C Albatross "Hemisphere Dancer" (which was shot at in Jamaica in 1996 and retired in 2003) to allow younger and fitter guys to take the jet aircraft.

Actually, my understanding is that he was multi-engine rated by 1994. He definitely has his commercial license now. If you watch the 1995 movie Congo, he is the 727 pilot, and I remember reading an article on the movie and it was commented at that time that he was licensed to fly it, so he was at least rated in 727s then. I had a girlfriend that grew up living by "Uncle Jimmy" and he was taking her up on multi-engine aircraft years before then. He flies a LOT and has a ton of hours by 1996. According to an article on the Widgeon landing accident he had in 1994, he had over 1500 hours logged; 400 in multiengine aircraft.

[WallShadow]

Buffet had a colorful life before the war, and so it should not be surprising that his life after the war began continued to be colorful. After the war began, Florida National Guard and Air National Guard pilots and aircraft mechanics were largely activated, leaving a pronounced shortage of pilots for state service, and state governments requested civilian volunteers to take up the slack, enlarging and expanding the role of the civil air patrol organization. Buffet, an experienced multi-engine pilot, joined the CAP and began flying with them, learning to fly a number of military multi-engine aircraft including C-21s and C-130s. After TDM, Buffet ended up co-located with a Marine Reserve Squadron in north Florida, where during his free time, he fooled around on an A-7 simulator, racking up dozens of hours. In mid-1998, he found himself officially “drafted” as a Marine Corps Lieutenant and deployed flying C-130s, C-8As, C-21s, S3s, and A-7Es in a composite Navy Air Squadron operating from Sweden. Considered a true professional, he has a reputation of taking on difficult challenges. Credited with a submarine kill (in an S3) and sinking a Polish missile boat (in an A-7E) as well as one Polish SU-22 kill (in an A-7E).
KAC SR-16 16” w/reflex optic, SiG-229 SAS .357SiG, Walther P88 Compact 9mm, Astra A-100 .45

Of note: I allowed for a lot more planes flying, but sorties are down for fuel shortages.

Anyway, be a little creative and don't feel limited by the historical aircraft units in 1996. In four years of war; it'll change.

Buffet has/had a Grumman Albatross at the time of the war. In '96 he was shot at by Jamaican authorities mistaking his plane for a drug courier. http://www.buffettworld.com/aviation/albatross/
JIMMY BUFFET

[The Dark]

Actually, my understanding is that he was multi-engine rated by 1994. He definitely has his commercial license now. If you watch the 1995 movie Congo, he is the 727 pilot, and I remember reading an article on the movie and it was commented at that time that he was licensed to fly it, so he was at least rated in 727s then. I had a girlfriend that grew up living by "Uncle Jimmy" and he was taking her up on multi-engine aircraft years before then. He flies a LOT and has a ton of hours by 1996. According to an article on the Widgeon landing accident he had in 1994, he had over 1500 hours logged; 400 in multiengine aircraft.

Yeah, I forgot about his Falcons. He's owned a pair of three-engine business jets over the years (a Falcon 50 and a Falcon 900). He's just much better known for his amphibians (the Widgeon, Albatross, pair of Caravans, and Goose). He has type ratings for the Cessna Citation, Falcons, and Albatross. I've never seen anything about him being qualified on the 727, but he could have let that expire since there are only a few dozen left.

[Adm.Lee]

Sidebar: In the mid- and late-90s, I was becoming a bit of a Parrothead myself. I ran a Merc:2k campaign that was more-or-less centered in the Caribbean. Somewhat inspired by this, the PC group bought an Albatross after a big payout, so they could move to jobs more easily. One of the PCs already had some Pilot skill.

It also gave me an out if a player couldn't make a session: "So-and-so is guarding the plane this time."

IIRC, one adventure featured the NPCs from Buffett's novel "Where is Joe Merchant?", too.