Pendraken Miniatures Forum

Wider Wargaming => Non-Pendraken Stuff => Topic started by: bigjackmac on 18 September 2018, 03:54:22 AM

Title: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 18 September 2018, 03:54:22 AM
All,

Current situation: It's 27 July 1990 in South Leon.  Free Cuba had a small force, Task Force Fulgencio (a company of Marines, a company of paras, and a detachment of Special Forces), on the ground since 1 May, assisting the government of South Leon with its internal insurgency by the Free Leon Army (FLA), supported by its Communist neighbor to the north, Fédération Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), which not only supports the FLA against the South Leon government, but has quietly infiltrated troops, weapons, and supplies to them across the DMZ for years.  But all of that became not so quiet on 24 July 1990, when the FSNL Army launched a cross border invasion that marched all the way to the center of the country, capturing the capital city of Pendrakenville and the major regional hub, Diwala.  The Cuban forces in country were quite fortunate at the timing of it all: the company of Marines, AKA Task Force Redleg, under 1st Lt Ordonez, had recently fought a series of short, sharp fights on the DMZ, followed by the company of paras, AKA Task Force Razor, under Soares, was sucked into a series of hellacious fights in the urban sprawl of Diwala, against a suddenly very aggressive FLA.

Following the fights in Diwala, TF Razor was in very bad shape, so Captain Soares pulled his company out of Diwala to lick its wounds, falling back to the northwest, just north of Pendrakenville, and TF Redleg withdrew south from the DMZ to cover them.  This was quite fortunate as soon after the FSNL Army stormed across the border, running roughshod over the South Leon Army units in its way, pushing south to capture the capital, then east to capture Diwala.  Task Forces Razor and Redleg found themselves isolated and cut off, but relatively safe, for the time being.

Back in Havana, troops were immediately marshalled and dispatched.  The heavy forces, tanks and infantry fighting vehicles of Major Chavez' A Company, 4th Armored Infantry (AKA Task Force Hammer) and 1st Lt Madre-Animral's F Company, 8 Commando (AKA Task Force Bowie) required a beach or a port in order to put ashore, so 1st Lt Villagrosa's SF Detachment 212, AKA TF Dusty, was ordered to parachute in north of the landing beaches to draw FSNL/FLA forces away (Operation Currahee), and then 1st Lt Espinale's paratroopers, AKA TF Hawk, jumped in to screen the landing beaches (Operation Geronimo).  Both airborne drops were successful, allowing TF Hammer and Bowie to brings their vehicles and heavy weapons ashore.  They immediately began pushing east, towards Pendrakenville, bagging large numbers of FSNL/FLA prisoners, which actually slowed their advance and allowed enemy forces in the Pendrakenville area to face about and prepare a defense.  The newly arrived Cuban forces went firm, securing their lodgment in South Leon and beginning the task of stockpiling ammunition and supplies for the upcoming fight.  Meanwhile, TF Razor and Redleg remained cutoff north of Pendrakenville, as FSNL forces continued to flow across the border into South Leon.

The immediate focus of Brigadier Habanero became to repatriate his wayward Task Forces, and to stop the FSNL Army in the north from reinforcing Pendrakenville and Diwala.  1st Lt Gouveia's ODA 313 (AKA TF Black), located with TF Razor and Redleg, and TF Dusty were tasked with Phase 1 of Operation Chunky Bandit, the reconquest of South Leon.  Phase 1a would see TF Black attack east of Route 1 (the major north-south route in the center of the country, running from the DMZ to Pendrakenville), establishing commanding observation points to aid in the delivery of interdictory strikes by Cuban tactical air support.  Phase 1b would see TF Dusty and Captain Stelosavo's B Squadron, OD Phoenix (TF 23, Cuban Tier 1 operators) attack west of Route 1 in order to locate and neutralize the FSNL command and control center there.

Phase 2 would see Major Fulgencio lead Task Forces Razor and Redleg in a breakout to the west, where they would link up with Cuban forces that just landed, and then Phase 3 would see the combined force push east to liberate the capital city of Pendrakenville, and then Diwala.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gtw87-rjt3Q/W4CzfCcOXsI/AAAAAAAAlXI/YxreDxse7DorQRvr9pMAwSTLURwR7XpPACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3168.JPG)
The Phase 1a series of fights sees Lt Gouveia's TF Black move into an area northwest of Pendrakenville, just east of Route 1.  To their immediate northwest is Hill 114, the dominating terrain feature they're looking for to establish an OP on and call in Cuban tactical air.  The past two days have seen South Leon Army forces attacking  FSNL troops occupying Hill 114, to no avail, and so the Cubans have stepped in to take over the area of operations.  Knowing they have time as freshly landed Cuban task forces (Hammer, Bowie, Dusty, Hawk, and 23) form up and prepare for the attack on Pendrakenville, and being severely outnumbered, Lt Gouveia has made the choice to carry out operations to reduce the enemy forces in and around Hill 114 only at night, where he figures his highly trained Special Forces troops will have a significant advantage.  I've also worked in a neat little campaign mechanic for Phase 1a.

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/08/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign.html
Phase 1a campaign plan

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-1.html
Fight #1

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-2.html
Fight #2

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-3.html
Fight #3

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-4.html
Fight #4

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-5.html
Fight #5

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-6.html
Fight #6

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-7.html
Fight #7

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-8.html
Fight #8

http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/task-force-black-roster.html
TF Black Roster

Next up is a series of fights where TF Black augments local South Leon Army forces to assault Hill 114.

V/R,
Jack

Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Terry37 on 18 September 2018, 03:58:21 AM
Wow!!! A truly awesome looking game,and report, but that game board is outstanding!!!!

Terry
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 18 September 2018, 07:15:04 AM
 :o :o :o :o :o

Stroll on...That's my reading material for the next couple of weeks !!  ;)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: petercooman on 18 September 2018, 08:11:59 AM
Quote from: Techno on 18 September 2018, 07:15:04 AM
:o :o :o :o :o

Stroll on...That's my reading material for the next couple of weeks !!  ;)

Cheers - Phil

He probably took as long to write it all down!!!

Nice table jack! Is the middle bridge (bridge 1) the one from pendraken?

PS: did you lose sight of a guy for a few turns during the games? I know i would on a dense table! :D
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: paulr on 18 September 2018, 08:28:48 AM
Impressive :-bd =D> :-bd =D>
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Steve J on 18 September 2018, 01:42:10 PM
That is one great looking table and, as always, a very impressive AAR :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 18 September 2018, 05:04:49 PM
Well, I know what I'll be reading later tonight, fab work Jack.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Womble67 on 18 September 2018, 05:05:52 PM
Lovely looking table

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: d_Guy on 18 September 2018, 11:31:24 PM
As always great story telling, Jack. I have not yet begun to get all the way through the story yet. Love the table - it always looks like you work from air recon photos.  :-bd
Plus - I can't get this out of my head:

(https://leadenshipsandtinmen.files.wordpress.com/2018/09/96a90662-03b6-43a6-b7d6-aaa1715598c0.jpeg)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 19 September 2018, 01:46:13 AM
Hey, thank so much everyone, I appreciate the support and kind words, and I hope they're fun reads for you guys.

Didn't lose anybody (the games were small, pretty much all 7 bad guys vs 7 good guys), and the bridge is 15mm from Novus Design Studio (formerly JR Miniatures?).

And yes, it took me a long time to type up and post these things, I played the games three weeks ago.  I would have posted the batreps one at a time, as normal, but due to the nature of the campaign, I figured some of them would be rather unfulfilling if I posted them by their lonesome.

No candy bars were harmed in the making of this war ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: petercooman on 19 September 2018, 08:33:58 AM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 19 September 2018, 01:46:13 AM

Didn't lose anybody (the games were small, pretty much all 7 bad guys vs 7 good guys), and the bridge is 15mm from Novus Design Studio (formerly JR Miniatures?).



Ok, looked a lot like the pendraken one!
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 19 September 2018, 11:57:39 AM
After reading the first paragraph I have an urge to listen to the Sex Pistols :D

Iiiis this the FSNL, Iiiiiis this the FLA, etc etc :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 19 September 2018, 12:13:55 PM
Quote from: toxicpixie on 19 September 2018, 11:57:39 AM
After reading the first paragraph I have an urge to listen to the Sex Pistols :D

The Mother - In - Law's paper.....a couple (?) of days ago, had a photo of Mr Lydon (J. Rotten Esq.) waiting in an airport lounge.

Those of you who worry about your weight should have a look at that !.

Jeepers !.....He's more overweight, than I'm underweight.  :o :o :o :o :o

Cheers - Mr Skelington.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 19 September 2018, 12:36:54 PM
Wow, just looked at the piccies and that's a superb outfit for messing up cameras with :D

Definitely now a "chunky bandit", but given the dudes a pensioner and has never given any f-'s about what anyone else thinks, I can't imagine he's very fussed :D

I agree with Janet Street-Porter (not something I often say, tbh) - "Let's raise a glass to John Lydon, for proudly letting it all hang out in sweat pants."!
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 19 September 2018, 03:17:45 PM
Easy, stay on point, we have a lot of work to do!

Next up the South Leon Army, with Lobo's guys serving as advisors, will attack and hold Hill 114, then the high speed shooters are going after enemy command and control, then the Marine and Paratrooper companies in the north have to break out of the encirclement, then the combined Cuban forces have to take Pendrakenville and Diwala, and then launch a counteroffensive to push the FSNL back across the border to the north. And there will be an aerial campaign running concurrently.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #9
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 September 2018, 10:57:28 PM
All,

Current situation: It's 0530 on 4 August 1990 in South Leon, and 1st Lt "Lobo" Gouveia has solicited the support of local South Leon Army (SLA) units to divert precious resources to carry out an operation to take Hill 114, following which Lt Gouveia's ODA-313, AKA "Task Force Black," will establish an Observation Post (OP) overlooking Route 1 (the major north-south artery which enemy troops are using to reinforce Pendrakenville and Diwala) and call in air strikes to halt the flow of enemy forces, which was the original plan.  Lt Gouveia's team spent the past week engaging enemy forces in vicinity of Hill 114, both inflicting and taking heavy casualties, and on the night the Cuban commandos were set to infiltrate Hill 114 and establish their OP they were ambushed on Bridge #1.  Not only did the Cubans not accomplish their mission, thereby forcing the delay of the coming offensive to re-take Pendrakenville and Diwala, but they also allowed an enemy logistical column to sneak "special munitions" out of the area.   

Lt Gouveia has been promised a SLA mechanized battalion, and he has secured (limited amounts of) Cuban air support.  The desired end-state is joint Cuban/SLA possession of Hill 114; to that end, the SLA battalion scheme of maneuver is to probe to the northeast of Hill 114 (this fight, which is taking place directly north of the map used for Operation Chunky Bandit fights 1-8), seeking to find an opening in the enemy defenses and exploit it with a hasty attack on the objective, or go firm and secure the right flank of the attack.  While this is occurring, Cuban air support will pound Hill 30 (at center right of the Op CB fights 1-8), and then SLA forces will assault and hold Hill 30  (will be Op CB #10) to secure a position to support the Hill 114 assault by fire and secure the left flank of the attack.  The SLA command, of course, expects the enemy to vigorously counterattack Hill 30 (will be Op CB #11).  Then SLA forces will conduct an air assault to the northwest of Hill 114 (off the map for Op CB fights 1-8 to top left) to isolate the objective, preventing withdrawal and reinforcement (this will be Op CB #12), and then the assault on Hill 114 will commence (will be Op CB #13).  Again, SLA leadership presumes the enemy will vigorously counterattack if Hill 114 falls (will hopefully be Op CB #14, assuming the attack on Hill 114 succeeds, but that applies pretty much to all of these).

So Staff Sergeant "Tahoe" Gallarraga has been assigned to accompany the SLA mechanized battalion's A Company, whose mission is to see if they can catch the enemy off guard and sneak onto the backside of Hill 114, or, if not, secure some terrain features northeast of Hill 114 in order to secure the right flank of the assault on Hill 114.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QfmkxXaCqB0/W6fEmWt8HLI/AAAAAAAAmLY/ExslYUNkDuM1NXJnw0kDC3AMqkmMSmAUwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3700.JPG)
Overview, north is up.  Hill 114, the ultimate objective, is at bottom left, though I wouldn't expect the SLA troops to be able to just mosey on up there.  At top center is Hill 27, at right is Hill 29, at center is village #1, top right is village #2, and at bottom right is village #3.  The river is crossable, with penalty, by infantry anywhere; vehicles can only cross at the three fords (top left, top center, and bottom center), and infantry cross at the fords without penalty.  Unfortunately for the SLA/Cubans, the bad guys were expecting trouble to the northeast, so they're well prepared, with defensive positions on Hill 114 (bottom left), an outpost on Hill 27 (top center), and roving patrols between them (top left).  The SLA forces had divided into two roughly equal parts: top right, and far right, with their mortar set up on the lee of Hill 29 (far right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvZFEJ1RnC0/W6fEboeOPAI/AAAAAAAAmLM/YJ-MC7tyB88U0P70GeOvZWJGXH5n36_gwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3696.JPG)
The opposing forces, with SLA on the right and FSNL (communist neighbors to the north) at left.  The troops are all Pendraken 10mm, except the Cuban (singly-based dude at bottom center right), which is Minifigs UK.  The M-113 ACAV is also Pendraken, though the M-48 is plastic from Takara.  The two bunkers at bottom left are from Flashpoint Miniatures, and the sandbagged position is from Miniature Building Authority.  I'm playing this series of fights (the SLA operation to take Hill 114) using Ivan Sorensen's "Squad Hammer" rules, modified a bit.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WCWdSxEteMU/W6fHmqQrikI/AAAAAAAAmRw/fwhF4zeXohM2OiE8O13P-pJeacRXMMvygCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3763.JPG)
It's tough work cleaning out bunkers.  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-9.html

Anyway, next up is the fight for Hill 45.  Hill 45, you'll recall from Operation Chunky Bandit fights numbers 4 and 5, is not a happy place, the Cubans having been dealt a bloody nose their, twice.  In any case, Company B, with SSgt "Gundog" Baerga, is currently in the assembly line, preparing to step off in the attack, as Cuban F-4 Phantoms mercilessly pound Hill 45 and the village of Siagnoa.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 25 September 2018, 07:17:54 AM
Another nice report Jack.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 25 September 2018, 07:45:17 AM
Seconded !!

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 26 September 2018, 12:36:19 AM
Thanks fellars, should have the next one posted Thursday night.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Womble67 on 26 September 2018, 11:29:18 AM
I thoroughly enjoyed reading that

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 27 September 2018, 12:09:02 AM
Thanks Andy!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #10
Post by: bigjackmac on 27 September 2018, 12:20:03 AM
All,

Thirty minutes ago Staff Sergeant "Tahoe" Gallarraga accompanied the SLA mechanized battalion's A Company on a probe northeast of Hill 114, where they discovered the enemy had prepared defenses in that zone, though they were able to secure Hill 27 and thus fulfill their mission of anchoring the right (northern) flank of the upcoming attack on Hill 114.  Tahoe was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions taking Hill 27.

Now we join Staff Sergeant "Gundog" Baerga, set to accompany the mechanized battalion's B Company in the assault on Hill 45, which will secure both the left (southern) flank of the Hill 114 assault, as well as a position to support by fire.  The airstrikes by Cuban F-4 Phantoms lift as they command group splits up and moves out to join their units, the sounds of 750-pound bombs exploding still echoing through the valley.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LpzDe_Ww-Eo/W6fMWiBsuLI/AAAAAAAAmUE/CyyP-vrPAdIj3UTxb9A0tz9-T3D_qbj1wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3785.JPG)
Overview, north is up.  Hill 45, with evidence of its pounding at the hands of those hotshot Cuban fighter jocks visible, is at top left.  This area is essentially just the bottom right portion of the map used for Op Chunky Bandit fights 1-8.  At bottom left is Bridge #2, and the bottom right corner was TF Black's entry point each game.  At center left is the abandoned truck and weapons cache, off camera at top right is The Garage, and off camera at bottom left is Hill 30 and The Church.  The enemy bunkers and recoilless rifle are on Hill 45 (top left), their rifle platoon has just come down from Hill 30 (off camera) and is approaching Bridge #2 (bottom left), while the SLA company has just entered the battlespace in the southeast (bottom right).

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5xBaJOCHQAM/W6fMORNzi6I/AAAAAAAAmT8/tLJBiap2_q0k9icjMoaA2H3a2sKAmhbCwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3782.JPG)
The opposing forces, with SLA on the right and FSNL (communist neighbors to the north) at left.  The troops are all Pendraken 10mm, except the Cuban (singly-based dude at bottom center right), which is Minifigs UK.  The M-113 ACAVs are also Pendraken, though the M-48 is plastic from Takara.  The two bunkers at bottom left are from Flashpoint Miniatures, and the sandbagged position is from Miniature Building Authority.  I'm playing this series of fights (the SLA operation to take Hill 114) using Ivan Sorensen's "Squad Hammer" rules, modified a bit.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ip5N1QeSzIg/W6fOU7A_pII/AAAAAAAAmYA/M_P_tyAU-40TgDwISUf2pPkJxsHipzKhACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3826.JPG)
Pendraken North Vietnamese, err, I mean Fédération Socialiste Nationale de Leon, or FSNL, troops launch an RPG at the M-48!  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/09/operation-chunky-bandit-10.html

Next up, the FSNL counterattack.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 27 September 2018, 12:24:33 PM
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Terry37 on 27 September 2018, 02:33:05 PM
The awesomeness just continues!!! Some really great looking and fun games!

Terry
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 28 September 2018, 12:04:25 AM
Thanks guys, and stop it Terry, you're giving me a big head! ;)

And the fun is just beginning for Chunky Bandit: I still have 3-4 fights to go for phase 1b, then moving to some high-speed SOF, direct-action missions (probably 3-4 fights) using either Combat Patrol or Black Ops, then phase 2 is going to incorporate some fast new aerial dogfighting rules and some 10mm ground fights, maybe with Squad Hammer, before phase 3 goes into effect in 10mm with 5Core Company Command.  Probably 3-4 ground fights in phase 2 and a dozen or so in phase 3, probably about 15 total air fights in Chunky Bandit.

By the time Chunky Bandit is finished, I'm hoping to have my 6mm WWII stuff finished and move into Caen.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 01 October 2018, 10:59:06 PM
All,

Current situation: It's 0620 on 4 August 1990 in South Leon.  Lt Gouveia has been promised a SLA mechanized battalion, and he has secured (limited amounts of) Cuban air support.  The desired end-state is joint Cuban/SLA possession of Hill 114; to that end, the SLA battalion scheme of maneuver is to probe to the northeast of Hill 114 (this fight, which is taking place directly north of the map used for Operation Chunky Bandit fights 1-8), seeking to find an opening in the enemy defenses and exploit it with a hasty attack on the objective, or go firm and secure the right flank of the attack.  While this is occurring, Cuban air support will pound Hill 30 (at center right of the Op CB fights 1-8), and then SLA forces will assault and hold Hill 30  (will be Op CB #10) to secure a position to support the Hill 114 assault by fire and secure the left flank of the attack.  The SLA command, of course, expects the enemy to vigorously counterattack Hill 30 (will be Op CB #11).  Then SLA forces will conduct an air assault to the northwest of Hill 114 (off the map for Op CB fights 1-8 to top left) to isolate the objective, preventing withdrawal and reinforcement (this will be Op CB #12), and then the assault on Hill 114 will commence (will be Op CB #13).  Again, SLA leadership presumes the enemy will vigorously counterattack if Hill 114 falls (will hopefully be Op CB #14, assuming the attack on Hill 114 succeeds, but that applies pretty much to all of these).

Fifty minutes ago Staff Sergeant "Tahoe" Gallarraga accompanied the SLA mechanized battalion's A Company on a probe northeast of Hill 114, where they discovered the enemy had prepared defenses in that zone, though they were able to secure Hill 27 and thus fulfill their mission of anchoring the right (northern) flank of the upcoming attack on Hill 114.  Tahoe was awarded the Bronze Star for his actions taking Hill 27.

Twenty minutes ago Staff Sergeant "Gundog" Baerga accompanied the SLA mechanized battalion's B Company in the assault on Hill 45, which succeeded, but with heavy casualties, including SSgt Baerga himself, lightly wounded and evacuated.  The remaining SLA elements quickly established defensive positions atop Hill 45.

Now we join Sergeant "Racer" Palmeiro, who brought a .30-caliber machine gun team up Hill 45 to bolster the defense put on by B Company, as an enemy infantry company closes in to re-take the vital position.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yvO0RI4E8Ck/W6fRnV7qXiI/AAAAAAAAmak/1NwDBa9WUrwS-xLWJj0E9ieL0kUEFTvbgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3851.JPG)
Overview, north is up, with Hill 45 and the remains of the village of Siagnoa at top right, shattered by Cuban air support which aided greatly in B Company securing the hilltop against a dogged enemy defense. At bottom left is Hill 30, with The Church just off camera to bottom left, while at top left is the village of Lasau, with Bridge #1 (the site of the ambush that devastated TF Black in Op Chunky Bandit #8, necessitating this whole push by the SLA mechanized battalion to take Hill 114) at center top.  The SLA force is at top right, in and around Hill 45, while the bad guys have their 1st Platoon and their Dshk at bottom left, 2nd Platoon and their CO at left, and 3rd Platoon and their mortar at top left.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dw6KSqeS2Dk/W6fRbmRt4PI/AAAAAAAAmaU/RVM9ULJrT1YcAyDBNVEUQIgaShYQ2REdQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3848.JPG)
The opposing forces, with SLA on the right and FSNL (communist neighbors to the north) at left.  The troops are all Pendraken 10mm, except the Cuban (singly-based dude at bottom center right), which is Minifigs UK.  The M-113 ACAVs are also Pendraken.  I'm playing this series of fights (the SLA operation to take Hill 114) using Ivan Sorensen's "Squad Hammer" rules, modified a bit.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5eLXoGd64c4/W6fWP9c5LPI/AAAAAAAAmiw/8JgrROu9sSswNqMCatYVHQVGQwp_J5DJACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3935.JPG)
The military crest of Hill 45 is a raging inferno, the antagonists pummeling each other at point blank range, the Communists marching steadily forward under hellacious fire, the defenders broken and bloody and barely hanging on.  To see who holds the hill, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/10/operation-chunky-bandit-11.html

Things were shaping up for the direct assault on Hill 114, only one task remained: an air assault northwest of Hill 114, to cut the enemy forces off from reinforcement and/or escape.  The grim, tired faces of the SLA troops on Hill 45 turned skyward as Cuban F-4 Phantoms thundered overhead, followed shortly by the sound of large rotor beating hot, humid air, and the sight of two Cuban CH-47s hopped into view, heading northwest.  On those birds were elements of D Company, along with MSgt "Faceman" Soriano, TF Black's senior enlisted man, preparing to set down in the middle of enemy territory.  Face new that they didn't really need to 'win,' this fight, that their job was really just to tie up as many enemy forces as possible for as long as possible, and that some could, conceivably, consider this a 'suicide mission,' but the former US Navy SEAL was quite cool and calm as the Chinook began its descent into the LZ.  "We're just going to kick an anthill, then stomp as many as we can, easy!"

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 01 October 2018, 11:23:51 PM
That was a tense one Black, could have gone a lot better too! 8)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Womble67 on 02 October 2018, 10:49:11 AM
Another enjoyable read

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 02 October 2018, 08:03:15 PM
Thanks guys!

"Jack Black"
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 04 October 2018, 02:22:43 AM
All,

Forty minutes (0620 local time) ago Sergeant "Racer" Palmeiro rushed to Hill 45 to reinforce the SLA elements there, which stood up to a ferocious enemy counterattack that came within a whisker of seeing the SLA company ejected from its defensive positions, or annihilated.  The SLA troops held onto the hill by their skin of their teeth, seeing many of them decorated for valor following the fight, in which Sgt Palmeiro lost his life.  Now (0700 local time) we join Master Sergeant "Faceman" Soriano, with elements of D Company, moving to air assault in northwest of Hill 114 to block enemy reinforcement/escape.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxuKou4U6U0/W67MJGK7D0I/AAAAAAAAmlI/OPv_m_UFwKs5nXuPimeElq-LiVDWWvvTgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3953.JPG)
Overview, north is up,  Along the left (west) edge of the map is Route 1, the major route leading south from the border/DMZ the enemy is using to reinforce their forces in the South Leon capital of Pendrakenville and the regional capital, Diwala, further east.  At bottom right is the northwest end of Hill 114, the ultimate objective of this phase of the operation.  Scattered rice paddies dot the countryside, and there are three small hamlets, from bottom left to top right, villages 1 through 3.  There is a river running northeast to south, fordable along its length at penalty, though there are two actual fords (center top right and center bottom left) that vehicles could cross and are essentially no hindrance to foot movement.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-v39MvLuaXdc/W67MJDDEOHI/AAAAAAAAmlE/kBZAr4NZWhcYzTIzN01FZf4I7ECPTD20QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3954.JPG)
The opposing forces, with SLA on the right and FSNL (communist neighbors to the north) at left.  The troops are all Pendraken 10mm, except the Cuban (singly-based dude at bottom center right), which is Minifigs UK.  The two bunkers at far left are from Flashpoint Miniatures, and the sandbagged position is from Miniature Building Authority.  I'm playing this series of fights (the SLA operation to take Hill 114) using Ivan Sorensen's "Squad Hammer" rules, modified a bit.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2Nu32_EzItA/W67MceA0ObI/AAAAAAAAmlg/wg11Qcq8deA7LT8A63ey_Dlf0RdySjj4QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3959.JPG)
Chinooks inbound to the LZ.  Cue "Ride of the Valkyries"...

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P139vSRegNE/W67MnnKeVxI/AAAAAAAAmlw/9c_b6vdF4FMMgTb_bPCQPCbBc9aGifSXwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_3962.JPG)
The LZ is tight, but within minutes 1st and 2nd Platoons have deplaned and are moving to the sound of the guns.  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/10/operation-chunky-bandit-12.html

Next up is the point of this entire exercise, the assault by the South Leon Army's C Company, with 1st Lt 'Lobo' Gouveia tagging along for the ride.  Which is a bit worrisome for me, as bad as the Cubans have been fairing in these SLA assaults.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 16 October 2018, 12:09:27 AM
All,

Now (0730 local time) we join 1st Lt "Lobo" Gouveia with C Company (reinforced), assaulting the eastern central slope of Hill 114, who needs to hurry.  They need to take the hill and establish their Observation Post so close air support can be called down on enemy elements on Route 1; if this is not accomplished, D Company will be quickly overrun, the breakout attempt by Task Forces Redleg and Razor will be imperiled, and the enemy will continue to reinforce the capital of Pendrakenville, making the offensive to re-take the capital that much more expensive.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xCPR2UlLDoA/W6_eTtPWrlI/AAAAAAAAmvo/8eJMfReTW0Q9aYSTO1CON9TLdHq-NkTjwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4067.JPG)

Overview, north is up.  At left are two fingers running east off of Hill 114, with its mass off camera to left.  Off camera to bottom center would be the southeast slope of Hill 114, which featured in fights 1 through 8, off camera to top center would be the northeast slope of Hill 114, which featured in fight number 9, and off camera a ways to top left would be the northwest slope of Hill 114, which featured in fight number 12.  Cuban F-4 Phantoms have worked over Hill 114, you can see the craters and bombed out stands of trees.  The area is largely comprised of rice paddies, with a stream running north to south, fordable (at a penalty) in all locations by infantry, but vehicles can only pass at the actual fords (bottom center right, center right, and center top right).  At top right is the village of Biafra. FSNL deployment in the west (left) and the SLA deployment in the east (right).  The SLA CO, 1st Platoon, Rhino 11 (tank), and Cheetahs 21 and 22 (tracks) are at top right, while Lobo, 2nd Platoon, Rhino 12, and Cheetah 23 are at bottom right.  The enemy Dshk HMG is in a pillbox at top left, Bunker #1 is at top center left, and their CO, 1st Platoon, and 82mm mortar in the trenchline at far left top, while their recoiless rifle is in a sandbagged emplacement at bottom left, 2nd Platoon is in the trenchline at bottom left center, and Bunker #2 is at bottom center left.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--BVFiY3FA0M/W7fHOKg1iGI/AAAAAAAAmxg/rJKqEns9EJg136CI6uSW3PD3yWXecK3ewCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4088.JPG)

SLA armor and infantry pound the enemy bunker on the northern finger, looking to break in.  To see how the fight turned out, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/10/operation-chunky-bandit-13.html?m=1

One more fight in phase 1b, coming right up!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 16 October 2018, 08:22:15 AM
Excellent, once again, Jack !!  :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Womble67 on 16 October 2018, 08:52:05 AM
Another great looking table and Report

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Maenoferren on 16 October 2018, 11:47:59 AM
Looking good
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 16 October 2018, 09:51:29 PM
Great one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 17 October 2018, 03:03:49 AM
Thanks everyone, I do appreciate the comments, glad folks are getting some fun out of them.  I'll try and post the next fight tomorrow night, Thursday at the latest.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Womble67 on 17 October 2018, 10:05:15 AM
Yeah another good report and a lovely looking table well done

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 17 October 2018, 04:36:54 PM
Thanks, Andy, and it's time to do whatever it is you do! ;)
The post has been up almost 48 hours and has 29 hits. Whenever you share they immediately jump to 150!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 18 October 2018, 11:47:02 PM
All,

Current situation: It's 0830 on 4 August 1990 in South Leon.  Lt Gouveia has been promised a SLA mechanized battalion, and he has secured (limited amounts of) Cuban air support.  The desired end-state is joint Cuban/SLA possession of Hill 114; one hour ago 1st Lt "Lobo" Gouveia accompanies the South Leon Army (SLA) C Company (reinforced), assaulted the eastern central slope of Hill 114.  C Company paid dearly, having to essentially annihilate the FSNL (Communist) defenders in their defensive positions, but now the stage is set to accomplish the objective of Phase 1 of Operation Chunky Bandit. 

Now (0830 local time) we join 1st Lt "Lobo" Gouveia, SSgt "Tahoe" Galarraga, and Sgt "Snoop" Concepcion, the last three members of TF Black still in action.  TF Black has borrowed a few SLA soldiers to carry gear up to Point 112, the military crest of Hill 114, where they will establish the long-awaited Observation Post and begin calling in Cuban airstrikes to cut Route 1.  The remains of TF Black is being escorted to Point 112 by the SLA C Company's 3rd Platoon.  This would soon be known as "The Bloodletting at OP ANGEL."

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tMLWp63Srtg/W7jR3RxLafI/AAAAAAAAm7s/5ksx1lfFexgVGCHE4D3Nwdcz-P4mIDJJACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4196.JPG)
Overview, north is up.  Sure, the map looks flat, but that's because the play area is so small.  At this point we are actually on top of Hill 114, so that the last fight actually took place just off camera to right.  The finger at top right is the opposite side of the north finger 1st Platoon assaulted (with the blockhouse), while the south finger has a much more gradual slope into the plateau atop Hill 114 so that it's not noticeable, but the defensive position where the enemy recoiless rifle was at is just off camera to bottom right.  For that matter, the northeast slope of Hill 114, which was run into in Operation CB #1, would be off camera to top center right, and the enemy positions seen in the air assault (Operation CB #12) are off camera to top left.  So at far left bottom is Point 112, where the remains of TF Black will establish their OP, and just off camera to left Hill 114's slope tapers off to the west, where it runs into Route 1.  The ground here is cut up by previous Cuban airstrikes on Hill 114, so it's mostly craters, bombed out stands of trees, a couple of scorched spots (top left and bottom right) from Cuban napalm, and a few patches of trees that weren't touched by the bombing.

You can see the SLA/Cuban force at far bottom right.  Their goal is simple, to get the Cuban stand up to the top of Point 112 (far left) so they can get up on comms and start orchestrating the destruction from above.  The FSNL troops are spread across the map, single, confused stands running to and fro with no direction.  From the last fight, the 82mm mortar team is at top right, 2nd Squad, 2nd Platoon is the two stands at bottom center, the recoiless rifle team is at bottom left, and crew from Bunker #2 is at center.  At top left are stragglers from the air assault on Route 1, at top center are stragglers from the probe to the northeast, at top center right are stragglers from the defense of Hill 45, and at center left are stragglers from the counterattack on Hill 45.  The enemy Lieutenant is also at top center right.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EviktsjQvZ8/W7v8HymwCWI/AAAAAAAAnFk/S-f3VpcnaK4gUw1uFtgveVFQMjI8FmzpgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4270.JPG)
A SLA fireteam pins down the Communists while another flanks them.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EKsjJUZBSfw/W7v-O2IVSKI/AAAAAAAAnJg/8THkiQscaaMWwYpf0mLV3ecX1987lb_-QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4312.JPG)
The aftermath...  To see how it went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/10/operation-chunky-bandit-14.html

With that, this portion Phase 1b of Operation Chunky Bandit is now concluded, OP ANGEL is in operation, directing aerial interdiction operations to sever Route 1 and isolate enemy forces in vicinity of Pendrakenville, the South Leonian capital city.  Now we move to the 'other' portion of Phase 1, where TF 23 and TF Dusty are working west of Route 1 to locate and destroy FSNL command and control nodes.  We will also have some aerial dogfights, where first Cuban fighters attempt to protect Cuban/SLA ground forces from FSNL air attack, and then, once OP ANGEL is in operation and Task Forces 23 and Dusty have done their jobs, the Cuban Air Force takes the fight to the enemy.  Then we'll move into Phase 2, the breakout by Task Forces Redleg and Razor, cut off north of Pendrakenville.  I'll also be stepping out for a bit to visit the South Pacific, aerial dogfighting style.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 22 October 2018, 11:25:09 PM
All,

Current situation: It's 0230 on 3 August 1990 in South Leon and Task Forces 23 and Dusty have teamed up to handle a problem: following its invasion of South Leon, the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL) quickly established an air defense umbrella to protect its penetration, and it's wreaking havoc on the Cuban and South Leonian Air Forces.   A Cuban intelligence officer may have a source that can help crack the code, but he's run into trouble and now the Cubans are dashing in to help save his bacon.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gR7GaZZIIQU/W8u1DrZ3qmI/AAAAAAAAnKw/0xUsqzEHOl8SIxiqqdsmk7JCHyHWgSU-gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4647.JPG)
Overview, north is up.  There is a deep, fast moving river running east to west at bottom, bridged at bottom center.  The hill the Cubans the Direct Action element is staging on is at top right (Captain Villagrosa's Security Element is off table to top center), the gully is visible running from the hill to the road, meeting it at the center of the table.  The village is at left: Building 1 is at top left, Bldg 2 at far left, and Bldg 3 at left.  The Cubans are all on the hill in the northeast (top right), while the bad guys are spread across the map.  The enemy Lieutenant is screwing off in one of the buildings, as are several of the minions, but the Communist Sergeant is out keeping an eye on things (left, just left of the road split, actually on the left fork), there is an RPG gunner on watch in Bldg 2 (far left), an RPK gunner on watch (just above the bridge), and there are four sentries on patrol (top left, on the road, far right, just above the river, left, just above the river, and on the bridge at center bottom).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7rjsHpAQk5U/W8u0vns9Y3I/AAAAAAAAnKY/naP3m8Cug_8nb581zH--QF7En2w1QgXUQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4645.JPG)
The Direct Action element, from top left: Ryder, Marshall, Turbot, Robo, and Dinger, supported by TF Dusty snipers Sgt Eusabio (spotter) and PFC Romero (shooter).  I'm playing this using Ben Lacy's excellent set of rules, "SOF Warrior," which, in my estimation, is perfect for these type of fights.  I have assigned the following Troop Ratings: Ryder and Marshall are 5s, the other three shooters are 4s, and the two TF Dusty snipers are 3s.  The enemy soldiers are all 2s, while their Lieutenant and Sergeant are both 3s.  The Cubans are SEALs from Khurasan and Modern Australians from Eureka, while the enemy soldiers are East Germans from Battlefront.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x7uBOBfO36s/W8u1t4n8WKI/AAAAAAAAnL4/5PA8AxGms30yPBtn9ia_ViY3hzZxAxtfwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4658.JPG)
The snipers, Sgt Eusabio and PFC Romero (bottom right), scan the village (top) as the column of shooters moves downhill via the gully (left).

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CznkLMBEVBs/W8u7CHMhpeI/AAAAAAAAnVE/6mIlC0misXkoFf7iU56ccUjElz3WpzzqQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4753.JPG)
Outside Bldg 1 (which has its roof off because two bad guys have been spotted in there), Robo moves up (left, from bottom left) to support Turbot (top left), as Dinger opens fire with the machine gun (bottom right) on the north sentry (top center).  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2018/10/operation-chunky-bandit-15.html

Even though the immediate problem is getting to the LZ for extraction, the larger problem is the Cubans are not one step closer to dismantling the Communist air defense network, and there is no sign of the intelligence officer, Tragg, who supposedly has information that would help to that end.  So the next fight is enemy attempts to reinforce the village from the north running into Captain Villagrosa and the Security Element, but then we gotta get down to business!

V/R,
Jack

Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 23 October 2018, 07:51:16 AM
I think you've got a time machine, Jack. :-\

How you paint all of these up.......Have the games....Take all the photo's AND write such comprehensive reports is beyond me.

Cheers - Stunned of Wales.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 23 October 2018, 08:55:13 AM
Nice Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 23 October 2018, 09:33:30 AM
Quote from: Techno on 23 October 2018, 07:51:16 AM
I think you've got a time machine, Jack. :-

How you paint all of these up.......Have the games....Take all the photo's AND write such comprehensive reports is beyond me.

Cheers - Stunned of Wales.

What he said!

Stunned of the Midlands
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 23 October 2018, 10:03:56 AM
Thank you, Nathan.

I'm glad I'm not the only one. ;)  ;D ;D ;D

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 23 October 2018, 10:25:09 AM
I'm lucky to get anywhere enough painting done, and that's paid for let alone painting then gaming for pleasure :D

So I have to live vicariously ;)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Womble67 on 23 October 2018, 12:39:29 PM
Quote from: toxicpixie on 23 October 2018, 09:33:30 AM
What he said!

Stunned of the Midlands

Same here

If the said time machine really exists can I borrow it, I never have enough time

Nice looking table

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 23 October 2018, 04:52:33 PM
Thanks everyone, but sorry, no time machine to lend out. Even with it I'm too busy to lend it.  Especially to you heathens, I'd never get it back!

I hope you enjoyed the fight, it was one of the most enjoyable games I've ever played.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 05 July 2019, 06:24:51 PM
All,

Current situation: It's 0100 on 4 August 1990 in South Leon and Captain "Ryder" Stelosavo's Task Force 23 has teamed up with TF Dusty to handle a problem: following its invasion of South Leon, the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL) quickly established an air defense umbrella to protect its penetration, and it's wreaking havoc on the Cuban and South Leonian Air Forces.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PtjHogxe4-c/XBa8CKFKcPI/AAAAAAAAoyI/n5d-UzKZXJkLYetMuWMLCV9arg_NW3VKQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5351.JPG)
The Cuban Special Forces troopers swiftly move out, leaving the OP (bottom center), with Ryder and Robo moving left (top left, at the Receiving Building) and Marshall and Dinger moving right (center right, at the Barracks).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xiRa7FpX5qM/XBa961Pf4KI/AAAAAAAAo1o/Hqd8Fy7RvPk1eLLyVmWmytImArK3tWKkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5390.JPG)
Robo fighting off some guard dogs.  How many times do you get to see fighting off guard dogs? ;)

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yJmydJctLvY/XBa_SY_yNXI/AAAAAAAAo4c/HIJ12q8en_M2vrJmZju6NldBuMFcMdz8ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5420.JPG)
Okay, time to go.  Dinger (bottom left) getting ready to take on the enemy defensive emplacement (top right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6yqSNdvdZiE/XBbAVZWgStI/AAAAAAAAo6U/aRt5yi9vSNY7IY1olvd2t8oVRmDN9COWwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5441.JPG)
And showing off my Khurasan 15mm operators.  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-16.html

So here's what happened:

-As Ryder and Robo moved into the HQ Building, a group of enemy soldiers, including their Commanding General and Tragg, attempted to escape out the east end, but Dinger and Marshall took them down, capturing the General and recovering Tragg, the Cuban Intelligence Officer.

-Ryder and Robo cleared the HQ Building, encountering only light resistance in the house.  They found a treasure trove of intelligence in documents, maps, and computers, and found a large suite of communications gear in the basement of the HQ Building.

-Tragg reported that the comm gear in the basement was the command control node for the Communist air defense network in South Leon.  Ryder immediately called this in to HQ, which immediately dispatched a platoon of combat engineers who helo'ed in and blew the HQ Building and comm gear to Kingdom Come.

So, in the overall scheme of things, the next phase in ground operations is the breakout by Task Forces Razor and Redleg, the troops that were already in country when FSNL invaded from the north.  The invasion saw them cut off and isolated from all support; following Cuba's responding invasion, the two Task Forces are now going to fight west through the Communists to link up with the Cuban reinforcements, coming from the Atlantic coast in the west.  Which should be much easier now as close air support will be much more effective due to knocking out the enemy's integrated air defense network!

And speaking of air support, that's where we're going next, to the air.  I'm actually going to work back in time just a bit; the idea is that Cuba had stationed a squadron of F-4 Phantoms in South Leon prior to the invasion, but they hadn't had much to do until the Communist invasion.  But when the Commies invaded South Leon, they put on an all-out aerial blitz, beginning with a classic fighter sweep, followed by a massive bombing campaign in South Leon.  So the lone F-4 squadron has to fight and try to hold on through the initial onslaught, then reinforcements arrive several days later when Cuba executes its counter-invasion.  Once again we'll see a clash of fighters, and then the Cuban Air Force will begin its bombing campaign (which initially goes poorly due to the enemy's very capable air defenses, and then get better after Ryder and his boys do their thing) to help TF Razor and Red Leg breakout, and then see the combined Cuban ground forces take back South Leon.

So, that's what's coming up, stay tuned!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 05 July 2019, 07:46:06 PM
Shouldn't the dogs be named after Paw Patrol, not the soldiers?

Great report Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 05 July 2019, 10:51:03 PM
Thanks, Will, but hey, watch yourself with the pups! ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 08 July 2019, 09:12:14 PM
All,

It's 0615 on 24 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning, starting about 0400, there's been a lot of chatter about some major stuff going down up north, so he bumped the CAP up to four aircraft, just in case.

What the good Major doesn't yet know is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, has launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them will be an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are about to be involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force has put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans have four F-4 Phantoms up on CAP.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o_BNS6pNHX8/XSEXwpenkXI/AAAAAAAApew/KenqjAOsx2IV3zAV0vzC9W4gYOQa6w-gQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5821.JPG)
Four F-4 Phantoms rising to meet...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iHNZ4is-2o/XSEXwvg6diI/AAAAAAAApe0/MR7iK6HarNYxucpmRtcfToeoV2VuCEOtACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5822.JPG)
Six MiG-21s.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oJgdnM2EUjU/XSEZLV_K4hI/AAAAAAAAphs/WlEBRCHc70IeUsE_JxGd2bXcuxXYuaHmACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5855.JPG)
Silver 03 pulls an Immelman, reversing course and putting himself in good shape to get on Boxcar 12's tail (left).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rhD3iOuqY8Y/XSEZRrT3Y3I/AAAAAAAAph4/OO7-lu7Qrs0gNCaWcZ-G_75DHxwlEuofQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5857.JPG)
Boxcar 12 runs straight in, head to head with Green 03.  Both pilots fire, and Boxcar 12 gets his second kill of the day!  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-17-air.html?m=1

I played a total of three fights on Saturday morning, working on the batreps, stay tuned.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 08 July 2019, 09:26:22 PM
You have been busy!
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 08 July 2019, 10:31:57 PM
Love those little aircraft, so cool :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 09 July 2019, 03:40:58 AM
Lemmey- Yes, Sir, and it feels great to be back.  My wife does not agree...

TP- I really love them, sold off all my 1/600 stuff.

I can't believe I didn't think of using the pipe cleaners to show movement before!  It should make the report a lot more clear to read.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 09 July 2019, 07:12:08 AM
Nice one, Jack !

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Steve J on 09 July 2019, 12:51:50 PM
Great stuff as always Jack :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 09 July 2019, 02:20:50 PM
Thanks Phil and Steve, I appreciate it!

Next batrep is almost finished, will post tomorrow or Thursday.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 09 July 2019, 03:06:32 PM
Yeah, the 1/600th does seem redundant - the "chibi" style and paint job means even those "sort of 1/1250th" 3d prints are identifiable, and playable!

Surgery has recovered, then :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 09 July 2019, 03:16:07 PM
Yeah, it's funny, now 1/600 seems huge! ;)
These little ones look great and fit great onto my little blue board, which I'm much happier with then I ever was with any of my blue mats (or even the board game hex map, though that was kinda cool).

Yeah, I'm past the surgery, okay so long as I don't stay in one position too long.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 09 July 2019, 04:53:09 PM
Just like the air combat, stay in one position too long and you'e easy meat :D
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 09 July 2019, 11:51:32 PM
Ahh, I've been easy meat for a long time now ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 10 July 2019, 09:00:29 AM
*cue funky guitar music*

*Chikka-wacka-bow-waaaam*

I'd say the same, but playing Blood Red Skies on the weekend saw my easy meat Ju-88's nearly chop a trio of Spit's out the sky :D
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 10 July 2019, 03:45:25 PM
TP,

Easy, buddy, this is a family restaurant ;)

Pretty cool about your JU-88s more than holding their own!  I've been intrigued by the rules, but haven't picked them up yet, and pretty happy with these.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 10 July 2019, 04:12:01 PM
All,

It's 1015 on 24 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning he had bumped it up to four on account of a bunch of chatter about something major going on up North.

What the good Major then found out is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them is an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are now involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans answered with four F-4 Phantoms of their own.  The results were indecisive, with the Communists losing three MiGs and the Cubans losing two Phantoms.

The enemy returned to base and, several hours later, have launched a strike force with fighter escort.  Major Culero sent two flights up to meet them.
 
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t00FfGnzqZs/XSEb1KbbrCI/AAAAAAAApkk/wtYDKs4xYqYvcFilf9ZPbiqloHa8RhitgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5886.JPG)
The fight gets nice and confusing, real quick, a knife fight in a telephone booth.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qsSj9ZlBs3E/XSEcM_bTP5I/AAAAAAAAplY/5n-DcChgKMsALeZJICMGxn8Bmd98-r3AwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5895.JPG)
Boxcar 06 charges headlong into the enemy strike formation.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KjK7kHanpHk/XSEdRt5uBpI/AAAAAAAApn4/UIFudH1vhXcQrQd0nVH1GfyMgysIOfGSACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5923.JPG)
Boxcar 09 pulls an Immelman to go head to head with Silver 02, like two gunfighters at the OK Corral.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-18-air.html?m=1

This is the second of the three fights I played Saturday morning, working on the last batrep, stay tuned.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 11 July 2019, 07:32:11 AM
Great fun, Jack.  :)

I'm pretty sure I've said this before.....But with some of your games, it must take longer to write the report, than play the actual scenario.  :o

Cheers - Phil

Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: toxicpixie on 11 July 2019, 08:23:10 AM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 10 July 2019, 03:45:25 PM
TP,

Easy, buddy, this is a family restaurant ;)

Pretty cool about your JU-88s more than holding their own!  I've been intrigued by the rules, but haven't picked them up yet, and pretty happy with these.

V/R,
Jack

Haha :D

Yeah, I was impressed; they nearly saved the day. Nearly. Last one had to drop it's bombs and flee at wave top height for the French coast but they got very close.

Not sure the rules would fit well - they're very much packaged with the planes (in terms of cards, the flight stands, plane stats etc), so whilst they're a dead simple "squadron commanders" game they'd be awkward to separate out the useful bits and play with other models. Not impossible, but probably more trouble than it's worth.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 11 July 2019, 08:35:22 AM
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 11 July 2019, 01:43:25 PM
Phil - That's a fact, and it's killing me. Or rather, it's enticing my wife to kill me ;). Honestly, I've been giving these dogfights a lot of thought lately; I'm not sure how exciting it is for you guys to be reading about every single aircraft's every single move, and if blogger stats are to be believed, not many folks are reading them anyway, so I'm seriously considering doing some sort of summary with a few pics then moving on.  It would certainly make my life easier.

TP - Thanks for the lowdown on those rules, I'll steer clear.  Didn't really need to mess with any new rules anyway, just a Wargames with no discipline ;)

Lemmey - Thanks man.  And my apologies, I read your Franco-Prussian batrep but didn't comment.  I found it intriguing, but it's hard for me to get much deeper as I don't know much about the tactics/style of warfare of the day.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: mmcv on 11 July 2019, 06:46:48 PM
I'm really impressed by the amount of work you put into your reports, not to mention the discipline of photographing every step of the way!

While my interest in modern warfare is pretty low (so far) I've been enjoying flicking through your back catalogue and seeing your wonderful tables and scenarios. Loved the idea of the multiple scenarios on the same board with different objectives from a little back. The narrative you put into each report is great, though I've only had time to read a smattering of them thus far. You've obviously put a lot of thought into the alternative history, which is always interesting to see.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: d_Guy on 11 July 2019, 07:15:23 PM
Jack, Your turning out reports WAY faster than I can keep up! Relish all the details you work in and your characters' DD214s you keep updating!
As I've said multiple times your figures and tabletops are spiffy.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 11 July 2019, 11:55:27 PM
MMCV - Thank you, I appreciate that, and I'm happy to hear you're going back through the old Cuba Libre batreps.  I wouldn't say a whole lot of thinking has gone into it, but it's been a lot of fun, and I've gotten a lot of games out of it (I counted recently, and it is up to around 150 batreps now, mostly between Liberation, Cronistria, and South Leon)! ;)
It does get a little tough to keep the aerial batreps fresh, there's only so many ways you can say "he turned left and shot." I do what I can.

D_Guy - Well, I can't slow down just for one guy! ;)  I appreciate you appreciating my write-ups, and I mean that sincerely, it's always good to hear there are folks out there reading these and enjoying them.  You cracked me up with the comment on the '-214s' ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: mmcv on 12 July 2019, 08:01:08 AM
Yeah I can imagine it's pretty difficult to keep evey move fresh with the aerial stuff. I'll admit I skimmed it more than some other bits, mostly because my knowledge of aerial combat is pretty limited.

You could try doing the fight as a series of radio calls to give it a more characterful point of view. So rather than a top down overview could unfold what happens in the battle by communicating with each other what's happening to themselves and others they can see.

Similar to how you did some bits of the ground combat ones.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 13 July 2019, 04:50:46 PM
Thanks again, MMCV, some good points there; I think I'll go to a more general narrative, vice step-by step batrep, and mixing in radio calls is a great idea for that.  I've just got to find some equilibrium here; if it takes me 60-90 minutes to play a game, it's taking me 120-180 minutes to write it up and post.  With my wife staring at me with hate in her heart ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Terry37 on 13 July 2019, 09:19:39 PM
Really love seeing your air games!!! They look both awesome and fun!!!

Terry
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 13 July 2019, 11:22:59 PM
Terry,

Thanks so much, I appreciate it!  Don't know about awesome, but sure as hell fun! ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit #19
Post by: bigjackmac on 17 July 2019, 01:53:44 PM
All,

It's 1715 on 24 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning he had bumped it up to four on account of a bunch of chatter about something major going on up North.

What the good Major then found out is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them is an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are now involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans answered with four F-4 Phantoms of their own.  The results were indecisive, with the Communists losing three MiGs and the Cubans losing two Phantoms.

The enemy returned to base and launched a strike force with fighter escort a couple hours later.  Major Culero sent two flights up to meet them.  The Cuban fighter pilots did well, downing three MiG-21s and five Su-22s to only one lost Phantom, but they did allow one enemy bomber through.  The Su-22 bombed the SLA HQ in the nation's capital, causing substantial damage (10/30).

It's a few hours later and the bad guys are keeping up the pressure.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the enemy strike force.
   
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m3FKm3qp8S4/XSEhuld9DDI/AAAAAAAAptM/Fw111ZAUp1cV9gEKrYMGpJp2H9QakKsegCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5984.JPG)
F-4 Phantoms close on the enemy strike element.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sxYdT8iuBDw/XSEicORlrpI/AAAAAAAApu4/6r5q1HqzZdUX1luyCibgk42hSgohTapVACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6003.JPG)
And begin feasting!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4r5nsQ39G9o/XSEjv0vefBI/AAAAAAAApyA/XtcgBy9Cb7o0QFk0acNrSxh6b_UOuNiFgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6035.JPG)
Some fun dogfighting.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D70NSYdEXSY/XSEj2KcEjKI/AAAAAAAApyQ/vSP4q7IVivAI9XG4uRRXRIJ31jk4RRdvwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6038.JPG)
But not all is peachy in South Leon.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-19-air.html?m=1

That's it for the batreps this week, gotta hold you guys to two or ya start getting too demanding ;)  But I'll post some recent paintings stuff (WWII 6mm) in a couple days, then post the next batrep on Monday.  This weekend I plan on playing another KG Klink (WWII Fall of France in 10mm, if you're not familiar), then some more of these dogfights. I also have a hankering to play some Vietnam skirmish action, thanks to my buddy Joe Legan over at the Platoon Forward blog.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 17 July 2019, 02:58:22 PM
Art you trying to make yourself unpopular with the better half, again, Jack. ;)

Great report.  :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: mmcv on 18 July 2019, 07:27:49 AM
RIP Logjam
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 18 July 2019, 07:30:05 AM
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 18 July 2019, 01:26:50 PM
Thanks guys!

And regarding Logjam, we'll see, he's only MIA, so maybe he'll surface and we'll get to see a rescue attempt.  I like blending the air and ground campaigns when I can.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: mmcv on 18 July 2019, 06:30:37 PM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 18 July 2019, 01:26:50 PM
Thanks guys!

And regarding Logjam, we'll see, he's only MIA, so maybe he'll surface and we'll get to see a rescue attempt.  I like blending the air and ground campaigns when I can.

V/R,
Jack

Plot twist!
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 20 July 2019, 02:00:33 PM
Maybe ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #20 (Air)
Post by: bigjackmac on 22 July 2019, 03:05:31 AM
All,

It's 0815 on 25 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning he had bumped it up to four on account of a bunch of chatter about something major going on up North.

What the good Major then found out is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them is an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are now involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans answered with four F-4 Phantoms of their own.  The results were indecisive, with the Communists losing three MiGs and the Cubans losing two Phantoms.

The enemy returned to base and launched a strike force with fighter escort a couple hours later.  Major Culero sent two flights up to meet them.  The Cuban fighter pilots did well, downing three MiG-21s and five Su-22s to only one lost Phantom, but they did allow one enemy bomber through.  The Su-22 bombed the SLA HQ in the nation's capital, causing substantial damage (10/30).

A few hours later the bad guys are back in force.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the enemy strike force.  It was a helluva fracas: the Communists lost a total of three MiG-21s and five Su-22s, while the Cubans lost four of their six F-4s committed.  More importantly, they lost a pilot MIA, and another for about a month due to wounds.  But Boxcar 14 was on fire, racking up four kills and being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.  The one enemy bomber that made it through made a successful bombing run on the SLA HQ, again causing substantial damage (19/30).

Now it's the next day, and the bad guys are keeping up the pressure.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the enemy strike force.
   
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eYlEbz4mBsk/XSI4hQMPy7I/AAAAAAAAp0I/rVhrtRkbcFoI4PDcjeztHfyf73x3Zar8gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6055.JPG)
The Squadron Commander, "Viper," is up, but he's only got two Phantoms with him.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JaArPESSF1I/XSI4jfdfw9I/AAAAAAAAp0M/iaCNUtUoSncRuzr3evQ5pfCQSndJp_4jgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6056.JPG)
Against all that...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E9gRqoapBRQ/XSI5ccOIS5I/AAAAAAAAp2A/ijEfNLbW0-89WOZRl8kKlFN37vZgJxyJQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6077.JPG)
The Commie pilots definitely ate their Wheaties this morning.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT2ha_QlT9U/XSI51vtH2zI/AAAAAAAAp28/JH1m9LttjSIZJi382OhcoJc2rvfgiX5nQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6089.JPG)
But the F-4s get some licks in, too.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-20-air.html

This is the first of the next three fights I played.  I'm playing and posting more as soon as I can, stay tuned.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 22 July 2019, 07:25:45 AM
Super report, Jack !

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 22 July 2019, 10:05:45 AM
Good report Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 22 July 2019, 03:25:17 PM
Thanks, fellars ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Terry37 on 22 July 2019, 07:50:09 PM
Love it!

Terry
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 23 July 2019, 01:29:58 AM
Thanks Terry!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: sunjester on 23 July 2019, 07:37:31 AM
Those little aircraft are very tempting. Nice batreps.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 23 July 2019, 04:48:57 PM
Thanks, Sunjester, but don't do it!  Someone has to be the voice of reason, we can't go on like this, everyone collecting everything until we are disowned by our significant others and wind up in debtors prison!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #21 (Air)
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 July 2019, 03:08:05 AM
All,

It's 1615 on 25 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning he had bumped it up to four on account of a bunch of chatter about something major going on up North.

What the good Major then found out is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them is an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are now involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans answered with four F-4 Phantoms of their own.  The results were indecisive, with the Communists losing three MiGs and the Cubans losing two Phantoms.

The enemy returned to base and launched a strike force with fighter escort a couple hours later.  Major Culero sent two flights up to meet them.  The Cuban fighter pilots did well, downing three MiG-21s and five Su-22s to only one lost Phantom, but they did allow one enemy bomber through.  The Su-22 bombed the SLA HQ in the nation's capital, causing substantial damage (10/30).

A few hours later the bad guys are back in force.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the enemy strike force.  It was a helluva fracas: the Communists lost a total of three MiG-21s and five Su-22s, while the Cubans lost four of their six F-4s committed.  More importantly, they lost a pilot MIA, and another for about a month due to wounds.  But Boxcar 14 was on fire, racking up four kills and being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.  The one enemy bomber that made it through made a successful bombing run on the SLA HQ, again causing substantial damage (19/30).

The next day, bright and early, the Communists sent over another strike package, but the decimated Cubans were only able to scramble a single, three-ship flight.  Things didn't go so well; while the Cubans only lost a single Phantom (their Squadron Leader, but he bailed out and he's okay), they only managed to shoot down two enemy fighters, while all six enemy bombers entered the target area!  And the damage was fierce: half dove on the South Leon Army Headquarters and destroyed it, while the other half turned on their secondary objective, the SLA Marshalling Area, causing heavy damage (19/30).

Now it's afternoon that same day, and the bad guys are keeping up the pressure.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the next enemy strike force.
     
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JpcZ4scu5nc/XSI9flGhiMI/AAAAAAAAp8E/-fNJ_xrgl9848hvSSbINyIQkVAwC2_z8wCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6147.JPG)
Boxcar 08 ignores the enemy fighter escort and charges straight into the enemy strike formation, downing one Su-22 immediately, and scattering the rest like a flock of pigeons.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fqtir6EnvaQ/XSI93pLHXtI/AAAAAAAAp84/D40TR8JQUnEeB52XEoAi-xVHb2uDGNXjgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6157.JPG)
Something cool happened: Captain Trevino whips his fighter around to help out his wingman!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1lr0kmsKSFI/XSI-8sQ15sI/AAAAAAAAp_c/7jeLyYwcP3sj1QfTFqcyIuqDTOTWS31YQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6184.JPG)
It's a full on melee in there as Boxcar 04 zooms in and flames the cowardly Green 01.  If you're reading and wondering if that comment was directed at you, yes, yes it was ;)

To see how the fight turned out, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-21-air.html

I'm playing and posting more as soon as I can, stay tuned.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 24 July 2019, 07:16:21 AM
Nice one again, Jack !

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 24 July 2019, 07:58:24 AM
Interesting fight.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 July 2019, 01:24:43 PM
Thanks Phil and Lemmey!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #22 (Air)
Post by: bigjackmac on 29 July 2019, 01:42:16 AM
All,

It's 0815 on 26 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning he had bumped it up to four on account of a bunch of chatter about something major going on up North.

What the good Major then found out is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them is an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are now involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans answered with four F-4 Phantoms of their own.  The results were indecisive, with the Communists losing three MiGs and the Cubans losing two Phantoms.

The enemy returned to base and launched a strike force with fighter escort a couple hours later.  Major Culero sent two flights up to meet them.  The Cuban fighter pilots did well, downing three MiG-21s and five Su-22s to only one lost Phantom, but they did allow one enemy bomber through.  The Su-22 bombed the SLA HQ in the nation's capital, causing substantial damage (10/30).

A few hours later the bad guys are back in force.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the enemy strike force.  It was a helluva fracas: the Communists lost a total of three MiG-21s and five Su-22s, while the Cubans lost four of their six F-4s committed.  More importantly, they lost a pilot MIA, and another for about a month due to wounds.  But Boxcar 14 was on fire, racking up four kills and being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.  The one enemy bomber that made it through made a successful bombing run on the SLA HQ, again causing substantial damage (19/30).

The next day, bright and early, the Communists sent over another strike package, but the decimated Cubans were only able to scramble a single, three-ship flight.  Things didn't go so well; while the Cubans only lost a single Phantom (their Squadron Leader, but he bailed out and he's okay), they only managed to shoot down two enemy fighters, while all six enemy bombers entered the target area!  And the damage was fierce: half dove on the South Leon Army Headquarters and destroyed it, while the other half turned on their secondary objective, the SLA Marshalling Area, causing heavy damage (19/30).

Yesterday afternoon the Communists made a second run, sending a full strike package up against five F-4 Phantoms.  The enemy was again triumphant.  Sure, they lost two MiGs and three bombers, but three bombers got through and destroyed Target #2, then damaged Target #3.  Meanwhile, the Cubans lost two F-4s destroyed and two damaged, though both downed pilots returned safely to base.  Also, Boxcar 08 was awarded the BS/V for knocking down three bombers all by himself.

Now it's the following morning, and the bad guys are keeping up the pressure.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights, though they only amount to a total of three Phantoms, to meet the next enemy strike force.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wxDAvdCoCoI/XSJCt287v1I/AAAAAAAAqEI/TATp6-HCU5glfRR93j6lLGMZY8njcNtSQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6232.JPG)
Boxcar 15 gets a bit too hasty, which immediately becomes apparent when Silver 01 cuts in behind and smokes his ass.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bIOiRfXdJXQ/XSJDrF6HkFI/AAAAAAAAqGU/r7PJcY75qiI3qwyM_hNesiInh7mQ4A_kQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6256.JPG)
But Boxcar 12 is putting on an aerobatic clinic, becoming an instant Ace and winning the Medal of Honor!  To see the details, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/07/operation-chunky-bandit-22-air.html

I'm playing and posting more as soon as I can, stay tuned, but this weekend was a big painting weekend so I plan on sharing all that with you guys, so this may be the only batrep this week, we'll see.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 29 July 2019, 07:18:07 AM
Good one, Jack.  :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 30 July 2019, 01:04:46 AM
Thanks Phil!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #23 (Air)
Post by: bigjackmac on 01 August 2019, 11:24:48 PM
All,

It's 1615 on 26 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Air Force's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, deployed to South Leon several months ago.  So far there hasn't been much to do, just some routine Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and close air support missions every now and again for the grunts, but no air-to air engagements to date.  The squadron, also known as "The Flying Boxcars," is led by Major "Viper" Culero, a former US Navy fighter pilot that earned himself four kills and the Estrella de Bronce (Bronze Star with 'V') during the Cuban War of Liberation.  He normally keeps a two-ship CAP up, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, but this morning he had bumped it up to four on account of a bunch of chatter about something major going on up North.

What the good Major then found out is that the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, and they are rapidly rolling towards that nations capital.  Accompanying them is an all out blitz by FSNL's Air Force, and the Flying Boxcars are now involved in some of the most intense aerial action since WWII.

To kick off their offensive, the FSNL Air Force put 6 x MiG-21s in the air on a classic fighter sweep, looking to clear the skies for follow on strike aircraft, while the Cubans answered with four F-4 Phantoms of their own.  The results were indecisive, with the Communists losing three MiGs and the Cubans losing two Phantoms.

The enemy returned to base and, several hours later, have launched a strike force with fighter escort.  Major Culero sent two flights up to meet them.  The Cuban fighter pilots did well, downing three MiG-21s and five Su-22s to only one lost Phantom, but they did allow one enemy bomber through.  The Su-22 bombed the SLA HQ in the nation's capital, causing substantial damage (10/30.

This morning saw a helluva fight: Boxcar 12 rang up five victories in this fight, becoming an instant Ace, and bringing his total kill tally to seven (might just have us a future NBK, 7 kills in two fights).  The young Cuban pilot was meritoriously promoted to Captain and awarded the Medal of Honor for his exploits.  Despite Boxcar 12's, AKA Miguel "Mad Max" Cruces, heroics, the mission can't be called anything but a failure: two out of three Phantoms were shot down, another pilot, and hero, was killed in action, and the FSNL Air Force has nearly destroyed their third target of the campaign.  Strictly speaking, it's not that clean cut: the Cubans lost two fighters while the Communists lost three fighters and two bombers.

Now it's the following afternoon, and the bad guys are keeping up the pressure.  The Cubans scrambled two more flights to meet the next enemy strike force.  Did I say two flights?  I meant two fighters... 
   
(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4c3XZcW20uk/XSJE_bBq9_I/AAAAAAAAqHo/aJVH-zVnSiEZxdfrT262fuKFmJBWIrKOgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6267.JPG)
The Cubans (right) got'em right where they want'em...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FOuN0xkEo5Y/XSJE8cQzi8I/AAAAAAAAqHg/dVDY1ZxxJhU8IFf8RWPM0W_TDCMh3enVACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6268.JPG)
"Boxcar 02, this is 03, you ready for this?"
"I kinda gotta real bad feeling about this one."
"Bandits, 12 o'clock low, tally ho!"

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cc4_FqOEnSk/XSjeroiKqXI/AAAAAAAAqKs/mF7bU0mkKA0g6Z0hQWEER59w-nJBHQ9YQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6305.JPG)
Boxcar 02 movin' on up, gettin' some.  But let's not sugarcoat it, the fight went about how you'd expect, and Viper's definitely feeling the heat, but help is on the way.  To see more pics, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/08/operation-chunky-bandit-23-air.html

I'm playing and posting more as soon as I can, stay tuned.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Terry37 on 02 August 2019, 03:09:46 AM
Jack, Really enjoy your reports and the photos make the games look like so much fun! Do you play solo? How big is your game board? I use the old Blue Max rules for all of my games, but the local guys seem to have trouble grasping the movement, so we don't play many games!  :(

Terry
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 02 August 2019, 07:52:03 AM
Great report again, Jack !

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 02 August 2019, 02:11:45 PM
Terry - Thanks for the kind words, I appreciate it.  Yes, I mostly play solo, and not sure how big the board is (terrible memory), probably about 36" x 18". I can take a look when I get home; it's gridded, so not really an issue of how big the board is, just that your aircraft fit your grid.  These 'Battle of Britain' rules are super simple, but I'm having a blast with them.

Thanks Phil!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Operation Chunky Bandit #24 (Air)
Post by: bigjackmac on 05 August 2019, 03:44:27 PM
All,

It's 0530 on 27 July 1990 in the country of South Leon.  We are with the Cuban Liberation Air Force's (CLAF) 407th Tactical Fighter Squadron, AKA the "Bonesaws," and they are entering the fight in South Leon.  Three days ago, the Communist Army from Federation Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL), South Leon's malignant neighbor to the north, launched an all out invasion of South Leon, seizing the nation's capital.  The CLAF's 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, AKA the "Flying Boxcars," led by Major "Viper" Culero, happened to be stationed in South Leon when the Communists invaded.  Over the past three days they've been bled dry in a series of aerial battles that saw the Cubans lose 14 of 18 F-4 Phantoms and four pilots, while the Communists lost 17 MiG-21 Fishbeds and 17 Su-22 Fitters.  Despite having a better than 2-1 kill ratio, the Boxcars failed in their mission to protect the South Leon Army (SLA) Headquarters, Marshalling Area, and Logistics Hub, all of which lie in ashes due to the Communist bombing campaign, knocking SLA Command and Control offline and crippling their resources and infrastructure to rapidly respond to the Communist invasion.  This is drawing plenty of negative attention at all levels, to include the South Leon military and civilian government, and that has the Cuban national command authority somewhat embarrassed.  By all accounts, Major Culero is a CLAF hero, but the heat is on and there are rumblings he should be relieved of command.

But the Bonesaws, commanded by Captain "Masters" Barrientos, have arrived just in the nick of time, buying Major Culero time to reconstitute his decimated squadron and reorganize as new pilots and machines arrive.  Captain Barrientos immediately, and not so humbly, takes up the gauntlet; "don't worry, Major, Bone 01 is here to save your ass!"  And with that, Captain Barrientos led a six-ship flight, comprised of brand-spanking new F-16 Fighting Falcons provided by the United States, on a classic fighter sweep, to let the Commies know there's a new sheriff in town.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RNFq1njNi3Q/XSjnjI0NL3I/AAAAAAAAqMY/nKyFceRKWF4syxl-Mzs-c7wSMl-tXpBkACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6316.JPG)
Some new hardware!  Versus MiG-21s, should be a pushover.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_rY10AOGCdo/XSpdw6Ay_GI/AAAAAAAAqN4/HYbpvXf52qg8-lqPmgq_xGfqVCvNzZ7cgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6334.JPG)
Not quite...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o9OIqdiqJjs/XSpgtExR4II/AAAAAAAAqVQ/V7KdeLQIZBwP9M24pEPc5NCYzKcN7vRvgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_6422.JPG)
But things get straightened out.

To see the fight, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2019/08/operation-chunky-bandit-24-air.html?m=1

I've played plenty of fights, working on all the batreps, stay tuned!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 04 May 2020, 03:26:49 PM
All,

Having just completed a relatively short (10-game) campaign in WWII Greece (https://blackhawkhet.blogspot.com/search/label/Peter%20Mini-Campaign), I wanted to stretch my legs a bit, see how the campaign system would do with a much longer series of fights, so it's back to South Leon.  Not heard of South Leon?  Well, here's the catch up:

Free Cuba (those are the good guys) deployed a small force, Task Group Fulgencio (a company of Marines, a company of paratroopers, and a detachment of Special Forces), to the fictional west African nation of South Leon on 1 May 1990, to assist the government of South Leon with its internal insurgency by the Free Leon Army (FLA), which is supported by its Communist neighbor to the north, Fédération Socialiste Nationale de Leon (FSNL).

On 24 July 1990 the country of FSNL mounted a full-scale invasion of its democratic neighbor to the south. The South Leon Army was quickly cast aside and the Communist forces penetrated far south, all the way to the South Leon capital of Pendrakenville.

Cuban leadership quickly deliberated: cut losses and pull out of South Leon, or stand by their ally. The Cubans decided to up the ante, and staged a counter-invasion on 27 July 1990, where two airborne drops blocked access to the beaches where another company of Marines (TF Bowie) and a mechanized infantry company (TF Hammer) were brought ashore.

The recently landed Cuban forces pushed east (Task Group Halabrio), but the combined FSNL/FLA defenses solidified and stiffened near Route 1, the main north-south running highway. This not only left the Cuban invasion force, known collectively as Task Group Halabrio, about ten kilometers short of Pendrakenville, it also left their brothers from Task Group Fulgencio cut off southwest of the capital city.

This map campaign begins with Phase 2 of Operation Chunky Bandit: the concept of operations is for the SLA mechanized infantry battalion, with TF Black, to remain in/around Hill 114 in order to interdict enemy resupply/reinforcement coming from FSNL, and Task Group Halabrio (Task Forces Hammer, Hawk, Dusty, Bowie, and 23) push east to engage Communist forces in order to allow the cut-off elements of Task Group Fulgencio (Task Forces Redleg and Razor) to breakthrough to the west and join up with their comrades.

Immediately following Task Group Fulgencio's breakout, Phase 3 will begin, the objective of which is to liberate Pendrakenville. The SLA mechanized infantry battalion will continue to interdict Communist resupply/reinforcement efforts from FSNL, while Task Group Fulgencio will merge with Task Group Halabrio and push east to defeat Communist forces and take Pendrakenville.

More info here:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign.html

The first fight sees Major Chavez leads his TF Hammer straight east, assaulting the FSNL 3rd Company's positions.  The overall Task Group commander, Major Halabrio, has decided to attach himself to the assault element, leaving Major Chavez in overall commander but willing and able to assist as necessary, functioning as a second command stand for the Cubans.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hWfy0x6-YFA/XnUn0uR4yRI/AAAAAAAAx6Q/4I4PeraA6x0cdB2fXbdAIi-rK5gMW2J0QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1407.JPG)
The Cubans (left) push forward on a broad front.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOVqvr6FR9M/XnUoXUKirOI/AAAAAAAAx7M/DtDxfi6NjNk8zom8E7n-nW4vdWJ_5mHrgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1418.JPG)
But it's not long before the Communists spring their ambush.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jLJ9WAJdJjg/XnUogWow5NI/AAAAAAAAx7c/RKDO7b6O8BkmLxyrydbOhy42N59uhAZqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1421.JPG)
And the RPGs are flying like mad!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZC7Kt6c4274/XnUotn-bSzI/AAAAAAAAx7w/lWsmNrAbWq0q4SM3lWPdIvr200HvU6p9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1425.JPG)
But hey,  all's well that ends well ;)

To see the whole fight, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-27-ground.html

Next up we have 1st Lt Madre-Animral's TF Bowie attacking the FSNL's 4th Company.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 04 May 2020, 04:13:34 PM
Read the first sentance of 1st post as year 1615 - wondered what jets were doing in the 17th century
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 05 May 2020, 02:06:46 AM
Yes, that would be problematic ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 05 May 2020, 07:30:28 AM
Nice one, Jack !  :-bd

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 06 May 2020, 12:07:27 AM
Thanks Phil!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 07 May 2020, 02:17:56 PM
All,

1000 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #2
TF Bowie vs FSNL 4th Company

1st Lt Madre-Animral leads the tough Marines of TF Bowie straight east, assaulting the FSNL 4th Company's positions.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AOyvtw9bnrg/XnUqLWdVYzI/AAAAAAAAx8w/BOrMm6lpuNcu3uHSVs9FIr9tCe0BQt5FQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1435.JPG)
No sooner does the Cuban attack jump off then they run into enemy infantry (far right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVGZatu3gMg/XnUqlL_Ng3I/AAAAAAAAx9c/os0UAfn30KoovZXXxoDudg5XD1G7dNNhwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1442.JPG)
Return fire is intense and Lt Madre-Animral dashes forward under heavy fire to rally the troops!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XL5lDkeW_T0/XnUq_URg10I/AAAAAAAAx-Q/Gx1U8Yb6RNAFu5Pml6Qm4shTwJmTrdVrACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1451.JPG)
Stymied on the right, the Cubans try the left, bringing up their LAV-25 and more infantry.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rW_cFyhwCEk/XnUrVAxvVtI/AAAAAAAAx-8/iysPuG3mwIEcNjva3wk8W90aQyV19-CVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1458.JPG)
But the Communists are quick to counter!

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-28-ground.html

Next up we have 1st Lt Espinale's TF Hawk attacking the FLA's 2nd Company.

V/R,
Jack

Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Sunray on 07 May 2020, 03:36:27 PM
Jack - as entertaining as ever.  Thank you for posting.

Apologies if I am repeating a questions asked earlier - but what is the base mat material you are using ?
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 07 May 2020, 04:37:52 PM
Hey, thanks a bunch!

The surface is actually three 24" x 12" particle boards that are flocked and that I foolishly drew a 1" grid on...

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Last Hussar on 08 May 2020, 05:45:33 PM
I like the Pipe Cleaner High Explosive Anti Tank (PCHEAT)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 08 May 2020, 08:21:14 PM
Nice one Jack.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 09 May 2020, 07:23:53 AM
Wot Will sed !  :-bd

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Last Hussar on 09 May 2020, 09:45:22 PM
Isn't 'Chunky Bandit' FSNs Tinder profile?
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 10 May 2020, 02:42:34 AM
Thanks, everyone!  And Chunky Bandit... Tinder...  Oh my... ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: fsn on 10 May 2020, 08:18:27 AM
 :-[

Guilty!
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 11 May 2020, 02:41:16 AM
All,

1000 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #3
TF Hawk vs FLA 2nd Company

1st Lt Espinale leads his TF Hawk straight east, assaulting the FLA 2nd Company's positions.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZERhlRk2Jf4/XnUuRiACv1I/AAAAAAAAyCE/Vv7MQ9c51cMEyOzfbINo40o_3V4NyepZwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1488.JPG)
Free Cuban forces (far left) are rushing headlong into an ambush!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-paH-w0rZwws/XnUueEcIZzI/AAAAAAAAyCg/_KjYFnTk4bAzc9VNwfJoiRdUyLPkXgPpACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1492.JPG)
Which is, of course, initiated with an RPG.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KRzsxi68YCU/XnUvSeOXUNI/AAAAAAAAyEM/nOf4Tb2Wq7wi4SdFx2Pq_zxADtBWsbdBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1510.JPG)
What is this, Cuban forces falling back (far left), leaving a burning Chieftain and FV-432 (far right) behind???

To see what happened, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-29-ground.html

Next up we have 1st Lt Ordonez' TF Redleg attacking the FSNL's 5th Company.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 11 May 2020, 10:49:34 AM
Ouch, the Cubans took a beating!
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 12 May 2020, 02:08:02 AM
Yeah, things got ugly quick ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 12 May 2020, 06:25:30 AM
Good one, Jack ! :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 12 May 2020, 02:01:35 PM
Thanks Phil!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: hammurabi70 on 12 May 2020, 03:34:33 PM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 07 May 2020, 04:37:52 PM
Hey, thanks a bunch!

The surface is actually three 24" x 12" particle boards that are flocked and that I foolishly drew a 1" grid on...

V/R,
Jack

Why 'foolish' to draw the grid?
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 13 May 2020, 01:59:37 AM
Because I played a couple gridded games on them but haven't played a gridded game in almost ten years, but still use the boards and I think they look ugly with squares drawn on them...

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: hammurabi70 on 13 May 2020, 08:47:57 AM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 13 May 2020, 01:59:37 AM
Because I played a couple gridded games on them but haven't played a gridded game in almost ten years, but still use the boards and I think they look ugly with squares drawn on them...

V/R,
Jack

Ah!  A bit like carpets, you need a mottled finish to 'hide' the lines by creating 'camouflage' to confuse the eye.  Monotones are too unforgiving on the eye for imperfections to be obscured.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 14 May 2020, 01:33:18 PM
Certainly, made even more so by the symmetry.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 14 May 2020, 01:55:49 PM
All,

1000 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #4
TF Redleg vs FSNL 5th Company

1st Lt Ordonez leads his TF Redleg straight west, assaulting the rear of the FSNL's 5th Company's positions in an attempt to breakthrough to their comrades in Task Group Halabrio.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground. 

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9P5OgXyquMo/XnU0abgbq0I/AAAAAAAAyKA/hZbuL2Xh4-UkgwasSnwSi55ICKj-e65PgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1572.JPG)
The Cuban right comes under mortar fire.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-umC5_J87lwQ/XnU0kB2MIII/AAAAAAAAyKQ/hZInJhk-S3kuf3PLX4k2ma-9A7ZxCt1mACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1576.JPG)
But is still able to assault through the village.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WM_vYFbhdsg/XnU1S2iOEKI/AAAAAAAAyLs/ga5Etp7E_A4Ypf_I-bw8rVnSsCXFXU14ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1589.JPG)
While Major Fulgencio is able to lead Marines up on the left, where they eliminate the enemy pickets (bottom right) and get into their rear area, closing in on the enemy mortar team (top left).

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-30-ground.html

Next up we have a team of Task Force 23 and the South Leon Army's D Company defending against the FSNL's 3rd Company, the Communists having been defeated by TF Hammer and being forced to fall back into the SLA troops, though it does present a problem as their defenses were oriented to the north, not the west.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 14 May 2020, 02:42:18 PM
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Last Hussar on 14 May 2020, 07:33:35 PM
How military opertions get named.

"You were in the bathroom a long time General."
"Yeah, bit of a Chunky Bandit"
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 15 May 2020, 07:01:37 AM
Good one !  :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 16 May 2020, 12:36:32 AM
Thanks guys!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 18 May 2020, 03:42:41 AM
All,

1130 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #5
South Leon Army D Company vs FSNL 3rd Company

The SLA's D Company was dug-in deep into defensive positions oriented north, prepared to fight off the Commie hordes coming down Route 1, but aware of the Cubans' Task Group Halabrio attacking east to west behind them.  What they were not expecting was for a Communist company-sized battlegroup to be defeated by TF Hammer and pushed into their rear, but that's exactly what happened!  Having said that, the industrious SLA troopers were able to rush some troops to their left flank and prepare a defense, even digging in a couple of their units, as the Communists approached.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SpSrlr07iKI/XnU3iCrppUI/AAAAAAAAyOE/J7_VpFdJzugQVEYAeRVLPHQrKpUPbLYWACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1614.JPG)
The SLA troopers are dug-in and expecting trouble, and as the Communists creep through the jungle, the defenders open fire.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PfDGBuysj3Q/XnU41OujUrI/AAAAAAAAyQU/O1kdoFMzZJU9Af-Jy-Focphr18tsodHcACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1640.JPG)
Despite the prepared fields of fire, the enemy manages to push forward in the center.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pC4m276dKo0/XnU49bd-jHI/AAAAAAAAyQk/qEr9hD-Vtck4kLNYlwwsP8TgJbk9weouwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1643.JPG)
But the SLA mortars and machine guns make quick work of them.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-31-ground.html

Next up we have the rematch between Lt Espinale's Task Force Hawk and the Free Leon Army's 2nd Company, which fought the Cubans to a standstill, knocking out a tank, an APC, two rifle teams, and wounding their commander!  The Cuban paratroopers are seeking retribution.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 18 May 2020, 05:43:38 PM
Temporal shift or not.... ;)

I still enjoyed it, Jack ! :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 18 May 2020, 08:25:32 PM
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 19 May 2020, 12:04:07 AM
Thanks, fellars.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 25 May 2020, 08:31:43 PM
All,

1200 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #6
TF Hawk vs FLA 2nd Company

This is the first fight of Turn 2, where we have 1st Lt Espinale and TF Hawk in a rematch with the FLA 2nd Company's ferocious defenders.  To see the map moves, please check here:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign_25.html

TF Hawk was roughly handled in the first fight, losing a tank, an armored personnel carrier, two rifle teams, and having their commander lightly wounded.  The Cuban paratroopers, supplemented by commandos from TF Dusty, are singularly focused and seeking retribution.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IuD906mGRfA/XnUxi_MQ9SI/AAAAAAAAyG0/XX58mMw3DvUNxmmUBUbsseRTMAOTXUYGQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1538.JPG)
The Cubans are making good progress in the center (center), when suddenly an enemy Technical shows up (far right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CqlrCce4Aa8/XnUxkUmyUDI/AAAAAAAAyG4/NjPRxr8u2NQwdQIEDfAkli9p7Lgp5sOBQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1539.JPG)
So Captain Villagrosa brings up the Charlie G team, who sends an 84mm round down range...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bzkjm5RDTFU/XnUxtHm4pPI/AAAAAAAAyHM/i2CTZOZTQiY7r4jIynLZND8iyFq5zIUiACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1541.JPG)
While the MG team holds down the left flank.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-32-ground.html

Next up we have the South Leon Army's D Company, buttressed by one team from Task Force 23, defending against the FSNL's 1st Company.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 26 May 2020, 08:07:02 AM
Good one, Jack !  :-bd

Cheers - Phil.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Sunray on 26 May 2020, 09:16:49 AM
Great advertisement for "fictional" bush wars.  Jack shows how much fun you can have when loosely tied by period equipment,  ideological allies and troop types. 

After 20 years I have come back to AK47 (Peter Pig) scenarios, but in 10mm with a few BKC/CWC refinements.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: hammurabi70 on 26 May 2020, 05:56:27 PM
Quote from: Sunray on 26 May 2020, 09:16:49 AM
Great advertisement for "fictional" bush wars.  Jack shows how much fun you can have when loosely tied by period equipment,  ideological allies and troop types. 

After 20 years I have come back to AK47 (Peter Pig) scenarios, but in 10mm with a few BKC/CWC refinements.

Old version AK47 or revised version?
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Sunray on 26 May 2020, 10:48:01 PM
Quote from: hammurabi70 on 26 May 2020, 05:56:27 PM
Old version AK47 or revised version?

The original AK47 (are they now called the Classic?) was a treasure trove of scenarios, political intrigue, and client state diplomacy.     

They easily transfer to Latin American situations.   But let us not hijack the thread.   This is Jack's  bat rep.

If you were inclined I for one would value a compare and contrast between the classical AK47 and the revised on a Rules section thread. :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 27 May 2020, 02:44:18 AM
Thanks everyone!

And no sweat, James, I'm interested in 'classic' AK-47, too ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: hammurabi70 on 27 May 2020, 01:55:18 PM
Quote from: Sunray on 26 May 2020, 10:48:01 PM
The original AK47 (are they now called the Classic?) was a treasure trove of scenarios, political intrigue, and client state diplomacy.     

They easily transfer to Latin American situations.   But let us not hijack the thread.   This is Jack's  bat rep.

If you were inclined I for one would value a compare and contrast between the classical AK47 and the revised on a Rules section thread. :)

I have neither version.

I know Trebian stopped BRIXCON when the revised version came out about 15 years ago as he did not want to use the new version. I would be happy to learn more but have no knowledge to offer.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 01 June 2020, 04:27:00 AM
All,

1300 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #7
South Leon Army D Company vs FSNL 1st Company

The SLA's D Company was dug-in deep into defensive positions oriented north, prepared to fight off the Commie hordes coming down Route 1, but were suddenly attacked from the west by FSNL3, which was retreating from a beatdown they received at the hands of TF Hammer.  It turned out to not be a big deal; the company quickly re-oriented itself to the west and very easily gave the retreating Communists a bloody nose, sending them packing in a northerly direction.  Security patrols were quickly sent out in all directions, seeking to find out if any other enemy forces were lurking in directions unexpected, and even hoping to tie in with the incoming Cuban forces, but bad news came back: fresh enemy troops were spotted coming in from the north!  It seems a new enemy formation passed through the retreating Communist troops they'd just defeated, and now D Company had to re-orient itself to defend to the north again.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fjCduAA-tEE/XnaRTjh8reI/AAAAAAAAyTI/ixJzUvf7V0kX8W3CuTNhzq6a7xNCdGHaQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1670.JPG)
A SLA machine gun (bottom left) lays down fire in support of SLA infantry (top left) rushing forward to kick Communist regulars out of the village (top center/right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8iyvGCJIwLg/XnaRmQV82jI/AAAAAAAAyTk/rDzqMbIdIoU1jymM_yTH8ldFfEJy-hc7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1676.JPG)
But things heat up in the village as the Communists counter with more infantry and light armor.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S-gaw7mIjBY/XnaRqRxBfQI/AAAAAAAAyTs/KNgp7r0NBiQPuvmUORKS5JDo6s2OPdwAwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1678.JPG)
But fear not, there is always an answer to armor that has gotten to close to the infantry.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/05/operation-chunky-bandit-33-ground.html

Next up we have Major Chavez' Task Force Hammer taking on the FSNL's 3rd Company, for the second time.  Poor FSNL3; they got the piss beat out of them by TF Hammer and were forced to retreat into SLA D Company, where they got the piss beat out of them again, and now TF Hammer is jumping on them again.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 01 June 2020, 07:40:35 AM
Great scrap ! :-bd

And that was only with a 'skim' through.
I'll have a proper read a bit later. :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 01 June 2020, 09:13:41 AM
Good report Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 03 June 2020, 03:55:17 AM
Thanks Lemmey, and take your time, Phil ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 09 June 2020, 02:53:12 PM
All,

1330 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #8
TF Hammer vs FSNL 3rd Company

Major Chavez leads his TF Hammer in pursuit of the FSNL 3rd Company, which has previously been defeated by TF Hammer, was forced to retreat, ran into the SLA's D Company, was defeated again and was forced tp retreat.  The overall Task Group commander, Major Halabrio, has decided to attach himself to the assault element, leaving Major Chavez in overall commander but willing and able to assist as necessary, functioning as a second command stand for the Cubans.

This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qSCWwqc5nLs/Xnapk38XiuI/AAAAAAAAyV0/1mewJhusXbEYucqCrRY_I5sHAtTKyfaewCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1698.JPG)
Cubans rolling in heavy for this fight!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UOhDnxvPMM/XnapsSSvn2I/AAAAAAAAyWA/-t1x1-qSMR01jqgYH45mf5ABk0dy8QsywCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1699.JPG)
But so are the Communists...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0y_Oz1dyoQ4/XnaqE_JzUAI/AAAAAAAAyWY/MfRseG4aaFMwY_lr5Kg20rYKDWLiqLIUACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1705.JPG)
The advance gets under way.

To see how the fight turned out, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/06/operation-chunky-bandit-34-ground.html

Next up we have 1st Lt Ordonez' TF Redleg defending against a counterattack by the FSNL's 5th Company.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 09 June 2020, 04:56:41 PM
Quite a scrap Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 09 June 2020, 05:11:05 PM
What Will said !!  :-bd

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Smoking gun on 10 June 2020, 11:31:23 AM
Another very good report, thank you Jack.

Regards,
Martin
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 11 June 2020, 02:23:43 PM
Thanks, guys!  Next one coming right up.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 11 June 2020, 03:44:28 PM
All,

1330 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #9
TF Redleg vs FSNL 5th Company

1st Lt Ordonez is leading his TF Redleg west, attempting to breakthrough the Communist lines in order for TF Redleg and TF Razor to reunite with their Cuban comrades advancing from that direction.  This morning they assaulted the rear of the FSNL's 5th Company's positions, tossing them a beatdown and forcing them to fall back to re-group, but the Cubans weren't able to capitalize, having to move cautiously in the densely jungled hilly terrain, which allowed FSNL5 time to regroup.  Not only did the Communists regroup, they have actually staged a counterattack, so Lt Ordonez quickly shakes his men out into a hasty defense (ambush mentality!) in order to throw back their assailants.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to repel the enemy attack, the Communist goal is to destroy the Cuban force. 

Lt Ordonez has the assistance of his Task Group Commander, Major Fulgencio, who has attached himself to the Task Force.  Major Fulgencio is leaving Lt Ordonez in overall command of his Task Force but will assist as necessary, essentially performing as a second command stand in the game.  This proved a winning combination as Major Fulgencio was key in breaking the enemy's defense in the last fight, leading several close assaults that saw him awarded the Bronze Star w/V.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DOi3PgpOys/XnatmTAhgJI/AAAAAAAAyag/auPXgBPqo-IiiZRCiRNYWYDnxccLfkkNwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1750.JPG)
Cuban Marines push forward (right side of the photo) in the center, engaging an enemy outpost (top left).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kzFXur-LmQ8/XnauNpxWslI/AAAAAAAAybU/rbh45gUiZVk8B4-_Z8PdvWYospWJF5bbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1760.JPG)
The outpost is pinned (far right), but the enemy CO moves up and rallies them, bringing reinforcements.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eg5sKR-r6no/XnaukDMuoiI/AAAAAAAAybo/Z41w0hQFNkMjDn3KhKqKg4RuO6c3YdyGgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1765.JPG)
So the Cubans move around the left flank (bottom center).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ijisg3hSXao/XnawLgCvxBI/AAAAAAAAyds/V28TiKchFC8iJSXOR8RnW0eIes0FwUnuwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1790.JPG)
But they (top right) run into the enemy's main line of resistance (left/bottom left).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yZcnfXNYn0M/Xnau_cBKocI/AAAAAAAAycM/i1pY7ToiiAI-1yd9hVhVngp1OkP9Ff1AwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1772.JPG)
So the Cubans (far right, bottom left) try the right flank...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5sS6iAgI-C0/XnavahvG58I/AAAAAAAAycs/wNKv7q47d1I1w4MUgrDi6EeNOeIizjV9wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1780.JPG)
The tough Cuban Marines defeat the enemy's left flank (far left) and move up (center) on the enemy's center position (right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGURqHzoTww/XnavibAczCI/AAAAAAAAyc8/gfGGEJMKvqAiyzzDqaNQ0aduCVbkJskPQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1782.JPG)
But the Communists launch a ferocious counterattack to shore up their line!

To see how the fight turned out, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/06/operation-chunky-bandit-35-ground.html

Next up we have Captain Soares' Task Force Razor fighting a rear-guard action against the Free Leon Army's 3rd Company.  TF Razor is the other part of Task Group Fulgencio, which was cut off from friendly forces and is now fighting to break out and return to friendly lines.  Unfortunately the withdrawal was halted when FSNL5 decided to counterattack TF Redleg on Hill 261, which allowed the pursuing FLA3 to catch them.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 15 June 2020, 02:37:41 PM
All,

1430 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #10
TF Razor vs FLA 3rd Company

Now we have Captain Soares' Task Force Razor fighting a rear-guard action against the Free Leon Army's 3rd Company.  TF Razor is the other part of Task Group Fulgencio, which was cut off from friendly forces and is now fighting west to break out and return to friendly lines.  Unfortunately the withdrawal was halted when FSNL5 decided to counterattack TF Redleg on Hill 261, which allowed the pursuing FLA3 to catch them.

This fight is occurring west to east (right to left), with the pursuing enemy insurgents chasing the Cubans, and the Cubans starting spread across the right half of the board and having to withdraw their forces off the left table edge.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WGRhKjS1QRo/XnazZKSVH6I/AAAAAAAAygs/HSjUywKYzW4RjqhZXa8zTV-nj9jt3ACRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1817.JPG)
The Cuban rearguard is strung out along the left as the Communists give pursuit from the right.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1uJBuVJrlHA/XnazuOkie1I/AAAAAAAAyhI/Ch4TlJMp88EXZk1o_BrsML_uSsAPFzeFACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1822.JPG)
The Cuban MG Team (bottom center) catches three enemy rifle teams as they enter the village (top center)...

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fG4I9AWezms/Xnazv6ys1NI/AAAAAAAAyhM/I_wZoLgRHYwxtVOjvCWGnbAW8QYkgqu7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1823.JPG)
And roughs them up!

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wDwUQP_WHbg/Xna1HqGF9CI/AAAAAAAAyjs/ccJaYQv06_8O41hzcnx-1jMsSFwyNHm-gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1846.JPG)
The Communists try to flank the Cubans with a Technical (bottom right), so we can have the obligatory rocket shot.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/06/operation-chunky-bandit-36-ground.html

Next up we have Lt Madre-Animral's Task Force Bowie in a re-fight against FSNL's 4th Company.  Earlier this morning TF Bowie defeated FSNL4 and forced them to fall back, and now they are in hot pursuit, hoping to roll them before they get a chance to recover.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 15 June 2020, 04:51:07 PM
Interesting......with rather unfortunate luck  on one side ?

(You've got the aircon fixed then ?) ;)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 16 June 2020, 01:51:45 PM
Phil,

Yes, it kind of turned into a pushover, didn't it?  Sometimes it can't be helped.

A/C just got fixed yesterday (finally!), these games were played months ago.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 16 June 2020, 02:05:43 PM
I see, more bloody repeats !  :'( :d
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 17 June 2020, 01:45:03 PM
They're not repeats, it's just that I played the entire campaign out, which consisted of a total of thirty games, and it's carrying us this far forward in 'real' time because I've only been typing up and posting one or two per week.

The fight posted above is #10 of 30, so still a long way to go.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 17 June 2020, 02:15:01 PM
Jack - dont take me too seriously.....
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 18 June 2020, 04:32:45 AM
Gotcha, and sorry, just wanted to make sure there was no confusion.

Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 18 June 2020, 03:05:51 PM
All,

1400 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #11
TF Bowie vs FSNL 4th Company

1st Lt Madre-Animral leads his TF Bowie straight east, in pursuit of the FSNL's 4th Company, whom they defeated and forced to withdraw earlier this morning.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qqIUutCLvgk/Xna4DzTWMDI/AAAAAAAAymg/6pXT3CNYvsgcuyGbgWioc84yUDDkDhunwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1874.JPG)
The Communists push very strongly in the center (right to left).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wht3qlLrhj4/Xna4hQ694eI/AAAAAAAAynY/va6uc8gEOykhvzO_0J2TqF3ggi3S2-pZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1881.JPG)
And force the Cuban right.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6rGAeQJm_dY/Xna4tzrL7pI/AAAAAAAAynw/oBPJLaOEDCYCPPd3LBYMp98O-kpVKXIVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG)
Using textbook fire and maneuver in order to push the Cubans back.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xc5mhSO7Luo/Xna5PbiXCFI/AAAAAAAAyo0/s_SzlPlgNVUmicTmoaG6GNKsPyBthyhdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1895.JPG)
Followed by vicious, point blank fighting on the Cuban left.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVyKJxOiB30/Xna5ZEp3h7I/AAAAAAAAypA/ZbJ4CmCp1kAEQzkoIhhjxc7pqYWnCvwJgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1898.JPG)
The Cuban CO launches desperate counterattacks to stabilize the line!

To see how the fight turned out, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/06/operation-chunky-bandit-37-ground.html

Here are the Turn 3 Map Moves:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/06/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign.html

Next up we have Captain Madre-Animral's Task Force Bowie and the FSNL's 4th Company having at each other again!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 18 June 2020, 07:04:22 PM
Ohh, so close! ;)
Good one Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 19 June 2020, 07:11:52 AM
Exactly what Will said.

Cheers - Phil  :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 22 June 2020, 04:27:53 PM
All,

2130 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #12
TF Bowie vs FSNL 4th Company

Captain Madre-Animral leads his TF Bowie against the FSNL's 4th Company, with whom they are very familiar.  That familiarity is born of an absolutely ferocious battle the two held several hours earlier, literally fighting themselves to exhaustion.  Unable to press forward yet unwilling to cede ground, both sides called for reinforcements and dug in.  This is a simple attack/defend scenario; the Cuban goal is to crush their enemies on the way to the capital, the Communist goal is to hold the ground.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wdeCLBvu-Ok/XnfM7DqUbkI/AAAAAAAAyrI/0Uzt83qCq-gDloCdLiqANe7zM1pe8gyFgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1915.JPG)
The Cuban attack jumps off (top left and bottom right).

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UNRyqrO4eRQ/XnfNPv-HnwI/AAAAAAAAyrw/szD5HVSyxlYZu-kWGC5xzvcRhAy6pH5QACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1923.JPG)
Fierce hand to hand combat breaks out on the far left.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xATrodzXMvk/XnfOM90Ip_I/AAAAAAAAyto/dA5M9zizvvsDECpr_HEw_doFbbzuWeakQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1941.JPG)
While the Captain Madre-Animral pushes his men forward on the right under heavy fire.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/06/operation-chunky-bandit-38-ground.html?m=1

Next up we have the SLA's A Company defending against an assault by the FSNL's 6th Company.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 22 June 2020, 05:41:38 PM
Nice one Jack, appeared to go a bit easier.
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 23 June 2020, 07:44:46 AM
What Will said.  :)

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 23 June 2020, 08:36:42 AM
Good as alwus
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 23 June 2020, 02:41:49 PM
Thanks, guys!  And yes, it certainly did! The enemy tank withdrawing from the fight certainly helped ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 10 August 2020, 03:28:42 AM
All,

I haven't posted any batreps in awhile, been busy with real life.  That and these batreps haven't proven to be particularly popular, so combining those two factors and adding the fact I need to get the rest of the Chunky Bandit batreps posted in order to move the story forward and get on to other things, I figured I'd post a bunch of batreps.  I hope you enjoy; a pic to refresh your memory:

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zp_CkuvW_UU/XnfRuMdAEoI/AAAAAAAAyy4/tfN2LSaE9r0Vb7WpIwTcmldJfSuebeODgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_1992.JPG)
Troopers of the South Leon Army launch a mechanized counterattack to eject the Communist forces from the village.

Turn 4 Map Moves
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/03/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign_25.html

Op CB 39
2330 on 4 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #13
SLA A Company vs FSNL 6th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/03/operation-chunky-bandit-39-ground.html

Op CB 40
0630 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #14
SLA B Company vs FSNL 2nd Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/03/operation-chunky-bandit-40-ground.html

Op CB 41
0800 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #15
SLA A Company vs FSNL 8th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/03/operation-chunky-bandit-41-ground.html

Op CB 42
0830 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #16
SLA D Company vs FLA 1st Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-42-ground.html

Op CB 43
0930 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #17
TF Bowie vs FSNL 4th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-43-ground.html

Op CB 44
0930 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #18
TF Hawk vs FSNL 7th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-44-ground.html

Op CB 45
1000 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #19
TF Hammer vs FLA 5th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-45-ground.html

Turn 5 Map Moves
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign.html

So, I hope that makes up for lost time and tides you over for a bit, I'll be back with more soon.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: paulr on 10 August 2020, 05:35:20 AM
Good to see you posting again Jack :)

You have been busy #:-S
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 10 August 2020, 07:12:46 AM
 :o :o :o :o :o

What Paul, said !

Cheers - Phil :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 10 August 2020, 09:30:22 AM
Well, that's bedtime reading for the next week sorted, thanks Jack.  8)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: hammurabi70 on 10 August 2020, 03:43:39 PM
Mini-Campaign Fight #19

Battle number 19?   ???
How many battles in a full campaign if a mini-campaign runs to at least 19?  :o
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Glorfindel on 10 August 2020, 04:17:34 PM
Crackin' terrain and figures.   Well done !   Are the roads from 'Fat Frank' ?   Really like
these, the fields & the fences.

I imagine it must be very disappointing when you put a lot of effort into creating these reports
but get little feedback on the blog.  I don't think that will be an issue here though.

Great stuff,



Phil
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 10 August 2020, 10:26:48 PM
All,

First, thanks everyone, it's good to be back, and I'm glad you all enjoyed (or will enjoy) the batreps.

Regarding my comments on the popularity of these batreps, I didn't mean it in a "woe is me" sort of way, just a statement of fact that these Operation Chunky Bandit batreps haven't enjoyed the same level of popularity (as determined by views on my blogs and comments on the various forums and blogs) as some of my other batreps, such as KG Klink, Cold War, and the Black Ops fights.  Operation Chunky Bandit started as a goofy little set of fights, then somehow expanded into this giant enterprise (somewhere around 50 fights now); it's been a lot of fun for me, but hasn't drawn as much interest as some of the other things I've done.

Hammurabi - I don't know how many fights should be in a mini-campaign (or a 'regular' campaign, for that matter!), but I know this mini-campaign went 30 fights, taking us to 56 total fights for Operation Chunky Bandit, so far (I still have some dogfights I need to play out).

Thanks, Glorfindel Phil, for the compliments on the figures and terrain, and yes, the roads are from Fat Frank.  I really love them, thinking about getting some for 6mm.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: paulr on 11 August 2020, 02:04:20 AM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 10 August 2020, 10:26:48 PM
...Operation Chunky Bandit started as a goofy little set of fights, then somehow expanded into this giant enterprise (somewhere around 50 fights now); it's been a lot of fun for me, but hasn't drawn as much interest as some of the other things I've done...

And this is the key point ;) :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: hammurabi70 on 11 August 2020, 01:23:58 PM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 10 August 2020, 10:26:48 PM
Hammurabi - I don't know how many fights should be in a mini-campaign (or a 'regular' campaign, for that matter!), but I know this mini-campaign went 30 fights, taking us to 56 total fights for Operation Chunky Bandit, so far (I still have some dogfights I need to play out).

We design for eight per player for a standard campaign and three per player for a mini-campaign.  The last campaign with estimated eleven battles per player collapsed half way through as two of the five moved away within a few months of each other.  If you are fighting solo the dynamics change. ;)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 12 August 2020, 04:26:27 AM
Paul - Yessir, indeed it is ;)

Hammurabi - Sounds reasonable, and yes, I get away with a lot more playing solo ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 16 August 2020, 03:05:56 PM
All,

Continuing towards my closeout of the mini-campaign and Operation Chunky Bandit, I present more batreps.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WWKSm4IsAZM/XopE6bXEpLI/AAAAAAAAzX0/xT6sB3AnMiElk4xoIF1XAbV778XhjbJqQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/IMG_2379.JPG)
Under counterattack, the Cubans launch a LAW at an encroaching Communist BMP.

Turn 6 Map Moves:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign_10.html

1215 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #20
TF Hammer vs FLA 4th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-46-ground.html

1430 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #21
TF Bowie vs FLA 3rd Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-47-ground.html

2115 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #22
TF Hammer vs FLA 6th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-48-ground.html

2330 on 5 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #23
TF Hawk vs FSNL 8th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-49-ground.html

Turn 7 Map Moves:
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-mini-campaign_71.html

0530 on 6 Aug 1990
Mini-Campaign Fight #24
TF Hawk vs FSNL 8th Company
https://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2020/04/operation-chunky-bandit-50-ground.html

I hope you enjoy them, and next week I'll look to close out the mini-campaign with batreps 51 through 56.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 16 August 2020, 06:28:59 PM
Wow, okay, you've been busy
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: paulr on 16 August 2020, 08:20:17 PM
Blooming Heck, I don't know where you find the time to play and write them, I'm not sure I'll find the time to read them all #:-S
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: mmcv on 16 August 2020, 11:56:30 PM
Quote from: paulr on 16 August 2020, 08:20:17 PM
Blooming Heck, I don't know where you find the time to play and write them, I'm not sure I'll find the time to read them all #:-S

This is it, Jack, your reports are always so pretty and detailed, but it's hard to find time to read them all, you're just too damn prolific! ;D

Keep up the good work, I'll get caught up to date on them eventually.  #:-S

Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Techno on 17 August 2020, 07:01:35 AM
Same here !!

Cheers - Phil :)
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: Smoking gun on 17 August 2020, 11:40:23 AM
Jack,
Very good game reports, and your models and terrain looks very good.

Best wishes,
Martin
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 17 August 2020, 06:32:42 PM
Alright, alright, I'll slow down ;)

Thanks everyone, I hope you're enjoying the reports.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: paulr on 17 August 2020, 09:22:22 PM
Keep having fun, we'll try and keep up ;D
Title: Re: Operation Chunky Bandit
Post by: bigjackmac on 20 August 2020, 03:42:19 PM
Will do, Paul ;)

Jack