Neon Genesis Evangelion Fan Fiction ❯ Acecombat: dawn of Eva ❯ Mission 03 Plus: Groundpounders ( Chapter 8 )

Author's disclaimer: I do not own Acecombat 4 and Shin Seiki Evangelion. Namco owns Acecombat 4 and Studio Gainax and its affiliates own Shin Seiki Evangelion. I just hope they don't sue me.

A/N: The technical information about the different military hardware featured here has been italicized to accommodate easier reading.

Acecombat: Dawn of Eva

Mission 03 Plus: Groundpounders

Operation: Allied Shield

Warwick Air Force Base: Mobius Flight: October 10, 2004

Mobius Flight quickly headed for Warwick AFB as soon as they received the order to re-arm and re-fuel before going to another sortie once again. `Great.' Shinji thought, rather sarcastically. `Another mission.' His thoughts were cut short when his radio cackled to life.

"This is Control to Mobius Flight. You are cleared to land. Runway two is clear."

Shinji was quite surprised when control had cleared him to land, even though he hadn't asked for clearance yet. `It looks like they really are in a hurry to get us out there.' Shinji thought as he turned to the mater at hand.

Shinji slowed his speed a little as he closed the distance between his fighter and the runway. When he saw that the distance of the runway and his aircraft was sufficiently close, he tilted the nose up and powered down some. At last, he heard the tires of his aircraft make a screeching sound, indicating that they have made contact with the pavement below. When he `parked' his aircraft in one of the assigned slots for Mobius Flight, He saw the others follows suit.

When he came down from the aircraft, he heard the Intercom.

"All pilots. Please report to the briefing room for an emergency briefing. I repeat. All pilots…"

When Shinji was about to head towards the briefing room, he saw some fighters being prepped for take-off.

`That must be Halo flight.' Shinji thought. `At least we're not the only ones out there.'

Warwick Air Force Base: Briefing Room: October 10, 2004

As soon as the pilots assigned to escort and protect the combined allied forces entered the room, they saw the base commander holding a folder on her right hand with an unhappy look on her face that was similar to the one she had on earlier. The colonel didn't waste anymore time as she began her mission briefing.

"Pilots," Misato began. "I know you're tired. I'm sorry, but duty calls." She said in an apologetic voice." Then she turned serious and went down to business.

" A few minutes ago, the combined allied forces, commanded by Major General Gallahan, ISAFMC, reported a massive surge of enemy forces pursuing them towards the evacuation point located at the northern port of St. Ark."

"Where they came from is unknown as of yet, but we believe that this is a response against the destruction of one of their most vital radar outposts."

"Major Ryouji Kaji, Maverick Two-Five-One, also reported the presence of a substantial number of support and attack aircrafts in the area. According to him, the attack aircrafts seem to have AA and ATG missiles in their arsenal. "

"All F-16 Block 60 Fighting Falcons will be armed with J-SOWS while the A-10s will be loaded with the usual Air-to-Ground weaponry. Be warned though, that their sheer numbers will allow them to hide some mobile SAM defenses."

"We're going to use the J-SOWS?" The pilots asked. Misato nodded her head. "Of course. Given the massive number of enemy tanks, the J-SOWS will be quite useful in destroying them."

"Anyways, Halo flight is already being prepared for take-off. Shinji, since you are the most senior aviator present and the members of Halo Flight are still fresh rookies, you will be tasked to command them today."

Misato sat down on the chair behind the table. "Pilots, your mission is to escort the Combined Allied Forces' Tank force to safety. Make contact with Maverick Flight and assist them to destroy all enemy units intent on pursuing and annihilating our forces. This operation will be called Operation: Allied Shield. Dismissed!" She said as she finished her debriefing. The pilots gave her a brief military salute before leaving the room.

Warwick Air Force base: Runway two: October 10, 2004

When the pilots reached their respective planes, they saw the F-16 Block 60 fighting falcons and OA-10 Thunderbolt IIs of Halo flight taking-off. They quickly boarded their aircraft and powered up the engines. Mobius one was the first to taxi towards the runway.

"This is Mobius Lead. Preparing for take-off!" Shinji said as he throttled the engines. The Pratt and Whitney engine roared as the aircraft gained speed. Meanwhile in his cockpit, Shinji was smirking to himself. `Surely, control won't mind if I take-off on my own.'

Unfortunately, he wasn't going to get out of this easily. His radio cackled.

"Mobius one, why did you take-off without permission?" `Uh-oh.'

"We're in an emergency. I am sure you do realize that, control." Said Shinji as confidently as he could. However, he was feeling quite nervous. What if they decide to punish him because of this?

The reply came soon enough. "Accepted, Mobius one. Just don't do it again."

"Roger that control." `Whew, that was close. I thought I was screwed for sure.' He barely noticed the rest of Mobius flight forming up on him.

He turned his attention to Tactical network as he saw the others form around him. When he was about to speak, he saw halo flight forming up on them.

"This is Mobius Lead to all units." Said Shinji in a professional voice as he reviewed some possible tactics to use on the enemy ground units. "We will commence attack on the enemy tanks on my order. After that, commence mop-up operations. The F-16s will take care of the choppers and other secondary threats."

"Roger that, Mobius Lead. Will commence attack on your order."

Mobius lead then received a message from Halo lead. "Mobius lead, this is Halo lead. We'll execute your attack on your orders, sir."

Mobius lead was surprised. He thought that the rookie would be another cocky and arrogant jock who always places himself/herself in danger. This one was different. Halo Lead seemed to be friendly. Shinji replied quickly.

"Alright then. We'll commence our attack soon. We'll make Operation: Allied Shield a success. "

En route to the port of St. Ark: Combined Allied Forces: October 10, 2004

The Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force was making a steady progress on their run towards the northern point of St. Ark even though the pursuing Erusian units were pummeling the units on the rear. Major General Gallahan almost sighed in defeat. `Damn it.' He thought. `We need air support if we are hoping to survive here.' His thoughts were cut short when more explosions resounded against the tanks steel exterior. HE then turned his attention to the tactical network.

"This is Bronco to Gunslinger." Said Gallahan as his crew just finished off another tank. The reply came quickly enough.

"Gunslinger here. Awaiting orders."

"Gunslinger, you are to bring the Artillery ahead of us to give us covering fire. We'll give the coordinates once your there."

"Roger that, Bronco." Said the man from the other line. "Gunslinger units moving into position."

Major General Gallahan just ordered the MLRS tracks and Artillery units to move to their offensive positions…

Its time for ISAF to strike back…

En route to the port of St. Ark: Maverick Two-Five-One/Maverick lead: October 10, 2004

"Eat this!"

Major Kaji Ryouji yelled as he pummeled another pursuing Erusian tank to oblivion. He turned his Comanche to the right as he targeted another enemy Main Battle Tank. He was about to fire his 20 mm three-barrel turret gun when he saw a Kamov-52 Hokum B attack chopper approach his position. The Kamov had its 30mm gun pod trained on him.

`Damn! An enemy chopper!' He thought as he changed the Comanche's setup from attack to air combat mode. Because of the transition to Air Combat mode, the internal weapons bay of the Comanche attack chopper opened, allowing the `attack wings' to retract back inside. Once done, a pair of smaller wings with a cluster of stingers hanging under each pylon.

`Show me what you've got!'

The pilot of the Kamov must have read his mind when he began to fire his 2A42 30mm gun pod.

The multi-role all-weather combat Ka-52 "Alligator" helicopter is a twin-seat derivative of the attack Ka-50. It is intended for a wide range of combat tasks in daytime and night conditions, in any time of the year with the use of all destruction means of the Ka-50. This is a commander helicopter of the army aviation aimed at increasing the efficiency of group combat helicopter operations.

Coaxial-type Ka-52 helicopter differs from its predecessor by a wider nose part and twin-seat crew cockpit where the pilot ejection seats are arranged side-by-side. Both pilots have full controls of the helicopter without any limitations. The pilot cockpit is armored. The helicopter can be used as a trainer. High flying qualities of the coaxial helicopter combined with unique maneuverability allow the helicopter to perform combat maneuvers within the minimum air area and the shortest time to gain an advantageous attack position.

Numerous weapons options for the helicopter are achieved by arranging a movable high-speed firing gun starboard of the helicopter, and by six available external wing stores with different combination of anti-tank missiles, rockets, "air-to-air" missiles, gun ammunition of a container type and bombs of various calibers. From the point of view of the weapons power the "Alligator" is comparable with the "Black Shark" helicopter and is superior to all existing combat helicopters.

The on-board multifunctional avionics suite ensures round-the-clock helicopter piloting, navigational and combat tasks in anytime of the year. The avionics suite is comprised of a multiplexed, multi-level digital computer-based system having large storage capacity and high speed. Observation, search and targeting systems comprising head-mounted display are used for round-the-clock and all-weather detection of specified targets and their attack using optical, TV, laser, IR and radar equipment.

When Kaji began to fire his own cannon, the Kamov chopper began to strafe while firing his own rapid-fire gun.

`Oh boy. This is going to be a LONG day/'

En route to port of St. Ark: Black six: Ka-52 HOKUM B / Alligator: October 10, 2004

`Let's see what you got, Comanche boy."

Black six flew circles around Maverick Two-Five-One as he began to fire 2A42 30mm cannon.

The 2A42 30mm cannon has two rates of fire low at 200-200 rds/min and high at 500rds/min. The cannon has dual feed, one being for HE-T and the other for AP-T. It has an effective range of 1000 m but is sighted out to 4000 m.

When Black six saw that his tactics weren't working, he armed his AA-11 Archers.

"Time to sat goodbye."

The R-73 short-range, close-combat standardized missile was developed in the Vympel Machine Building Design Bureau. The R-73 is included in the weapon complex of MiG-23MLD, MiG-29 and Su-27 fighters and their modifications and also of Mi-24, Mi-28 and Ka-50 helicopters. It also can be employed in flying craft that do not have sophisticated aiming systems.

The missile is used for engaging modern and future fighters, attack aircraft, bombers, helicopters, drones and cruise missiles, including those executing a maneuver with a g-force up to 12. It permits the platform to intercept a target from any direction, under any weather conditions, day or night, in the presence of natural interference and deliberate jamming. It realizes the "fire and forget" principle.

The missile design features a canard aerodynamic configuration: control surfaces are positioned ahead of the wing at a distance from the center of mass. The airframe consists of modular compartments accommodating the homing head, aerodynamic control surface drive system, autopilot, proximity fuze, warhead, engine, gas-dynamic control system and aileron drive system. The lifting surfaces have a small aspect ratio. Strakes are mounted ahead of the aerodynamic control surfaces.

The combined aero-gas-dynamic control gives the R-73 highly maneuverable flight characteristics. During flight, yaw and pitch are controlled by four aerodynamic control surfaces connected in pairs and by just as many gas-dynamic spoilers (fins) installed at the nozzle end of the engine. Control with engine not operating is provided by aerodynamic control surfaces. Roll stabilization of the missile is maintained with the help of four mechanically interconnected ailerons mounted on the wings. Drives of all missile controls are gas, powered from a solid-propellant gas generator.

The passive infrared homing head supports target lock-on before launch. Guidance to the predicted position is by the proportional navigation method. The missile's combat equipment consists of an active proximity (radar or laser) fuze and impact fuze and a continuous-rod warhead. The engine operates on high-impulse solid propellant and has a high-tensile steel case.

"Birds affirm." Black six said to himself as he gained a lock-on to Maverick Two-Five-One.

"Birds away. Die you sucker!"

En route to the port of St. Ark: Maverick Two-Five-One/Maverick lead: October 10, 2004

"Oh shit. Missile warning!" Kaji exclaimed as he began to take some evasive maneuvers. He almost grinned in triumph when he saw the missile miss him but the grin faded when he saw that the missile was turning back on him, preparing for another go at his chopper.

"Oh crap! It's an Archer! Commencing evasive maneuvers and activation of electronic counter measures!"

Kaji activated the ECM pods on his craft as he increased power. Due to the increased power, the RAH-66 Comanche's gas turbine engines lit up in fury as the Comanche began to do some aerial maneuvers, making the missile lose its lock as it ran out of fuel. HE then turned to black six.

"Checkmate." Kaji said as he fired two of his stingers.

En route to port of St. Ark: Black six: Ka-52 HOKUM B / Alligator: October 10, 2004

"Two missiles huh? We'll see about that."

Black six did some loops as he saw the two thin lines of smoke rising before him. Taking advantage of his Rotary aircraft's extreme maneuverability, He tried to dodge the missiles Unfortunately, because of his late execution of his maneuver, the missile struck true to their intended target.

"This is it, huh? Well, I guess the skies are a good place to die."

One of the Stinger missiles struck the base of the rotor while the other one punctured the cockpit. The kamov, which was once a deadly machine, was now a fireball of scrap as it plummeted into the ground. Kaji sighed in relief before turning his attention to the Tactical network.

"Splash one. Splash one bandit. Tracking enemy armor now."

En route to the location of the Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: October 10, 2004

Mobius Flight and Halo Flight maintained a tight formation as they made their way to the location of the Allied tank force. As they neared their allies, their SAM warnings chirped occasionally, even though the SAMs themselves were not a threat because they can't reach the current altitude they are flying.

"This is Mobius Lead to all Warthogs. You are to not to engage the enemy tanks until the Smart pigs are deployed."

"Roger that, Mobius one."

Once they were flying overhead the ISAF tank force, Mobius one decided to contact Major General Gallahan himself.

En route to the port of St. ark: Combined Allied Forces: October 10, 2004

"Target in sight at nine o'clock. Sabot round! Shoot!"

The Command version of the Abrams Main Battle tank once again unloaded another Sabot round as it retreated towards the port. He could see that the tank they fired upon turned into a white splotch as he looked at the Infrared Imaging system of his Command Abrams. Suddenly, there was a cackle on the radio.

"This is Mobius Flight to Major General Gallahan. Come in, over."

James immediately replied. "This is Major General Gallahan speaking. Who is this?"

The man on the other end seemed to pause. "This is Mobius Lead sir. We've been sent here to assist you're retreat. We're about to drop our Smart pigs now."

Gallahan was baffled. "Smart pigs?"

"Never mind sir. We'll take care of our part."

The skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Mobius Flight: October 10, 2004

"Okay guys, let's get this show on the road." He checked the coordinates inputted on the Joint Standoff Weapon before once again turning his attention back to the TACNET.

"This is Mobius one to al Falcon units. Warthog units stand-by." He took a deep breath before continuing. "Execute, Execute, Execute acknowledge! All Fighting Falcons commence fire!"

"Roger that, Mobius lead. Copy your order to execute. We're executing now. Out."

As the combined squadrons of Halo Flight and Mobius Flight moved into position, the pilots pushed their fingers into the release triggers. The J-SOWS were up and running.

The AGM-154A Joint Standoff Weapon or JSOW is currently under development by Raytheon [Texas Instruments] for the Air Force and the Navy. The AGM-154A (Formerly Advanced Interdiction Weapon System) is intended to provide a low cost, highly lethal glide weapon with a standoff capability. JSOW family of kinematically efficient, air-to-surface glide weapons, in the 1,000-lb class, provides standoff capabilities from 15 nautical miles (low altitude launch) to 40 nautical miles (high altitude launch).

The JSOW will be used against a variety of land and sea targets and will operate from ranges outside enemy point defenses. The JSOW is a launch and leave weapon that employs a tightly coupled Global Positioning System (GPS)/Inertial Navigation System (INS), and is capable of day/night and adverse weather operations. The JSOW uses inertial and global positioning system for midcourse navigation and imaging infra-red and datalink for terminal homing.

The AGM-154A Joint Standoff Weapons disengaged from the fighters as they extended their cruise-missile-like wings to head towards the target area. Each of them was thirteen feet long and almost two feet wide, armed with BLU-108B sub munitions, twenty-four per each weapon. Each of them was quite `aware' of where they were heading, as they were programmed by their fighters and now followed the set route indicated in the Global Positioning System onboard each. They didn't know that they were flying overhead the location where the Erusian Mechanized Forces were romping on the battlefield.

Each of the canisters began to disengage, dropping their load of sub munitions towards the ground below. Even though it may not seem so, the falling bomblets were guided to. Each had a seeker continuously looking for the heat of an operating tank, self-propelled gun, truck and personnel carrier. For the bomblets' seekers, it was a target-rich environment.

En route to the port of St. Ark: Pursuing Erusian Mechanized Forces: October 10, 2004

"What the hell?!"

The Division commander of the pursuing Erusian mechanized Forces saw the carnage brought about by the Smart pigs. Several of the tanks beside his own vehicle exploded as the sub munitions pierced the weak armoring above their turrets. Some of the explosive bomblets punctured the engine, making several of the tanks incapable of continuing their pursuit. Some knocked off the thread of the tanks, rendering them useless. All in all, the carnage brought about by the Smart pigs was truly devastating.

No one even heard or seen them, really. The white paint and small shape of the bomblets allowed the J-SOWS to remain unseen until it was too late. Of the almost eight hundred pursuing tanks in the area, three hundred were heavily damaged while a hundred more had a punctured engine or a knocked off thread. Even though the number of J-SOWS employed were relatively small, the space between the tanks, which were very close, allowed the Smart pigs to rack up some kills.

The Division commander shook out of his stupor and yelled to his Tactical network. "Continue the pursuit! Do not let them escape!"

En route to the port of St. Ark: Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: October 10, 2004

`Yes!'

Major General Gallahan cheered mentally to himself as he saw the carnage brought about by the J-SOWS to the enemy. His reverie was cut short when the gunner reported something.

"Sir, I'm detecting increased activity of the Erusian tanks. They're charging even harder sir!"

Major General Gallahan was silent for a while.`Damn! They're even charging harder now!' Before he could continue his thoughts, he quickly contacted Gunslinger.

"Gunslinger, this is Bronco. Are the Erusians in range yet?"

The reply came quickly enough. "Not yet, Bronco. The Crusaders, Paladins and MLRS tracks report that the Erusians are a few feet short. A little bit more and they'll enter firing range."

James sighed. "We'll see what we can do."

`Uh-oh.'

The Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Combined Mobius and halo Flight: October 10, 2004

`Uh-oh.'

Mobius Lead unknowingly mimicked the Major General's thoughts as he saw the increased activity of the Erusian units in the area. He then turned his attention to the Tactical network

"All units attack! Warthogs commence attack on the Tanks. All Falcons attack those choppers!"

"Roger!"

The Fighting Falcons and the A-10 Warthogs dived towards the enemy tanks.

En route to the port of St. Ark: Pursuing Erusian mechanized Forces: October 10, 2004

"Enemy aircrafts detected! There seems to be twelve targets in the group!" said the Division commander as he saw the approaching aircraft. He contacted his AA units. "Linebackers, destroy them!"

"Yes sir. Linebackers out."

The Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Combined halo and Mobius Flight: October 10, 2004

Shinji and the others broke formation as their threat receivers began to chirp. Almost without warning, the m6 Linebackers hidden amongst the column of tanks rolling forward fired their Stinger missiles at them.

Mobius Lead did some turns and activated the Electronic counter measures onboard his aircraft as he tried to evade the enemy missiles. As he was about to enter another turn, gunfire erupted beneath him. Several bullets impacted on the aircrafts sides. Luckily, the bullets didn't puncture his fuel tank. Because of his extreme maneuvering over the enemy tank columns, the missiles lost lock and exploded a few feet away from the enemy tanks.

`Whew, that was close.' He thought in relief as he raised his altitude and prepared his Air-to-Mud avionics. `Time to do some air-to-mud today.'

Shinji willed his fighter down again as he engaged his AGM-65 Mavericks and locked-on to one of the tanks. When he fired one of his missiles, the Maverick entered supersonic speed before completely annihilating the target. The turret of the said was disconnected from the body of the tank by the force of the explosion. Shinji locked on to another while firing his M-16A1 20mm multi-barrel gattling gun.

`This is going to be too easy.' Mobius Lead thought as he destroyed another tank. Ales, this was not to be as a group of Kamov choppers, probably sensing the predicament of their allies, went directly to his position.

`Uh-oh.' Mobius lead thought as he saw the Kamovs. Suddenly, one of them exploded in a shower of flames. Amidst the smoke, he saw a Comanche. "Ka- I mean, Maverick Two-Five One?" Shinji asked bewilderedly over the TACNET. The reply came soon enough.

"This is maverick Two-Five-One, Mobius Lead." Kaji said over the TACNET. "Let's take care of these, shall we?"

"You betcha!"

Kaji willed his Comanche to the left as the allied F-16 raised altitude. When Kaji fired a stinger, he saw Mobius lead fire a sidewinder. The two Kamovs had little time to react as the respective missiles targeted on them struck, making them explode upon impact.

The five other Kamovs separated from their formation. Three Alligators placed their attention on the F-16 while the remaining to double-teamed the Comanche. Even though it seemed that Mobius lead and Maverick Two-Five-One had a distinct advantage over the Kamovs, this is not true. First of all, the Kamovs were superior in numbers and, most important of all, the Kamovs were armed with AA-11 Archers, the best Russian short-range missile that is almost comparable to its American counterpart, the AIM-9X sidewinder.

When Shinji fired his M-16A1 cannon on one of the Kamovs, he saw two missiles heading towards him. The missiles, judging from their appearance, looked like a…

"Oh sit! Archers!"

The Fighting Falcon swerved from left to right and made some loops as the two high maneuverability missiles charged and chased him at every turn. Shinji was quickly running out of options.

`Damn, what could I do?' Shinji thought in dismay. `I'll run out of fuel if this keeps up.' Suddenly, an idea struck him. He saw one of the Kamov choppers turning away from its previous position. As he began to review this probable solution, hesitation crossed his mind. `Its risky but,' He felt determination building up inside him. `We won't know until we try!'

Shinji pushed his engine to afterburners as he headed towards the lone Kamov. The pilot probably didn't notice the Fighting Falcon with two missiles trailing on his back. When the pilot did notice, it was too late. He saw the fighter raise altitude just before it was about to impact with him. He sighed in relief as he thought of how lucky he was not to get hit by the incoming fighter. He didn't notice the two Archers heading right towards him…

The missiles impacted on the side of the Alligator. The fuselage broke into two, before the Archer's 7.4 kg HE expanding rod warhead did a good job of destroying it. Shinji mentally cheered. `Yes!'

En route to port of St. Ark: Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: October 10, 2004

Meanwhile for the groundpounders, they weren't as lucky as the airmen supporting them from above. The other allied tanks were receiving quite a pummeling as numerous tanks from the enemy division took their attacks to another level. The enemy Kamov-52 HOKUM B Alligator attack choppers were closely supporting them.

"All Lima units, commence fire!" yelled Gallahan over the radio.

The `Lima' units were an elite group of M6 Linebackers who honed their skills in numerous practices against mock targets that comprise of fixed-wing and rotary aircrafts.

Of course, when the Lima units were ordered to deploy, they were very effective against the Kamovs. The arrogant pilots of the Kamovs, who didn't usually view the Allied Linebackers as a threat, were now afraid of what the team can do.

"This is Lima-Alpha to all Lima units. You heard the man. Commence attack."

One of the Linebackers turned its turret to the left as an enemy Kamov came into view. A few moments later…

"Firing Stinger!"

The Linebacker recoiled slightly as the Stinger missile rocketed out of one of its missile launch tubes. The enemy didn't see this, however, as he continued to assist the other Kamovs in pummeling the enemy tanks with its rockets. When it did notice the incoming missile, it was too late.

The Stinger missile struck the Kamov chopper at the bow, snapping it from the main fuselage as the warhead exploded. The shrapnel from the warhead severely damaged the engines, quickly cutting off the power from its rotors. It rotated uncontrollably, taking down one of the Kamovs near it in the process. For the Lima unit who shot down the Kamov (Two, actually.), it was like killing two birds with one stone.

"That's a kill! Moving onto next target now."

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Erusian Recon Chopper Contingent: October 10, 2004

A group of Mi-2URN Hoplite Armed Reconnaissance chopper was moving stealthily in low-level flight towards the location of Gunslinger. They were employed by the Erusians as recon units because all the other choppers, most especially the Kamovs, were engaged with the other Anti-air Allied Forces.

The MI-2 Hoplite provides transport and fire support. The MI-2 can conduct reconnaissance, resupply guerrillas and provide close air support with 57mm rockets. It can also have a smoke generator mounted to provide a wide area smoke screen in front of units, screening their movements. Additional missions include; direct air support, antitank, armed reconnaissance, transport, medevac, airborne command post, mine laying, and training.

The three-blade main rotor is mounted on top of a large hump above the body midsection. Two turbo shaft engines are mounted side-by-side on top of cabin, forming a hump, with round air intakes above the cockpit and oval exhausts on the sides of the engines. The small, bus-like fuselage with fixed landing gear features a stepped-up cockpit and rounded nose, and a tadpole-shaped body when viewed from bottom. The tapered tail boom has small, unequally tapered flats and a thin, swept-back fin with a rotor on the right.

The cabin door is hinged rather than sliding, which may limit operations. There is no armor protection for the cockpit or cabin. Ammo storage is in the aircraft cabin, so combat load varies by mission. Some Mi-2USs currently employ fuselage-mounted weapon racks rather than the 23-mm fuselage-mounted cannon, which is removed. Some variants however, still employ the cannon. External stores are mounted on weapons racks on each side of the fuselage. Each rack has two hard points for a total of four stations.

"Target in sight." Said the Lead pilot of the Hoplite choppers. He rotated the chopper a bit as he and the others stopped and hovered in mid-air. "It has been confirmed. There is a large group of Artillery units deployed here." He said to the other recon units.

Indeed, there was a plethora of Multiple Launch Rocket System Tracks, M109 A6 Paladins, M2001 Crusader 155mm self-propelled howitzer and M2002 Re supply vehicles lined neatly in a row.

He contacted the Front line Aviation Commander in charge of the Kamovs. "This is Recon lead to Aviation command. Artillery units have been sighted. Coordinates are…"

As he was telling the Erusian Frontline Aviation Commander the coordinates of the said Artillery units, he didn't notice the M6 Linebackers closing in their position. When they did notice, the Allied Stingers were already in the air. The Mil choppers quickly went down in flames as they collided with each other, due to their close proximity. The lead units of the Linebackers contacted Major General Gallahan.

"Bronco, this is Lima Beta. We have bad news…"

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Erusian chopper contingent: Black Flight: October 10, 2004

Black lead quickly disengaged from the enemy tanks when he received his new orders from the Frontline Aviation Commander. His quickly willed his Ka-52 to the right as he rejoined his comrades.

"This is Black Lead to all units. We've been ordered to destroy the artillery up front. Ignore all pursuing units and fire back only if necessary. This mission takes priority." He said over the radio.

"Roger that! Moving to target area now!"

En route to the port of St. Ark: Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: October 10, 2004

"WHAT!?" Major General Gallahan bellowed over the radio. The lead unit of Lima Beta seemed to cringe as he heard this.

"I'm afraid so sir. They've been discovered."

"How the he-" He was cutoff when he heard the distinct sound of rotors amidst the engine's noise. They seemed to be heading somewhere north. Towards the artillery units…

`Damn it!'

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: Combined Halo and Mobius flight: October 10, 2004

The combined Halo and Mobius squadron were entangled with their respective engagements. Suddenly, they saw the Kamov choppers disengage and head North. Any further thoughts were halted when they received a message from Major General Gallahan.

"This is Bronco to all available aerial units. There is a group of Kamovs moving towards the artillery units! If they are destroyed, we will lose any chance of escaping to the port of St. Ark. Protect them at all costs!"

"This is Mobius Flight. Order Acknowledged."

"This is Halo Flight. Pursuing targets."

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: Maverick Flight: October 10, 2004

Major Ryouji Kaji, even though he was engaged with an enemy chopper at the moment, clearly heard the message Major General Gallahan sent to all aerial units from his command tank.

"This is Maverick Lead. Acknowledged." He then ordered the other units under his command.

"This is Maverick lead to all Maverick units. We are to pursue the enemy targets before they reach Gunslinger. Lets roll out!"

Even if Maverick Flight was down to two-thirds strength, they were still a formidable chopper group. There were still Seventeen AH-64D Longbow Attack choppers and thirteen RAH-66 Recon/Attack Helicopters, including Major Ryouji's unit. One by one, they disengaged from their air-to-mud engagements before heading towards the enemy Kamovs.

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Erusian chopper contingent: Black Flight: October 10, 2004

"We're looking at clear skies, people." Black lead said to the others as they headed towards Gunslinger's position. They hadn't realized that the fighters of Mobius and Halo Flight were already trailing them. It was until they had their threat receivers chirped and the missile warning appeared in their HUDs.

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: Combined Halo and Mobius flight: October 10, 2004

"We're nearing the target." Shinji said as he visually spotted the choppers. He contacted the others. "Arm your sidewinders!"

"Roger that."

"Steady now." Mobius Lead whispered to himself as he waited for the fire control system of his fighter to gain a lock-on. The others did this as well, and were rewarded with the sound of a confirmed missile lock-on.

"Fox 2! Fox 2" The pilot said almost simultaneously as they fired their fired their missiles.

"Here comes company."

Black Flight separated from the flight formation as the Sidewinders closed at them. Some attempted to turn towards the attackers and buy some time for the others who were still on their way to the Artillery units but this was not to be. Those who attempted to do so quickly plummeted out of the sky because the missiles caught them while they were turning. The others who resumed their flight plan pressed on even harder.

Suddenly, three of the surviving Kamovs exploded when Maverick Flight (Unknown to Mobius and Halo Flight right before they show up.) moved in and fired their Stingers. The remaining Kamovs finally retaliated and tangled with Maverick Flight. As Shinji and the others were about to join the `fur ball', they saw three Kamovs discreetly slipping away from the fight.

"All Falcons pursue the escaping choppers!"

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Erusian chopper contingent: Black Flight: October 10, 2004

"Damn! They saw us!"

Black Lead cursed when he saw the Allied Forces chasing at him. His threat receiver chirped when an Allied Sidewinder disengaged from one of the Allied Fighters and started to chase him. Taking advantage of his extreme agility, the Kamov chopper began to do some aerial evasion maneuvers. He was about to give up and give in to defeat when he saw the two other Kamovs assisting him exploded when he saw the Artillery units a kilometers away.

`I can make it!' He thought as determination began to build up once again.

He increased the power of the Kamov as the missiles still chased him. Suddenly, because of sheer luck, one of the missiles lost lock because of some malfunction. He hoped that the other missile was still chasing him. When he was about to engage his AT-16 VIKhR Air-To-Ground Missile, the other missile impacted on its engine. The missile exploded upon impact, quickly destroying the main power source for the rotors and damaging the center fuselage.

`So is seems that my end is here.' Black Lead thought as he felt his aircraft rapidly descend towards the ground. It was clear to him. His death was imminent.

`If I'm going to die here, I might as well take one of the artillery units out.'

Black lead tried to prolong his amount of time in the air so that he can guide his falling chopper towards one of the Paladin Self-propelled howitzers. Luckily, the chopper was engulfed in a bigger explosion, making the chopper plummet a few feet short of the Paladin.

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: Combined Halo and Mobius flight: October 10, 2004

"That's a kill!" Shinji exclaimed as he circled the skies overhead the Allied Artillery units. He saw some of them wave back. He was tempted to do so but was stopped when he remembered that the plane might crash because he removed his one of his hands from the stick. Shinji then contacted Major General Gallahan.

"Mobius Lead, this is Bronco. Threat neutralized." It took a moment before the General replied.

"Thank God." He said in relief. Then he turned serious again. "Mobius Flight, prepare for mop-up operations."

Shinji was bewildered. "Mop-up sir? The enemy tanks are still there."

"We'll take care of that. Bronco out."

En route to the port of St. Ark: Combined Allied Forces' Tank Force: October 10, 2004

"Bronco, this is Gunslinger. The Erusian Tanks are now in range. Awaiting your orders." Major General Gallahan heard the Artillery commander say.

"Gunslinger, this is Bronco." Major General Gallahan felt himself take a deep breath before saying the next words.

"Gunslinger, commence firing! Execute Attack!"

"Execute order acknowledged."

Artillery positions: Combined Allied Forces: October 10, 2004

The artillery commander picked up his field phone to contact his artillery units.

"All units commence TOT barrage fire!"

The MLRS tracks elevated the rocket system on its back before the turret turned to the left. It sat there, waiting for the other units to finish firing preparations.

The Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) provides the Army an all-weather, indirect, area fire weapon system to strike counter fire, air defense, armored formations, and other high-payoff targets at all depths of the tactical battlefield. Primary missions of MLRS include the suppression, neutralization and destruction of threat fire support and forward area air defense targets.

The MLRS M270 Launcher, a derivative of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle (BFV), is the standard U.S. Army platform for firing surface-to-surface artillery rockets and missiles. The Armored Vehicle Mounted Rocket Launcher (M270) is a full-tracked, self-propelled launcher/loader designed to launch 12 tactical rockets and re-deploy before enemy determination of launch position (shoot and scoot). The launch platform is also used to launch the Army Tactical Missile System (Army TACMS) and is capable of launching all M270 Family of Munitions (MFOM) tactical rocket/missile variants. The launcher consists of six rockets, each of which are mounted and controlled in both azimuth and elevation. It has an automated control system for aiming that automatically corrects for launcher cant and ambient temperature, a directional reference system to obtain azimuth elevation and cant angles, and a FCS that is operated from a man-rated vehicle cab. The launcher platform structure provides a "self-loading" capability.

The M270 launcher has a maximum speed of 64 Km/hour, with a maximum range of 435 Km. It is capable of climbing a 60-degree slope and a one-meter wall. Ordnance options include the MFOM (all variants of the MLRS rocket and Army TACMS missile). The M270 can load, arm, and fire a 12-rocket ripple within ripple within five minutes. M270 launchers are deployed three per battery and 29 per battalion. The M270 launcher can be configured for transport by Air Force C-141 aircraft on a limited basis. The M270 launcher is also transportable by Air Force C-5 and C-17 aircraft.

MLRS consists of a self-loading launcher with an onboard fire control system (FCS). The launcher is mounted on a mobile track vehicle that carries 12 rockets or 2 Army Tactical Missile System (Army TACMS) missiles, which can be fired individually or simultaneously. Rockets have a range beyond 30 kilometers, and the Army TACMS Block IA missile can reach to 300 kilometers.

The M109 A6 Paladin, the most advanced artillery unit aside from the Crusader, raised its long-range M284 canon as it finished its firing preparations.

The M109A6 Paladin is the latest advancement in 155mm self-propelled artillery. The system enhances previous versions of the M109 by implementing onboard navigational and automatic fire control systems. Paladin has both a Kevlar-lined chassis and a pressurized crew compartment to guard against ballistic, nuclear, biological, and chemical threats.

The M109A6 is the most technologically advanced cannon in the Army inventory. This weapon has a 4 man crew, and weights approximately 62,000 lbs/32 tons, and has a cruising range of 186 miles, Max speed is 35 MPH, It has a fuel capacity of 133 gals. The Paladin can operate independently, from on the move, it can receive a fire mission, compute firing data, select and take up its firing position, automatically unlock and point its cannon, fire and move out - all with no external technical assistance. Firing the first round from the move in less than 60 seconds, a "shoot and scoot" capability protects the crew from counter battery fire. The M109A6 Paladin is capable of firing up to four rounds per minute to ranges of 30 kilometers. The Paladin features increased survivability characteristics such as day/night operability, NBC protection with climate control and secure voice and digital communications. The crew remains in the vehicle throughout the mission.

The Paladin is designed to accept new technologies increasing firing range, rate of fire, and accuracy. TACOM-ARDEC, in order to maintain the state-of-the-art in artillery technologies, is continuing to develop enhancements adaptable to Paladin, such as a 52-caliber gun, Modular Artillery Charge System (MACS), and a laser ignition system.

The M2002 Resupply Vehicle loaded up the shell that was to be fired by the M2001 Crusader before raising the crusader raised its long-range cannon.

The Crusader system, formerly known as Advanced Field Artillery System (AFAS), consists of an automated 155 mm self propelled howitzer (SPH) and a resupply vehicle (RSV) operated by three crewmembers in each vehicle. The Crusader artillery system, including its dedicated resupply vehicle, will be the Army's 21st century self-propelled howitzer and will provide artillery support to the maneuver forces on the future battlefield. The system will utilize innovative propellant technologies to propel 155mm rounds to ranges up to 50 kilometers and will be capable of firing 10-12 rounds per minute. In addition, the Crusader will be able to fire up to eight rounds that can impact simultaneously on a target.

These new features will greatly increase artillery forces' lethality and versatility and will provide a significant increase in battlefield tempo. PM Crusader, with matrix support from TACOM-ARDEC, is also helping to develop a dedicated support vehicle that will provide ammunition, propellant, fuzes and fuel to the forces in the field. Both the self-propelled howitzer and the resupply vehicle will utilize state-of-the-art robotic handling systems which will decrease the time and number of personnel needed for resupply. In addition, these systems will be capable of maintaining speed and maneuverability with forces at the front lines of the battle. TACOM-ARDEC is involved in all aspects of Crusader's development, currently in the demonstration and validation phase, through fully integrated product development teams. The Crusader self-propelled howitzer will provide soldiers with a more lethal, capable, supportable, survivable, longer range, and less manpower-intensive field artillery system that will meet the user's needs well into the 21st century.

On cue, the MLRS units, Paladin and Crusaders Howitzers fired simultaneously as they initiated the Time on Target Barrage, otherwise known as TOT. An American invention from the days of World War two, the Time on Target Barrage was designed so that every gun targeted on a single spot on the map will arrive at the same time, therefore denying the enemy to dive or hide for cover. In the olden days, this meant the laborious calculation of the flight time of every shell, but computers did that now in less time. All of the shells were VT, which stood for `Variable Time'.

Variable Time meant that at the nose of each shell was a tiny radar transponder that was set to detonate when it was about fifty feet above the ground. In this way, the fragments of the shell will not be wasted into the ground. Instead, it will make an inverted cone of death and destruction about two hundred feet across its base.

The Erusian Forces pursuing them saw this `spectacle' in the front row seat…

En route to the port of St. Ark: Pursuing Erusian Mechanized Forces: October 10, 2004

"NOOOOO!!!"

The Division Commander felt himself scream as he saw the carnage done by the Time-on-Target Barrage. Almost all the tanks near his own exploded as fragments lanced through the weakest point in its armor, the top of the turret. Several more tanks exploded when the fragments punctured the gas tanks, igniting the furl and turning the tank into a burning, metal coffin. The Divisional Commander, seeing that the allied Forces had successfully destroyed the bulk of their mechanized forces, decided to send the order to pull back.

"This is the DIVCOM to all units. All units pull back. I repeat, all units pull back."

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Combined Mobius and Halo Flight: October 10, 2004

The combined Mobius and Halo Flight circled the skies overhead as if to see the status of the situation. As they circled overhead, they saw the wrecked ruins of the main battle tanks that were once pursuing their allies. As they made their final search they saw some retreating Erusian units. Just then, Maj. General Gallahan contacted him.

"Mobius Lead." Gallahan began. "I would like to thank you for the assistance you rendered for our forces. The same goes for the other pilots too." He paused before continuing.

"I ask you to destroy the retreating Erusian forces. Let us pay them back their own coin."

"Will do, sir." Mobius Lead replied. "Tracking targets now." He then opened a line of communication between him and the other pilots.

"All units, this is Mobius Lead. Destroy all of the retreating forces. Don't let any escape."

A moment passed before the reply came. "Roger that Mobius lead."

The twelve allied planes dived towards the retreating tank group. Shinji and the others fired their Mavericks while the Warthogs decided to take things up close and personal. Five tanks immediately exploded when the missiles hit three of them while the other two exploded fro armor penetration and the puncturing of the gas tanks.

When the OA-10s was about to make another go, Anti-air gunfire suddenly erupted from beneath them. Mobius three almost laughed out loud when he saw this.

`Whoa! Talk about being hardheaded.' Mobius three thought. `They're forgetting that this baby of mine is heavily armored.'

Indeed, the bullets didn't even penetrate the armor as Mobius three continued to fire at them. When he screamed past the burning wreckages, Mobius three saw an MBT with four antennas escaping from the scene.

"This is Mobius three to Mobius Lead. A command tank is trying to escape."

En route to the port of St. Ark: Erusian Division Commander's Command tank: October 10, 2004

The Division Commander can't believe what he saw. His formidable Erusian Tank Force had been utterly destroyed by the Allied Forces. `Why?!' He thought. `Why must this happen?!' He then turned his attention to the driver before any other thoughts could cross his mind.

"Get us out of here."

"Yes sir."

The command tank's engines roared as the driver throttled it in reverse, turned left, and then forwards again. When the tank was already escaping the area in speeds in excess of forty kilometers per hour, they failed to notice the planes behind them…

Within two seconds, the Division commander was no more…

Skies overhead the Combined Allied Forces: Combined Mobius and Halo Flight: October 10, 2004

"Target destroyed. All enemy tanks have been destroyed."

The Allied squadron circled the skies as they scanned the area for any more enemy units they might have missed. They saw that the burning wreckages of enemy tanks along with the choppers that were shot down made this field a thinly spread junkyard. Clearly, no tank was able to take cover after the TOT opening barrage and the continuous artillery fire afterwards. It was a truly gruesome sight to see.

When they made their last pass and decided to escort the tank force, Maj. General Gallahan contacted them.

"You have truly distinguished yourselves as true airmen." The Maj. General began. "If not for your assistance, we wouldn't even be here to thank you."

"Thank you sir."

"Well it seems we have to go the evac point now. Bronco out."

Shinji then contacted the others through the radio. "All units, we are to escort them to the port of St. Ark. No one must break formation unless necessary."

Port of St. Ark: October 10, 2004

Mobius Flight and maverick Flight scanned the skies as they watched The Allied Forces head towards their respective amphibious evacuation ships. Once they reached the end of the port, they saw the numerous LPD-17 San Antonio Class Amphibious Transport Dock ships waiting for them. After a few more hours, all the tanks had been finally loaded up and the amphibious ships were now steaming towards the waiting DD-21 Zumwalt Class destroyers assigned as escorts.

After making one final round to see if there are no Erusian units in the area, they decided to head for home. Shinji contacted the others.

"Well it has been a long day people." Shinji began. "Another successful operation!"

"Yeah!"

Shinji then turned his attention to Halo Lead. "You did well, Hal Lead. You have a promising future, assuming we get out of this war."

"Thanks."

"Everyone, may I congratulate you for making Operation: Allied Shield a resounding success!"

Author's note:

Special Thanks to:

GundamAzurain

TheLegendaryManHimself

Tsaieric

For reviewing my story! Thank you! Thank you very much!

Sorry for not updating sooner. I just can't get my lazy self to sit here and type for hours on end. This may be the last update for a while because school here is starting soon. I will try to update every weekend, but I can't make promises. Anyways, I assure you that the AC1 and AC3 Planes will make their appearance soon. To those who are intrigued by Kaji's appearance, I only thing I can say is that he will be a very important character in later chapters. He will serve his purpose soon. >grin< Anyways, please review! Any helpful suggestions will be accepted. Flames will meet an abrupt end at the foot of my AC Beowulf.