Italian Long Campaign

[sigeena]

60 Battles LC with Italy. Some house rules.

1. Map-Size is 80 x 120, so approx. 4 km frontage, with 6 km total depth
2. Timed Objectives at 3pts
3. Objectives will always be spread out, no cluster allowed
4. Tank Heavy Off

First battle is a meeting engagement in Southern France over the Alps in June 1940.

Here is my orbat.

<a href="https://imgur.com/YlXCJfN"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/YlXCJfN.jpg?1" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Here's the map.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fhsxfa5"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fhsxfa5.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

I think it's hard to tell the actual relief on the map itself, so I hope the mini-map on the bottom right provides a better perspective.

Basically, the centre of the map is dominated by very high ground (Yellow Star) There is a road running E-W along near the top edge of the map itself. (Red Star)

Alot of forested areas, of particular interest is the large forested area in the centre nearer to the French side. (Red Star)

Bearing in mind the potential for exploitation of the road to quickly access the rear of the map.

My quick plan is as follows. (Blue lines to show approx. company boundaries)

1 Company to move swiftly down the road, to establish flanking position to potential enemy centre, before moving towards the rear of the enemy.
1 Company to move along the bottom of the map, to establish a firebase overlooking the forest in the centre, before moving to wards the rear of the enemy.
1 Company to move along the centre of the map, with intention to secure the dominant ground and the forest on the French side.

<a href="https://imgur.com/UhDxxB7"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/UhDxxB7.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

The 1st Company is attached with motor transport to enable swift movement down the road.
<a href="https://imgur.com/ShdBvgW"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ShdBvgW.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

The 2nd Company is attached with a Medium Tank Section to probe towards the centre of the map.
<a href="https://imgur.com/PqvwWWU"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PqvwWWU.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

The 3rd Company is attached with HMG Section
<a href="https://imgur.com/HwS8ods"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/HwS8ods.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

The pre-planned spot is for the recon airplane, to observe the centre of the map.

<a href="https://imgur.com/8RMVr7B"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8RMVr7B.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

At Turn 3, 1st Company has established advanced OP position with their Scout Team and AT-Guns. No sign of enemy sighted.

<a href="https://imgur.com/S2p4vRu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/S2p4vRu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

2nd and 3rd Company are lagging behind due to the terrain.

[sigeena]

At around Turn 10, the EN has not been spotted yet and our 1st Company is already in position on the flank. 1 Platoon will continue to move along the road on foot, while the rest of the company prepares to advance to secure the flank of the high ground.

The Scout Section (on motorcycles) have established an OP on the high ground.

<a href="https://imgur.com/0AOwcB7"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/0AOwcB7.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

At 2nd Company sector, the infantry is moving forward as quickly as possible and expect to reach the top of the objective in the next 5 turns. The tank section has also established an OP on the left flank of the company.

<a href="https://imgur.com/jH06hSo"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/jH06hSo.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

At 3rd Company sector, as they have moved quicker than 2nd Company, I intend to shift their weight towards the forest. 1 Platoon will continue to make their way to the rear of the map along the fringe of the forest.

<a href="https://imgur.com/I8wWp4d"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/I8wWp4d.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

In anticipation that the EN is in force in the forest, I plan to drop the following bombardment plan. Note the 3.1 turns for delay.

<a href="https://imgur.com/RN1AsHA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/RN1AsHA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

At Turn 13, the EN infantry is spotted. I expect at least 1 platoon strength each at the 2 points of contact. The Scout OP will be displaced, as I expect my foot infantry to come up in the next 2-3 turns.

As for the tank OP, they will stay and fight. No anti-tank threats spotted from the French at this point in time, so they are safe to fight.

<a href="https://imgur.com/uRKzznI"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/uRKzznI.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

<a href="https://imgur.com/Ka5gYnv"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Ka5gYnv.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

A side-by-side comparison of the infantry units. Our platoons are a mix of both Heavy and Light, 2 squads each. The Light ones have only rifles and grenades. The Heavy ones have some additional support weapons.

The French units spotted are the Chass Alpins (Mountain Infantry) and are probably of higher EXP and MOR compared to my regular infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/pcrReFZ"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/pcrReFZ.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Situation at Turn 15

Along the way, more EN infantry were spotted, and I roughly gauge the EN size.

To the north, between the 1st and 2nd Company, the EN infantry is around 2 platoon size. Preferring a closer fight, I resist shooting off at range. My units move closer before squaring off at 300m. The EN infantry lacks cohesion in their movement, and are rather strung out.

Near my tanks OP, the reinforced EN company is also accompanied by tanks. The first real threat to my own units. In the initial firefight, the French tank was destroyed.

As for their infantry, they are unable to make much headway against my tanks. My artillery has also started dropping near their assembly area.

The EN has also began bombarding my tanks with some 75mm guns. Though a nuisance, they may immobilise my tanks. And so I move them away from the impact area.

The EN has also brought a couple of attack aircraft. Again, nothing more than a nuisance, unless they attack my artillery park. I lack AA weapons.

<a href="https://imgur.com/G8S7qnX"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/G8S7qnX.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

A side by side comparison of our armour units.

Basically, the H-35 poses very little threat to our M-13/40.

<a href="https://imgur.com/HpR7kOY"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/HpR7kOY.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Some situation maps of Turns 17 and 19.

2nd Company has reached the objective and is clearing the EN infantry along with 1st Company on the EN flank. The EN infantry doesn't take long before breaking.

<a href="https://imgur.com/qackrHe"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/qackrHe.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

As for reinforced EN infantry, my HMG firebase on dominant ground has excellent field of fire and together with my artillery, quickly suppresses their movement. My tanks charge in to wreak more close-in destruction. I intend to move M platoon from 2nd Company towards the rear of the EN so as to cut off their line of retreat. 1 platoon from 3rd Company has also joined in the firefight south of the EN.

<a href="https://imgur.com/OQZ5Euj"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OQZ5Euj.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 25

While my 2nd and 3rd Company pursue the EN to destruction, we shift our attention to 1st Company. Earlier, I had moved J Platoon to the rear, using the road. As they sweep the rear area from N to S, they encounter the EN heavy weapons. We found at least 3 MMG sections and 1 light mortar section. With our MMG on dominant ground, we attack the EN support weapons and overcome them after a brief firefight. Most of our losses were taken in this fight as we had to move over open ground to close with the EN MMGs.

<a href="https://imgur.com/MqAwN0b"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/MqAwN0b.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 31

Most influential unit were my tank section. With the help of my artillery and HMGs, they held off an entire company, and on pursuit, forced many to surrender.

Most useless unit were my ATG with motor transport. No fault of their own, as the EN didn't move any armour along the road. Nonetheless, their motor transport was useful at moving 1st Company quickly to the front

<a href="https://imgur.com/Hjl6Bek"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Hjl6Bek.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Approx. Company boundaries

My units moved and fought largely according to plan. The EN were found to have wasted too many turns in their start line. Usually, infantry contacts should have occurred by Turn 8-10. In this one, we first spotted them on Turn 13.

As for the EN most influential unit, probably their MMGs at their rear. This killed 1 of my Scout teams, riding their motorcycles. Probably avoidable if I took more care.

The EN most useless unit was probably their 3 tanks. Without a weapon that can kill my tanks, they were destroyed within 2 turns of contact.

<a href="https://imgur.com/6esTdjZ"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6esTdjZ.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next battle map coming up.

Another meeter on the alps. Note the presence of the 2 roads running E-W and 1 running N-S on my side.

However, the high ground is on the French side.

Am thinking of moving 2 companies as fighting columns along the 2 E-W roads and 1 company in reserve with motor transport, waiting to reinforce, along the N-S road.

Comments?

<a href="https://imgur.com/OkFGhgV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OkFGhgV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

This is my orbat. I tend to leave the units as they are if they only need 1 pt to fix in between battles. So it looks like 1st Company will play reserve, while 2nd and 3rd Companies work their way down the roads.

Support units are as follows
S0- Recon Aircraft
T0- Medium Tank Section
U0- Motorcycle Section (for my F0 scout section)
V0- AT Guns with Motor Transport
W0- Motor Transport Platoon

<a href="https://imgur.com/vHg7wi6"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/vHg7wi6.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Having deployed my units on the startline, I estimate that the Black Line is where my units will de-bus from their transports, around Turn 3. There will be a ferry service of sorts for the Motor Transports to bring the rest of the respective Companies up to the black line.

If contacted early, the point platoons are not to stand and fight, but fight delay until at least the Company commander is up with another platoon.

The tank section is intended to primarily find and fight the EN tanks where possible, before returning to the company fight.

1st Company itself is dispersed to capture the flag objectives, and will subsequently assemble along the road as a mobile reserve. The motor transports will be released to them once 2nd and 3rd companies have finished forming up near the Black Line.

There will be recon aircraft flying overhead to provide additional eyes and ears. Likely of more use to 3rd Company due to proximity.

<a href="https://imgur.com/SkALBL0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/SkALBL0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Situation at Turn 6

EN infantry was spotted probing near both roads. EN tank was spotted near the bottom of the map, moving upwards towards the high ground.

This is at 3rd Company sector. This particular infantry unit type doesn't have section LMGs.

My tanks will veer off the road and head south to intercept the EN tanks. The EN tanks are of low threat to my tanks (main gun having PEN of 3 only) but potentially challenging to my rifle infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/wVXv3k5"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/wVXv3k5.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

<a href="https://imgur.com/rZnOZw3"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rZnOZw3.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 6

L platoon of 2nd Company isn't fully up, having only loaded 3 sections out of 4 onto the ATG motor transports. The EN infantry is of the Chass Alpins variety and is coming forward very steadily under fire. L platoon will have to slow them down for at least 2 more turns before the 2nd platoon reaches.

The AT Gun section has 3 guns and 3 transports. Their transports have a total lift capacity of 18, of which each AT Gun takes up 6. My infantry units take up 11, so I could fit only 3 infantry sections along with the AT Gun section. The ATGs are of limited use here as well, EN armour has not been spotted nearby and very likely none will come up this road at all.

<a href="https://imgur.com/PwdulMe"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PwdulMe.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

The rest of 3rd Company is still moving up towards the fight. I've managed to drop my HMGs but they are unable to find a good field of fire. They have to make do with suppressive Z-fire into the rear of the EN units.

The EN is a mix of both Mountain and regular rifle infantry. I think it's at probably slightly more than a company size.

The Company AT-Rifle Team was riding with the tank section and found a EN platoon trying to infiltrate behind my lines. The tank section had to deal with this nuisance before going back to their primary task, to find and destroy the EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/isnqExD"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/isnqExD.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10 2nd Company

Situation for L platoon has deteriorated. The EN artillery strike (Red Star) found its mark and routed the Platoon commander.

The Company Commander is up but the other platoons are at least 2-5 turns away, it'll be difficult to slow them from the objective flag.

My own artillery is probably dropping too far behind the EN lines. I'll have to shift them quickly.

<a href="https://imgur.com/OAb2Ufs"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OAb2Ufs.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 13

3rd Company Sector.
The front has somewhat stabilised. That can only mean that EN bombardment will fall in the next few turns. The quick attack plan is to move R platoon down the road quickly, and then come up north into the EN flank.

<a href="https://imgur.com/wcQM3MJ"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/wcQM3MJ.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Elsewhere, our tanks have finally faced off against the EN tanks.

You will always want to point your front into the EN side or rear.

<a href="https://imgur.com/4MiwFWP"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/4MiwFWP.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

2nd Company Sector

My artillery is finally finding its mark and I'm planning to envelop the EN with my fresh platoons.

<a href="https://imgur.com/6sLUZnr"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6sLUZnr.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[Steves308]

Thanks for this AAR, and good luck, probably no one harder to fight a long campaign with than the Italians ;)

Steves308

[sigeena]

Thanks Steves308.

I've already taken some liberties with regards to my orbat. Historically, the weapons company in the regular infantry battalion had some tiny 45mm assault mortars, which could only be used in direct fire. I decided to disperse them in the rifle companies and buy some 65mm howitzers and 81mm mortars instead, somewhat simulating permanent higher HQ attachments.

Overaching plan subsequently is to fight in N. Africa till the Eastern Front opens up and play up against the Russians. I think I'll probably dump my LC at some point after frustration with the Russians. Imagine the lack of AT weapons against KV mammoths.

[sigeena]

Getting back to the battle, it is quite clear by now that the stalemate in 2nd Company sector is due to the parity in relative combat power (a company apiece slugging it out). I will thus mobilise my reserve 1st Company to support them and push RCP in my favour. On motor transports, 1st Company will move 2 platoons and should reach 2nd Company in 3 turns.

At the same time, my tanks, having destroyed the EN armour, will make its way up to lead the charge into 3rd Company's sector. This will again tilt the RCP in my favour.

[sigeena]

Turn 16, about 3 turns after executing my quick attack

2nd Company sector, EN arty began falling south of the road, hitting my D1 HMG. My own arty was falling in and around the EN concentration, pinning them down as my units closed in. Some of my arty dropped slightly shorter, but it was a small risk to take. I generally like to keep around 200M (4 hexes) for safety distance, but when I start to close in, I'll reduce it to 150M or so.

1st Company has also began arriving along the road. I made a gamble and guessed that there isn't much of an EN presence along the road, otherwise that platoon on trucks will melt away very fast. The lone EN infantry section managed to destroy the truck but was quickly routed by the dismounting infantry.

EN infantry began to rout in the general direction of the yellow arrow, which began taking them closer to my 1st Company positions.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ypmG7nv"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ypmG7nv.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

By Turn 19

Most EN units have been sweeped up by 1st Company along the flank and 2nd Company pressing from the centre.

<a href="https://imgur.com/4Wpq1i5"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/4Wpq1i5.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 16, 3rd Company sector

A similar story to 2nd Company sector. Once R platoon started feeling up the EN flank, the EN infantry began to budge and run. I had expected to use my tanks to force the decision but generally, it was over before they reached the lines.

<a href="https://imgur.com/CEjEsrJ"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/CEjEsrJ.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

After the EN broke, I sent my tanks along the road, aiming to capture the furthest EN objective flag near their edge of the map. The rest of the company spread out to clear the forested area to ensure no more EN stay behind forces.

<a href="https://imgur.com/odbjLag"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/odbjLag.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 26

Most influential unit was probably P platoon of 3rd Company. They contacted the EN since Turn 6 and fought till the EN crumbled. 1 of the sections ended up with 0 ammo.

Most useless unit was probably the AT guns with motor transport. Again due to lack of opportunities. Their organic motor transport was still useful in trooplift ferrying.

<a href="https://imgur.com/wt9u4Fe"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/wt9u4Fe.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

As for the EN most influential unit, this was probably their 60mm mortars. They were fast in delivery and made it difficult in the first 3-5 turns after contact for L Platoon, 2nd Company.

The EN most useless unit, probably their tanks again. They turned up, barely fired a single shot and got destroyed by my tanks. They were slightly better than the ones in the 1st battle, at least they distracted my tanks from the main fight.

[sigeena]

Well well, the Eastern (Africa) Front has opened up in July 1940.

Meeting Engagement against GB in East Africa, probably Kenya or Somaliland.

Main features of the map are as follows

Road running E-W along the north of the map.

Stream running E-W along the south of the map.

Medium forested and some cultivated clearings.

Looks to be more of an infantry fight as little opportunities for armour to roam.

Battle plan is as follows with company boundaries.

1st Coy to advance swiftly down the road with Scout Team and ATG on Motor Transport leading. To dismount near the 1st unclaimed objective flag and then proceed on foot with infantry leading. ATG and HMG section to set-up firebase on high ground.

2nd Coy to advance 2-up with our tanks leading the way. As usual, the tanks will try to find and where possible, destroy the EN tanks.

3rd Coy to advance 3-up, and when the terrain constricts, to reduce frontage to 2-up. The boundary between 2nd and 3rd Coy is the stream itself. A rather convenient boundary.

Air recon will provide eyes and ears over the centre of the map and hopefully spot EN tank movement.

<a href="https://imgur.com/GFcCj3E"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/GFcCj3E.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 3
Air recon always pays off. EN tanks were spotted near the stream and seem to be headed directly towards us. These are A13 MIVA. They are very well matched against my M-13/40. They are obviously better since they move so much faster, and have more accurate main guns.

At the speed with which both sides are closing, it may be another 6 turns before we bump into each other.

<a href="https://imgur.com/H6eR6Va"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/H6eR6Va.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

<a href="https://imgur.com/56envxx"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/56envxx.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 5

EN 3 inch mortars are laying a smoke screen. This provides us another useful information on the likely firing positions. The 3 inch mortars tend to be very short range (1.5km- 30 hexes) so its very unlikely they'll try to counter battery us once our artillery starts firing.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Yy4ddEa"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Yy4ddEa.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

<a href="https://imgur.com/KIc45Xu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/KIc45Xu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 6

Both sides are closing fast.

Once the EN tanks have taken the objective flag, they will either continue to head West (Arrow A) or head North (Arrow B).

If Arrow A, I will move my troops into position to set up a possible ambush. My HMGs are already well sited to cover their expected route of advance. I will move a platoon each from the 2nd and 3rd companies towards the stream as a block force and my tanks will take a slight swing and approach from the EN flank and perhaps rear.

<a href="https://imgur.com/COlVnOW"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/COlVnOW.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 6

If the EN tanks move north instead, Arrow B, they will likely move into 1st Company sector.

Currently, my ATGs are covering the road. I will be moving them to take up ambush positions near the forest so that as the EN tanks move into the clearing, our ATGs will have good fields of fire. I will also be moving 1 platoon to stiffen this line. Currently, H platoon is already moving quite ahead of everyone else.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Fx3KlJD"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Fx3KlJD.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

The EN tanks move much faster than my own tanks and are fast approaching the objective flag. My HMGs are in good position to keep them buttoned up.

It's often good to spray EN tanks, firstly, if there are any tank riders, it gets them off. Tank riders help the tanks in spotting, so if you find that the EN tank seems to have noticed your infantry, it's usually because they have tank riders with them. The second thing is to keep them buttoned, so that they are more susceptible to close assaults. My infantry lack credible AT weapons, so it's up to close assaults.

My tanks will take another 2 turns or so to get into the EN rear. Hopefully not too late to the show.

<a href="https://imgur.com/4FMwf9C"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/4FMwf9C.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

This is turn 10, where the EN tank has blundered into my infantry. The 1st 2 tanks have been immobilised due to close assaults. The 3rd tank lurking behind is still a very valid threat.

<a href="https://imgur.com/gmA3bg2"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gmA3bg2.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 11, it's all over. The EN tanks have been destroyed by Q platoon. Push on! Remember keep the EN tanks buttoned up. Keep your Company Commander close by. Move different infantry sections towards the EN tank. Assault from different directions.

<a href="https://imgur.com/pedJlst"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/pedJlst.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

My air recon reported another platoon of tanks lurking nearby. These turn out to be Matildas, which are not much of a threat at all. Though heavily armoured, they lack main guns and are terrifically slow.

<a href="https://imgur.com/v03GzyR"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/v03GzyR.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

I expect the tank-tank encounter to occur near the blue star. Since they have no AT capability, I will go up to point blank to engage them

<a href="https://imgur.com/1G03Q8M"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1G03Q8M.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 14,

My air recon reports spotting EN infantry near the centre of the map, between 1st and 2nd Company boundary. This seems to be a diversion of sorts, as I could only see 1 platoon size at the most. In a meeting engagement such as this one, due to my size force, I expect a minimum of 2 infantry companies. So this can't be the EN main force.

<a href="https://imgur.com/KMfJ9lw"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/KMfJ9lw.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 16,

Nearer to 3rd Company sector, my foot infantry reports spotting EN infantry in the forest ahead. This is very likely the EN main force. I estimate at least 2 companies moving towards my guys. Since the bulk of their units are still in the forest, I plan my artillery strikes ahead of time.

<a href="https://imgur.com/LxVll4b"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LxVll4b.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 20,

My artillery bombardment has fallen squarely into the suspected EN concentration. I will let it fall for another 2 more turns, while maneuvering my infantry closer. I have also double-stacked my infantry so that the likelihood of panic is reduced.

You can also see the destroyed EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/X743FhY"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/X743FhY.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22,

The EN infantry is losing cohesion and breaking. Their mortars are too short range and are unable to influence the fight. My artillery has been delivering on time.

The key thing for artillery is to influence where and when it matters. I could have used them earlier on suspected EN mortar sites, but doing so would reduce their ammo and they may have to end their strikes on the EN infantry prematurely. I had to slow-cook the EN infantry in this one, with steady bombardment strikes for around 3 turns before I was confident to advance my infantry closer.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fOGUAke"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fOGUAke.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

Once the EN infantry broke, it was pretty much pursuit. Due to the terrain, it took a fair bit of time before all objective flags were taken.

With Timed Objectives, this led to my first marginal victory. Once the EN timed objectives points cross 600, it was kind of expected. I like Timed Objectives because they create an extra layer of suspense.

<a href="https://imgur.com/B9tuXv0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/B9tuXv0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

New battle was another meeting engagement against GB in East Africa.

Here's the map.

I would say that the main features are of a relatively high ridge running N-S near the centre of the map, but more on the Italian side. Compared to the GB side which is heavily forested, I have more open terrain to traverse, which means my forces should be up at the high ground before the EN reaches.

Again there is a road running E-W along the top of the map, which allows speedy access to the rear of the map.

Looking at the overall closed terrain, I would say that 33 turns is abit short to completely take possession of all objective flags. The farthest objective flag is near the bottom right of the map and would be very challenging to take.

<a href="https://imgur.com/iHBFLV2"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iHBFLV2.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Again, the broad plan is for 1 Company to move along the road with motor transport and quickly dominate it.

Another 2 companies to secure the ridgeline and dominate the valley below.

Here's the breakdown in the companies.

1st Company attached with
F0- Scout Section
T0- Motorcycle Section
V0- AT Guns with Motor Transport

The AT Guns are riding together with 3 sections from J platoon. The Advance Force comprising of the Scout Section riding on Motorcycles, and the Motor Transport with AT Guns and J Platoon will ride ahead along the road.

<a href="https://imgur.com/piNyYDA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/piNyYDA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

By Turn 3, the Advance Force is to dismount and secure the road, as this is the straightest part of the road, it allows us to observe all movement along the road.

Once the rest of the company catches up and if there is no EN movement observed up the road, 1 platoon will then be sent down further the road to the EN rear. Sometimes, this allows us to directly engage the EN artillery park.

The rest of the company will turn south and secure the objective flags.

Also, as a lesson learnt from my previous battles, my AT Guns were very un-used once the EN armor was found to be lurking in a different part of the map. I intend to vary and release my AT Guns to the other companies if EN armour is spotted in their sectors.

<a href="https://imgur.com/H7fsWQI"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/H7fsWQI.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

2nd Company attached with

U0- Tank Section (M-13/40)
E0- HMG Section
W0- Mule Section (To trooplift the HMG Section)

<a href="https://imgur.com/J8e7pwh"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/J8e7pwh.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

3rd Company attached with

D0- HMG Section

I made a small mistake and only bought 1 Mule section.

<a href="https://imgur.com/MFwTTsw"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/MFwTTsw.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Blue line is the company boundary.
Yellow is the initial movement and Green is the subsequent movement phase.

My armour is allowed to roam if necessary. As before, it's main task to engage the EN armour.

I also have a Air Recon as usual. The pre-planned spot is near 2nd Company's first objective flag.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ekLhQIU"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ekLhQIU.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Around Turn 4 or so,

EN artillery started bombarding behind my lines. These turn out to be 25 pounder battery and is located near the bottom right edge of the map. Nasty stuff if it catches my infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/EfI70Es"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/EfI70Es.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Around that time, my Air Recon also reports spotting EN armour in around 2nd and 3rd Company sector.

<a href="https://imgur.com/vlhIeWH"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/vlhIeWH.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 8,

In 1st Company sector, all was quiet. The entire company had concentrated around the road and it was rather obvious that the main fight would not happen along the road. I began to move the rest of the company to its subsequent positions and released the AT guns towards 2nd and 3rd Company sector

As for 2nd and 3rd Company, EN infantry was spotted in the forest and likely up to a company sized force.

There were also a platoon of Matildas in the bottom right corner. Due to the speed disparity between the A13 and Matildas, my armour could engage them piecemeal.

<a href="https://imgur.com/lQW1BHf"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/lQW1BHf.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 12,

It was time to set up positions to fight the A13s (red diamonds).

My HMGs are in the high ground dominating the valley to the east. My tanks (blue diamonds) are lying in wait, the purple lines show the field of fire for 1 of them.

I have a small AT rifle team (4 point star) to observe and act as scout.

The idea is to have the HMGs to keep the EN tanks buttoned, and any infantry suppressed before manuevering my tanks to take on the A13s.

<a href="https://imgur.com/GFRMk8d"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/GFRMk8d.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 18

1st Company sector

The EN was about slightly smaller than a coy sized force. The plan for the counter attack was for artillery to drop on the suspected EN positions.

H platoon will be position on the company's left flank and I platoon on the company's right flank.

F Scout section will observe for EN movement and continue to help spot for targets.

<a href="https://imgur.com/gmSwMCT"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gmSwMCT.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

Once the artillery started falling, my infantry moved more agressively. By turn 22, the EN was breaking. And they rout directly into H platoon.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ozimjEp"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ozimjEp.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 18

2nd Company sector

The fight here was pretty one-sided. The EN infantry popped into view intermittently and was met with a hail of fire from the 2nd company on higher ground.

Together with my M-13/40s in the centre, 2nd Company was ordered to move forward into forest. EN 25 Pdrs were beginning to fall on my positions as well, so it was probably safer to move forward, out of the bombardment.

<a href="https://imgur.com/6nu0jfl"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6nu0jfl.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22,

Pretty much over at this point.

<a href="https://imgur.com/1Yz6ZMD"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1Yz6ZMD.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 33

We were unable to capture all the objective flags and again we only managed to achieve Marginal Victory.

<a href="https://imgur.com/M4A0Vlf"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/M4A0Vlf.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next Mission is still a meeting engagement with battlefield Tug Argan.

32 Turns in all.

Terrain is considered rather open and due to my inadequate AT weapons, I would be very mindful to find depressions and gullies to hide my forces.

<a href="https://imgur.com/y7M67o0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/y7M67o0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Deployment

1st Company was attached with
- F0 Scout Section
- U0 Motorcycle Section
- T0 ATGs with Motor Transport

This company was deployed at the top of the map. The plan was for them to race to the opposite bank of the stream and set up ambush positions, to take the EN in the flank as they cross nearer the centre of the map.

2nd Company was attached with
- E0 HMG Section
- V0 Mule Section
- S0 Medium Tank Section

This company was deployed at the bottom of the map. They were tasked to push forward as a company, and with the tanks leading. If EN tanks were spotted, the Medium Tank Section will go ahead and seek to engage them.

3rd Company was attached with
- D0 HMG Section
- W0 Mule Section

This company was deployed near the centre. They had to cross the stream twice and was expected to move slower compared to the other 2 companies. If the EN was met before they cross the second stream, they will remain on the higher ground and fight stubbornly while the other companies probe along the EN flanks.

Unfortunately, air recon wasn't available.

<a href="https://imgur.com/xa51DDt"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xa51DDt.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Within the 1st 4 turns, this battle is likely to be alot more challenging than previous ones. Here were the EN tanks spotted.

A trio of Mk VI Light Tanks prowling near the top of the map, 1st Company sector
<a href="https://imgur.com/s0Rf1Qe"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/s0Rf1Qe.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Three A13s around the centre of the map, 3rd Company sector
<a href="https://imgur.com/M7lrs6K"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/M7lrs6K.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

A pair of Matilda IIs hanging farther behind.
<a href="https://imgur.com/jtn22wM"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/jtn22wM.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 4

The Mk VIs were racing along the top of the map towards my 1st Company position. My AT guns quickly dismounted, much earlier than I had preferred.

H platoon was diverted to set up a block, while I platoon was to continue their movement towards the stream.

<a href="https://imgur.com/gmzwDh9"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gmzwDh9.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 10

The EN tanks were on top of us but the quick firing AT Guns as well as my infantry close assault destroyed 2 of them. The last Mk VI routed. Without any mobile AT weapons to pursue, I could only wait for the Mk VI to recover and try us again.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ekQXgDf"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ekQXgDf.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10

2nd Company Sector

EN infantry were spotted and within the next couple of turns, we observed at least a company sized force approaching us. Our HMGs dismounted from their pack mules and we readied the company for the fight.

Our leading tanks had to divert north as the EN A13s were fast approaching the centre

I kept my K2 AT rifle team upfront as a spotting scout.

<a href="https://imgur.com/q5eyNBY"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/q5eyNBY.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 14,

The EN infantry was breaking. I led with N Platoon in the centre and fixed the EN with my HMGs while the rest of the company moved forward along the sides. With steady suppressive fire from the HMGs, the EN line gradually fell backwards and ultimately broke once my infantry pushed harder.

<a href="https://imgur.com/dkX9yBX"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/dkX9yBX.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 12

3rd Company sector

This was truly the centre of the battle itself. 3rd Company hesitated in crossing the stream, and only Q platoon crossed. The rest of the company decided to stick it out on the near bank.

My tanks attempted to take the A13s in the flank but they fired smoke and we had to redeploy.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fHcwCFu"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fHcwCFu.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 14

The 1st A13 was destroyed as it peered above the gully. Now we also observed infantry moving together with the A13s. This means that we need to suppress the infantry before we can engage the EN tanks decisively.A bombardment was planned to achieve this.

<a href="https://imgur.com/C3nJfF8"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/C3nJfF8.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 20

The A13s are done, but the Matildas are coming into the scene. I have only 1 tank left due to return fire. EN infantry is also running due to my artillery bombardment and my HMGs firing from the near bank.

I have shifted my ATGs towards the Matildas and another platoon from 1st Company is nearby for a close assault.

<a href="https://imgur.com/G1b6Emw"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/G1b6Emw.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 23,

1 of the Matildas fell prey to my assaulting infantry, the vehicle was immobolised and the crew fled on foot.

The remaining Matilda (Red diamond) pressed home its attack towards 3rd Company but got overwhelmed by my assaulting infantry as well.

Here the destroyed EN tanks are shown as Yellow Diamonds and my single lost tank as Green Diamond. My tanks accounted for 2 of the total 8 tanks. Most of the EN tanks were destroyed by my assaulting infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/gI3KO6A"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/gI3KO6A.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 30 or something

After the last EN Matilda was destroyed, it was pretty much pursuit and moving to capture all objective flags.

Again, I only managed a Marginal Victory here due to the difficulties in moving across the rough terrain. Timed Objectives really make a difference.

<a href="https://imgur.com/eIHhlqV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/eIHhlqV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Delay at Sidi Barrani, Egypt

Having destroyed the EN Matildas with my infantry, I was probably over confident in their capabilities. In this battle, my wrong assumptions probably caused me to take more unnecessary casualties.

<a href="https://imgur.com/YQnhqts"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/YQnhqts.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Studying the terrain, I decided on 2 EN possibilities.

The main was Poss A where the EN will attack down the road, with all their forces concentrated in the attack.

Poss B was a 2 prong attack, where the EN armour will advance in the centre, while their infantry advance down the road.

To counter both Possibilities, I purchased a Heavy AT Gun Section (primarily to combat the Matilda II) and a Light AT Gun Section. I deployed the Light AT Guns in the centre with the Heavy AT Guns nearer to the main road to cover EN Armour advance. Again, my assumption was to let the EN armour advance unimpeded through my infantry screen and then let the ATGs engage them at close range (probably <600m for the Light ATGs and <800m for the Heavy ATGs).

My HMGs sections were deployed to cover both flanks and my Scout section set up OPs in the centre for better observation.

The infantry coys were deployed in a 2-up formation.

I also purchased an ammo dump to support my artillery park.

[sigeena]

Turn 3,

Right from the 1st turn, a heavy EN bombardment fell onto 2nd Company sector. At Turn 3, we spotted armoured vehicles racing towards our units in the South.

<a href="https://imgur.com/J3E7sZH"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/J3E7sZH.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

There were also tanks spotted in the North in 1st Company sector. Comparatively, none of the EN artillery was dropping in this sector, which suggested that the Southern attack was the main effort.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fWQBo5V"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fWQBo5V.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

I allowed the EN tanks to race past my infantry screen before stopping them with my AT Rifle team near the objective flag. From there on, my infantry swarmed the tanks and close assaulted them.

<a href="https://imgur.com/8vFWCjg"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8vFWCjg.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 12

My HMG section was badly pinned down by the EN bombardment and were unable to extricate themselves. I had also assumed that the EN armoured vehicles to push swiftly to the rear. Instead, they have taken a tactical halt, and in short time, found my infantry hiding. Again we were unable to extricate most of the platoon.

The first EN infantry spotted were seen approaching the scout OP. I plotted my 1st artillery bombardment, timed at 2.3 turns.

<a href="https://imgur.com/QtiTmPF"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/QtiTmPF.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 16, the armour leading the centre thrust moved farther ahead of the accompanying infantry and were destroyed by my infantry. My mortars began dropping steadily into the mass of the EN infantry. This will slow them down for at least 2-3 turns. I have moved up 1 of the Light ATGs to better position itself against the EN armour. Unfortunately, after a short firefight, they were down by 4 men, having only successfully destroyed 1 EN tank.

1 of my platoons have already been overrrun and there is a possibility that 2 more will be in danger soon.

<a href="https://imgur.com/1DCVVAr"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1DCVVAr.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 25

The situation has somewhat stabilised. Since the EN infantry is coming from 2nd Company sector, my 1st Company could be released from their current position in the north and swing down to support the rest of the Battalion.

J platoon was to come down on the right flank of 3rd Company and to prevent any more EN infantry from stretching 3rd Company's lines.

The remaining HMG section that was attached to 1st Company also made its way towards the sound of the battle and we found a suitable firebase on the flank of the EN.

3rd Company also began compacting its lines and the main idea was to protect the remaining AT assets with the infantry.

I have shifted my Scouts towards the rear of the EN, hoping to get a better view of their entire size force.

<a href="https://imgur.com/8zEYc2p"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8zEYc2p.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Here in 2nd company sector, the remaining platoon (N Platoon) prepares to fight the EN armour.

<a href="https://imgur.com/RV8zXov"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/RV8zXov.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 30

N platoon only managed to disable and destroy 1 EN tank before getting roughly handled. For the moment, the EN tanks continue their foray into the rear of my positions. I was hoping they will make their way up North, where my Heavy ATGs are sited to cover the rear of the map.

The remainder of 1st Company is finally coming up to the line and my scouts have reported very confidently that our artillery bombardment is shaking the EN infantry pretty badly. With that report, I decided to shift 1st Company into battleline and get them in as quickly as possible, to strike at the EN line of retreat. That should occur in the next 5 turns onwards.

<a href="https://imgur.com/BNbVCuT"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/BNbVCuT.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 33

Fortune smiles. The last marauding tank is destroyed by the Heavy ATGs. In all, my AT guns accounted for 6 of the EN armoured vehicles.

<a href="https://imgur.com/OWW0Kpj"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OWW0Kpj.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 36

Our battle line is advancing steadily. My scouts have even joined in the frenzy as the EN is making a shattered rout.

<a href="https://imgur.com/U8QJ6QO"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/U8QJ6QO.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Battle Report

The main casualties were in 2nd Company. Unfortunately for them, they were the speed bump facing the EN main effort.

1st Company was relatively unscathed as they only had to engage 3 EN tanks. And by the time they started their attack towards the EN flank, the EN line was crumbling.

3rd Company fought very well when it was required to hold the line.

My artillery park was also getting suppressed by counter battery fire, and their fire slackened considerably towards the end.

On hindsight, I may have done better by site-ing my ATGs more forward. As the EN armour tends to outrun the infantry, this will allow the ATGs to engage the armour before my infantry has to do the dirty work.

A couple of tanks or mobile AT weapons may have been more useful at stemming the tide as well. In this battle, I had to be very reactive and hope that the EN armour would react in a certain manner. They did, but after taking out close to 2 platoons of infantry.

Also, I need to divvy up my artillery park. Putting them together increases all the risk with the only benefit being they shared the same ammo dump.

<a href="https://imgur.com/1x0Nnt2"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1x0Nnt2.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

New Battle is a Advance in Sidi Barrani, Egypt

Studying the terrain, I had in mind going 3 -up with each company going after a specific sector of the map.

The yellow stars (with purple arc of fire) depict possible firebase locations as I move my rifle coys up towards the objectives. 3rd Coy itself will be attached with a pair of M-13/40s and move along the road.

I also brought some Air Recon, blue hexagons, depicting their area of observation.

Some cavalry mounts were also purchased to give the HMG sections some additional mobility, so that they can get up to the firebase locations quickly.

<a href="https://imgur.com/dMblDPO"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/dMblDPO.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 3

Air recon spotted EN infantry in 1st Company's sector and EN armor in 2nd Company's sector.

<a href="https://imgur.com/xJc41SA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xJc41SA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 13

Situation developing by turn 13. 3rd Company has secured most objectives along the main road. Our armour is coming up on the EN flank to engage their armour. The EN is of approx. 1 company strength, dispersed over 2nd Company sector.

The HMG firebases have overwatch over the EN positions. Relatively easy for the rest of the infantry to push ahead.

<a href="https://imgur.com/bdlUCkP"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/bdlUCkP.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 13 1st Company

There's also a company sized force in 1st Company sector. Again, our HMG firebases have good overwatch positions.

<a href="https://imgur.com/amrHb6u"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/amrHb6u.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report (at turn 20++)

Basically, our advancing infantry was very well-supported by the HMG firebases and progress was rather uneventful. When the EN returned fire, the HMGs will suppress them before our infantry manuevured to engage them at closer ranges.

Negligible losses overall.

<a href="https://imgur.com/LU7OlXl"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LU7OlXl.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

After we easily advanced, we were given a special battle to delay.

We purchased 1 pair of M-13/40s, a platoon of TL-37 (mounted with 20mm autocannons), a pair of AT guns and a pair of AA guns.

We identified 3 possible lines of resistance. The Black line is the 1st line, and this is characterised by the presence of my HMG sections and ATG section for Long Range fires. Scout section in the centre for maximum field of observation.

Maroon Line is where both 1st and 2nd Companies would have engaged with the majority of their rifle platoons.

Green Line is the reserve line, and is predominantly 3rd Company in the centre.

The M-13/40s will take up reserve slope positions and engage EN armour as they cross the ridgeline.

The TL-37s will engage any light armour, such as armoured cars or Bren carriers.

Ammo carriers were also purchased in anticipation of a long drawn affair. The AA guns covered the approach to our artillery.

<a href="https://imgur.com/aS6B9RV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/aS6B9RV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 2

EN lorries are spotted travelling very fast down the road in the North towards 1st Company.

Early EN artillery bombardment is fortunately only driving up sand to obscure the lines of observation.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fWaApKX"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fWaApKX.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

In 2nd Company sector

EN armour and lorries can be spotted approaching very rapidly. It seems fortunate that our M-13/40s are in this sector to take up position. Our HMGs engage the EN lorries once they are around 1,200 metres away.

<a href="https://imgur.com/0leVxb2"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/0leVxb2.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

It is quite clear by now that the EN main effort is in the south, in 2nd Company's sector. They have committed almost their entire armour force, approx. 1 company strength.

Their armour advanced swiftly past our screening force. Our tanks are engaging them in the flank and rear as they come.

<a href="https://imgur.com/hO8LTRi"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/hO8LTRi.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

As for 1st Company, the situation is slightly less serious as the main EN advance was led by lorries which were destroyed by our HMG section. Their Armoured Cars have taken up a position to block off the withdrawal of our HMGs. Their artillery fire is finding its mark on our guys.

We will probably be forced to give up on Black Line soon.

<a href="https://imgur.com/vSy09Cr"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/vSy09Cr.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 15

This was probably the high point of the battle itself as we destroyed the last of the EN armour. Yellow diamonds mark all the destroyed EN tanks. We have also lost 1 tank. Approx. 6 of the EN tanks were lost to my infantry assaults, but at pretty high cost to my infantry as well.

The EN infantry is coming along swiftly now, I will move my remaining tank back nearer to the company HQ.

<a href="https://imgur.com/pMLHxl1"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/pMLHxl1.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 20

This is turning into an infantry slugfest. Our reserve platoon (Platoon N) has come up to reinforce the HQ position. M platoon has been badly mauled after destroying the EN tanks. Another platoon is hidden away in dead ground.

Our artillery is concentrating on their lead elements.

<a href="https://imgur.com/UYKmaoO"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/UYKmaoO.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Over in 3rd Company sector, I decided to push them forward to relieve the pressure in 2nd Company. 2 platoons will use the terrain to mask their approach on the EN northern flank. The Company HMG section will provide fire from the high ground.

<a href="https://imgur.com/SXfK5sR"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/SXfK5sR.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

In 1st Company sector, the EN infantry is running up into my main line. As the EN has already been heavily attrited by my long range HMG fires (they were riding in open top lorries), it doesn't take long for them to start retreating upon significant resistance. My reserve platoon is also moving up to push the line forward again.

<a href="https://imgur.com/hOYCYHj"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/hOYCYHj.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 26

I have re-positioned my remaining tank in the approach of the EN infantry. By this time, they have been taking artillery damage for the past 5-6 turns and their suppression is growing. I sense they are close to crumbling.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ARFoN8c"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ARFoN8c.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

The fight in 1st Company sector is nearly over. The EN infantry has been put to flight, and their Bren carriers are moving forward to stem the retreat. I have also recalled my AT carriers to engage the Bren carriers.

<a href="https://imgur.com/xNP8DVs"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xNP8DVs.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 32

Summary
EN main effort was determined by Turn 3-5. Moved my main AT assets (tanks) to intercept.
Engage light skin vehicles with HMGs from turns 5-9. EN vehicles covered the ground very quickly and my HMG outposts were destroyed by turn 12.
Tanks vs tanks started fighting from turn 8 and lasted till turn 15.
EN infantry started engaging from turn 16 onwards. Firefights lasted till turn 22. Once the EN infantry was sufficiently attrited and unable to push past my line, they were pinned out and began retreating.

<a href="https://imgur.com/5Gr5iDP"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/5Gr5iDP.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next battle was a similar Delay engagement somewhere in N. Africa.

The main problem has been that the terrain in N. Africa is very open, and for a infantry heavy force, I need to be able to find dead ground to hide my infantry.

This was my deployment after considering the open ground. As usual, BLACK LINE is a HMG screen. MAROON Line is where I deploy most of my AT assets. Brought along 2x ATG Sections and 1x M-13/40 Section. GREEN Line is the reserve line. Most of my infantry is hidden in dead ground and can only be spotted at 100-150 metres away.

<a href="https://imgur.com/bFk9tOx"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/bFk9tOx.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

In my last battle, I felt quite letdown by the Italian 47mm ATGs. They tend to have poor accuracy and even at ranges of 500m, they tend to miss 2 times out of 3. At 500m, if we don't destroy the EN target in a hurry, you're likely to be hurt in return fire real quick. As a result, I decided to pick some 25mm ATGs, which traded higher accuracy at the expense of lower PEN.

<a href="https://imgur.com/HKhIhWb"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/HKhIhWb.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Shortly after the Fog of War lifted, we spotted a large mobile force speeding towards 2nd Company in the southern sector. Artillery bombardment was plotted to hit the light skin lorries.

<a href="https://imgur.com/uF7zwda"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/uF7zwda.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 6,

In 1st Company Sector, a platoon of EN tanks was also probing forward. The HMG section quickly doused the incoming tanks to remove any tank riders. If these tanks are coming without infantry support, my infantry should be able to handle them.

<a href="https://imgur.com/09pCFN9"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/09pCFN9.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10

The main battle is ongoing in 3rd Company sector. L Platoon and the HMG Section are unable to pull back due to the speed of the EN attack. My tanks are engaging the EN as they crest the ridgeline, mainly destroying the Armoured Cars. I was hoping to destroy the lighter stuff and leaving the EN tanks for my ATGs.

<a href="https://imgur.com/3qajd5E"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3qajd5E.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 15

Situation is getting abit bleaker. I've lost 1 tank and my remaining tank has suffered critical damage to its main gun. It's only as good as an armoured car now. L Platoon is still in the fight but at the risk of complete overrun. The HMG section has been swept away. 1 of the ATG has also been destroyed.

By turn 15, I decided to concentrate 1st Company towards 3rd Company sector. The HMG section has moved south to position itself just above M Platoon, near my other ATG section. I'm concentrating Long Range HMG fires with my artillery to slow the EN progress. My ATGs are taking long range shots with high accuracy, but not making much of a dent.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Y3f6Z0W"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Y3f6Z0W.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 19

2nd Company continues to hide from the EN tanks. EN armour force is very much reduced.

<a href="https://imgur.com/f86uqQR"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/f86uqQR.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 23

Situation is improving. There are only a couple of EN armor units left. The EN artillery has gone silent and are firing smoke rounds, a sign that they've depleted their ammo. This means I can start firing my artillery without concern for counter battery. My ATGs in 2nd Company have been destroyed.

I estimate at least 3 infantry companies in the EN force. They are being attrited by HMG and mortar fires.

Offscreen, 3rd Company is also beginning to concentrate towards 2nd Company.

<a href="https://imgur.com/W9OgKxh"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/W9OgKxh.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 27

A better overview of the support moving towards 2nd Company. The EN is breaking en-mass.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Fu8EM2K"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Fu8EM2K.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 40

Battle ended once we recaptured all objective flags.

The 25mm ATGs were somewhat meh. The good thing is they are effective at ranges of up to 800m against anything with ARM 1. Against ARM 3, we probably have to go closer to around 400m or so. Highly accurate, fast firing, hard to spot, but not packing much of a punch.

The EN artillery running out of ammo by mid-battle was also crucial in this victory. I tend to buy ammo carriers so my artillery was able to keep firing throughout.

<a href="https://imgur.com/skz85GV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/skz85GV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[Steves308]

Sigeena,

I'm curious what the experience and moral of your units is averaging, now that they have some victories behind them. Italian units start off pretty low, almost as bad as the early war Russian units.

Steve

[sigeena]

The Italians start with 60-60 for their Morale and Experience. I don't recall seeing any Green units, so they are definitely better than the Russians.

The only downside is their comparative lack of armour and AT weapons.

Credits to WarCab, we are able to have a quick overview of the best and worst in the battalion

<a href="https://imgur.com/6NWWsU0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6NWWsU0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next battle is a Defend against GB in N. Africa. Timeline is Nov 1940.

I supplemented my force with the following support units

S0- 90mm Gun Emplacements (Primarily for AT purposes)
T0- Ammo Carrier (For Infantry Gun)
U0- Ammo Carrier (For Mortars)
V0- 20mm Flak Section
W0- M-13/40 Section
X0- Fwd Obs

I also bought 50pts worth of mines. Looking over the map, there wasn't really a strong position to anchor my defence. The only terrain which I could really hold with confidence was the forest in the north. To this end I decided to set up my Gun Emplacements forward and centrally to influence the early battle with the EN tanks.

As with any Defend engagement, I was only really worried about EN artillery. If they are fast and on target, they will destroy my Gun emplacements before they are able to destroy enough EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/UDMmErt"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/UDMmErt.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 2-5

EN tanks were spotted moving along the southern flank towards 2nd Coy sector. Fortunately, our tanks are in the sector. I move them forward to take a position that allows flanking fire.

<a href="https://imgur.com/oFKPAdg"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/oFKPAdg.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

<a href="https://imgur.com/dL458MB"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/dL458MB.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10

It was quite obvious that the deployment of the 90mm guns were ideal as their frontage was rapidly littered with wrecks of EN armoured vehicles.

<a href="https://imgur.com/a2bGxiQ"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/a2bGxiQ.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

By turn 13, all EN armour was destroyed.

<a href="https://imgur.com/mBgAdm4"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/mBgAdm4.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 19

There was a short lull from Turns 14-19 as the EN infantry was slowly moving forward after the total loss of their armour. Our infantry has largely remained where they are throughout the early turns. Our HMGs have been moving very vigorously towards the EN concentrations.

The 90mm guns are also taking long range shots at EN infantry. Once their ammo are depleted, they will abandon their positions. EN artillery is very heavy but very slow in arriving. I think they are mostly the General Support kind.

<a href="https://imgur.com/37blkSy"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/37blkSy.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 27

We note at least 2 EN companies moving towards 2nd Company. The southern sector remains the EN primary objective. We plot artillery fires on the head of the column and let our tanks assail the flank of the other.

<a href="https://imgur.com/CMeCiN0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/CMeCiN0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 32

The EN progress is relentless. They are gradually worn away but they keep pushing forward. Their artillery is also finally finding its mark, and my HMGs grow silent to their front.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Egqxzxn"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Egqxzxn.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 36

I've began concentrating 3rd Company to the aid of 2nd Company and their collective fires are having visible impact on the EN advance. This is probably the furthest the EN got to at this point.

<a href="https://imgur.com/2KTYjUo"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/2KTYjUo.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 39

Once 3rd Company linked up with 2nd Company, the EN forces began to sound retreat. Overall we won, without having to commit at least 1 third of our troops.

<a href="https://imgur.com/H8g42LO"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/H8g42LO.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

The 90mm guns were very good. They are alot like the 88mm FlaK guns. The bad thing is I can only get them in defend battles.

[sigeena]

Seems like the High Command likes to throw my battalion into defensive battles. Next up, another Delay engagement.

The terrain doesn't look too good, as there's very little good ground to anchor on. I supplemented our core with the following support forces

S0- M-13/40 Section
T0- Ammo Carrier (for Arty Park)
U0- Ammo Carrier (for 75mm ATG)
V0- Flak Section
W0- 25mm ATG section
X0- 75mm ATG section

The 75mm ATGs have a PEN of 9, and pretty good accuracy. Their only downside is their lack of AP ammo at 10 shots only, which is why I decided to provide them an ammo carrier to ensure they have additional shots.

With both ATG sections co-located with 3rd Company, my plan was to strong point the centre. Most of my infantry are in dead ground. The 1st 5 turns will probably consists of the HMGs engaging targets near the edge of the plateau.

Once we identify the EN armour thrust, we will adjust with our own tank section. Hopefully they approach near the centre so that our ATGs are best able to influence the battle.

<a href="https://imgur.com/HdgOEOs"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/HdgOEOs.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Lorries were spotted advancing along the south, towards 2nd Coy. My HMGs start to light them up as soon as they come into 1200m range.

<a href="https://imgur.com/WNbbHiL"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/WNbbHiL.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Matildas are spotted coming along the centre. Due to the speed disparity, I can expect to encounter the A13s first and then the Matildas with their infantry. Matildas (Front ARM 8, Rear ARM 6) are going to be problematic to deal with. The only AT asset capable of destroying them are the 75mm ATGs (PEN 9)

<a href="https://imgur.com/kXNOSC0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/kXNOSC0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[anlubue]

Thanks for your AAR! I've learned a lot and it's nice to be able to watch over your shoulder during the game. (I also learned that reading your AAR too late, is not smart if you have to get up early the next day, but that's not your fault.)

:up:

[sigeena]

Turn 7

The EN came very fast. And they were knocked out equally fast. A closer look at the 3rd Coy's strong point. The ATGs remain hidden while the light armoured stuff are being taken care off by my tanks. I position my tanks just behind some dead ground, in case they need to take cover fast.

Of my infantry, I leave my commanders aboveground to keep a lookout for EN infiltrators. If there are, my HMGs will engage them. All my infantry units, less the HMGs are ordered to keep their fire till the EN is 100m away.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fIfJJsE"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fIfJJsE.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

By turn 12, most of the EN tanks are destroyed, leaving behind the Matildas. 2 of them are coming towards 3rd Coy while a platoon of 3 are moving towards 1st Coy.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Ao2iqPO"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Ao2iqPO.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

H Platoon of 1st Coy lies in wait for the approaching Matildas. I Platoon will screen for any EN infantry on their flank.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Up04e8W"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Up04e8W.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 18

EN infantry are beginning to bear their weight on 2nd Company. Counted about 1 and half company strength. The half company was probably attrited by my HMGs earlier.

<a href="https://imgur.com/tnKJKOs"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/tnKJKOs.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Elsewhere in 3rd Coy sector, the Matildas-CS are getting closer to my ATGs. Unfortunately, my 75mm gun crews are cowering from the EN artillery. Hopefully, they recover in time to man their guns.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Y3e7SEP"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Y3e7SEP.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

H Platoon have managed to immobilise 1 of the Matildas. The platoon fall back to take up positions against the remaining 2.

<a href="https://imgur.com/MKpcDXP"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/MKpcDXP.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 23

3rd Company, 1 of the Heavy ATGs have been destroyed, after critically damaging 1 of the Matildas. The remaining Matilda has also run out of AP rounds. It's a fight to the finish, and I rush my M-13/40s to the rear of the Matilda, hoping for a lucky shot. My M-13/40s have PEN 6, vs the Matilda Rear ARM 6. In one of those Benny Hill skits, there was alot of sound and fury, but we could only immobilise the EN Matilda. Good enough.

<a href="https://imgur.com/1RaKyEh"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1RaKyEh.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

H Platoon and I platoon have teamed up to immobilise the remaining Matildas. As you can see, it required alot of smoke.

<a href="https://imgur.com/PHvXUmH"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PHvXUmH.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Over at 2nd Company, we have begun advancing against the EN infantry. With effective artillery bombardment, the EN started to crumble.

<a href="https://imgur.com/9yTwEhB"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/9yTwEhB.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

Unlike the earlier battles, we didn't destroy all of the EN tanks but their advance was effectively stopped once all their infantry routed.

The 75mm ATGs were size 3, and were discovered much too easily. Once spotted by the EN, they became the biggest target, and were not recovered easily. Lost the Heavy ATG section before end of battle.

As for the 25mm ATGs, they were largely quiet and were only shooting at Bren carriers.

Reviewing the battle, I think I've better management of my HMGs in this one, which allowed me to dominate over the EN infantry advance.

<a href="https://imgur.com/XdsF4WA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/XdsF4WA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next engagement was an Advance against UK. It's still 1st year of the war, I think December 1940. Operation Compass, I guess

1 company will go along the road, with my tanks and quickly exploit the EN rear.

The other 2 companies will move along the lower ground and hopefully their approach march is likely to be concealed. My HMGs will follow these 2 companies, on cavalry transports.

Since it's an Advance, we'll likely meet not more than 2 infantry companies, a tank section or 2 and some medium mortars. The UK 3 inch mortars have very poor range, so if they reveal their positions early, I can always plaster them with return fire.

Unfortunately, no air recon to help spot targets.

<a href="https://imgur.com/T7vEkt9"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/T7vEkt9.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 5

1st Company's lead scouts receive EN infantry fire. Our Company HMG move off the road to provide suppressive fire, while our tanks move forward to engage the infantry. The lead platoon (J) prepare to peel off to clear the elevated ground. I Platoon move forward to take lead position along the road.

<a href="https://imgur.com/az2u6YG"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/az2u6YG.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 9

EN tanks are spotted along the road, some 1.2km away. These are the MkIVs, their main gun is only a 0.5 Cal HMG. So they don't pose a threat to my tanks. The EN's front platoon is on the run, I expect to see more resistance concealed on the higher ground.

<a href="https://imgur.com/c93G5Rp"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/c93G5Rp.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

2nd Company has reached its Form Up Point without much resistance. The EN has probably not spotted them yet and are fully concentrated on 1st Company. Our HMGs are deployed. The first EN artillery are some 3 inch mortars, which we have spotted some puffs of smoke.

<a href="https://imgur.com/FMMGXpG"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/FMMGXpG.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 12

Once 2nd Company crested the ridgeline, we were met with sporadic EN infantry fire. This was probably around a platoon size, which was overwhelmed pretty quickly.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ZIwnlFq"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ZIwnlFq.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 11

3rd Company is getting engaged with EN HMG as well. There's probably 1 EN company infantry in strength just above us.

<a href="https://imgur.com/1L1vrme"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1L1vrme.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 13

3rd Company crested the ridgeline and found themselves in sudden close firefight with the EN infantry. Our HMGs work frantically to keep the EN suppressed. The plan is simple from here.

<a href="https://imgur.com/yHgcl3L"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/yHgcl3L.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 17

This was nearing the end. The EN has broken in 3rd Company's sector and its more of a mop-up operation from hereon. I expect some EN resistance on the plateau but probably not more than a platoon size.

<a href="https://imgur.com/HfMghiV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/HfMghiV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Battle Report

A rather breezy battle overall. My worst loss was a HMG section that fell prey to the EN HMGs.

<a href="https://imgur.com/kWT1xJa"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/kWT1xJa.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

I've played about 3 more battles ahead. Things are rather slow going. It's just January of 1941. It'll be another 7 more months before we hit Eastern Front.

Is the same back and forth with the UK getting abit stale? If yes, I'll update this thread again once we hit a different country or else Soviets.

[Kritkeen]

I'd love to see how Italians fare against Soviets :) but that doesn't mean your AARs against other countries are boring or anything like that. It is up to you, as long as you enjoy writing these, I, for one, will be reading them.

[sigeena]

Advance battle against UK.

I've decided to add a section of 60mm mortars to each of my infantry companies. They can be used in either direct or indirect fire role, most likely the former, since they will be placed near to the company commander.

Usually for Advance missions, I'll plot some smoke along the route of advance, so that my leading scouts can move fast through the smoke. In this battle, my force will largely advance along the road, and upon contact, break off to engage them.

The air recon provides additional eyes over the immediate front. I don't like my air recon going too deep, in case there's EN AAA.

<a href="https://imgur.com/A0oZm6k"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/A0oZm6k.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 2

Spotted EN tanks parked at the bottom edge of the map. This is going to be 3rd Company's sector. Even though my tanks are under 1st Company command, I'll probably move them to support 3rd Company later.

<a href="https://imgur.com/LudTNxY"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LudTNxY.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 6

2nd Company is beginning to engage the EN infantry company in their sector. I deploy the heavy weapons to support the advance. Note the HMGs and 60mm mortars.

L platoon will continue to push down the road while N and M platoon will advance directly into the EN company.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Dy8KRQ0"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Dy8KRQ0.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 8

The EN resistance is swept away. Fighting here is short and sharp.

<a href="https://imgur.com/lhk8aAk"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/lhk8aAk.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

1st and 3rd Company are moving along the road and preparing to advance into their respective sectors.

I expect more resistance in 3rd Company sector, with the EN tank section spotted in that area.

J platoon has found and destroyed an EN ATG. H platoon will seek and destroy the EN mortars.

<a href="https://imgur.com/DJu6pF9"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DJu6pF9.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 12

3rd Company is ready to advance into their sector.

<a href="https://imgur.com/p0U6Hka"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/p0U6Hka.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 17

The battle in this sector is near over. The EN tank makes a late appearance.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Vx0TE1q"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Vx0TE1q.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

Another breezy Advance battle. The terrain was ideal for an Advance battle. There was alot of open space and E-W roads.

The E-W roads allow for speedy movement towards the EN rear. The open space allows for long fields of fire once I spotted the EN force.

If I was playing Delay on this map, I don't think I would have done well too. Maybe strongpoint the buildings with a company and ATGs.

<a href="https://imgur.com/OfCyKhT"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OfCyKhT.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

I made some changes to my infantry platoon set-up, basically upgraded my platoon commander to using molotov type of AT weapons. Each platoon has some improved AT capability, though the majority in the platoon still have to rely on using their hand grenades for close assaults.

Next up was a Defend mission. The map looked much improved over the previous battles. As usual, I bought the Heavy ATG emplacements (90mm) and a couple of tanks for mobile AT capability.

Guiding principle for defend battles is always plan with depth in mind. The general concept is that you want multiple lines of resistance to slow down and attrite the EN force so that when they finally reach the main line of resistance, they are no longer combat capable to overwhelm. To avoid being destroyed in detail, you must always be ready to pull back over exposed screening forces.

My Heavy ATGs are emplaced in a strategic ridgeline near the centre of the map. I also set up some minefields to prevent EN infiltration along the flanks of the map.

<a href="https://imgur.com/sMOyWdB"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/sMOyWdB.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Early EN bombardment, the heavy smoke obscures my HMGs LOS.

<a href="https://imgur.com/klzbHco"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/klzbHco.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

By the time some of the heavy smoke lifted, around turn 5, the EN is fast approaching my screening force. Here is the main EN mobile force in 2nd Company sector.

<a href="https://imgur.com/L1kqUMq"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/L1kqUMq.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

The main battle in turns 6 to 15 were largely focused on 2nd Company.

Some of the faster EN armour finds themselves in the minefield.

<a href="https://imgur.com/5qQAMvx"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/5qQAMvx.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 11

My medium tanks are unable to keep up with the EN's advance and are slowly overwhelmed by numbers.

<a href="https://imgur.com/YlCzTRd"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/YlCzTRd.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 14

Approx. 6 EN tanks are left running and fighting. My AT Rifle team takes out 1 tank and sends another 2 routing off the map.

<a href="https://imgur.com/8wrRSbA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8wrRSbA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

The EN tank advance has been stopped and I start to concentrate 2nd Company to advance, reclaiming the objective flags.

<a href="https://imgur.com/QlNCUMl"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/QlNCUMl.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 11

1st Company was the secondary sector of the battle. The EN advance was largely infantry led and was stopped by the combination of HMG fires and mortars.

<a href="https://imgur.com/LMRzzPJ"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/LMRzzPJ.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

<a href="https://imgur.com/40C1I7T"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/40C1I7T.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

Once the EN force was heavily attrited, they started to break. I moved J platoon to cut off the line of retreat.

The battle was largely decided once the EN tank advance exhausted itself. There were a few turns where the EN had penetrated 2nd Company's screening force. My tanks were lost quite early on, while there were at least 6-7 EN tanks still running around.

<a href="https://imgur.com/b6U9Dsy"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/b6U9Dsy.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next up another Defend battle against UK.

In the last battle, I found my tanks were not as effective, as the EN's heavy bombardment isolated their position and they got overrun by the EN's fast moving tanks.

In this new defend battle, I decided to buy a pair of 75mm ATGs instead.

Here's my set-up.

I decided to strong point 2 positions. 1 with a trio of 90mm ATG emplacements and the other with a pair of 75mm ATGs. I also bought some 20mm AAs to help cover the flanks of the strongpoints.

3rd Coy takes the centre, with 1st Coy in the south and 2nd Coy in the north.

Minefields are laid to cover most expected approaches. I expect the early battle to be fought by my HMGs, and as the EN tanks approach to within 1.2km, to be engaged by my 90mm ATGs. My 75mm ATGs will engage closer to 600m. The difference in range engagement is due to the PEN of the primary weapons. 90mm ATGs have a PEN of 14, 75mm have a PEN of 9.

I usually try not to defend every objective, especially when I know the EN still has running tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/DLZKL9L"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DLZKL9L.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 5

After the initial EN bombardment lifted, our scouts spotted a company sized force of EN tanks moving towards our positions. There were at least 12-15 heavy infantry tanks, of the Valentine and Matilda variety. These have good front and side armour. Probably only my 90mm ATGs will be able to destroy them. The EN tanks were coming towards 3rd Company, while the lighter EN armour is speeding towards 1st Company.

2nd Company is likely to be a quiet sector.

<a href="https://imgur.com/vY1NKmL"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/vY1NKmL.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 8

Our 90mm ATGs start to engage the EN tanks. We try to score hits on their flanks as they come.

Our 75mm ATGs remain silent as they need the tanks to close to within 500metres or so for a likely penetrating hit.

Also note that the EN artillery has torn up lots of ground

<a href="https://imgur.com/AtJQNop"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/AtJQNop.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 12

The 90mm ATGs are doing very well. Alot of the EN tanks have been wrecked and now our scouts spotted the accompanying EN infantry. There's easily 3 companies worth.

Also worth noting that our trio of 90mm ATGs only have about 30 AP rounds each, with each scoring every 3rd round or so, we can probably only engage 30 EN tanks before we run out of AP ammo.

We plot some of our own artillery bombardments to slow down the EN infantry advance.

<a href="https://imgur.com/lfObFZt"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/lfObFZt.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

In around Turn 19 or so, we spotted fresh EN Valentine tanks reinforcements. My 90mm ATGs have just run out of AP ammo and my 75mm would only be able to penetrate from 500m or so.

The EN infantry renew their advance.

<a href="https://imgur.com/sPG899m"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/sPG899m.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 34

Once our 75mm ATGs fall silent to the EN infantry, our only hope of destroying the EN tanks is with our own infantry. To do this effectively, we need to isolate their tanks from their accompanying infantry.

Here, 1 of the Valentines is immobilised by our mines.

We bring up our remaining heavy weapons to disrupt the EN infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/h8eRaFW"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/h8eRaFW.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 40

A combination of heavy weapons and mortars impede the EN infantry and probably not more than a half platoon is supporting the EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/HZBod4l"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/HZBod4l.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 43

The EN tanks split their force, with 1 lone tank heading north into 2nd Company and the other pair heading into 3rd Company.

We lay some smoke, and expect imminent close assault with the EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/dQsU6BA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/dQsU6BA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 49

Shortly after destroying the EN tanks, our infantry are able to advance confidently. We plaster the immobilised EN tanks with our artillery and push forward with our reserve infantry.

Most of 1st Company, which were hidden by a small ridgeline along the EN flank sprung to life and pushed fast into the EN line of retreat.

<a href="https://imgur.com/wJmy3wT"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/wJmy3wT.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report at Turn 54

This was a real long battle. I was very surprised by the number of infantry tanks. Usually, our 90mm ATGs would have taken out all of them by turn 15-18 and it will just be an attritional exercise with their infantry before sending our infantry at the right moment.

In this one, the EN tanks just kept coming and once our heavy ATGs are out of ammo, we could only take them out via close assaults, which are harder to plan for because the EN infantry tanks move so slowly.

Perhaps I need to rethink the use of my own tanks. I didn't buy them this time round and opted for the 75mm ATGs. But once again, I feel that the 75mm ATGs have been a waste of points. They are too large, so were easily spotted and their PEN is unable to engage Valentines or Matildas.

Up till Turn 43, I wasn't sure I had this battle in the bag. Was probably counting on timed objective points to score me a marginal victory.

<a href="https://imgur.com/vR1AoU5"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/vR1AoU5.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Next battle was a rare Assault mission on UK.

Unfortunately, I forgot to take more screenshots in the initial phase and so I wasn't able to show the map as a whole.

The main thing to note was that it was a low-light fight at around 6 hexes. Low visibility often cedes the advantage to the attacker, especially since the AI doesn't really deploy with the assumption that it will be fighting at 6 hexes away.

I brought along 2 platoons of Engineers, 2 platoon of motor transports and 1 section of Armoured Cars.

We went in with 1st Coy along a road axis, supported by 1 platoon of Engineers and the Armoured Cars. 2nd Coy was behind 1st Coy and after the initial fight to the first objective, 2nd Coy was expected to passage of line through 1st Coy and fight to their objective located around 500-600 metres after 1st Coy's objectives.

3rd Coy had no road axis, but they were also supported by the Engineers and motor transports.

I like to move fast, so my Engineers will be mounted on the transports. I fire smoke in the 1st turn to obscure EN observation and dismount my Engineers near where I expect to breach EN minefields.

[sigeena]

Turn 3

This was 3rd Company sector. I dismount my Engineers in the smoke, just before the road running N-S.

The motor transports will do a ferry service of sorts and move the rest of the company to support the Engineers.

The Engineers are intended to detect any minefields, and breach them, so they will lead the company. If we push through say 10-15 hexes of EN held land without coming to mines, my Engineers no longer need to lead the company.

<a href="https://imgur.com/QFQazdE"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/QFQazdE.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 5

1st Company sector. The engineers found and breached through the mine fields along the road. As they continued to push along the road, they came under fire from EN dug-in infantry.

My HMGs z-fired to suppress the EN, and I moved my armoured cars to lay down more suppressive fire before my Engineers pressed on for point blank assault.

<a href="https://imgur.com/vLH3U2Q"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/vLH3U2Q.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10

3rd Company sector. There wasn't any minefields in this sector but there were more EN infantry.

We dropped some mortars and with heavy z-fire from my HMGs, suppressed the EN before maneuvering my infantry closer to force the EN out.

<a href="https://imgur.com/loT2LxR"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/loT2LxR.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 15

We're approaching 3rd Company's objectives, in relative good order. Based on the EN's dispositions, we can expect an EN counter attack coming from the south later. P platoon will establish a block, while the rest of the coy continue their advance.

<a href="https://imgur.com/iWmWQFm"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/iWmWQFm.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10

1st Company sector. After the initial contact, it was pretty uneventful for the rest of the advance. 1st Company is now positioned to advance towards their objectives. Engineers are leading once again, with Armoured Cars and an infantry platoon in close support.

<a href="https://imgur.com/qRv4tJo"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/qRv4tJo.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 15

We've secured 1st company's objective and spread the guys out in all round security.

2nd Company starts their passage of line through 1st company towards their objectives. The Engineers continue to advance with the armoured cars in support.

<a href="https://imgur.com/TucuDra"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/TucuDra.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 18

EN has begun their counterattack. As expected in 3rd Company, an EN platoon sized force is coming from the south. P Platoon is well-positioned and I added some artillery into the mix. The EN effort melted away after 2-3 turns.

<a href="https://imgur.com/qvTLCT8"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/qvTLCT8.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 19

1st Company sector. EN counter attack from the north. We positioned our HMGs on some high ground for suppressive fire and had 2 platoons to fight off the EN advance. The EN was unable to make any headway.

<a href="https://imgur.com/7UaBVe7"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/7UaBVe7.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

2nd Company was fast approaching their objectives, where the Engineers founds some defensive bunkers. It's important to approach a bunker from their blind side. Use smoke and terrain to mask your advance. Sometimes, if they are not pointed in the right direction, they can be ignored altogether.

<a href="https://imgur.com/MN7UkcY"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/MN7UkcY.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

There wasn't any EN tanks, so their counter attack lack sufficient firepower. Pretty quick one.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Ho8xuk9"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Ho8xuk9.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Defend Battle against UK.

The ground here looks very good. Basically, I have an entire ridgeline which can dominate any attacked moving over the open ground. The ridgeline is also large enough for me to deploy 2 companies on it.

As usual for defensive battles, I brought along the following
- 90mm ATG Platoon emplacements (Main AT asset)
- 25mm ATG Section (Secondary AT asset)
- M-13/40 Section (Mobile AT asset)
- 2x 20mm AA Sectons
- 2x ammo carriers

I also bought 50pts worth of mines. I find that the game prefers to go around high ground, rather than over it. To exploit that, I place mines along these parts.

The only area of concern is 1st Company's sector. They have no AT asset and will rely on their infantry to go close to destroy any EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/xIQI6by"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/xIQI6by.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

A closer look at the various companies

1st Company

As mentioned earlier, I'm not too comfortable with how 1st Company is spread out. If the EN moves too fast, my screening platoons may just go to ground and wait for opportunities.

<a href="https://imgur.com/VWpPo5G"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/VWpPo5G.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

2nd Company

They were occupying the left wing of the ridgeline, and backed up with the 25mm ATGs. I kept them compact, and only expect the 25mm ATGs to engage fast moving lightly armoured vehicles.

<a href="https://imgur.com/cQ8pxM2"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/cQ8pxM2.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

3rd Company

This is literally my main battle line. The tanks upfront have license to roam and are intended to engage the EN lighter armoured stuff. The 90mm ATGs in the centre are to engage any Valentines or Matilda type of armour.

<a href="https://imgur.com/rKHTyuB"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/rKHTyuB.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turns 2-5

Here we spotted the EN armoured cars and light tanks making an approach to 3rd Company. I send my tanks to intercept. I do not want my 90mm ATGs to fire off too early and give away their positions.

<a href="https://imgur.com/78w9BTd"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/78w9BTd.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Elsewhere in 1st Company sector, our HMGs get busy engaging lorries. The EN seems to be making this a sizeable effort. At least 4 lorries spotted, suggesting a platoon of motor infantry. Maybe a full company coming down the road?

<a href="https://imgur.com/Lng26JK"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Lng26JK.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 5

Early skirmishing between our tanks and EN armoured cars. Not much to worry about so far. Their light tanks do not have a main gun.

Once I dealt with them, I sent my tanks hiding again, taking advantage of the terrain.

<a href="https://imgur.com/4HZqSU5"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/4HZqSU5.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 8

My HMGs are falling back. The EN lead tanks have cut the road but we should still be able to infiltrate backwards.

H platoon is now in a fight against the EN tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Js4Qdh6"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Js4Qdh6.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 20

H platoon has dealt sufficient damage to the EN advance. They took out 3 tanks and had to pull back as the EN artillery kept falling around them. EN infantry is also beginning to close in on them.

J platoon has gone to ground for now.

<a href="https://imgur.com/H6HfGnA"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/H6HfGnA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

H platoon has disengaged pretty cleanly, having to sacrifice 1 section. Company HQ is supporting their movement with HMGs and 60mm mortars in direct fire.

<a href="https://imgur.com/l9zxs2A"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/l9zxs2A.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 10

The rest of the EN armour advanced towards the main ridgeline. My HMGs button them up from range.

<a href="https://imgur.com/o1i3k4L"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/o1i3k4L.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 13

6 EN tanks fall to the minefields. My 90mm ATGs pick them off as they lie immobile.

<a href="https://imgur.com/pIRjw5P"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/pIRjw5P.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 15

More tanks approach from the south. Again, my 90mm ATGs pick them off from range.

<a href="https://imgur.com/yAmBRn9"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/yAmBRn9.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 27

There is 1 Matilda left, and it's roaming in 1st Company sector. I plot arty all around their infantry, hoping that the Matilda will advance without much support.

<a href="https://imgur.com/npnKWlN"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/npnKWlN.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

3rd Company will now move forward and swing towards 1st Company, to support my tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/8EFkpNs"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/8EFkpNs.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 30

1st Company has to re-org itself as the Coy HQ was too exposed. As a result, their Matilda makes a dash forward, leaving their infantry support behind.

<a href="https://imgur.com/6gVG6vB"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6gVG6vB.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 33

My tanks are leading the counter attack into the EN. 3rd Coy isn't too far behind. 2nd Coy is also pushing units up to close with the EN.

<a href="https://imgur.com/IhUz67N"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/IhUz67N.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 34

J platoon, which has remained quiet for most of the battle, comes alive as the EN line starts to crumble. They attack from an uncovered angle.

<a href="https://imgur.com/6APHPwi"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6APHPwi.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

<a href="https://imgur.com/6CINBPD"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/6CINBPD.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Again, credits to Warcab, I extracted some strategic battle images and compiled them into a gif, to give an overall feel of the ebb and flow. There were 44 turns in total, and I only extracted odd number turns, so as to keep the size smaller.

You can see that the main push was entirely against 1st Company.

<a href="https://imgur.com/EAJGGQo"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/EAJGGQo.gif" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Delay Battle against UK.

The ground here is very steep and rough. Infantry will take a long time to traverse, and any armour will probably travel fastest along ridgelines, rather than across it.

There is a road running E-W along the northern edge of the map, but I do not think the EN will use it to much advantage.

I supplement my core forces with the following

- Ammo Carrier (for Infantry Howitzer)
- Ammo Carrier (for 81mm Mortars)
- Tank Section
- 25mm ATG
- 47mm ATG
- 20mm AA Guns
- Air Recon

With availability of the Air Recon, I decided on a largely reverse slope deployment. This maximises my survivability as well as improves my ATG's accuracy and effectiveness.

Black line is the screening force. Maroon Line is expected to be main resistance and Green Line is my reserve fighting line.

<a href="https://imgur.com/1r158pm"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/1r158pm.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

I deployed my Companies from South to North, with 1st Company in the South and 3rd in the North.

1st Company (Note the presence of my 47mm ATGs, oriented to engage to the rear.)

<a href="https://imgur.com/Hc2tWQI"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Hc2tWQI.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

2nd Company

The screening force takes advantage of the reverse slope to enhance survivability against early EN contacts.

<a href="https://imgur.com/TeQfhoM"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/TeQfhoM.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

3rd Company

The HMGs are deployed to watch the road. Sometimes, the EN sends down their lorry-borne infantry along the roads. My pair of tanks wait in the shallow ground for opportunities to snipe from the flanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/C0poIyv"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/C0poIyv.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 2

Spotted a platoon of EN tanks coming down the road. My HMGs fire off quickly to ensure no riding infantry and proceed to pull back down the road.

<a href="https://imgur.com/nCvybEX"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/nCvybEX.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

The EN arty is landing around my tanks, and I have to keep them on the move to avoid getting in the worst of it.

It also precipitates their fast moving light armour stuff. My tanks are well positioned in this sector to engage them.

<a href="https://imgur.com/lk1y54h"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/lk1y54h.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

A13s are spotted coming on quickly towards 1st and 2nd Company. We also spotted a platoon of Valentines, which are likely to lag farther behind.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Em6a7et"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Em6a7et.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 5

The early skirmishing is lop-sided as the EN armoured cars do not have any main guns to threaten my tanks.

Also note the current position of the EN tanks along the road. If they turn south sharply, they may influence the skirmish.

My HMGs continue to pull back and keep the EN tanks buttoned up.

<a href="https://imgur.com/h1qsEaq"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/h1qsEaq.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 10

1 of the EN tanks split off and went around. The other 2 have begun turning south west towards 3rd Company. My tanks have taken up new positions after a successful fight with the EN armoured cars.

I expect the lone tank to be destroyed by my infantry with relative ease. The other 2 may need some coaxing to expose themselves.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ITYOrKb"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ITYOrKb.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 8

2nd and 3rd Company are now planning on how to deal with the fast moving A13 tanks.

My 25mm ATGs are in perfect position and the LOS is around 250-400metres.

<a href="https://imgur.com/TZgKo2r"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/TZgKo2r.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 10

Another platoon of A13s approach from a different angle. This approach is similarly covered by the 25mms.

<a href="https://imgur.com/hKmqiNM"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/hKmqiNM.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 14

After the EN cruiser tanks were destroyed, we waited for the inevitable advance of the Valentines.

There are 4 of them and my only way of destroying them would rely on my infantry going for close assaults.

Here 1 of them is likely to scale directly into H platoon.

<a href="https://imgur.com/XtdEJ6O"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/XtdEJ6O.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 14

3rd Company sector.

After the EN tanks were destroyed, we re-orient our tanks towards the advancing EN infantry.

I expect my tanks to whittle away at the EN advance, before they hit my main line.

We expect at least 2 companies worth of EN infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/oYrm7aO"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/oYrm7aO.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 18

Over the next few turns, the EN advance grew larger and larger. Our HMGs and mortars are providing the tanks excellent support. We may be able to stop the EN advance altogether.

<a href="https://imgur.com/EYncQ2D"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/EYncQ2D.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

A better overview of 3rd Company's positions. You can also spot the flaming A13 along the road, destroyed by my infantry.

The range from my HMGs to the EN infantry is about 850-1,100 metres.

<a href="https://imgur.com/x7eYC7K"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/x7eYC7K.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 20

As the Valentines press forward, I decided to pull back my screening force. Their current position is too far forward and risk being engaged and destroyed in detail.

2nd Company moves back to their main line, leaving 1 platoon in the dead ground to ambush the Valentines.

1st Company has also largely pulled back behind and are hidden from the EN infantry.

<a href="https://imgur.com/OUn62zy"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/OUn62zy.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

As usual, my heavy weapons is disrupting the EN infantry from supporting their tanks. L platoon is in an ideal position to close assault the Valentines.

<a href="https://imgur.com/65B7g03"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/65B7g03.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 26

I smoke out the area as the Valentines roll forward. I keep them buttoned up with HMG fires. They seemed to have split their forces abit. 1 is coming towards 1st Coy and the other towards 2nd Coy. The last one is held in reserve.

<a href="https://imgur.com/DBqHd21"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DBqHd21.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 30

Here the last EN tank is sent forward. L platoon prepares once again for a close assault.

<a href="https://imgur.com/wzJnSP7"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/wzJnSP7.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Battle Report

The EN brought alot of artillery for this one. They shelled our arty park a fair bit but we were able to shift our guns to alternate positions.

I was also pretty pleased with the performance of our tanks. They fought throughout the battle and they held off at least 2-3 companies of EN infantry. 3rd Company was quite unscathed.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Wz2IPJS"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Wz2IPJS.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Here's the cool dynamic map. Our tanks were really lively.

<a href="https://imgur.com/k1GWf5m"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/k1GWf5m.gif" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

We had the choice of a special mission for a quick Advance.

The map is still quite similar to our last battle, alot of craggy rocky ground.

Fortunately, we have a E-W road running almost in the centre of the map, so this will be very important for us to move across the map speedily.

We bought a number of transports. Some heavy and light trucks. Air recon was also available, so that will come in handy.

Instead of tanks, I decided to buy some Armoured Cars. These have 20mm Autocannons, which have limited AT capability (PEN 4).

Here's the rough plan.

The black line is the midpoint of the map, this is as far as the EN can deploy their units. So I usually plan with this line as the edge of my safe area.

2nd and 3rd Coy will advance along the E-W axis, with 2nd Coy leading.

1st Coy will take the rough terrain for the objectives along the north of the map.

Blue lines are approx. company boundaries. The boundary between 2nd and 3rd Company is the road itself.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ShX0soF"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ShX0soF.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

1st Company's initial plan

I had bought a platoon of heavy trucks, and managed to fit the entire company into it, less 1 platoon.

1 of my HMG platoons are also mounted on pack mules and they will initially set-up a firebase to overwatch the trucks as they move to their de-bus point.

Note the smoke bombardment. This is to aid concealment of my trucks in the initial movement.

<a href="https://imgur.com/RNWaQiV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/RNWaQiV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

2nd Company

2nd Company is leading the Bn. The point elements are 1 platoon riding on light trucks, 1 scout team riding on motorcycles and a pair of armoured cars. As before, I drop smoke to obscure the initial movement phase.

With the use of the road, I expect to reach the de-bus point by the end of Turn 2.

<a href="https://imgur.com/PfJzDLc"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/PfJzDLc.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 4

We contacted an EN platoon while moving along the road.

- Plotted indirect fires
- Established a firebase with HMGs and direct fire mortars
- Moved our armoured cars for closer suppression.
- Fanned out our scouts (F0-F1) for flank observation
- Once our mortar fires hit, we'll push N platoon up closer.

<a href="https://imgur.com/uh4LQFz"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/uh4LQFz.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 5

Our Air recon spotted some light MkIVc tanks. These are of relatively low threat as they only have MGs. Nonetheless we will have to clear them, to ensure follow on forces are not spotted so easily.

<a href="https://imgur.com/DSDhL8w"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DSDhL8w.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 6

Our direct and indirect fires have routed the EN infantry and we push on with the rest of the Bn.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ltE35hx"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ltE35hx.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

A quick discussion on offensive type of missions.

When moving to contact, the usual problem is weighing off momentum vs dispersal.

You want to keep your forces upfront moving, and with support coming along, but at the same time, you'll have to watch against clumping too close together. If the EN had effective artillery or HMGs, the units clustered together will incur alot of casualties.

I tend to bring motor transports for this purpose, it allows me to concentrate faster than leg movement. Of course, it would be better to have armoured half-tracks but the Italian HTs have a carry capacity of 9, while my infantry sections are 11men each.

[sigeena]

Turn 5

1st Company

I hadn't expect the trucks to take so long to move to their de-bus point. It seems I probably only saved 2 turns transporting my troops by the

We spread the company in 1 up formation, and site our HMGs to support our comb of the area.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Bf3lAiR"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Bf3lAiR.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 8

Back to 2nd Company.

Our point platoon (N Platoon) moves off the road and will comb the left flank, providing cover from the high ground. L platoon takes the lead and will continue to fillet down the road.

<a href="https://imgur.com/ri4PxEb"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/ri4PxEb.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 9

Our Air recon spotted more EN infantry guarding the road, and an ATG with A13 overwatching from a further high point. Excellent vantage points overall.

Our next plan will require our arty to switch over to these higher value targets.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Q3PHJ3n"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Q3PHJ3n.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 12

We spotted the entire platoon of A13s guarding the ground. The MkIVs are almost destroyed by my arty, and I send K3, my company AT rifle team to deal with the remaining MkIV.

Our arty is now landing squarely on both EN positions. We hope to knock out both the EN tank and ATG, if possible.

Our Armoured Cars wait by the side of the road for now. There's not much they can do, until we clear the EN AT assets.

<a href="https://imgur.com/VBgIZkV"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/VBgIZkV.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 9

3rd Company

We send 1 platoon to secure the objectives in this sector. If there are signs of at least 1 EN platoon, we will have to provide additional support to ensure quick success. We only spot 1 section so far, it may be an isolated section, or more likely, it's part of 1 platoon.

<a href="https://imgur.com/fwDjCuF"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/fwDjCuF.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 15

Our advance sections get contacted and it looks to be at least an EN platoon guarding these objectives. We'll move up our company HMGs and mortars to provide better support. A straight-up platoon to platoon fight may take too long, and incur additional casualties. When possible, tilt the combat power with use of direct or indirect fires.

As my Bn arty is concentrating on 2nd Company's sector, I only have the Coy support weapons, which should be sufficient.

<a href="https://imgur.com/NK9Vr5E"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/NK9Vr5E.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 13

2nd Company

Our arty is suppressing the EN infantry very well. They are routing. I take the opportunity to push the lead platoon forward. Also note N platoon coming up on our left flank, using the rough ground as cover.

<a href="https://imgur.com/hvVNsiM"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/hvVNsiM.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 15

We smoke the area, and pushed forward the entire company.

L Platoon will now go off-road and directly towards the EN positions. M platoon will go down the road, to clear the EN, before breaking sharp left and up towards the EN positions.

The main idea is for these 2 platoons to distract the EN, while N platoon makes its way forward to close assault the tanks.

<a href="https://imgur.com/mnHw5Ef"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/mnHw5Ef.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 19

N platoon is now in position to assault the EN tanks. EN infantry is routing, so the EN is unable to spot my infantry coming forward

<a href="https://imgur.com/3a8mNAx"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/3a8mNAx.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

This is taken after destroying 2 EN tanks. They've been stationary for far too long, which is a well-known weakness of the game.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Sf1I1Im"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Sf1I1Im.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 15

1st Company

We found the EN infantry in position here at the forward slope. It was approx. 2 platoons in size. We can only guess that the remaining platoon is probably deployed on the reverse slop.

Our support weapons have already been deployed. It's going to be quite straightforward for us to dislodge them. Most of the EN fire is heading towards H and I platoons. J platoon is probably hidden from direct EN observation.

<a href="https://imgur.com/yzmHbLK"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/yzmHbLK.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 19

The EN is routing, and we pack up our HMGs, to redeploy them forward again to cover the infantry advance.

<a href="https://imgur.com/QAkWdf1"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/QAkWdf1.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 22

As we approach the other side, we found the remaining of the EN infantry deployed nearer to the other cluster of objectives. Our HMGs are too distant to provide support and they will take upwards of 6-8 turns before they'll reach us. I quickly plot for Bn arty, while continuing my movement forward.

<a href="https://imgur.com/Knuu3R5"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/Knuu3R5.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Turn 25

The fight here is over. I platoon will move forward to secure the objectives.

<a href="https://imgur.com/DnfbtIf"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/DnfbtIf.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

[sigeena]

Turn 22

3rd Company

There was a local counterattack by a platoon of MkIVs. They bumped into R platoon of 3rd Company and were destroyed.

<a href="https://imgur.com/L31jjh6"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/L31jjh6.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Here's the battle report.

Our losses are minimal, even though this was a special battle. The road was very useful as it allowed speedy access to many of the key terrain in both 2nd and 3rd Company sector.

<a href="https://imgur.com/5jPwNLv"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/5jPwNLv.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>

Strategic battle

<a href="https://imgur.com/kDgPDFr"><img src="https://i.imgur.com/kDgPDFr.gif" title="source: imgur.com" /></a>