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Artic Shield

***NOTE THIS SCENARIO HAS BEEN BALACNED AROUND THE NEW THREAT UPGRADE MOD***
Operation Arctic Shield: 1991 Cold War Escalation
Global Context:
As the Cold War reaches a critical juncture in early 1991, tensions between NATO and the Soviet Union have escalated to unprecedented levels. The conflict has erupted on multiple fronts, with significant engagements occurring in the North Atlantic and the Baltic Sea, drawing in substantial NATO and Soviet forces.

Ongoing Conflicts:
The Invasion of Gotland:

Location: Gotland Island, Baltic Sea.

Situation: Soviet forces have launched a full-scale invasion of the strategically important Gotland Island, aiming to secure control over the Baltic Sea and disrupt NATO’s maritime operations.

NATO Response:

Carrier Strike Group 2 (CSG 2): Deployed to counter the Soviet invasion, featuring aircraft carrier USS America (CV-66) as its flagship, supported by an array of guided-missile cruisers, destroyers, and frigates.

Objective: To repel the Soviet invasion, maintain control of Gotland, and ensure the security of maritime routes in the Baltic Sea.

Engagement Near Iceland:

Location: Waters near Iceland, North Atlantic.

Situation: Soviet naval forces are attempting to disrupt NATO’s Atlantic supply lines and gain a foothold in the North Atlantic.

NATO Response:

Expeditionary Strike Group 2 (ESG 2): Engaged in intense naval and amphibious operations to counter the Soviet threat. ESG 2 includes the amphibious assault ship USS Saipan (LHA-2) and accompanying amphibious transport docks, landing ships, and support vessels.

Objective: To maintain control of the critical sea lanes, protect supply routes, and prevent Soviet forces from establishing a presence near Iceland.

Operation Arctic Shield:
Location: Bodø and Narvik, Northern Norway.

Objective: To defend Bodø, a key strategic location, and prevent Soviet forces from gaining control, which would compromise NATO’s defensive perimeter and logistical capabilities in northern Norway.

NATO Task Force Composition:
Flagship: USS Bunker Hill (CG-52), a Ticonderoga-class cruiser.

Escorts: Guided missile frigate USS Carr (FFG-52) and Norwegian frigate Narvik (F304).

Submarine Support: A single Los Angeles-class submarine.

Air Support: F-15A and F-4D fighters from nearby airbases, supported by P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft.

Special Forces: Norwegian Coastal Ranger Command for reconnaissance and direct action missions.

Primary Threats:
Soviet Naval Forces: Including Kirov-class cruisers, Victor III-class and Kilo-class submarines, and MiG-25RB bombers escorted by MiG-23MS fighters.

Aerial Assaults: Coordinated strikes by Soviet bombers aiming to cripple NATO’s defensive capabilities.

Submarine Operations: Soviet submarines targeting NATO surface ships and supply lines.

Mission Objectives:
Defend Bodø: Establish a robust defensive perimeter to prevent Soviet forces from capturing Bodø.

Maintain Air Superiority: Intercept and neutralize Soviet aircraft attempting to breach NATO airspace.

Neutralize Key Threats: Coordinate efforts to sink the Kirov-class cruiser and disrupt Soviet naval command and control.

Secure Critical Infrastructure: Protect the airbase and port facilities in Bodø, ensuring their operational status.

Reinforce NATO Positions: Support ongoing NATO operations in Gotland and near Iceland by maintaining a stronghold in northern Norway.

Strategic Importance:
The successful defense of Bodø and Narvik is crucial in maintaining NATO’s strategic position in northern Norway. It ensures continued operational effectiveness and supports the broader engagements around Gotland and Iceland, contributing to the overall stability and security of the region.