Difference between revisions of "Operation HAMMERFALL"

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'''Operation HAMMERFALL''' was a mid [[thirty-second century]] military campaign launched by [[Lyran Commonwealth]] to weaken and prevent the neighboring former [[House Marik|Marik]] states from reforming [[Free Worlds League]]. General Heinrick and his team from the strategic planning section of [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]] high command created principles of the operation.
 
  
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==Campaign Planned Objectives==  
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{{InfoBoxConflict
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The principles of Hammerfall was to weaken both the [[Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey]] and the [[Marik-Stewart Commonwealth]] so they would be unable to strike against Lyran Commonwealth. The military operation included three waves :
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| conflict = Operation HAMMERFALL
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| partof = The [[Dark Age]] era
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| image =  
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| caption = Operation HAMMERFALL
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| date = 25 July [[3137]]<ref name=ER3145p20>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 20, "Timeline of Events (cont.)" - Lyran invasion of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey begins</ref>
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| enddate = 19-23 May [[3140]]<ref name=ER3145p21>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 21, "Timeline of Events (cont.)" - Ceasefire between Clan Wolf and Free Worlds League a week after Hammerfall resumes, followed by Wolf assault on Lyran Commonwealth.</ref>
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| place =
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| planet =
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| territory =
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| faction1 = Attacker<br>
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* [[Lyran Commonwealth]]
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* [[Clan Wolf]]
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| faction2 = Defender<br>
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* [[Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey]]
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* [[Marik-Stewart Commonwealth]]
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* [[Free Worlds League]] (from 3139)
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| commander1 = <br>
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* Archon [[Melissa Steiner]]
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* Duke [[Vedet Brewer]]
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* Khan [[Seth Ward]]
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* Galaxy Commander [[Alaric Ward|Alaric Wolf]]
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| commander2 = <br>
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* Duke [[Fontaine Marik]]
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* Captain-General [[Anson Marik]] (KIA)
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* Captain-General [[Jessica Marik]] (from 3139)
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* Warden-General [[Thaddeus Marik (32nd c.)|Thaddeus Marik]] (from 3139) (KIA)
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| forces1= <br>
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* [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces]]
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* [[Clan Wolf Touman|Clan Wolf touman]]
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| forces2= <br>
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* [[Unified Duchy Military Command]]
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* [[Army of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth]]
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* [[Free Worlds League Military]] (from 3139)
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| result = <br>
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* Lyran Commonwealth makes significant territorial gains in former Free Worlds space
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* Marik-Stewart Commonwealth dissolves
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* Free Worlds League reunited under Oriente's leadership
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* Clan Wolf turns against Lyran Commonwealth
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| environment =
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| conditions =
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}}
  
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* '''First Wave:''' Calls on Lyran forces punch through space or "Wedge" between the Duchy and Marik-Stewart. Claiming worlds between the two states to prevent coordination of two state's armies should they try unite against them. While at the same time striking both state's borders at same time. World of [[Helm]] is ear marked as being furthest world Lyran forces would strike. The forces strike the worlds of [[Concord]], [[Bondurant]], and [[Danais]] which are known locations for the [[Silver Hawk Irregulars]] be based out of.
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'''Operation HAMMERFALL''' was a mid-[[thirty-second century]] military campaign launched by the [[Lyran Commonwealth]] to weaken and prevent its neighboring former [[Free Worlds League]] states from reuniting. The Lyrans commenced operations against the [[Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey]] and [[Marik-Stewart Commonwealth]] in July [[3137]], capturing the former's capital and forcing Tamarind-Abbey to seek a cease-fire by the end of the year. The Lyran conquest of Marik-Stewart worlds proceeded more slowly, until the surprise arrival of their ally [[Clan Wolf]] in February [[3138]] heralded a surge in their advance. By mid-year the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth had fallen apart and was divided between the Lyran-Wolf conquerors and other neighboring powers.
  
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Also, Hammerfall would take worlds ''near'' Clan Jade Falcon worlds. Taking these worlds would be deny Clan Jade Falcons from taking them and expanding their reach. General Heinrick controlling scheduling of the planned invasions, would use these worlds as staging points, and when further strikes would be conducted from them. These worlds include: [[New Kyoto]], [[Algorab]], and [[Vindemiatrix]].
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Ironically the Lyran Commonwealth's triumphs ensured the ultimate failure of HAMMERFALL's strategic objective. The Lyran-Wolf invasion bolstered [[Captain-General of the Free Worlds League|Captain-General]] [[Jessica Halas-Hughes Marik|Jessica Halas-Hughes']] own efforts to re-form the Free Worlds League under [[Oriente Protectorate|Oriente's]] leadership, and even as the invaders continued advancing she succeeded in her goal. In July [[3139]] most of the former League states merged together into one nation again. Nonetheless the resurrected Successor State's resistance proved unable to halt the Lyran-Wolf advance, until Clan Wolf itself finally tired of its ill-treatment by its ally and abruptly ended HAMMERFALL by turning upon the Lyran Commonwealth.
  
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* '''Second Wave:''' This where invasion forces stationed spinward of Marik-Stewart Commonwealth will penetrate deeply into the nation cutting that nation in two. While forces that would be in "Wedge" between Commonwealth and Duchy will shift in laterally into Tamarind and hit the capital world [[Tamarind]].  
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==Background==
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Following [[Gray Monday]] and the [[HPG]] network collapse, the Lyran Commonwealth remained quiescent as other factions tore into the collapsing [[Republic of the Sphere]]. Archon [[Melissa Steiner (32nd c.)|Melissa Steiner]] believed that such a stance would ultimately leave her realm vulnerable to aggression as a result of perceived weakness, and chose to strike first by mounting an invasion into regions historically part of the Free Worlds League. Her long-term objective was to ensure that the former League micro-states would be unable to threaten the Commonwealth, without actually destroying those states or giving them the catalyst needed to reunite them as a single nation.<ref name=FAWprologue>''Fire at Will'', Prologue (PDF version)</ref>
  
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* '''Final Wave:''' Lyran forces in Commonwealth will shift to surround the world of [[Marik]] cutting it off from rest of worlds and give it weak border with [[Republic of the Sphere|old Republic]] space. Then resources would be shifted to aide Lyran forces Duchy's space to mop up.
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To this end, Archon Steiner had her cousin [[Trillian Steiner|Trillian]] and [[Khan of Clan Wolf-in-Exile|Khan]] [[Patrik Fetladral]] of [[Clan Wolf in Exile]] arrange an alliance with [[Clan Wolf]]. The Wolf [[Khan of Clan Wolf|Khan]] [[Seth Ward]] agreed to join in the proposed invasion, as it presented him with an opportunity to realize his own long-term goals for the Clan.<ref name=FAWprologue/> <ref name=ER3145p107>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 107, "Seth Ward"</ref>
  
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However, Lyran planning was not informed of [[Clan Wolf]] being involved with the invasion and Marik-Commonwealth space would be their target in the invasion.
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The [[Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces|LCAF]] High Command's campaign plan, which did not take into account their alliance with Clan Wolf, called for a multi-pronged invasion taking place over three waves. Wave One would primarily target the independent worlds in-between the [[Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey]] and the [[Marik-Stewart Commonwealth]], as well as crossing into both states. Additional strikes into the former [[Isle of Skye]] would net three ex-Republic worlds for the Commonwealth and aid their Wolf allies by denying them to the nearby [[Clan Jade Falcon|Jade Falcon]] enclave. In Wave Two the LCAF would push deeper into the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and isolate [[Tamarind]] before invading the Duchy's capital itself. Wave Three would conclude HAMMERFALL by isolating [[Marik]] and leaving the Lyran Commonwealth safe from any threat posed by the Free Worlds League.<ref name=FAWchap3>''Fire at Will'', Chapter 3 (PDF version)</ref>
  
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==Campaign History==
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Clan Wolf, for its part, abandoned its Occupation Zone in early 3137 as the [[Clan Wolf Touman|Wolf touman]], together with much of the Clan's civilian caste members, began migrating towards their staging areas for the invasion. To divert attention from these movements, three Wolf Galaxies split off and went on a four month raiding spree throughout ex-Republic territory before vanishing once more, leaving most of the Inner Sphere in the dark as to the Clan's whereabouts.<ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 18</ref> <ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 17, "Masters of War"</ref>
  
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===Regimental Units Assigned===  
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==Operation HAMMERFALL==
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Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces
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On July 25th, 3137, Operation HAMMERFALL began with simultaneous attacks into the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.
  
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*[[1st Hesperus Guards]] - Commanded by Duke [[Vedet Brewster]]
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==="Gauntlet": the Tamarind-Abbey Campaign===
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*[[2nd Lyran Regulars]]
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Codenamed "Gauntlet", the portion of HAMMERFALL targeting Tamarind-Abbey proceeded swiftly and was concluded within five months. Lyran forces smashed through the Duchy's defenses and by the end of the year they had seized [[Tamarind]] itself. While a ceasefire went into effect, Duke [[Fontaine Marik]] refused to accept his losses in the long term and established a government-in-exile on [[Gibraltar]]. From here the Duke planned for the reclamation of his capital.<ref name=ER3145p23>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 23</ref> <ref name=FM3145p17-18>''Field Manual: 3145'', p. 17-18, "The Hammer Falls"</ref>
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*[[3rd Lyran Regulars]] - Commanded by General [[Bernard Nordhoff]]
 
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*[[5th Lyran Regulars]]
 
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*[[8th Lyran Regulars]] - Reserve
 
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*[[2nd Royal Guards|2nd Royals Regiment]] - Reserve
 
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*[[4th Royal Guards|4th Royals Regiment]] - Reserve
 
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===Conception===  
 
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Conceived by Archon [[Melissa Steiner II|Melissa Steiner]], as means to strengthen her House in face of multiple threats looming after collapse [[Republic of the Sphere]] and fall of [[HPG]] nets. The operation included secret alliance with [[Clan Wolf]] of the occupational zone to through Lyran's space to occupy worlds on their border with the league.
 
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Also, it was designed to tie up political rival and opponent of her policies, Duke [[Vedet Brewster]] of [[Hesperus II]] by having him lead military campaign into the old Free World League space. [[Trillian Steiner-Davion|Trillian Steiner]] was sent to both Clan Wolf-In-Exile and Duke Vedet to pitch the operation.
 
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[[Clan Wolf-in-Exile]] Khan [[Patrik Fetladral]] meet with the Archon on [[Tharkad]] in January, [[3137]] to formalize their plans to invades.  
 
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The LCAF began bring up regiments to staging bases along the Marik border between later 3136 - early 3137.
 
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===First Wave===
 
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In July 3137, Lyran forces begin to invade the "Wedge" area and in the Commonwealth.
 
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Lyran forces being lead by Duke Vedet and his First Hesperus Guards were coded named "Gauntlet" while forces penetrating Marik-Stewart Commonwealth named ''Anvil''.
 
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By July 3137, Lyran forces had landed in Free Worlds League. Duke Vedet, lead ''Gauntlets'' forces with his newly formed First Hesperus Guards regiment and invade the world of [[Shasta]]. While the 3rd Lyran Regulars with General Nordhoff's company landed on [[Gallatin]] and meets heavy resistance from local defender, who turned out to be elements of the [[Silver Hawk Irregulars]]. In running hit and run battle, they escaped on waiting DropShips.
 
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The 2nd Lyran Regulars over course of three days of fighting took the world of [[Saltillo]] and other forces seized [[Alorton]].
 
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In August, Duke Vedet's forces invaded and wiped out the [[Millungera]] militia to last man. While General Nordoff's Third Regulars again engaged in heavy fighting with Silver Hawk Irregulars on [[Uhura]]. The Third taking heavy damage, causing the invasion timetable to be setback. The appearance of the Silver Hawks on Uhura has taken Lyran officials including their intelligence agency back by surprise.
 
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Roderick Frost in conference with Trillian Steiner and her aid [[Klaus Wehner]] figure out that Silver Hawks in the Commonwealth are being used as moral booster, resistance, and guerilla warfare instead of traditional fighting. The Hawks appear to bleeding Lyran forces and making worlds that Lyran captured harder hold.
 
  
 
===Second Wave===
 
===Second Wave===
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Between September - early October of 3137 - Third Lyran Regulars were assisted in conquest of Marik-Stewart world of [[Bondurant]] by the 1st Hesperus Guards due to lack of reinforcements from Royals units. The campaign for Bondurant was brutal on both units, leaving the Third at only 40 percent operational. Though ending in victory, both units were damaged and needed rest and refit. The Royals regiments were deployed to old Skye of the Republic take key worlds there to deny the Clan Jade Falcons in the Falcon's Reaches from gather more resources. They took such worlds such as [[Algorab]]. Auxiliary Battalion B1, also known as the [[1st Steiner Strikers|Broken Swords]] Battalion were deployed to took the world of [[Labourgiere]] and faced off with militia unit called ''Fangs of Marik''. While the 5th Lyran Regulars struck the world of [[Niihau]].
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Between September - early October of 3137 - Third Lyran Regulars were assisted in conquest of Marik-Stewart world of [[Bondurant]] by the 1st Hesperus Guards due to lack of reinforcements from Royals units. The campaign for Bondurant was brutal on both units, leaving the Third at only 40 percent operational. Though ending in victory, both units were damaged and needed rest and refit. The Royals regiments were deployed to old Skye of the Republic take key worlds there to deny Clan Jade Falcon forces in the Falcon's Reach from gathering more resources. They took such worlds such as [[Algorab]]. Auxiliary Battalion B1, also known as the [[1st Steiner Strikers|Broken Swords]] Battalion were deployed to take the world of [[Labouchere]] and faced off with militia unit called ''Fangs of Marik''. While the 5th Lyran Regulars struck the world of [[Niihau]].
  
 
===Final Wave===
 
===Final Wave===
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In November, Trillian Steiner traveled to [[Tamarind]] to meet with Duke [[Fontaine Marik]], leader of Duchy to convince him to surrender.  Broken Swords battalion, on orders by Trillian, traveled days behind her incase she needed aide.  The 2nd Royals Regiment are ambushed while during their drop on Vindemiatrix.  Clan Jade Falcon forces intercepted their forces as they made landing to dropzone, taking 50 percent casualties.
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In November, Trillian Steiner traveled to [[Tamarind]] to meet with Duke [[Fontaine Marik]], leader of Duchy to convince him to surrender.  Broken Swords battalion, on orders by Trillian, traveled days behind her in case she needed aid.  The 2nd Royals Regiment are ambushed while during their drop on Vindemiatrix.  Clan Jade Falcon forces intercepted their forces as they made landing to drop zone, taking 50 percent casualties.
  
 
3rd Lyran Regulars with Fourth Royals invades [[Simpson Desert]].  While 1st Hesperus Guards deploy to aid Second Royals.
 
3rd Lyran Regulars with Fourth Royals invades [[Simpson Desert]].  While 1st Hesperus Guards deploy to aid Second Royals.
Line 60: Line 73:
 
Late November through December, Broken Sword Battalion arrives and ends up fighting [[1st Tamarind Regulars]] around capital of city of Zanzibar on Tamarind. They end up rescuing Trillian Steiner and her aide.
 
Late November through December, Broken Sword Battalion arrives and ends up fighting [[1st Tamarind Regulars]] around capital of city of Zanzibar on Tamarind. They end up rescuing Trillian Steiner and her aide.
  
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On Danasi from 6th, Duke's Guard forces took capital city of Breckenridge. However, the city became a trap as supplies had been stripped, facilities sabotaged and population began to rally against the raiders occupying their capital city.  Elements of the Silver Hawk Irregulars and planetary militia known as "Daredevils of Danasi" had began doing raids on Guard forces.
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On Danais from 6th, Duke's Guard forces took capital city of Breckenridge. However, the city became a trap as supplies had been stripped, facilities sabotaged and population began to rally against the raiders occupying their capital city.  Elements of the Silver Hawk Irregulars and planetary militia known as "Daredevils of Danais" had begun doing raids on Guard forces.
  
 
The Duke Vedet, being desperately for supplies and support, called on the reserve troops that were set aside for both the 3rd Lyran Regulars and his own forces. He felt that they would not be needed for conquest of Tamarind.  Thinking that Broken Swords Battalion had damaged the defenders enough for the Third to take planet without support.
 
The Duke Vedet, being desperately for supplies and support, called on the reserve troops that were set aside for both the 3rd Lyran Regulars and his own forces. He felt that they would not be needed for conquest of Tamarind.  Thinking that Broken Swords Battalion had damaged the defenders enough for the Third to take planet without support.
  
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By December 14th, two battalions of the 3rd Lyrans Regulars arrive with General Nordhoff commanding, attempt to "rescue" situation on Tamarind. After arriving on Harvison Flats, where Roderick forces clashed with Tamarind's defenders, but they did not finding evidence of the units destruction.  Third Lyrans are then attacked by in masse by 1st Tamarind Regulars entire regiment, which was not damaged as Third's commander had hoped.  Broken Swords using their dropships slipped behind 1st Tamarind's rear flank. Then Hauptmann Roderick Frost, reveals he his Steiner, he rallys both Lyran forces slice the defender's regiment in half. In midst of the battle, now knowing he had left member of the Steiner family to die, General [[Bernard Nordhoff|Nordhoff]] flees the battle & planet with trusted several officers and warriors. Leaving Roderick Steiner in command of Third Regulars, later taking city of Zanzibar.  Where Trillian Steiner brokers a armistice with Duke Fontaine Marik's advisor which ends conflict in Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.
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By December 14th, two battalions of the 3rd Lyrans Regulars arrive with General Nordhoff commanding, attempt to "rescue" situation on Tamarind. After arriving on Harvison Flats, where Roderick forces clashed with Tamarind's defenders, but they did not find evidence of the unit's destruction.  Third Lyrans are then attacked by the 1st Tamarind Regulars entire regiment, which was not damaged as Third's commander had hoped.  Broken Swords using their DropShips slipped behind 1st Tamarind's rear flank. Then Hauptmann Roderick Frost, reveals he his Steiner, he rallies both Lyran forces to slice the defending regiment in half. In midst of the battle, now knowing he had left member of the Steiner family to die, General [[Bernard Nordhoff|Nordhoff]] flees the battle & planet with trusted several officers and warriors. Leaving Roderick Steiner in command of Third Regulars, later taking city of Zanzibar.  Where Trillian Steiner brokers an armistice with Duke Fontaine Marik's advisor which ends conflict in Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.
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In March, [[3138]], Archon has passed word of [[Clan Wolf]] had enter the war Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and all forces were to treat them as nonhostile allies. Clan Wolf forces would begin taking worlds within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth at time word of the announcement reach Lyran forces.
  
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In March, [[3138]], Archon has passed word of [[Clan Wolf]] had enter the war Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and all forces were to treat them as non-hostile allies. Clan Wolf forces would begin taking worlds within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth at time word of the announcement reach Lyran forces.
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Lyran forces had become bogged down by heavy resistance within Marik-Stewart Commonwealth as well trouble with Clan Jade Falcon forces coming from the [[The Falcon's Reach|Falcon's Reach]] within the former Republic space.
  
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Lyran forces had become bogged down by heavy resistance within Marik-Steward Commonwealth as well trouble with Clan Jade Falcon forces coming from the [[Falcon's Reaches]] within the former Republic space.
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The 1st Hesperus Guards and a Clan Wolf Cluster commanded by [[Star Colonel]] [[Alaric Wolf]], would first see action together on [[Helm]] in April. However, Wolves & Lyran forces were not cooperating due to political, cultural, and the personal issues between commanding officers: Duke Vedet & Alaric Wolf. Clan Wolf attacked Helm's capital city of Helmsdown, but was rebuffed by heavy resistance Silver Hawk Irregulars hidden among civilian farmers.
  
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The 1st Hesperus Guards and a Clan Wolf Cluster commanded by [[Star Colonel]] [[Alaric Wolf]], would first see action together on [[Helm]] in April. However, Wolves & Lyran forces were not cooperating due to political, cultural, and the personal issues between commanding officers: Duke Vedet & Alaric Wolf. Clan Wolf attacked Helm's capital city of Helmsdown, but was rebuffed by heavy resistance Silver Hawk Irregulars hidden among civilians farmers.
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By May 22nd, Trillian Steiner had called in [[1st Steiner Strikers]], led by Colonel [[Roderick Steiner]] to try move invasion of Helm. Two days later, battle for capital city resumed, with it ending all the city's defenders destroyed by Alaric Wolf heavy handedness. The destruction of the Silver Hawks units after surrendering to Lyran and Wolf forces. The [[Battle of Helm (3138)|battle of Helm]] would later be noted as the Helm Massacre.<ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 20: Timeline of Events/April 28th - Helm Massacre Noted</ref><ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 23: Hammerfall & Homecoming - Invasion of Helm and snapshot of events noted</ref>
  
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By May 22nd, Trillian Steiner had called in [[1st Steiner Strikers]], lead by Colonel [[Roderick Steiner]] to try move invasion of Helm.  Two days later, battle for capital city resumed, with it ending all the city's defenders destroyed by Alaric Wolf heavy handedness. The destruction of the the Silver Hawks units after surrendering to Lyran and Wolf forces would later be noted as the Helm Massacre.<ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 20 Timeline of Events/April 28th - Helm Massacre Noted.</ref><ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 23 Hammerfall & Homecoming - Invasion of Helm and snapshot of events noted.</ref>
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By June 5th: "Coalition" forces from Helm moved to relocated capital of the Commonwealth on [[Stewart]].  Lyran/Wolf forces invaded city of New Edinburgh, trying to capture Captain-General Anson Marik.  Lyran & Wolf forces continued to operate as separate task forces on the ground.  The invasion forces, fought Silver Hawk companies defending the city.  Duke Vedet was nearly killed by bomb planted within motorcade reportedly transporting the Captain-General to safety. Vedet led forces into New Edinburgh Palace, where they try to root out Marik and some his surviving forces defending the palace.  The invasion of palace ended with Anson Marik's life, effectively triggering the collapse of Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's government.<ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 21: Timeline of Events - June 5th - Fall of Stewart to Lyran & Clan Wolf forces</ref><ref>''Era Report: 3145'', pp. 23–24: Hammerfall & Homecoming - Invasion of Stewart and snapshot of events noted</ref>
  
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By June 5th, "Coalition" forces from Helm moved to relocated capital of the Commonwealth on [[Stewart]].  Lyran/Wolf forces invaded city of New Endinburgh, trying to capture Captain-General Anson Marik.  Lyran & Wolf forces continued to operate as separate task forces on the ground.  The invasion forces, fought Silver Hawk companies defending the city.  Duke Vedet was nearly killed by bomb planted within motorcade reportedly transporting the Captain-General to safety.  Vedet lead forces into New Endinburgh Palace, where they try to root out Marik and some his surviving forces defending the palace.  The invasion of palace ended with Anson Marik's life, effectively triggering the collapse of Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's government.<ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 21 Timeline of Events - June 5th - Fall of Stewart to Lyran & Clan Wolf forces.</ref><ref>''Era Report: 3145'', p. 23-24 Hammerfall & Homecoming - Invasion of Stewart and snapshot of events noted.</ref>
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==Aftermath==
  
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==Notes==
 
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The story arch for the Free Worlds League invasion of 3137-3138 is strung between two novels. Some details of the invasion are not clear in ''The Last Charge''.  Which does make clear if Operation HAMMERFALL in fact ended after the collapse of the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth government.
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 
<references />
 
<references />
  
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==Bibliography==  
+
==Bibliography==
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*''[[Era Report: 3145]]''
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* ''[[A Bonfire of Worlds]]'' (novel)
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*''[[Fire at Will]]'' (novel)
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* ''[[Era Report: 3145]]''
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*''[[The Last Charge]]'' (novel)
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* ''[[Field Manual: 3145]]''
 +
* ''[[Fire at Will]]'' (novel)
 +
* ''[[The Last Charge]]'' (novel)
  
  
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[[Category: Dark Age Era Military Operations|HAMMERFALL, Operation]]
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[[Category:Late Dark Age Era Military Operations|HAMMERFALL, Operation]]

Latest revision as of 21:45, 10 February 2024


Operation HAMMERFALL
Part of The Dark Age era
Start Date 25 July 3137[1]
End Date 19-23 May 3140[2]
Result
  • Lyran Commonwealth makes significant territorial gains in former Free Worlds space
  • Marik-Stewart Commonwealth dissolves
  • Free Worlds League reunited under Oriente's leadership
  • Clan Wolf turns against Lyran Commonwealth
Factions
Attacker
 Defender
Commanders and leaders


Forces involved



Operation HAMMERFALL was a mid-thirty-second century military campaign launched by the Lyran Commonwealth to weaken and prevent its neighboring former Free Worlds League states from reuniting. The Lyrans commenced operations against the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and Marik-Stewart Commonwealth in July 3137, capturing the former's capital and forcing Tamarind-Abbey to seek a cease-fire by the end of the year. The Lyran conquest of Marik-Stewart worlds proceeded more slowly, until the surprise arrival of their ally Clan Wolf in February 3138 heralded a surge in their advance. By mid-year the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth had fallen apart and was divided between the Lyran-Wolf conquerors and other neighboring powers.

Ironically the Lyran Commonwealth's triumphs ensured the ultimate failure of HAMMERFALL's strategic objective. The Lyran-Wolf invasion bolstered Captain-General Jessica Halas-Hughes' own efforts to re-form the Free Worlds League under Oriente's leadership, and even as the invaders continued advancing she succeeded in her goal. In July 3139 most of the former League states merged together into one nation again. Nonetheless the resurrected Successor State's resistance proved unable to halt the Lyran-Wolf advance, until Clan Wolf itself finally tired of its ill-treatment by its ally and abruptly ended HAMMERFALL by turning upon the Lyran Commonwealth.

Background[edit]

Following Gray Monday and the HPG network collapse, the Lyran Commonwealth remained quiescent as other factions tore into the collapsing Republic of the Sphere. Archon Melissa Steiner believed that such a stance would ultimately leave her realm vulnerable to aggression as a result of perceived weakness, and chose to strike first by mounting an invasion into regions historically part of the Free Worlds League. Her long-term objective was to ensure that the former League micro-states would be unable to threaten the Commonwealth, without actually destroying those states or giving them the catalyst needed to reunite them as a single nation.[3]

To this end, Archon Steiner had her cousin Trillian and Khan Patrik Fetladral of Clan Wolf in Exile arrange an alliance with Clan Wolf. The Wolf Khan Seth Ward agreed to join in the proposed invasion, as it presented him with an opportunity to realize his own long-term goals for the Clan.[3] [4]

The LCAF High Command's campaign plan, which did not take into account their alliance with Clan Wolf, called for a multi-pronged invasion taking place over three waves. Wave One would primarily target the independent worlds in-between the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, as well as crossing into both states. Additional strikes into the former Isle of Skye would net three ex-Republic worlds for the Commonwealth and aid their Wolf allies by denying them to the nearby Jade Falcon enclave. In Wave Two the LCAF would push deeper into the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and isolate Tamarind before invading the Duchy's capital itself. Wave Three would conclude HAMMERFALL by isolating Marik and leaving the Lyran Commonwealth safe from any threat posed by the Free Worlds League.[5]

Clan Wolf, for its part, abandoned its Occupation Zone in early 3137 as the Wolf touman, together with much of the Clan's civilian caste members, began migrating towards their staging areas for the invasion. To divert attention from these movements, three Wolf Galaxies split off and went on a four month raiding spree throughout ex-Republic territory before vanishing once more, leaving most of the Inner Sphere in the dark as to the Clan's whereabouts.[6] [7]

Operation HAMMERFALL[edit]

On July 25th, 3137, Operation HAMMERFALL began with simultaneous attacks into the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey and the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth.

"Gauntlet": the Tamarind-Abbey Campaign[edit]

Codenamed "Gauntlet", the portion of HAMMERFALL targeting Tamarind-Abbey proceeded swiftly and was concluded within five months. Lyran forces smashed through the Duchy's defenses and by the end of the year they had seized Tamarind itself. While a ceasefire went into effect, Duke Fontaine Marik refused to accept his losses in the long term and established a government-in-exile on Gibraltar. From here the Duke planned for the reclamation of his capital.[8] [9]

Second Wave[edit]

Between September - early October of 3137 - Third Lyran Regulars were assisted in conquest of Marik-Stewart world of Bondurant by the 1st Hesperus Guards due to lack of reinforcements from Royals units. The campaign for Bondurant was brutal on both units, leaving the Third at only 40 percent operational. Though ending in victory, both units were damaged and needed rest and refit. The Royals regiments were deployed to old Skye of the Republic take key worlds there to deny Clan Jade Falcon forces in the Falcon's Reach from gathering more resources. They took such worlds such as Algorab. Auxiliary Battalion B1, also known as the Broken Swords Battalion were deployed to take the world of Labouchere and faced off with militia unit called Fangs of Marik. While the 5th Lyran Regulars struck the world of Niihau.

Final Wave[edit]

In November, Trillian Steiner traveled to Tamarind to meet with Duke Fontaine Marik, leader of Duchy to convince him to surrender. Broken Swords battalion, on orders by Trillian, traveled days behind her in case she needed aid. The 2nd Royals Regiment are ambushed while during their drop on Vindemiatrix. Clan Jade Falcon forces intercepted their forces as they made landing to drop zone, taking 50 percent casualties.

3rd Lyran Regulars with Fourth Royals invades Simpson Desert. While 1st Hesperus Guards deploy to aid Second Royals.

Late November through December, Broken Sword Battalion arrives and ends up fighting 1st Tamarind Regulars around capital of city of Zanzibar on Tamarind. They end up rescuing Trillian Steiner and her aide.

On Danais from 6th, Duke's Guard forces took capital city of Breckenridge. However, the city became a trap as supplies had been stripped, facilities sabotaged and population began to rally against the raiders occupying their capital city. Elements of the Silver Hawk Irregulars and planetary militia known as "Daredevils of Danais" had begun doing raids on Guard forces.

The Duke Vedet, being desperately for supplies and support, called on the reserve troops that were set aside for both the 3rd Lyran Regulars and his own forces. He felt that they would not be needed for conquest of Tamarind. Thinking that Broken Swords Battalion had damaged the defenders enough for the Third to take planet without support.

By December 14th, two battalions of the 3rd Lyrans Regulars arrive with General Nordhoff commanding, attempt to "rescue" situation on Tamarind. After arriving on Harvison Flats, where Roderick forces clashed with Tamarind's defenders, but they did not find evidence of the unit's destruction. Third Lyrans are then attacked by the 1st Tamarind Regulars entire regiment, which was not damaged as Third's commander had hoped. Broken Swords using their DropShips slipped behind 1st Tamarind's rear flank. Then Hauptmann Roderick Frost, reveals he his Steiner, he rallies both Lyran forces to slice the defending regiment in half. In midst of the battle, now knowing he had left member of the Steiner family to die, General Nordhoff flees the battle & planet with trusted several officers and warriors. Leaving Roderick Steiner in command of Third Regulars, later taking city of Zanzibar. Where Trillian Steiner brokers an armistice with Duke Fontaine Marik's advisor which ends conflict in Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.

In March, 3138, Archon has passed word of Clan Wolf had enter the war Marik-Stewart Commonwealth and all forces were to treat them as nonhostile allies. Clan Wolf forces would begin taking worlds within the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth at time word of the announcement reach Lyran forces.

Lyran forces had become bogged down by heavy resistance within Marik-Stewart Commonwealth as well trouble with Clan Jade Falcon forces coming from the Falcon's Reach within the former Republic space.

The 1st Hesperus Guards and a Clan Wolf Cluster commanded by Star Colonel Alaric Wolf, would first see action together on Helm in April. However, Wolves & Lyran forces were not cooperating due to political, cultural, and the personal issues between commanding officers: Duke Vedet & Alaric Wolf. Clan Wolf attacked Helm's capital city of Helmsdown, but was rebuffed by heavy resistance Silver Hawk Irregulars hidden among civilian farmers.

By May 22nd, Trillian Steiner had called in 1st Steiner Strikers, led by Colonel Roderick Steiner to try move invasion of Helm. Two days later, battle for capital city resumed, with it ending all the city's defenders destroyed by Alaric Wolf heavy handedness. The destruction of the Silver Hawks units after surrendering to Lyran and Wolf forces. The battle of Helm would later be noted as the Helm Massacre.[10][11]

By June 5th: "Coalition" forces from Helm moved to relocated capital of the Commonwealth on Stewart. Lyran/Wolf forces invaded city of New Edinburgh, trying to capture Captain-General Anson Marik. Lyran & Wolf forces continued to operate as separate task forces on the ground. The invasion forces, fought Silver Hawk companies defending the city. Duke Vedet was nearly killed by bomb planted within motorcade reportedly transporting the Captain-General to safety. Vedet led forces into New Edinburgh Palace, where they try to root out Marik and some his surviving forces defending the palace. The invasion of palace ended with Anson Marik's life, effectively triggering the collapse of Marik-Stewart Commonwealth's government.[12][13]

Aftermath[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 20, "Timeline of Events (cont.)" - Lyran invasion of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey begins
  2. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 21, "Timeline of Events (cont.)" - Ceasefire between Clan Wolf and Free Worlds League a week after Hammerfall resumes, followed by Wolf assault on Lyran Commonwealth.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Fire at Will, Prologue (PDF version)
  4. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 107, "Seth Ward"
  5. ↑ Fire at Will, Chapter 3 (PDF version)
  6. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 18
  7. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 17, "Masters of War"
  8. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 23
  9. ↑ Field Manual: 3145, p. 17-18, "The Hammer Falls"
  10. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 20: Timeline of Events/April 28th - Helm Massacre Noted
  11. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 23: Hammerfall & Homecoming - Invasion of Helm and snapshot of events noted
  12. ↑ Era Report: 3145, p. 21: Timeline of Events - June 5th - Fall of Stewart to Lyran & Clan Wolf forces
  13. ↑ Era Report: 3145, pp. 23–24: Hammerfall & Homecoming - Invasion of Stewart and snapshot of events noted

Bibliography[edit]

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