Command Diary: 214th Starfighter Squadron

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AgentOrangeJuice
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Command Diary: 214th Starfighter Squadron

Post by AgentOrangeJuice »

((OOC: Adapted from some silly solo RPG shenanigans while building and testing some probably overly complex systems. Mostly just for funsies.))


C O N F I D E N T I A L

DEPARTMENT OF THE STARFIGHTER CORPS


Report of Combat, 214th Starfighter Squadron

DAVYN S. JASSIK
Captain, 214th SFS
Commanding

OPERATION:
RED WINE I

For the Period of: 43:1:9

General: Combined arms operation between the 214th Starfighter Squadron, 73rd Starfighter Wing; and companies from the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry, 4th Infantry Division; 301st Mechanized Battalion; and local resistance fighters to push Imperial and Imperial-allied occupying forces off Larave III as part of the larger Operation Roundhouse.

Larave III: A small terrestrial world in the Outer Rim, famous for aquatic microorganisms that color most of the planet's natural waterways deep red. Local populace has covertly reached out to the New Republic on numerous occasions to remove Imperial occupation. Occupying forces mainly concentrated in and around Vennulo, the capital city. Vennulo sits atop a cluster of low mesas which are surrounded by swampland and dense yellow mangrove forests, complicating recapture efforts.

FLIGHT ROSTER
Flight "A" - Vanguard
  • Squadron CO: JASSIK, Davyn - Captain - BTL-A4
  • Wingman: FYRE, Sariah - Flight Officer - BTL-A4
  • Element Lead: WALSH, Ren - Lieutenant - BTL-A4
  • Wingman: CILANA, Chuk - Lieutenant - BTL-A4
  • Element Lead: CELTANÉ, Rilacn - Lieutenant - T-65B
  • Wingman: ROLLOSK - Lieutenant - T-65B
Flight "B" - Second Wave Reinforcement
  • Flight Lead: CHA'WARA, Ilixu - Captain - T-65B
  • Wingman: SoCRION, Iaral - Lieutenant - T-65B
  • Element Lead: ELTER, Kallo - Lieutenant - T-65B
  • Wingman: VIRALA, Cia - Lieutenant - T-65B
Flight "C" - Rearguard
  • Squadron XO: JOTHAM, Zedekiah - Captain - T-65B
  • Wingman: PALARYN, Yeris - Lieutenant - T-65B
PRIMARY OBJECTIVE: Breach the Imperial blockade at its weakest point, designated Point FRACTAL. Escort main attack force to planetfall then provide Close Air Support while they engage Imperial forces.

SUMMARY OF EVENTS:
Squadron sortied at 0640Z and immediately proceeded to hyperspace point. Hyperspace jumps were staggered according to plan with Flight "A" jumping first.

Flight "A" exited hyperspace near LARAVE III at 0715Z and navigated to Point FRACTAL as planned. As indicated by Recon, two Arquitens-class Light Cruisers—ID'd as the ISS Python and ISS Shryke—were present at FRACTAL. Python and Shryke were designated Targets ALPHA and BRAVO, respectively. Both Light Cruisers launched three TIE/LN Starfighters each, for a total of six. Elements led by Lieutenants Walsh and Celtané engaged the fighters while Captain Jassik's element initiated a strafing run against Target ALPHA.

Two TIE/LNs were eliminated shortly after contact. Afterwards, Lt Walsh's element disengaged starfighters to initiate a strafing run against BRAVO. Lt Celtané's element eliminated two more TIE/LNs during this time, clearing FRACTAL of all remaining enemy starfighters.

While attempting to acquire target, Lt Cilana's Y-wing was struck by turbolaser fire from BRAVO, forcing him to eject the cockpit module. He was unharmed and a SAR team later arrived to recover him, though his astromech was lost.

Target ALPHA was eliminated at 0725Z after extensive bombing. Cpt Jassik's and FO Fyre's Y-wings sustained light damage from tubolaser fire.

Shortly after the destruction of ALPHA, a third Arquitens (ISS Tiebreaker) emerged from hyperspace and was designated as Target COMET. It then launched three TIE/IN Interceptors. Lt Celtané's element engaged the Interceptors while the Y-wings continued to bombard BRAVO, though Lt Walsh was eventually ordered to disengage and assist the X-wings.

Target BRAVO was eliminated at 0732Z, at which point Cpt Jassik's element engaged Target COMET.

One Interceptor was destroyed during ACM; another Interceptor struck debris and was reported to have disengaged, evacuating the combat area. Target COMET was eliminated at 0740Z, and the remaining Interceptor disengaged and retreated after sustaining heavy laser damage.

Once Point FRACTAL had been cleared, a contingent of Army U-wings and GR-75 armor haulers emerged from hyperspace at 0745Z and initiated atmospheric entry. Flight "A" escorted them to LZ TUSKEN and LZ PELGO. X-wings from Flight "B" arrived with the remaining landing force and escorted the dropships to LZ WAYFAR before joining up with Flight "A". There was no enemy contact during this period. From this point, the 214th's mission profile switched to CAS of the ground forces under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Oban Aresco. Flight "C" arrived in-system at 0748Z and assumed a screening CAP near Point FRACTAL, but reported no enemy contact during the course of the operation.

Ground operations began at 0830Z. Enemy forces had already deployed armor and infantry around the city, including at least one All-Terrain Anti-Aircraft. One Gozanti-class Assault Carrier was spotted ferrying in two additional All-Terrain Armored Transports and was designated as Target DELTA.

Cpt Jassik's element intercepted DELTA while Lt Walsh engaged the AT-AA. Two elements—led by Lts Celtané and Elter—flew high cover, encountering and engaging three TIE/LNs. All three TIEs were destroyed after prolonged ACM. Cpt Cha'wara's element engaged the deployed AT-ATs with laser fire and proton torpedoes, destroying one after numerous strafing passes.

As Target DELTA reached its intended deployment zone, FO Fyre initiated a frantic, low-level bombing run. DELTA successfully deployed one AT-AT before being destroyed by proton bombs at 0845Z. The second walker did not deploy, instead being rendered inoperable after toppling in the blast.

A flight of three more TIE/LNs and one TIE/IN arrived from the north-northeast at 0847Z. High cover flight engaged, destroying one TIE/LN in the initial pass.

Cpt Jassik's element then shifted targets to the deployed AT-ATs while Cpt Cha'wara's element engaged the AT-ST walkers. During a strafing run, Lt SoCrion's X-wing came under concentrated fire from the target AT-ST's main cannons which burned out the X-wing's shields and disabled engines two and four. Lt SoCrion was able to successfully force land her fighter in a swamp near friendly forces; she and her astromech were later recovered with assistance from Operative LITTLE SISTER.

Though without a wingman and largely operating solo, Lt Walsh was able to destroy the AT-AA and one AT-ST before heavy ordnance strikes were called off at 0914J due to approaching friendlies. He then managed to cripple one more AT-ST with only laser fire.

The final two TIE/LNs were eliminated by 0915Z, though the Interceptor continued to harass the high cover flight for a few moments longer before disengaging and exiting the combat area. Flight recordings and gun holo footage show that it neither caused nor received any substantial damage.

The ground assault advanced into the close quarters of the Vennulo streets at 0930Z, rendering further air support ineffective. The 214th encountered no further enemy units at this point, and continued to fly cover and ensure aerial superiority until relieved by the 222nd Squadron at 0951Z. The remaining 214th fighters returned to base at 1024Z.

MISSION OUTCOME: Success

CONFIRMED AIR-TO-AIR CLAIMS:
  • Celtané - Five TIE/ln Starfighters
  • Rollosk - Five TIE/ln Starfighters; One TIE/IN Interceptor
  • Walsh - One TIE/ln Starfighter
  • Virala - One TIE/ln Starfighter
LOSSES:
  • Lt Cilana's Y-wing (34-6122) sustained heavy damage and had to be ditched in orbit. He successfully ejected from the starfighter and sustained no injuries.
  • Lt SoCrion's X-wing (39-3457) was forced down by enemy fire over Vennulo. She managed to crash-land in the swamp and suffered minor injuries.
Logistics: Squadron fuel consumption totaled 326 units. Ordnance expended: Thirty-four PW-16 Proton Bombs; nine MG7-A Proton Torpedoes.
  • BTL-A4 34-6122 lost to enemy activity, unrecoverable. Astromech lost.
  • T-65B 39-3457 lost to enemy activity, recovered for parts. Astromech recovered.
  • BTL-A4 34-1773 damaged, requiring maintenance; repaired and returned to service.
  • BTL-A4 32-1513 damaged, requiring maintenance; currently undergoing overhaul and repair, expected to be returned to service.
  • BTL-A4 32-6131 damaged, superficial; inspected and cleared for service.
  • T-65B 39-4677 damaged, superficial; inspected and cleared for service.
  • T-65B 41-4156 damaged, superficial; inspected and cleared for service.
Submitted Recommendations:
  • Lt Celtané - Commander's Citation
  • FO Fyre - Consideration for promotion to Lieutenant
  • Lt Rollosk - Commander's Citation
  • Lt SoCrion - Eligible for Redbird
  • Lt Walsh - Commander's Citation
CO's Remarks:
Though all pilots not already certified in the BTL Y-wing trained and qualified prior to the operation, more training is necessary before they'll reach the same level of proficiency they show with the T-65s. Unfortunately, the BTL aeroframe has proven unpopular among most of 214's members due to its lack of speed and maneuverability, so whether they will ever actually achieve said level of proficiency is questionable. The CO hopes to be proven wrong, and believes requisition of some Krupx Heavy Rotary Cannons may make the aeroframe more popular.

Unit cohesion continues to improve. The pilots have grown accustomed enough to their assigned wingmates that it may be time to begin running exercises with different wingpair configurations so that they may become just as comfortable flying with the rest of their squadmates.

FO Fyre still exhibits erratic, excessively aggressive behavior. She continued to pursue DELTA after being advised to disengage. Though she ultimately downed the target and disabled one of its walkers, undoubtedly aiding the main attack force's efforts greatly, she did so in a reckless manner and placed herself at unnecessary risk. The CO is fully aware of the irony of him accusing a pilot of being reckless, though he is still concerned that her behavior may prove detrimental. Otherwise, he is satisfied with her performance and feels a little more discipline could increase her LTS rating.

Lt Celtané continues to impress and prove herself as a capable leader, and Lt Walsh showed commendable personal skill in removing Imperial armored units. As a whole, however, the squadron still struggles somewhat with hitting small, ground-based targets. Enemy armor was able to inflict moderate casualties on friendly forces and managed to shoot down one of the squadron's X-wings. Further drills are already planned. The CO currently has no complaints about the unit's ability to engage starfighters or capital ships.

Lt SoCrion reported that Operative LITTLE SISTER assisted her after her forced landing from enemy fire. LITTLE SISTER located her, tended to her injuries, and guided her back to LZ TUSKEN for dustoff. The CO states that it would be nice if the New Republic at least gave LITTLE SISTER a pat on the back if nothing else.

The CO also wishes to express his disdain for having to do this particular kind of datawork. He would rather be flying.


For the Commanding Officer:

Kellyn R. Korden
Lieutenant, 214th SFS
Adjutant
"In my defense, I was left unsupervised."

Dramatis Personae:
  • CDR Davyn Jassik; Starfighter Pilot, NRSC; Human Male from Ralltiir
  • Jenniveve K'Barrek; Troublemaker; Human Female from Thyferra
  • Iashha Clan-Venex; FIRE
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AgentOrangeJuice
Posts: 59
Joined: Thu May 04, 2017 8:35 pm

Re: Command Diary: 214th Starfighter Squadron

Post by AgentOrangeJuice »

C O N F I D E N T I A L

DEPARTMENT OF THE STARFIGHTER CORPS


Special Action Report, 214th Starfighter Squadron

DAVYN S. JASSIK
Captain, 214th SFS
Commanding

OPERATION:
RED WINE II

For the Period of: 43:1:12 through 43:1:24

General: Continuing efforts to remove Imperial forces from the Larave System as part of the larger Operation Roundhouse. Squadron was embarked aboard the Assault Frigate Nexus. Tactical control of the squadron was CTF Nexus. Administrative control for the period was 73rd SFW.

FLIGHT ROSTER
  • JASSIK, Davyn - Captain - Squadron CO
  • JOTHAM, Zedekiah - Captain - Squadron XO
  • CHA'WARA, Ilixu - Captain - Flight Leader
  • CELTANÉ, Rilacn - Lieutenant
  • CILANA, Chuk - Lieutenant
  • ELTER, Kallo - Lieutenant
  • FYRE, Sariah - Lieutenant
  • PALARYN, Yeris - Lieutenant
  • ROLLOSK - Lieutenant
  • SoCRION, Iaral - Lieutenant
  • WALSH, Ren - Lieutenant
  • VIRALA, Cia - Lieutenant
SUMMARY OF EVENTS:
All notations of "CDR" in the Narrative refer to the squadron's commanding officer regardless of actual rank.

43:1:12 The squadron flew a total of eighteen sorties for the period including sixteen armed reconnaissance sorties, and two non-combat sorties. They used a total of 362 units of fuel and expended two Proton Torpedoes.
  • During an armed reconnaissance of Sector GAMMA, a flight of two led by Cpt CHA'WARA encountered a Raider-class Corvette and its escort of two TIE/LN Starfighters and two TIE/IN Interceptors. Point of origin of hostiles is unknown and no carrier vessels were present. Both Interceptors were destroyed and the Raider was damaged by proton torpedoes before escaping to hyperspace. Friendly X-wings withdrew after sustaining moderate damage. Upon return to the NRAF Nexus, X-wings 39-4677 and 39-6299 were pulled for maintenance.
  • CDR JASSIK and Lt FYRE flew a follow-up armed reconnaissance of Sector GAMMA. They encountered and cleared one civilian bulk freighter that had wandered into the recon area, but reported no further hostile activity in the sector.
  • A flight of two led by Lt CELTANÉ encountered no hostile activity during an armed reconnaissance of Sector DELTA, but reported that ionized gas clouds present in the sector occasionally fouled their T-65's sensors. Maintenance crews were tasked with affecting the appropriate instrument adjustments.
43:1:13 The 214th flew twenty-two sorties for the period including four close air support sorties, six combat air patrol sorties, and twelve armed reconnaissance sorties. They used 464 units of fuel and two Proton Torpedoes.
  • CDR JASSIK's flight of four flew CAS at Planetary Grid V-16 in support of the 2/27th Infantry, 4ID. RAKEOFF acted as controller for the mission. En route to target area the flight encountered four TIE Interceptors and destroyed three. Advancing allies at Grid V-16 came under heavy attack by Imperial armored units, TIE Bombers, and infantry. The flight destroyed two All-Terrain Scout Transports with torpedoes and laserfire, splashed two TIE Bombers, and strafed multiple enemy infantry formations. Though the ground forces achieved their mission objectives, they suffered heavy casualties. X-wing 37-7829 received light laser damage to No. 1 S-foil.
43:1:14 The squadron flew a total of twenty-four sorties, including twenty armed reconnaissance and four non-combat sorties. They used 482 units of fuel.
  • During an armed reconnaissance of the state of Imperial defenses in Planetary Grids S-13 and T-13, Cpt JOTHAM's flight of two ambushed a flight of three TIE Bomber-Minelayers and two TIE Interceptors. Both Interceptors and two Bombers were destroyed. The flight also confirmed the presence of an Imperial fuel and ordnance depot tied to orbital minelaying operations.
  • While on armed reconnaissance of Planetary Grids S-11 and S-12, Lt CILANA's X-wing — BuNo 41-3175 — experienced a compression coil failure in engine No. 2. The flight was forced to abort its current mission and divert to a friendly Army airspeederfield that had been constructed near Vennulo. Army maintainers brought the fighter up to a safe-to-fly condition and, upon return to the NRAF Nexus, 3175 was pulled for further maintenance.
  • Lt CELTANÉ's X-wing, BuNo 38-5730, was lightly damaged during a follow-up armed reconnaissance after her flight was caught in a sudden microburst. She managed to regain control of the craft and the flight of two was able to complete its mission. Targets were scarce and no hostile contact was reported. X-wing 38-5730 was pulled for inspection and later cleared for service.
43:1:15 This day saw a total of twenty-six sorties including sixteen armed reconnaissance, six combat air patrols, and four special strikes. Total fuel usage was 587 units, and the squadron expended five Concussion Missiles and eight Proton Torpedoes
  • CDR JASSIK's four-ship flight conducted a special strike in Sector OPTIC against an enemy orbital minefield that had been disrupting both civilian traffic and friendly supply lines. An Imperial Quasar Fire-class Cruiser-Carrier — identified as the ISS Kontos — jumped into the sector and deployed a flight of TIE Interceptors. Lt ELTER's two-ship flight, concurrently conducting an armed reconnaissance of Sector DELTA, was redirected to OPTIC to assist. Five enemy Interceptors were destroyed during the course of the mission.

    Though the flight ultimately achieved a partial success by clearing no less than fifty percent of the minefield, almost all fighters involved sustained heavy damage. X-wings 38-1625 and 39-4677 required extensive repairs and were out of service for the remainder of the operational period. 37-7829 and 39-6299 sustained heavy damage and were pulled for maintenance, but eventually returned to service. 40-1138 suffered only light damage and was returned to service the next standard day after a brief maintenance period. This negatively affected the day's remaining planned sorties.
  • Further armed reconnaissance missions over the course of the day managed to destroy an Imperial forward outpost and damage a number of structures and cargo vehicles in an enemy supply depot. Resistance was light and mostly consisted of small arms ground fire.
  • Combining data collected during this day's sorties with previously acquired intel, S-2 was able to determine that the Kontos was the Empire's primary carrier in the region.

43:1:16 The 214th flew a total of twenty sorties — six combat air patrols and sixteen armed reconnaissance. The squadron used 526 units of fuel and expended five Proton Torpedoes.
  • Armed reconnaissance was conducted in support of the 301st Mechanized Battalion as they broke through Imperial lines. RAKEOFF acted as controller, diverting flights throughout the day for strikes against dug-in enemy emplacements. The squadron strafed multiple enemy formations with positive results. They encountered no hostile aerial units.

43:1:17 The squadron flew thirty sorties this day, including eighteen armed reconnaissance and twelve combat air patrols. They used 678 units of fuel and expended five Proton Torpedoes.
  • While on an armed reconnaissance of Planetary Grid U-12, Cpt JOTHAM's flight of two was diverted by controller CARBON OUTLAW for a strike on Imperial artillery and armored targets at CT 5163. Confirmed enemy ground units included two All-Terrain Scout Transports, one All-Terrain Anti-Aircraft, two entrenched Mobile Artillery platforms, and one Heavy Artillery platform. The artillery had been relentlessly shelling elements of the 4th Infantry Division throughout most of the morning, halting their advance. Two TIE/IN Interceptors were also in the area providing air cover for Imperial ground units; they were engaged and shot down. Several strafing runs managed to destroy the Heavy Arty, both Mobile Arty, and one AT-ST. This allowed the 4ID to breakthrough and take the enemy position. During the course of the mission X-wing 40-3620 was struck by flak that damaged its S-foil actuator, forcing an emergency wingtip landing upon return to the NRAF Nexus.
43:1:18 All planned sorties scrubbed due to unfavorable flying conditions. Maintenance crews utilized the downtime to replace and upgrade the cockpit heaters in all of the squadron's fighters. Lt Palaryn reported to be much warmer.

43:1:19 Flights resumed with sixteen combat air patrol sorties, fourteen armed reconnaissance sorties, and four special strike sorties for a total of thirty-four sorties. The squadron consumed 732 units of fuel, and expended two Proton Torpedoes and four Proton Bombs.
  • Cpt JOTHAM led a four-ship strike against the mine depot reconnoitered on 43:1:14. For this flight, Lt CILANA was given Y-wing 34-1773, armed with proton bombs and a heavy rotary cannon. The flight succeeded in severely damaging the depot's ordnance bunker, landing pad, and the fighter racks that held the TIE Bomber-Minelayers. Defending the depot was a flight of TIE/ln Starfighters, with a second flight of TIE/IN Interceptors arriving a short while later, most likely from an orbiting carrier. The flight shot down three TIE Starfighters, and two TIE Interceptors. Y-wing 34-1773 sustained heavy damage in the fighting, but damage to the flight's X-wings was minimal.
  • While on CAP for Task Force Nexus, Lt CELTANÉ's flight of two encountered a pair of TIE/IN Interceptors. The flight managed to damage both Interceptors, but the hostiles withdrew from the area after a brief engagement, taking advantage of their faster craft to outrun the T-65s.

43:1:20 This day's busy schedule saw the 214th flying thirty-six sorties including ten armed reconnaissance, sixteen combat air patrols, and ten special strikes. Total fuel usage was 870 units and the squadron expended or lost a total of twenty-four Proton Torpedoes and six Concussion Missiles.
  • CDR JASSIK led a late afternoon flight of six to Sector ECHO for a special strike against the cruiser/carrier ISS Kontos. The flight met the target in low orbit around LARAVE VI, a gas giant located at the edge of the system. The Kontos immediately launched TIE Interceptors. It was also supported by two Raider-class corvettes. CDR JASSIK's element engaged the Raiders while elements led by Lt WALSH and Lt CELTANÉ engaged the TIE Interceptors. Once both hostile corvettes were eliminated, the Nebulon-B Frigate NRSS Requin hypered into the combat zone to directly engage the Kontos. After a prolonged engagement, the ISS Kontos was finally sundered by concentrated fire from the Requin and from repeated snub-fighter strafing runs. Additionally, eight Interceptors were destroyed.

    The squadron suffered two losses of equipment during the mission: X-wing 38-9076, piloted by Lt FYRE, was hit by direct fire from a Raider. The pilot ejected with minor injuries, but both the craft and its astromech were lost. X-wing 39-1153, piloted by Lt ROLLOSK, sustained heavy laser fire during ACM. Both pilot and astromech ejected and were recovered, however the craft was lost after falling into Larave VI's atmosphere.
  • Cpt CHA'WARA's flight of four later returned to Sector OPTIC to clear the remaining minefield. The flight reported that some new mines had been deployed, but that the enemy had not been able to fully replace the field. The flight confirmed at least 90% of the minefield was destroyed by missiles and laserfire.
43:1:21 The squadron flew twenty-five sorties, including four combat air patrols, eighteen armed reconnaissance, and three non-combat sorties. Flights for the day consumed 479 units of fuel and three Proton Torpedoes.
  • Various reconnaissance missions were carried out for controllers RAKEOFF and CARBON OUTLAW over areas of suspected enemy activity. No hostiles were encountered and locations appeared abandoned. Any remaining Imperial infrastructure at target locations was destroyed with laserfire and torpedoes, or later captured by contingents of the 4th Infantry Division.
43:1:22 - 43:1:24 Flight operations for this period consisted of combat air patrols in support of Task Force Nexus as it prepared to conclude operations in the system. Sorties totaled seventy-eight, and the squadron used 1,567 units of fuel. At the end of the operation, Task Force Nexus hypered to Mon Calamari for replenishment and to receive new deployment orders.

OPERATION OUTCOME: Positive results from the 214th led to allied forces securing key planetary objectives. Imperial forces withdrew from the system after sustaining heavy losses to equipment and personnel.

CONFIRMED AIR-TO-AIR CLAIMS:
  • Celtané - Three TIE/IN Interceptors
  • Cha'wara - One TIE/IN Interceptor
  • Cilana - Four-and-one-half credit TIE/IN Interceptors; One-half credit TIE/ln Starfighter
  • Elter - One TIE/IN Interceptor
  • Jassik - Four TIE/IN Interceptors
  • Jotham - Three TIE/IN Interceptors; One-and-one-half credit TIE/sa Bombers
  • Palaryn - One-and-one-half credit TIE/IN Interceptors; One TIE/ln Starfighter
  • SoCrion - Two TIE/IN Interceptors; One-half credit TIE/sa Bomber
  • Virala - One TIE/IN Interceptor; Two TIE/sa Bombers
  • Walsh - Three TIE/IN Interceptors; One-and-one-half credit TIE/ln Starfighters
LOSSES:

Personnel:
  • No personnel losses reported during the period.
Droid Units:
  • R2-G1 - Astromech - Destroyed by enemy activity
Equipment:
  • T-65B 38-9076 lost to enemy activity
  • T-65B 39-1153 lost to enemy activity
Logistics: Squadron fuel consumption for the operational period totaled 6,747 units. Ordnance expended: Four PW-16 Proton Bombs; fifty-one MG7-A Proton Torpedoes; eleven MG5 Concussion Missiles.

CO's Remarks:
The maintenance and engineering department experienced some difficulties adapting to the tighter working conditions of the Nexus' hangar bay. Turnaround was slow during the first week. This was largely due to the influx of new maintainers who had no previous shipboard experience, or whose experience was limited to the larger MC80-type hangars.

Accuracy against ground targets is improving, but is still below the CO's expectations. More accurate simulator training modules are required.

Lt Cilana appears to be warming up to the BTL platform and its heavier firepower, but is still struggling to adapt to the aeroframe's slower speed and sluggish maneuverability. The CO will continue to see that the Lieutenant has access to adequate training materials, but would still prefer that heavy support be carried out by actual bomber squadrons where possible.

The high moisture content in Larave III's atmosphere contributed to some minor icing issues that occasionally overwhelmed the T-65's standard on-board de-icing systems during high altitude operations. Additionally, the maintenance crew had been given inadequate infrared heating units and poor quality anti-icing agents. MSgt Vindarolk was able to create an effective substitute through other means, though maintaining a large enough supply was difficult. Related, rumors of homemade stills suddenly appearing in the hangar were unfounded. The CO personally investigated the matter and found that the "stills" were simply apparatuses used in creation of the anti-icing agent.

The CO recommends that Starfighter Command assign the squadron a few more T-65s before deploying them into another area of heavy Imperial activity. He reminds StarCom that even the best maintenance crews — which he believes his certainly qualify as such — can only turn a starfighter so quickly, and that a few extra auxiliary fighters would make it easier to fill the high demand for sorties. The CO is also not entirely convinced that StarCom actually reads his recommendations.

During the assault on the Kontos, Lt Rollosk displayed conspicuous gallantry in supporting his element lead, Lt Celtané, even though it meant placing himself at risk of great personal harm. By forcing his already damaged fighter between her and two particularly skilled Interceptor pilots pursuing her, he managed to draw the enemy's fire long enough for Lt Celtané to gain an advantage in the engagement. For this, the CO is recommending him for the Badge of Merit.

Finally, the CO would like to extend his gratitude to the squadron's maintainers and the NRAF Nexus' medical department for, in his words, "their tireless service and dedication to patching up all the things my knuckleheads break, whether that be their birds or themselves."


For the Commanding Officer:

Kellyn R. Korden
Lieutenant, 214th SFS
Adjutant


((214th SFS - "Halo Squadron", or "Jassik's Flying Circus"))SPOILER_SHOW
Image
"In my defense, I was left unsupervised."

Dramatis Personae:
  • CDR Davyn Jassik; Starfighter Pilot, NRSC; Human Male from Ralltiir
  • Jenniveve K'Barrek; Troublemaker; Human Female from Thyferra
  • Iashha Clan-Venex; FIRE
User avatar
AgentOrangeJuice
Posts: 59
Joined: Thu May 04, 2017 8:35 pm

Re: Command Diary: 214th Starfighter Squadron

Post by AgentOrangeJuice »

C O N F I D E N T I A L

DEPARTMENT OF THE STARFIGHTER CORPS


Special Action Report, 214th Starfighter Squadron

DAVYN S. JASSIK
Major, 214th SFS
Commanding

OPERATION:
STREETSWEEPER

For the Period of: 43:3:24 through 43:5:4

General: Joint operation by the New Republic and allied Sector Forces to secure territory along the Hydian Way in Galactic Grid Q-4 that was formerly part of a minor Imperial warlord's holdings. Upon the warlord's defeat, Imperial loyalist forces moved into the area in a bid to reclaim their lost territory.

The 214th was attached to Task Force Nexus for the duration and embarked aboard the Task Force's flagship, Assault Frigate Nexus. Tactical control of the squadron was CTF Nexus. Administrative control was 73rd SFW from 43:3:24 to 43:4:6 and 25th SFW from 43:4:7 to 43:5:4.

FLIGHT ROSTER
  • JASSIK, Davyn - Major - Squadron CO
  • JOTHAM, Zedekiah - Captain - Squadron XO
  • CHA'WARA, Ilixu - Captain - Squadron Operations Officer
  • CELTANÉ, Rilacn - Lieutenant
  • CILANA, Chuk - Lieutenant
  • ELTER, Kallo - Lieutenant
  • FYRE, Sariah - Lieutenant
  • PALARYN, Yeris - Lieutenant
  • ROLLOSK - Lieutenant
  • SoCRION, Iaral - Lieutenant
  • WALSH, Ren - Lieutenant
  • VIRALA, Cia - Lieutenant
SUMMARY OF EVENTS:
All notations of "CDR" in the Narrative refer to the squadron's commanding officer.

43:3:24 With the 214th SFS embarked, the NRAF Nexus remained in port over Kothlis standing by on twelve standard hours hyper notice.

43:3:25 - 43:3:27 The NRAF Nexus left the Kothlis Starport in company with the Nebulon-B Frigate Requin and escorting corvettes. They hypered to the Bormea Sector to join with the Nebulon-B Frigate Concorde and her escorts.
As Task Force Nexus, all vessels then departed the Bormea Sector and proceeded to the Operational Area in the Kwymar Sector.

43:3:28 - 43:3:29 Flight operations were conducted in support of Task Force Nexus. The 214th flew sixty-four combat air patrol sorties over the Task Force as it deployed to Sector BRAVO in the Teagan System. The squadron used 698 units of fuel.

43:3:30 The squadron flew thirty sorties, including twenty-four combat air patrols and six armed reconnaissance of nearby systems. They used 448 units of fuel and expended eleven Proton Torpedoes.
  • CDR JASSIK's flight of four was dispatched to the Kestos Minor System to cover the withdrawal of a Kestos Defense Force infantry battalion that had been routed by Imperial armored units. On the surface, the flight encountered and eliminated six AT-STs and strafed enemy infantry positions with positive results. Army U-wings were present to evac allied infantry. Despite the total destruction of Imperial armor, they were still able to inflict heavy allied casualties. While egressing through the planet's gravity well, the flight encountered enemy TIE/ln Starfighters. Four TIE/lns were destroyed in the resulting aerospace combat, and two U-wings were lost. Lt FYRE's X-wing, 41-3756, sustained light damage when it collided with an approximately bantha-sized chunk of solar panel from a destroyed Imperial starfighter. The panel shattered on impact, causing the debris extractor in No. 4 engine to fail. The damaged engine required a partial teardown.
In addition, armed reconnaissance sorties were organized into three missions, each tasked with recon of a separate system in an attempt to determine the extent of the Imperial forward lines.
  • Cpt CHA'WARA's flight of two reconnoitered the Lavella System. No hostile activity was observed and allied forces were able to gain control of the area.
  • A flight of two led by Lt WALSH reconnoitered the Picutorion System, reporting no Imperial activity.
  • The third flight, led by Lt CELTANÉ, reconnoitered the Shard System. The flight was ambushed by four TIE/IN Interceptors. Two were destroyed during ACM, though the presence of short-range fighters in-system suggested that Imperial forces had already secured a hold in the area.
43:3:31 The squadron flew twenty-eight sorties this day including sixteen armed reconnaissance and twelve combat air patrols. Total fuel usage was 507 units and ordnance expended or lost was seven Proton Torpedoes and two Concussion Missiles.
  • Cpt CHA'WARA's flight of two was tasked with escorting GR-75 transport Danae as it undertook a mission to Sector Grid LOGO-20. Once at LOGO-20, the Danae was to dock with the space station Relic. An Imperial Gozanti-class Cruiser, identified as the ISS Rictor, emerged from hyperspace and launched four TIE/IN Interceptors. Cpt CHA'WARA and Lt SoCRION engaged the Interceptors, downing one before a pair of Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboats also jumped into the area and initiated strafing runs against the Danae. Lt ELTER's flight of two, concurrently on an armed reconnaissance of a nearby system, was diverted to Relic station to assist. In total, only two Interceptors were destroyed and the Danae was lost to heavy concentrated fire from the Rictor and Gunboat element. X-wing 38-1625 — piloted by Lt SoCRION — was also lost to enemy activity, though the pilot was recovered by a SAR team sent to recover the Danae's survivors. The astromech was not recovered. Lt SoCRION was medically grounded for nine standard days to recover from injuries received in combat.
  • While on an armed reconnaissance to the Doniphon System, Lt WALSH's flight of two was forced out of hyperspace by a makeshift hyperlane barricade set up by a pirate group operating in the area. The flight encountered a Marauder-class corvette identified as the Hornet and its compliment of M3-A Scyk interceptors. The flight managed to down two of the Scyks before successfully withdrawing with only minor damage. Sphyrna-class corvettes NRSS Cenaca and NRSS Jewel of the Hydian were later dispatched to the location and reported no further pirate activity. It is believed the pirates abandoned the immediate area after their discovery by New Republic forces.
43:4:1 The 214th flew twenty-three sorties including twelve combat air patrol, ten armed reconnaissance, and one non-combat. No enemy activity was observed. Fuel usage was 389 units.

43:4:2 Several planned sorties were scrubbed due to poor flying conditions at the AO. Remaining sorties flown were twelve combat air patrols and six armed reconnaissance for a total of eighteen sorties. The squadron used 318 units of fuel. They expended six Proton Torpedoes.
  • During an armed reconnaissance of the Onreon system, Lt ELTER's flight of two identified and strafed an Imperial Combat Outpost on the planet Kaashi. The outpost's location at the bottom of a narrow valley made positive results difficult to achieve, though the flight still managed to heavily damage two large buildings.
43:4:3 This day's twenty-four sorties included fourteen CAPs, four armed reconnaissance, and six special strikes. The squadron used 408 units of fuel and expended eight Proton Torpedoes.
  • CDR JASSIK's flight of six conducted a strike against the Arquitens-class cruiser ISS Cassio Tagge. The flight, supported by the DP20 Frigate NRSS Valkyrie, returned to Relic at Sector Grid LOGO-20 where intel reports indicated the Cassio Tagge had been patrolling. Lt ELTER's element engaged three TIE/IN Interceptors launched by the Cassio Tagge, destroying one and damaging a second. Combined proton torpedo salvos from the strike flight and laserfire from the Valkyrie resulted in the complete destruction of the target. With the destruction of the Cassio Tagge, the New Republic was able to reclaim Relic.
43:4:4 - 43:4:5 Forty-seven sorties were flown during this period. Twenty-six were combat air patrols in support of allied forces or Task Force Nexus, eighteen were armed reconnaissance, three were non-combat sorties. Overall enemy activity was light, though the squadron conducted several strafing runs on Imperial facilities with positive results. Fuel consumption was 784 units and ordnance expended was fifteen Proton Torpedoes.

43:4:6 The squadron flew twenty-six sorties including sixteen combat air patrols, eight armed reconnaissance, and two close air support. They used 466 units of fuel, and expended five Proton Torpedoes.
  • CDR JASSIK's flight of four was dispatched to Artus Prime in response to local reports of an Imperial capital ship sighting. Upon arrival at the target location the flight spotted and identified the ISS Illustrious, a Victory II-class Star Destroyer, holding station in the planet's atmosphere. The Illustrious first launched a flight of six TIE Interceptors, four of which were destroyed. It then deployed a flight of four Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboats to provide cover as it withdrew from the area. One Gunboat was destroyed after Lt FYRE led it on a brief chase through a winding canyon.
  • Lt CELTANÉ's flight of two flew close air support for allied ground forces on Kaashi. Controller BLUE HARVEST directed the flight to strike Imperial weapon emplacements. The flight also encountered and destroyed one Theta-class AT-AT barge, though the barge's contents could not be ascertained.
43:4:7 The squadron flew twenty-four sorties including ten armed reconnaissance and fourteen combat air patrols. Fuel usage was 404 units.
  • Lt ELTER's flight of two engaged a three-ship flight of Xg-1 Star Wing Gunboats while on patrol in the Lavella System. Two Gunboats were lightly damaged, but results were otherwise negative. Lt ELTER'S X-wing — BuNo 39-4677 — was struck by an enemy concussion missile that damaged the starboard engines and caused an antiox induction fluid leak in the hyperdrive. The fighter was taken out of service so maintainers could replace the starboard drive compensators and strip the hyperdrive.
43:4:8 The 214th flew six armed reconnaissance, ten offensive patrols, and twelve combat air patrols for a total of twenty-eight sorties. They used 476 units of fuel and expended four Proton Torpedoes and eight Concussion Missiles.
  • With local Planetary Defense Forces able to secure footholds in various systems across the sector, the 214th began focusing the majority of its flights on the Listehol Junction, a convergence of hyperlanes near the Listehol System that had been heavily contested since the start of the operation. Tactics largely shifted from armed reconnaissance of enemy or suspected enemy positions to offensive patrols into the Junction and defensive CAPs in support of Task Force Nexus.
43:4:9 The squadron flew a total of thirty-two sorties including twenty offensive patrols, eight defensive CAPs, and four armed reconnaissance. Flights used a total of 566 units of fuel.
  • Cpt CHA'WARA's flight of four encountered four Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboats escorting Carrack-class Cruiser ISS Xiphos in the Listehol Junction. One Gunboat was crippled, though T-65Bs 38-5730 and 39-4677 sustained moderate damage from enemy ordnance. Friendly starfighters were unable to penetrate the Xiphos' fighter screen and it withdrew from the AO unharmed.

    Post-combat analysis of gun-holo footage determined that enemy Gunboats bore squadron markings of the Imperial 90th Assault Gunboat Squadron "Black Stars", Tan Gavriel Roake commanding.
43:4:10 - 43:4:13 The squadron flew 152 sorties during this period, including ninety-six offensive patrols and fifty-six combat air patrols. The majority of flights were flown in support of allied forces as they advanced up the Artus-Korlings Exchange. All offensive patrols were conducted in flights of four due to the presence of difficult enemy opposition, including elements of the 90th AGS. A number of enemy Xg-1 Gunboats were engaged and damaged, though friendly spotters reported that only two sustained enough damage to be considered out-of-service. Some of the 214th's starfighters received moderate damage, though all were able to be repaired and returned to service. The squadron used a total of 2,608 units of fuel and expended two Proton Torpedoes and seven Concussion Missiles.

43:4:14 Only four combat air patrol sorties were flown as the squadron spent much of the day in the simulators training gunboat interception tactics, the results of which were mixed. Fuel usage for flown sorties was sixty-two units.

43:4:15 The 214th returned to normal operation with thirty-two sorties, including twelve offensive patrols, sixteen combat air patrols, and four special strikes. The squadron used 567 units of fuel and expended twenty-two Proton torpedoes.
  • Cpt JOTHAM's flight of four conducted a special strike against an Imperial resupply convoy. Results were positive and the flight inflicted heavy damage against the convoy, destroying three transports.
43:4:16 Thirty sorties were flown, including eighteen defensive CAPs of Task Force Nexus and twelve offensive patrols into the Listehol Junction. No enemy contact was made. The squadron used 494 units of fuel.

43:4:17 A fuel shortage resulting from sustained attacks on New Republic supply lines forced the 214th to reduce the frequency of flights. As a result, the squadron flew only eight offensive patrol sorties and twelve CAP sorties for a total of twenty sorties for the day. Fuel usage totaled 340 units. The attacks on friendly supply lines were determined to have been carried out by Xg-1 Star Wings of the Imperial 90th AGS, leading Theater Command to designate the enemy squadron a High-Value Target.
  • While flying patrol in the Listehol Junction, Cpt CHA'WARA's flight of four responded to an allied distress signal in the Baykonyr System. Distress signal was confirmed to be a friendly military resupply convoy that had come under attack by the 90th AGS. Upon the flight's arrival in the AO, only one transport remained operational. Subsequent ACM was brief and all combatants withdrew with only minimal damage.
43:4:18 - 43:4:19 The 214th flew twenty-eight sorties for the period, including twenty CAP and eight offensive patrols into the Junction. No enemy contact was made. Fuel usage was 468 units.

43:4:20 Flights for the day consisted of eight, two-ship combat air patrols for a total of sixteen sorties. Fuel usage was 282 units and ordnance expenditure was two Concussion Missiles.
  • Lt CELTANÉ's flight of two was scrambled and tasked with HAVCAP for a Support Services resupply convoy traveling in-Sector via the Listehol Run. While undertaking a route exchange at the K-I Border Station, the convoy was attacked by four Xg-1 Gunboats from the 90th AGS. One Gunboat was destroyed and a second heavily damaged. Though only one friendly transport was lost, two more were damaged so severely that their cargo was rendered unrecoverable.
43:4:21 The 214th flew eighteen sorties, including fourteen combat air patrols and four offensive patrols. Fuel usage was 306 units. Though friendly AEWs reported suspected enemy activity in the Junction, the squadron observed no hostiles.

43:4:22 The squadron flew another fourteen combat air patrol sorties and four offensive patrol sorties for a total of eighteen. Fuel usage was 358 units and ordnance expenditure was three Concussion Missiles.
  • Cpt CHA'WARA's flight of four encountered and engaged a four-ship flight from the 90th AGS while on patrol in the Junction. X-wing 39-6299 sustained heavy damage from combat and one enemy gunboat was reported to have been significantly damaged before friendly forces withdrew from the AO due to low fuel levels.
43:4:23 Flights for the day consisted of one, four-ship offensive patrol into the Junction and eight, two-ship defensive CAPs of Task Force Nexus for a total of twenty individual sorties. Fuel usage was 364 units.
  • Cpt JOTHAM's flight of four encountered a flight of four enemy Gunboats while conducting a patrol of the Junction. The flight claimed two victories against the enemy, though X-wing 39-4677's avionics and shield systems were disabled by severe damage. A post-flight maintenance inspection declared the starfighter unfit to fly and removed it from service for the remainder of the operation.
43:4:24 A total of eighteen sorties were flown including ten combat air patrols and eight offensive patrols. Fuel usage was 342 units.
  • CDR JASSIK led a four-ship offensive patrol into the Junction, encountering six enemy Gunboats. One gunboat was neutralized and friendly forces suffered only minor damage.
43:4:25 A low fuel stockpile and unfavorable conditions caused the squadron to fly only ten defensive patrol sorties, using 170 units of fuel.

43:4:26 Flights were organized according to sensor data provided by controller SWOOPHAWK. Ten sorties were flown, including four combat air patrols and six offensive patrols. The squadron used 182 units of fuel.
  • CDR JASSIK's flight of six engaged an opposing six-ship flight of enemy Gunboats in the Junction. Two Gunboats were damaged in the engagement. Two T-65Bs also received heavy damage. CDR JASSIK's fighter, BuNo 37-7829, experienced a failure of its No. 1 engine after being struck by enemy laserfire. The engine was replaced with a functional engine from 39-4677 and the starfighter was returned to service. BuNo 41-3756, piloted by Lt FYRE, suffered extensive hull and systems damage from an enemy ordnance strike. The fighter was removed from service for a number of days pending repairs. Lt FYRE was placed on temporary medical leave to recover from minor injuries.
43:4:27 - 43:4:28 For this period, the 214th flew nine, two-ship combat air patrols around Task Force Nexus for a total of eighteen sorties. The Task Force was redeployed closer to the Junction in order to reduce travel time to AO for future sorties. Fuel usage was 270 units.

43:4:29 Fourteen sorties were flown this day including eight CAP and six offensive patrol. The squadron used 252 units of fuel.
  • CDR JASSIK's flight of six intercepted and responded to a distress signal in the Bera System. Upon arrival at Bera, the flight engaged a pirate vessel — identified as the Marauder-class corvette Hornet — raiding a civilian convoy. The Hornet was accompanied by approximately twelve IRD-As and at least six other starfighters of various makes, including a number of "Uglies". In total, the squadron managed to destroy eleven pirate starfighters. Corvette Hornet was crippled and its remaining fighter escort rendered no factor. The presence of Imperial gunboats was also confirmed in the AO, though circumstances did not permit direct engagement and they were determined to be no factor.
43:4:30 - 43:5:1 Sorties were reduced to conserve fuel for an upcoming planned offensive. A Ready Five flight was maintained to respond to emergencies, though in total only eight CAP sorties were flown during the period. Fuel usage was 120 units.

43:5:2 The 214th flew a full-squadron offensive into the Listehol Junction following two early-morning two-ship combat air patrols for a total of sixteen sorties. Total fuel usage was 264 units.
  • CDR JASSIK led his twelve ship squadron on an offensive strike of Imperial units in Sector RONTO of the Listehol Junction. There they engaged in ACM with ten Gunboats from the Imperial 90th AGS. The squadron claimed three Gunboats, including one verified to have been piloted by the enemy squadron's commander, and damaged several others. Three friendly X-wings were damaged and two were lost.

    Lt CILANA's X-wing, BuNo 41-3175, was critically damaged by laserfire and went into an uncontrolled spin before breaking apart. Both pilot and astromech ejected and were recovered by a SAR U-wing.

    After shooting down the enemy squadron leader, Lieutenant Sariah FYRE was killed in action when her X-wing, BuNo 41-3756, was struck by an enemy concussion missile at approximately 1524Z. Lt FYRE was unable to eject from the craft, and both pilot and astromech were lost. Her body was later recovered.
43:5:3 - 43:5:4 All planned sorties scrubbed as Task Force Nexus received new orders to immediately withdraw from the Operational Area, passing tactical and strategic control to the sector's Planetary Defense Forces. The Task Force first withdrew to the Mirial System where it remained on twenty-four standard hour standby before hypering to the Mon Calamari System.

OPERATION OUTCOME: Joint Command withdrew all federal forces from the region before strategic control of much of the sector could be attained. Despite this, Command declared the operation a tactical success due to the neutralization of a number of key Imperial assets.

CONFIRMED AIR-TO-AIR CLAIMS:
  • Celtané - One TIE/IN Interceptor
  • Cha'wara - Two TIE/IN Interceptors; One Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboat; One IRD-A Starfighter; One R-41 Starchaser
  • Cilana - One TIE/ln Starfighter; Two M3-A Scyks; Two TIE/IN Interceptors; One Starfighter "Ugly"
  • Fyre - Two Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboats
  • Jassik - Two TIE/ln Starfighters; One TIE/IN Interceptor; One Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboat; Two R-41 Starchasers; One IRD-A Starfighter; One Starfighter "Ugly"
  • Jotham - Two Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboats
  • Palaryn - One TIE/IN Interceptor; Two Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboats
  • Rollosk - One TIE/IN Interceptor; One Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboat; One IRD-A Starfighter
  • SoCrion - One Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboat; One IRD-A Starfighter; One Starfighter "Ugly"
  • Virala - One Xg-1 Star Wing Assault Gunboat
  • Walsh - One TIE/ln Starfighter; One TIE/IN Interceptor; One Starfighter "Ugly"
LOSSES:

Personnel:
  • FYRE, Sariah - Lieutenant - Service No. SO19-887-037 - Killed in Action.
Droid Units:
  • R2-T0 - Astromech - Destroyed by enemy activity
  • R4-H5 - Astromech - Destroyed by enemy activity
Air/Spacecraft:
  • T-65B 38-1625 lost to enemy activity
  • T-65B 39-4677 removed from service due to excessive damage sustained
  • T-65B 41-3175 lost to enemy activity
  • T-65B 41-3756 lost to enemy activity
Logistics: Squadron fuel consumption for the operation period totaled 12,913 units. Ordnance expended: Eighty MG7-A Proton Torpedoes; twenty-two MG5 Concussion Missiles.

Two KX9 laser cannons were rendered inoperable due to unintended overcharge caused by Composition-40 Tibanna gas. Both affected cannons had to be replaced well before their expected EOL.

Heavy ordnance was not resupplied during later stages of the operation, leading to critical shortage and eventual exhaustion of Proton Torpedoes.

A critical shortage of the following items also existed:
  • Durasteel bar stock
  • Agitator bearings
  • Ceriline
  • KX9 flashback suppressors
Commendations:
For outstanding devotion to duty, to the squadron, and to the New Republic, even at the cost of her own life, Lieutenant Sariah Fyre was posthumously awarded the Flames of Courage. The commendation will be presented to her next of kin.

CO's Remarks:
The small amounts of the new Composition-40 Tibanna supplied during the operation marginally increased the power output of the squadron's KX9 laser cannons, but also greatly increased carbon buildup, wear, and general fouling. Maintenance crews had to routinely tear down and clean the cannons every three days, replacing any worn or broken parts. Thus, despite the minor but noticeable improvements to weapon effectiveness, the CO believes the benefits are largely outweighed by the increase in maintenance time, decrease of cannon MFOP, and a number of failure-to-fire or catastrophic flashback incidents. Recommend continued use of the more stable Composition-15 gas until the Composition-40 formula is improved.

Much of Halo Squadron had little to no previous combat experience against Imperial Assault Gunboats, leaving them unprepared for prolonged engagement with an elite Gunboat unit such as Black Star Squadron. The CO believes that the typical attitude towards the post-Endor Imperial Navy leaves newer pilots with low expectations of their Imperial counterparts. While the currently approved StarCorps training curriculum does not necessarily reinforce this mindset, it also does little to discourage it, fostering a certain level of complacency not seen during the Rebellion. Such complacency can prove fatal. The CO is already revising his unit's training routines to hopefully mitigate future issues and will submit a report to Starfighter Command once he has ascertained it effectiveness.

Lack of tactical adaptability from Theater Command and Support Services led to the squadron being undersupplied and unable to properly and effectively counter the hit-and-hype tactics utilized by the enemy's hyperspace-capable starfighters. Squadron personnel utilized the limited resources to the best of their abilities, though the CO believes the lack of escorts assigned to resupply convoys and lack of communication between command- and squadron-level logistical departments was a costly and baffling tactical error. Further, this breakdown of communication led many of the squadron's flight and support personnel to express concerns of "abandonment" as supply stores noticeably dwindled.


For the Commanding Officer:

Kellyn R. Korden
Lieutenant, 214th SFS
Adjutant
"In my defense, I was left unsupervised."

Dramatis Personae:
  • CDR Davyn Jassik; Starfighter Pilot, NRSC; Human Male from Ralltiir
  • Jenniveve K'Barrek; Troublemaker; Human Female from Thyferra
  • Iashha Clan-Venex; FIRE
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AgentOrangeJuice
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Re: Command Diary: 214th Starfighter Squadron

Post by AgentOrangeJuice »

C O N F I D E N T I A L

DEPARTMENT OF THE STARFIGHTER CORPS


Report of Combat, 214th Starfighter Squadron

DAVYN S. JASSIK
Major, 214th SFS
Commanding

OPERATION:
SWOOPHAWK

For the Period of: 43:11:18

General: Operation to locate and eliminate an Imperial officer, designated by Command as a high-value target, over the Alvaro Archipelago on Vela Boga. Intelligence reports determined that the target would be flying to Baullali Island for an inspection tour of a local Imperial airbase. Reports also indicated that the flight would consist of two small shuttlecraft and at least two flights of fighter escorts.

The 214th was embarked aboard the NRAF Nexus and was the sole unit assigned to the operation. The squadron was divided into two contingents: a four-ship "Killer" Flight tasked with the direct interception and engagement of the target, and two four-ship "Top Cover" Flights to provide support and interdict expected enemy reactionary forces.

The flight plan called for a multi-legged, low-altitude flight through Vela Boga's atmosphere to avoid hostile detection, therefore the squadron's T-65s were fitted with external drop tanks to increase sublight and atmospheric range.

FLIGHT ROSTER
"Killer" Flight
  • JOTHAM, Zedekiah - Captain
  • ELTER, Kallo - Lieutenant
  • PALARYN, Yeris - Lieutenant
  • WALSH, Ren - Lieutenant
"Top Cover" Flight
  • JASSIK, Davyn - Major
  • CHA'WARA, Ilixu - Captain
  • CELTANÉ, Rilacn - Lieutenant
  • CILANA, Chuk - Lieutenant
  • ROLLOSK - Lieutenant
  • SoCRION, Iaral - Lieutenant
  • VIRALA, Cia - Lieutenant
  • MORESS, Belien - Flight Officer
SUMMARY OF EVENTS
All notations of "CDR" in the Narrative refer to the squadron's commanding officer.

The squadron launched from the NRAF Nexus beginning at 0725Z. Shortly after launch, Lt PALARYN aborted when his T-65's auxiliary tanks failed to feed fuel to the engines. Lt ROLLOSK replaced PALARYN on KILLER Flight. The remaining fighters proceeded to the hyperpoint and initiated a staggered hyperspace jump at 0731Z with a four standard minute delay between flights, TOP COVER leading.

TOP COVER Flight arrived at and cleared the entry point at 0834Z. They encountered no hostiles. KILLER Flight arrived four minutes later as scheduled. CDR JASSIK's section led the squadron into Vela Boga's atmosphere on a predetermined vector to minimize the chance of detection. Comms were silenced at 0850Z and the squadron maintained an extreme low-altitude flight above Vela Boga's seas.

The squadron reached the intercept point at 1134Z. Long-range sensors detected eight contacts within the AO, identified as two TIE/sh Shuttles flying line astern and an escort of six TIE/ln Starfighters arranged in two three-ship Vic formations. KILLER Flight jettisoned auxiliary fuel tanks and climbed to intercept the hostile flight; TOP COVER climbed to 5500 m to maintain a fighter screen.

The first flight of three escort TIEs dived out of formation to engage KILLER Flight. Lt ELTER's element broke off to engage the fighters while Cpt JOTHAM's element continued their intercept of the shuttles. ELTER downed one fighter during the merge.

As the second escort flight dived to engage, Cpt JOTHAM split off to intercept while Lt WALSH closed with the shuttles. The shuttles immediately initiated evasive maneuvers, though Lt WALSH was able to maintain zero angle behind the trailing shuttle. WALSH opened fire, shearing off the shuttle's port wing. The shuttle lurched hard to port, rolled into an uncontrolled spin, and crashed into the jungle on Moila Island at 1152Z. Lt WALSH then began taking enemy laserfire and was unable to follow up his attack on the lead shuttle. His T-65 sustained multiple hull hits and experienced a temporary loss of shield coverage.

KILLER Flight continued to engage the escort TIEs, downing three more before a flight of nine reactionary TIE/ln Starfighters arrived from the north west to reinforce enemy escorts. TOP COVER engaged the new hostiles at 1202Z.

Shortly after the arrival of the hostile reactionary fighters, a flight computer malfunction forced Lt ELTER to abort. His wingman escorted him out of the AO; the element successfully egressed at 1211Z and returned to the Nexus.

As the tactical situation developed into a full-scale melee, TOP COVER managed to down two more TIE/ln fighters while KILLER downed one. Three T-65s received considerable damage. Cpt JOTHAM maneuvered into an overhead gunnery approach above the remaining shuttle, rolled and dived on it, and fired a long burst into the starboard cockpit pod. The stricken shuttle slowly arced forward and splashed down into the sea at 1209Z.

A final TIE/ln was downed by FO MORESS before the squadron leader ordered a withdraw at 1210Z. MORESS, who had briefly fallen out of formation with his element leader, engaged the TIE in a close dogfight and his T-65 suffered significant damage before control of the situation could be regained. His astromech was subsequently lost to enemy fire and one of his engines began trailing black smoke. Friendly fighters provided cover and were able to successfully escort him out of the AO.

All remaining T-65s disengaged and withdrew to the hyperpoint, jumping out of the region at 1223Z. Last T-65 down aboard the Nexus at 1345Z.

OPERATION OUTCOME: Both designated shuttles were shot down. Intercepted Imperial communiqués indicated that the HVT was aboard the shuttle downed by Lt WALSH and confirmed KIA. Command considers the operation an outstanding success.

CONFIRMED AIR-TO-AIR CLAIMS:
  • Cha'wara - One TIE/ln Starfighter
  • Elter - Two TIE/ln Starfighters
  • Jotham - One TIE/ln Starfighter; One TIE/sh Shuttle
  • Moress - One TIE/ln Starfighter
  • SoCrion - One TIE/ln Starfighter
  • Walsh - One TIE/sh Shuttle; Two TIE/ln Starfighters
Squadron cumulative victories to date - 255 hostile fightercraft.

LOSSES:

Personnel:
  • No reported losses.
Droid Units:
  • R3-I1 - Astromech - Destroyed by enemy activity
Air/Spacecraft:
  • No reported losses.
Logistics: Fuel consumption for the operation totaled 425 units of fuel and twenty-two external fuel tanks were jettisoned. No heavy ordnance was expended during the course of the operation.

Maintenance Report:
  • T-65B 38-6387 - Moderately damage, requiring maintenance; repaired and returned to service.
  • T-65B 40-1138 - Damaged, requiring minor maintenance; repaired and returned to service.
  • T-65B 40-3620 - Failure of auxiliary tanks to feed was determined to be caused by faulty drop tanks; no maintenance required.
  • T-65C-A1 41-8049 - Superficial damage, though removed from service for a period of 2 standard days to repair a faulty flight computer.
  • T-65C-A1 41-8063 - Damaged, requiring maintenance; repaired and returned to service.
  • T-65C-A2 42-0764 - Moderately damaged, requiring maintenance; repaired and returned to service.
  • T-65C-A2 42-0765 - Severely damaged, required complete engine rebuild; removed from service for a period of 17 standard days for rebuild and other repairs.
Commendations:
By order of Starfighter Command, the 214th SFS was awarded the Outstanding Unit Award for meritorious service and for advancing the war effort against the Empire by successfully eliminating a key Imperial officer.

CO's Remarks:
The hunk of TIE fighter solar panel used as a squadron tally board is running out of room for new markers. A larger one will need to be sourced soon.


For the Commanding Officer:

Kellyn R. Korden
Lieutenant, 214th SFS
Adjutant
"In my defense, I was left unsupervised."

Dramatis Personae:
  • CDR Davyn Jassik; Starfighter Pilot, NRSC; Human Male from Ralltiir
  • Jenniveve K'Barrek; Troublemaker; Human Female from Thyferra
  • Iashha Clan-Venex; FIRE
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