posted
Welcome, gentlemen and ladies, to the Kedmar Sector. For those of you new to the game (ha!), “You’re the Admiral!” is a semi-directed hypothetical discussion of Starfleet operations and activities. As the Rear Admiral in this sector, it’ll be your job to assemble, deploy, and manage the starships assigned to this area.
General notes, for those of you unfamiliar with the tradition, or have forgotten:
The sector is 20 ly on a side. At warp 9, a starship will take approximately 5 days to traverse a side. For the sake of simplicity, this sector’s cartographical features lie on an essentially flat plane. (“His pattern indicates... two-dimensional thinking.”)
Each numbered circle represents a main-sequence star with little interesting about it, unless noted. Some may be inhabited or habitable, but are not of major concern.
The space in adjoining sectors is essentially devoid of anything interesting or valuable, unless noted.
All inhabited planets are occupied by humanoid species with a variety of bumpy heads.
Timeline: 2360. That means no Galaxy-class starships in our toolbox, but pretty much everything else should be fair game. The Federation is involved in a few ongoing conflicts, most notably with the Cardassians, but there are no major known threats.
The Kedmar Sector is located on the north-western edge of Federation territory, about 2 weeks’ travel from the nearest major starbase. This sector was first explored by the USS San Jose about 25 years ago. During its survey it made contact with the three spacefaring cultures in this region.
Senac is a relatively new member of the Federation, they joined about 10 years ago. The Senac have been spacefaring for about 300 years, but didn’t develop their warp engines beyond about warp 3 or so, and so mostly stayed in their own sector. Since joining the Federation, their technology and infrastructure are gradually being upgraded to Federation standards.
Oasis is a newly-settled colony, founded only about a year ago. About a third of the colonists are Senac, the rest are your average mix of Federation member species.
The Nillavi Cluster is your average star cluster of a dozen-plus stars, all fairly young (galactically speaking). Nillavi Prime was colonized by the Senac about 200 years ago, and the rest of the resource-rich cluster was settled fairly quickly after that. The colonies’ population expanded very rapidly, and they built a highly industrialized society from the abundant raw materials. They declared independence about 70 years ago in a short, fairly one-sided conflict. Relations between the Nillavi Syndicate and the Senac are chilly but not tense. There is some trade between Senac and the cluster, mostly valuable minerals from Nillavi and agri-stuffs from Senac. Some Nillavi citizens feel that their society should join the Federation like their Senac cousins, but that’s a very tentative consideration with no real action yet.
The T’g’nari are moderately xenophobic, have launched some starships but aren’t really interested in contact with other worlds. Despite their industrial capabilities, they’re mostly an agricultural society.
The Qorn are a pre-warp culture that was contacted by the Senac about 100 years ago. There’s some regular one-sided trade, Senac ships will trade raw materials (including some traded from the Nillavi) with many of the nation-states, in exchange for local finished goods (artwork, clothing, local foodstuffs). The Qorn aren’t terribly interested in venturing out of their star system, but are happy to trade with the Senac and take whatever technological advances they can trade for. However, they lack the scientific foundation to build their own advanced technology, and focus mainly on reverse-engineering Semac technology they obtain. There are occasional local conflicts between the nation-states, but nothing major.
The sector to the “north” is also considered Federation territory, and there are 3 member colonies in that area. However, it’s also close to the Tzenkethi border, placing your sector about 10 days’ travel away from the Tzenkethi fleet. They’ve never attacked into the Kedmar Sector in the past, but border skirmishes are common in the ongoing Tzenkethi War.
Further Information
Senac
Population: 2 billion
Alignment: Federation (member)
Government: Democratic
Technology: Current
Defense: 5 patrol cruisers (Miranda-class equivalent), moderate orbital defenses
Notes: Few raw materials, moderate agricultural base, small commercial fleet
Oasis
Population: 15,000
Alignment: Federation (colony)
Defense: Automated orbital sensor net
Nillavi
Population: 20 billion (total)
Alignment: Neutral
Government: National syndicalist
Technology: Early 24th-century equivalent
Defense: 15 patrol cruisers (Miranda-class equivalent), 30 small patrol craft (runabout equivalent), moderate orbital defenses
Notes: Abundant raw materials, small agricultural base, large commercial fleet
T’g’nar
Population: 3 billion
Alignment: Hostile (xenophobic)
Government: Oligarchy
Technology: Mid-22nd-century equivalent
Defense: 8 warships (upgraded NX-class equivalent), heavy orbital defenses
Notes: Primarily agricultural society, small industrial base
Qorn
Population: 6 billion
Alignment: Neutral
Government: Numerous nation-states
Technology: Early 21st-century equivalent
Defense: Minimal orbital defenses
Question One
Consider the background information provided above to be your briefing as you assume your duties in this sector. Define what Starfleet’s priorities in this sector should be. Also, note any gaps in the information provided, and where you’d want to focus your intelligence gathering.
Starfleet wants to establish a larger outpost in this sector, to support operations both here and in the sector to the north. This starbase (same type as Starbase 375) will be an important symbol of the Federation presence, and will be have sufficient defenses against any foreseeable threat. Choose a location to establish this starbase, and justify your decision.
Compose a request to Starfleet for your task force in this sector. Assume you’ve arrived in this sector aboard an Excelsior-class cruiser, which will be joining your fleet. In addition to that ship, justify a reasonable number and breakdown of ships that should be deployed. Specify their primary and secondary duties.
(Administrative note: I'm going to try to post the next question every Saturday. We'll see if I can keep that promise...)
-------------------- “Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.” — Isaac Asimov Star Trek Minutiae | Memory Alpha
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Question A: Consider the background information provided above to be your briefing as you assume your duties in this sector. Define what Starfleet’s priorities in this sector should be. Also, note any gaps in the information provided, and where you’d want to focus your intelligence gathering.
Starfleet's priorities:
-Examination of The Big Drift, particularly with an eye towards any tactical advantages or disadvantages it could provide to friendly or hostile fleets.
-Examination of elements of Nillavi society with an eye towards isolationist elements which might choose to resist Federation expansion through military force.
-Establishing diplomatic contact with Qorn and T'G'Nar, if these societies wish it.
I am curious about The Big Drift, and why no information has been provided on it; one of my priorities would be assigning a ship (preferably a dedicated science vessel) to explore this region of space – can we scan through it, can we see ships hiding in it? If it can provide a tactical advantage, I want to know about it.
I would like to explore meeting with the governments of Nillavi, T'g'nar, and Qorn. In the case of the Nillavi, I am most curious by the phrase “some Nillavi citizens feel that their society should join the Federation.” Well, what about the other elements of Nillavi society? Certainly it can almost be expected that there is an isolationist movement, and I'd like to have my finger on their pulse to judge how the society may react to the installation of a Starfleet starbase so close to their own interests.
T'g'nar is, to me, almost a non-threat. They prefer to be left alone and have not shown any indication that they would strike at the Federation unless provoked to do so. The Qorn have no capacity to strike at anyone – my concern with them is primarily related to actions that may be undertaken by the Nillavi, or the T'g'nar, particularly if either society feels it needs to “flex its muscles.”
Due to the possibility (hopefully remote) of military action between the Federation and the Nillavi, or the T'g'nar, or between the Nillavi and T'g'nar, or one of those two and the Qorn, or the Tzenkethi and who knows who, I would like to place some sensor buoys in strategic areas of space to keep an eye on traffic in the areas of their respective planets. These buoys would be placed in what is clearly interstellar space onto which no one society can make a claim. With a response force split between Oasis and Senec, Starfleet should be well positioned to respond to any actions.
Question B:Starfleet wants to establish a larger outpost in this sector, to support operations both here and in the sector to the north. This starbase (same type as Starbase 375) will be an important symbol of the Federation presence, and will be have sufficient defenses against any foreseeable threat. Choose a location to establish this starbase, and justify your decision.
I recommend strongly that Starfleet's new Starbase be placed into orbit of Oasis; this recommendation may be ammended based on what I learn about The Big Drift.
While establishing a starbase over Senec may make more logistical sense, by placing it over Oasis, a Starfleet force will be positioned closer to the northern sector to respond to a potential Tzenkethi threat, or a Starfleet force engaged in hostilities in the northern sector will have a closer port of call for rearmamment, resupply, or repair. From Oasis, it is a 12 hour journey at maximum warp to the northern sector, and a nearly 3 day journey from Senec. The location of the starbase here will also encourage traffic to Oasis and speed the colony's development.
The most compelling reason to place the starbase in orbit of Senec would be to resist any hostile moves by the T'G'Nar, however, Senec's existing orbital defenses should be sufficient against the types of vessels deployed by the T'G'Narians; additionally, with the deployment of automated beacons outside of T'G'Narian space, should they make a push to Senec, Starfleet vessels would be able to depart Oasis and arrive at Senec within hours of a T'G'Narian arrival at Senec.
Additionally, should the Nillavi come to see it in their best interest to strike at Senec, by gathering their forces at the southern end of their space in advance of a strike, they would leave their northern border open to a response from the Starfleet force at Oasis.
Question C:Compose a request to Starfleet for your task force in this sector. Assume you’ve arrived in this sector aboard an Excelsior-class cruiser, which will be joining your fleet. In addition to that ship, justify a reasonable number and breakdown of ships that should be deployed. Specify their primary and secondary duties.
Currently, Starfleet is very engaged with Cardassian forces along our border. However, while an uneasy peace currently exists between the Federation and the Tzekenthi, we have fought them on repeated occasions, and should not be careless as to their capacity to hold a grudge, or to implement and carry through precision military actions. My forces would primarily be deployed to best respond to a Tzenkethi incursion to the sector through two missions: a border patrol; and a fast response force stationed at Oasis. I have requested eighteen additional starships to the vessel I arrived on.
Currently, my strongest vessel is the USS Little Round Top, which ferried me here. These are the ships I would request, and how I would deploy them:
Northern Border Patrol: USS Gettysburg, Ambassador Class USS Gorkon, Excelsior Class USS Brilliant, Miranda Class USS Bolano, Miranda Class
Orders: These vessels will maintain a patrol of the Northern Border to watch for a Tzenkethi incursion. These ships have strict orders not to engage a tactically superior force unless presented no alternative -- if they discover a hostile force, they are to shadow until the Fast Response Force at Oasis can respond. The Gettysburg would be instructed to remain within one day's travel of Oasis; Gorkon would be requested to stay within two days travel of Nillavi, and with a preference given to fast response to the Big Drift. These orders subject to developing circumstances and at the discretion of their commanders.
Tzenkethi Fast Response (FORCE T):
USS Maryland, Ambassador Class USS Aba'Kur, Excelsior Class USS Perseverance, Excelsior Class USS Bridgewater, Miranda Class USS Saltash Castle, Miranda Class USS Compass Rose, Miranda Class
Orders: These six vessels will form “Force T,” the Tzenkethi Fast Response force which will be on hand to respond to reports of a Tzenkethi incursion along the Northern Border. Force T will maintain orbit of Oasis until required to deploy; however, USS Bridgewater, Saltash Castle, and Compass Rose are ordered to deploy buoys for monitoring of space traffic in regions of Navalli, T'g'nar, and Qorn before reporting to Oasis.
Oasis Overwatch:
USS Alexandria, Excelsior Class USS Teazer, Miranda Class
Orders: these vessels are ordered to provide any necessary assistance to Oasis. Their real purpose is to respond to developing circumstances and provide a military force in the event of hostile action
Senec Overwatch:
USS Ramilies, Excelsior Class USS Thunder Child, Miranda Class USS Wizard, Miranda Class
Orders: these vessels are ordered to provide any necessary assistance to Senec. Their real purpose is to respond to developing circumstances and provide a military force in the event of hostile action.
Big Drift Survey:
USS Pascal, Oberth Class USS Coma Berenices, Constellation Class
USS Pascal is instructed to conduct a thorough examination of The Big Drift. Because there may be tactical advantages to vessels hiding within this region of space, Pascal is to be escorted by Coma Berenices; additionally, USS Gorkon on Northern Sector Patrol will remain near to respond in the event of a situation.
USS Hope, Medical Ship (see below)
Meanwhile, upon arrival of my requested ships, USS Little Round Top, accompanied by USS Hope, will begin a diplomatic mission to Nillavi and T'G'Nar, in that order (if our requests for diplomatic meetings are accepted). The purpose of this mission will be to communicate Federation plans for the sector in regards Federation expansion, and the Tzenkethi threat. Ideally, the Hope, which is a disaster response and medical vessel, will demonstrate the humanitarian efforts of the Federation. I will maintain command of sector operations from Little Round Top,.
Following this diplomatic mission, which is expected to last no more than two weeks, Little Round Top and Hope will deploy to Oasis.
Question 1A: Having read my briefing, I believe that Starfleet’s priorities in the Kedmar System should be:
• Act to nurture, encourage the development of and if needed protect Senac. We want to quickly upgrade their trading fleet to encourage trade in the sector and the wider regions. We also want to build up a permanent presence in the sector based around this member world and the soon to be established starbase in the sector.
• Oasis colony growth should be assisted. As a new colony it should be encouraged, but not at the cost of ignoring Senac. Trade between Senac should be encouraged. We should seek to put a perimeter of automated defences, but in the meantime a small fleet of ships should be in place to patrol and assist due to the proximity of the Tzenkethi. In order to avoid attracting conflict the patrol should be able to take care of itself, but not be so big as to draw their attention.
• We want to find out the aims of the Nillavi and whether or not these may impact Senac (as a Federation member). Therefore relations between the two should be encouraged by making official UFP diplomatic contact with Nillavi. We may offer them aid, or even protection in the event Tzenkethi comes their way perhaps as part of the negotiations (although they will probably want to stay neutral).
• Explore the Great Drift. From the initial briefing there appears to be little else scientifically interesting in the region. It’s omission leads me to suspect we know nothing about it and that alone makes me want to explore it. It is also a huge phenomina and may hold many interesting surprises.
• As we know little of their strength and intent T’g’nar should be monitored, but I don’t think they should be any problem right now. However, their isolation means we do not want to annoy them by probing, so a more passive or even covert monitoring may be called for.
Gaps in my knowledge:
• How fast are we advancing the Senac? Presumably they have access to our knowledge base. Their tech is ‘current’, meaning equal to everywhere else in the Federation? So are we actively helping in upgrading their infrastructure, or are we letting them take the lead and just helping when they ask?
• What’s the Great Drift? How much do we know about it? Surely something that big can’t have escaped the local systems attention.
• Do we have an agenda with Oasis? Its location so close to a combat zone might not be a coincidence.
• As Senac is a Federation member and they have contacted and advanced the Qorn, are we allowed to contact & trade with them, or do we treat the Senac-Qorn relations as a special agreement between their two worlds under grandfather clauses?
Question 1B: A new starbase should be established in the S543 system, approximately equidistant between the Senac and Oasis, our two main interests in the system. This will put it about 2 days travel from each at normal speeds. Ideally it would be further from Nillavi space, but I would rather it was in a star system than floating free in space, if only for aiding navigation to and from it. The system may prove to have useful resources, and if not we will at least be able to use solar energy. I hope this won’t anger the Nillavi too much, but we would like to make friendly contact with them anyway.
The position between the two planets should aid in increasing trade as well as encouraging growth on Oasis. A station in orbit of Oasis would obviously encourage rapid growth and offer protection, but given their size and recent founding this may cause a diplomatic incident with the Senac. On the other hand, I don’t want Oasis completely abandoned - positioning it in orbit of Senac would leave Oasis almost 3 days from any help, an unacceptable decission.
I next thought that it might be a good idea to place it in the middle of Oasis, Senac and T’g;nar, but this would leave it somewhat isolated and a tad further from either of our interests in the sector. While it might aid information gathering on T’g’nar, automated facilities would be able to do this better and less obtrusively (read, they are less likely to notice us spying on them if we appear to keep our distance). I therefore dismissed this idea.
Other considerations include the Great Drift, which, tactically speaking is a complete unknown right now. The T’g’nar would not take kindly to a starbase on their doorstep, but are (as far as we know) unlikely to be able to do anything about it. Still, best not to be provocative. The Qorn are essentially an artificially accelerated race, and so we might want to keep a bit f distance from them too, especially if they are into reverse engineering whatever they get their hands on.
Lastly, putting a starbase to the ‘north’ of Oasis is simply too provocative a move to the Tzenkethi, especially as we have no interest in making war with them from this sector.
Question 1C: As we know, the Cardassian war is taking its toll on the fleet and relations with the Tzenkethi have never been brilliant. While conflict is yet to spread into this sector it would be prudent to protect our interests here should it do so. A small rapid border patrol is therefore warranted. Patrols of Oasis and Senac as well as the new Starbase would be a necessity. There is also the Great Drift, which should be explored, and finally there is a need to build up the trade and diplomacy in the region.
I have just the sector with the USS Frederickson (Excelsior Class), which will form the core of my fleet in the sector, at least initially.
As per my priorities, I would like to request seventeen additional ships, to be deployed as so:
A Northern Patrol Force consisting of USS Bentonville , Excelcior Class USS Aquarius, Constelation Class USS Shelbyville , Springfield Class USS Minerva , Mirranda Class USS Munro , Mirranda Class
This fleet will be ordered to patrol the northern border, maintaining a constant watch out for any Tzenkethi activity. The Bentonville will command this fleet The patrol route will extend from 4 ly NW of Oasis to 2 ly north of the Great Drift.
At all times one ship shall stay in close proximity (1.5ly max) to Oasis, providing any assistance as needed and in order to mobilise a fast response to any developing threat. Ships will also have standing orders to assist Nillavi if requested and as such one of the patrol will organised so that 1 ship can remain within 1 day of both the drift and Nillayi prime at all times.
The fleet is compromised of a capitol vessel, two frigate and two light cruisers in order to maintain capability but also keep a relatively low profile.
Senac Home Fleet North Home Patrol USS Frederickson, Excelsior Class USS Rutledge , New Orleans Class USS DuBeck , Mirranda Class USS Soval , Mirranda Class USS New Dawn , Renaisance Class
The Home Patrol will safeguard the area around Senac and prepare for the arrival of the starbase. The Frederickson will command this fleet. It will primarily be charged with patrolling the area 2ly around Senac and to the region between Selnec and Oasis. The USS Rutledge will be given special instructions to make the opening overtures of diplomatic contact with the Nillavi.
The fleet will also be prepared to monitor and respond to any situation that may arise from the south of the Great Drift, though as this is mere speculation the priority will be as above.
Southern Home Patrol USS Assurance , Ambassador Class USS Massimino , Challenger Class USS Gillingham , Mirranda Class USS Goodwin , Mirranda Class USS Xon , Mirranda Class
The southern patrol will be a large sweep from the south west of Senac to the east of Senac, essentially covering from near T’g’nar to 2ly south of the Great Drift.
The Assurance is essentially there to carry a big stick but also to allow the careful monitoring of T’g’nar until the automated system comes online. My intent is for the southern home fleet to determine the nature of any threat from the T’g’nar and the Qorn. Diplomatic contact will be offered to the T’g’nar by Assurance and if there is any interest will procede with caution until their capabilities are fully assessed.
If it becomes apparent that there is no danger then the southern home fleet will be reduced, moving the USS Gillingham to border patrol and having the USS New Dawn and USS Assurance swap fleets.
Ferry route USS Oz , Erewon Class USS Bondi , Sydney Class USS Leo , Constelation Class
A ferry route between Senac and Oasis in order to promote trade, offer assistance to Oasis if needed and (when established) to provide links to the starbase. If needed I can divert starships from the Northern Patrol route for protection, or to reinforce the border patrol.
Survey Ship USS Swallow , Aerie Class (as in the SS Raven) USS Moore , Obeth Class
Two survey ships will be required potentially to explore the Great Drift. The Oberth Class is long established as a capable survey and science vessel, while the newer and faster Aerie Class USS Swallow can complement the USS Moore with its speed when a closer look is required, or to get a message back to base.
I anticipate the intial patrols to take no more than 1-2 weeks. Diplomatic contacts will have been offered by this time. The results of the initial survey of the Great Drift will depend on the level of warp drive disruption experienced in the region. I will avoid the Qorn until I have more information on our contact policy with them.
-------------------- I have plenty of experience in biology. I bought a Tamagotchi in 1998... And... it's still alive.
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Okay, I was debating whether to do this or not, and originally left the question more open-ended, but I think that the fleets need to be reined in a bit. This IS the pre-TNG era, after all, when "the only ship in the sector" is a frequent occurrence. I can count only 3 or 4 occasions in all of TNG when we saw more than 2 ships at a time (or offscreen). Pretty much every starship can easily handle most missions on its own.
Of course, if you have only 2 ships, that makes things very difficult to play. And this is the first new round in many years, so I'll go easy on you and set a fairly generous limit.
So, here is a revised Part C:
Compose a request to Starfleet for your task force in this sector. Assume you’ve arrived in this sector aboard an Excelsior-class cruiser, which will be joining your fleet. In addition to that ship, justify a reasonable number and breakdown of ships that should be deployed. Specify their primary and secondary duties.
Assume Starfleet will allocate you no more than TEN Federation starships to accomplish their goals given the priorities you’ve outlined. Define what classes, or types, of ships should be assigned to your fleet. Assume that:
There can be no more than ONE Ambassador class ship in your fleet. If you include one, justify its presence.
Your fleet will include at least TWO non-combat type ships (science, transport, etc.). Justify their presence and/or use.
Of the remainder, explain their primary and secondary missions.
(If you're curious, go back and read some of the responses to the Sector Alpha scenario, which had a similar limit on fleet size.)
Also, feel free to use any ship classes you like, canon or not; just provide a link to a reference page for non-canon ships so the other players can know what you're using!
-------------------- “Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.” — Isaac Asimov Star Trek Minutiae | Memory Alpha
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I arrive in the sector with 1 Excelsior Class Starship. My priorities are to patrol the Senac System. The five local ships are equivalent roughly to Miranda Class vessels and (until I am ordered to otherwise) I co-ordinate with their commanders to patrol approximately 1 ly around Senac (1 ly marked by yellow dashed double ring around Senac on the accompanying map, labelled Fig 1).
Having secured the area around Senac, I move my ship to patrol between Oasis and Senac, approximately 3 days apart at high warp. This is too far to be sure of dealing with any emergency on either world so I need reinforcements.
My interests in the sector are:
1) Patrol the area to reassure and assist the two developing Federation worlds.
2) Monitor the north border so I can keep an eye on any Tzenkethi (or other potential enemy) movements that may threaten the sector.
3) Encourage trade in the sector and establish the site I have suggested for a starbase as useful system hub.
4) Investigate the Great Drift.
5) Approach the Nillavi to begin diplomatic contact with them, assess their political situation and determine if they are likely to become an ally or a danger in this sector.
6) Investigate the T'g'nar and ensure that a potentially dangerous race is not planning anything. Although they are unlikely to be a threat they remain an unknown quantity.
I therefore request the following scientific and transport ships to be made available in this sector:
Scientific Ships:
1 Oberth Class Starship.
This will be tasked with study of the Great Drift and will perform a through survey of the exterior before probing within, course shown in pale blue.
Transport:
1 Deneva Class & 1 Sydney Class.
These smaller ships are useful for trading and moving personnel. These will be used to encourage Senac-Oasis trade initially, and later to facilitate more movement between these planets and the soon to be established starbase (trade route suggested is the green dashed line).
They are unable to defend themselves so patrol routes will need to be modified to ensure that the ships are never too far from help.
The Excelsior Class ship I arrived in shall modify it's patrol to form a boomerang around Senac, from 2 ly SE of S543 to 3 ly SW of the Great Drift (shown as the red patrol).
In addition to these three ships, I request a further five ships. These ships are:
1 Excelsior Class, which despite their age, these remain excellent capitol ships.
Primary mission: to request the opening of diplomatic relationship between the UFP and the Nivalli (purple line). Secondary mission: subtly gather inteligence regarding the Nillavi fleet and their capabilities. If contact is sucessful with Nivalli, asses the domestic political situation.
1 Springfield Class, which with its excellent sensor capabilities will make it most useful for intelligence and reconnaissance duties.
Primary mission: to patrol the northern boarder eastwards and scan for any unusual Tzenkethi activity in the vicinity. Secondary mission: monitor the north of the Navilli territory and the Great Drift (both form the white patrol shown).
1 Miranda Class, which while older are still capable of patrol duties and can defend themselves extremely well.
Primary mission: patrol the region to the north west of Oasis, while maintaining a position of no greater than 3 ly from the planet (the dark blue patrol). Secondary mission: aid in the deployment of upgraded planetary defence systems.
1 New Orleans Class. A newer and capable frigate, useful for lighter duty and projecting a less imposing image than an Excelsior.
Primary mission: To extend patrols to include the south of the sector, in a route from 2ly to Senac around systems B510, V359 and back (orange patrol route) Secondary mission: To deploy automated sensor drones in strategic areas to monitor the T'g'nar, and possibly later the Qorn too.
1 Constellation Class. While these older ships are nearing the ends of their useful service lives, they are still useful as surveyors and with a large transport capacity, despite their age and reported unreliability.
Primary mission: to patrol between Oasis and S543, in order to maintain a presence in the S543 system and to escort transports in the event of hostilities (the purple patrol route). Secondary mission: to aid in the development of Oasis colony. In the event that I am being too prudent in escorting the Senac-Oasis transports, the secondary mission can take precedence.
Fig 1: Proposed starship deployements and fleet movements in Kedmar Sector.
-------------------- I have plenty of experience in biology. I bought a Tamagotchi in 1998... And... it's still alive.
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This is cool ... now I can get rid of all those Miranda-Class!
Compose a request to Starfleet for your task force in this sector. Assume you’ve arrived in this sector aboard an Excelsior-class cruiser, which will be joining your fleet. In addition to that ship, justify a reasonable number and breakdown of ships that should be deployed. Specify their primary and secondary duties.
Assume Starfleet will allocate you no more than TEN Federation starships to accomplish their goals given the priorities you’ve outlined. Define what classes, or types, of ships should be assigned to your fleet. Assume that:
There can be no more than ONE Ambassador class ship in your fleet. If you include one, justify its presence. Your fleet will include at least TWO non-combat type ships (science, transport, etc.). Justify their presence and/or use. Of the remainder, explain their primary and secondary missions.
Ten ships eh ... ? Or ten ships PLUS Little Round Top? No? Eh ...
The USS Little Round Top, on which I arrived, will initially deploy on the previously described diplomatic mission; the Little Round Top will be accompanied by medical vessel USS Hope. Upon completion of this mission, Little Round Top will deploy to Oasis, and Hope to Senec.
Because of the Tzenkethi threat, I am requesting Ambassador Class USS Maryland, as a deterrent. Maryland will form the bulk of my Fast Response Force, which will be primarily based at Oasis: Excelsior Class starships USS Gorkon, and USS Perseverance will compose the remainder of this force. Additionally, Excelsior Class USS Aba'Kur will be positioned at Senec. Before reporting to their permanent deployments, these Excelsior Class vessels will deploy sensor buoys in interstellar space to monitor traffic around Qorn, Nillavi, and T'G'Nar regions of the sector.
Science vessel USS Pastur, Oberth Class, will explore and chart the Big Drift.
The remainder of my fleet will be USS Arcturus, Rigel Class; USS Pelileu, Centaur Class; and USS Towson, Niagra Class. These ships will maintain a standard patrol of the Northern Border, however, Pelileu will be additionally tasked with monitoring Pasteur and being prepared to respond to any situation which the science vessel cannot manage on its own.
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Everyone was probably expecting you to slash the fleet requisition in half!
As it stands right now, I am in a hotel room around 4000 km away from home. I'm here for another two weeks but I hope to be able to answer this week sometime. Worst case I play catch up.
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Our priorities in this sector are: 1) Defend Federation worlds from attack or disaster 2) Protect Qorn from cultural interference, disaster, or invasion 3) Encourage Federation and Senac relations with the Nillavi 4) Ensure no escalation of hostilities with T'g'nari 5) Watch for Tzenkethi incursions
To support these ends, I propose placing the sector Starbase in orbit of Oasis. Oasis is presently undefended, and the most likely target in the sector for a Tzenkethi attack. The starbase will mitigate this concern.
Further, the construction of the base on Oasis will contribute to the growth of the Oasis colony, and to trade between Oasis and Senac. Since the Nillavi cluster lies along that trade route, expanded trade with the Syndicate may be facilitated. This will help to thaw relations between Nillavi and Senac, as well as furthering the Federation's relationship with Nillavi.
To further support these ends, the sector fleet must be able to assist with disasters and non-political emergencies, especially for Oasis and Qorn who have no fleets of their own. The fleet must also be able to deal with potential political/military flashpoints, of which there are four:
T'g'nari The best approach to an isolationist culture is preemptive transparency. We will send an asynchronous message, a "letter", describing our intent in the sector. The first and most important consideration in this message is to request instructions from the T'g'nari as to what they consider the borders of their territory. We will state our intent to strictly respect their territory and wishes with respect to further contact.
After that statement is made, we will express our desire for further communication for diplomatic purposes, including trade and disaster/medical assistance. We will make it clear that any such contact will take place entirely on their terms, and (once the T'g'nari acknowledge receipt of our message) further communication from us will only occur under urgent circumstances. We must also make it clear that we do not control all parties, and particularly, that we are at war with the Tzenkethi, who may attempt to interfere in this sector. Information on Tzenkethi ships and tactics should be provided as part of the message.
We will state our intent, offer our assistance and friendship, and otherwise leave the T'g'nari alone. However, our fleet must be capable of repelling the entire T'g'nari force, should their isolationist tendencies turn to expansionism. The Qorn, particularly, are a potential target should this occur.
Qorn The Qorn are a pre-warp civilization, and thus our influence on their societal development should be minimized. Large-scale technological assistance to Qorn by any Federation party must be prohibited. However, since Senac made contact with Qorn before joining the Federation, strict non-interference rules need not apply. We should establish limited diplomatic relations, and be prepared to assist with any disasters that may occur.
Tzenkethi Tzenkethi incursions into this sector are unlikely, but possible. Light patrols across the northern border of the sector should be instituted. The most likely incursions would seem to be stealth attacks to sow political confusion, or to disrupt trade lanes. Attempts to cause an incident between Senac and Nillavi, or to cause the T'g'nari to lash out, are obvious possibilities. The local fleet must be flexible enough to defend against such broad threats.
Senac/Nillavi relations The construction of our base around Oasis will help improve these relations. In addition, we should establish formal diplomatic relations with the Nillavi if such as not occurred. A mutual assistance and defense pact should be proposed, possibly including mutual free travel.
Fleet composition Our local fleet's priorities are to patrol the sector (particularly the Great Drift), defend trade routes from Tzenkethi and general piracy, assist with disasters on any inhabited world, and defend against possible T'g'nari invasion of Qorn.
First, a number of small patrol vessels are required. I would requisition twenty runabout-class ships (or comparable) for this purpose. (Edit: I wrote this before reading the rest of the thread. Can I have lots of tiny ships?) These ships will perform general patrols of the sector. Over time, they will be supplemented with permanent sensor drone networks, especially along the route between Senac and Oasis.
Second, additional ships must be available for "heavy lifting". In addition to my Excelsior-class flagship, I request two Miranda-class and two Constellation-class cruisers. These ships will be available to provide large-scale assistance to any world or ship in the sector, and provide for sufficient coverage should any one ship be unable to serve. One of our five capital ships should be within easy range of each inhabited planet in the sector at all times (with T'g'nari as the lowest priority). My flagship will be stationed at Senac during normal operations. The other four ships will rotate along the borders of the quadrangle formed by Oasis, the Great Drift, T'g'nar, and Qorn.
Questions What is the nature of the Tzenkethi war? What are their goals, capabilities, and tactics? What is the law regarding Qorn? Pre-warp civilizations that have already been contacted are an unclear area. What's the Great Drift? Has it been charted yet, or should we be working on that?
-------------------- "This is why you people think I'm so unknowable. You don't listen!" - God, "God, the Devil and Bob"
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First, the Great Drift. It’s basically your average protostellar cloud, the leftovers from what formed the Nillavi Cluster a few hundred million years ago. It’s probably been explored by the Nillavi, but perhaps not to the high standards of Federation sensor technology. I forgot to mention it because there’s not much remarkable about it. Aside from being a cool place to hide out, like every other nebula in Star Trek.
Concerning Nillavi membership in the Federation, think European Union membership debates. The Nillavi are moderately advanced already, doing okay on their own, but a notable minority think that full Federation membership could help them out. The government has held a few debates on the matter, but they’re not even to the stage of officially asking the Federation yet.
Senac technological advancement is probably a moderately fast upgrade, for whatever technology or infrastructure assistance could benefit the society. The closest thing I can think of is Bajor: even before membership, Starfleet was rebuilding water distribution, assisting with medical facilities, providing replicators… It’s probably the same thing.
Yes, the Senac contacted the Qorn before they were subject to the Prime Directive (or even knew about it, for that matter). How that affects your reactions is up to you. Feel free to elaborate your opinions if you like.
The Tzenkethi war… well, what’s any war about? Ideas, influence, territory. When it was mentioned in “Homefront,” the Tzenkethi were described as raiders using hit-and-fade tactics, using asteroid fields as cover. It seemed to imply they had smaller ships but were able to match a larger starship in groups.
I promise not to pull a Mark and cut your fleet. Well, not permanently, anyway… not this time.
Omega: Interesting idea, using runabouts. I’ll stipulate that 3 runabouts shall equal 1 starship for your fleet allotment.
-------------------- “Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.” — Isaac Asimov Star Trek Minutiae | Memory Alpha
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posted
Sounds fair. I'll reduce my runabout contingent from twenty to fifteen.
-------------------- "This is why you people think I'm so unknowable. You don't listen!" - God, "God, the Devil and Bob"
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Objectively critique one of the other participants’ answers to question one. Point out what you believe are the strengths and/or weaknesses in how the answer differs from yours. You may critique another answer which has already been critiqued.
The fleet you requested from Starfleet Command has been granted in full. Most of your fleet has arrived on schedule to assume their duties. However, due to a recent skirmish in a nearby sector, two of your starships have been diverted: your largest starship, and one other combat-capable starship of your choice. They are expected to arrive in the sector in a month or so.
Explain which ships have been diverted, and describe how their absence will affect your fleet operations and diplomatic initiatives in the sector.
The starbase has been towed into position in the location you selected. However, if you chose to place your starbase within 2 light-years of Nillavi space, or within 5 light-years of the T’g’nar system (1 grid space equals 2 light-years), then the proximate party files an official complaint with the Federation. While they acknowledge that they have no territorial claim, they’re concerned about possible Federation encroachment into their territories.
How do you respond to their concerns? What concessions could you offer to make the aggrieved party more comfortable with the starbase? Or will you move your starbase to another location? If you choose to move the base, you will need to assign two of your starships to supplement the available tugs and transports; some of the ships that originally brought the starbase in have already gone on to their next assignments. These starships, if assigned, would be unavailable for any other assignments until the next question.
The following scenarios develop during your first month in the Kedmar Sector. For each scenario, describe the nearest or most relevant starship(s), what your ships will do in response, and how your fleet deployment might change in response. Describe any diplomatic efforts your staff would undertake as well. Assume that your actions in one response do not directly affect the other scenarios.
Your ships observe a moderate increase in the number and frequency of trading ships traveling between Senac and Qorn.
A T’g’nar warship on patrol about 2 light-years from home sends out a distress beacon. While not directed at you, your officers report that the ship has sustained heavy casualties from an internal explosion and is losing life support. Another T’g’nar warship is on its way, but it’s uncertain whether they can get there before the crew runs out of air.
Your starship on patrol near the Nillavi Cluster detects an unusual series of energy signatures in deep space just outside of Nillavi territory. They look suspiciously like the detonation of antimatter warheads in some sort of weapons test. If that is the case, these new weapons would represent a notable upgrade in the capability of the Nillavi fleet, making their ships equivalent to, say, the Saber-class starship. However, there have been no unusual activities by the Nillavi on either the military or diplomatic front.
Create your own scenario like the ones presented in part (C). Any reasonable military, political, or scientific scenario is acceptable. However, do not answer the scenario yourself. Rather, it will be answered by the other participants as part of the next set of questions.
-------------------- “Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.” — Isaac Asimov Star Trek Minutiae | Memory Alpha
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posted
Correct, I meant part D. I forgot I rearranged the questions.
-------------------- “Those people who think they know everything are a great annoyance to those of us who do.” — Isaac Asimov Star Trek Minutiae | Memory Alpha
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