Military: Olvana
DATE Pacific > Olvana > Military: Olvana ←You are here
Contents
- 1 Military Overview
- 2 Military Forces
- 3 National Command Authority
- 4 National Strategic Goals
- 5 Land Forces/Army Overview
- 6 Maritime Forces Overview
- 7 Air Force Overview
- 8 Paramilitary Forces
- 9 Military Functions
- 10 Research and Development Goals
- 11 Special Considerations
Military Overview
The People’s Republic of Olvana is the largest country in terms of size and population in the Western Pacific. Underpinning a national objective to become the regional hegemon, Olvana maintains the largest military in the region. The Olvana People’s Army (OPA) includes Olvana’s land forces as well as the Olvana People’s Navy (OPN) and Olvana People’s Air Force (OPAF). The OPN and OPAF are subordinate to the OPA. Olvana attempts to influence the region by deploying advisors to various countries and through foreign military sales. The OPA’s mission is to protect Olvana’s borders. Olvana can project military force and deploy a large military force throughout the Pacific region. The development and activation of a new generation of aircraft carriers, will allow Olvana to project its force around the world. Olvana desires regional hegemony in the Western Pacific, keeping other major powers out of the region. Olvana will not hesitate to join a local war if the result will help the country continue its economic and military climb to become a dominant world power on par with Donovia and the US.
Military Forces
Olvana’s military consists of approximately 1.5 million soldiers, sailors, airmen, and naval infantry. The Olvana military plays an important political role as it serves as the vanguard of the regime. The military is divided geographically into three military theaters: East Military Theater, Central Military Theater, and South Military Theater. The air force operates along the same three geographical boundaries. The navy is only assigned to the eastern and southern regions, as the central region is landlocked except for the rivers that flow into the Pacific Ocean. Though ground forces assigned to each region are approximately similar in number, the composition of forces varies due to the geographical conditions. The southern military region contains fewer mechanized forces due to the more tropical climate, while the central military region operates more armor units that thrive in terrain that is more open. The navy deploys a higher proportion of amphibious ships to the Southern Fleet, as it is closer to areas where amphibious operations may occur in a future conflict. While there are some amphibious ships in the Eastern Fleet, these units would deploy with OPA personnel less familiar with maritime operations. The OPA’s Supreme High Command (SHC) retains direct control of some ground and air assets stationed around the capital for strategic operations, internal control, and protection of the government.
National Command Authority
NCA Wire Diagram
All countries including Olvana share a similar National Command Authority (NCA) construct. Olvana’s NCA exercises overall control of the application of all instruments of national power to plan and carry out the country’s national security strategy. The NCA includes the Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Public Information, Finance and Economic Affairs, Interior, and Defense, along with other members selected by Olvana’s president, who chairs the NCA.
The president appoints the Minister of National Security, who heads the NCA’s Strategic Integration Department (SID). The SID serves as the overarching agency responsible to integrate all the instruments of national power under one cohesive national security strategy. The SID coordinates the plans and actions of all Olvana’s ministries, but particularly those associated with the instruments of national power. (See TC 7-100.2: Opposing Force Tactics, Chapter 1, Strategic and Operational Framework.)
Strategic Operational Framework
Dating back thousands of years, Olvana’s national power and political influence has ebbed and flowed throughout the region. Olvana is currently in a renaissance era in terms of influence and power, not only in the Pacific region, but around the world. Olvana is participating in UN peacekeeping operations in many countries, providing advisors to allies in the Pacific and in Africa, while selling enough military equipment to become one of the world’s largest military suppliers.
Olvana exercises command and control (C2) of the Armed Forces via the Supreme High Command (SHC). The SHC includes the Ministry of Defense (MoD) and a General Staff drawn from all the service components. In peacetime, the MoD and General Staff operate closely, but separately. The MoD assumes the responsibility for policy, acquisitions, and financing the OPA. The General Staff promulgates policy and supervises the service components, while its functional directorates assume responsibility for key aspects of defense planning. In wartime, the MoD and General Staff merge to form the SHC, which functions as a unified headquarters.
Olvana configures the OPA in an administrative force structure (AFS) that manages its military forces in peacetime. This AFS contains the aggregate of various military headquarters, facilities, and installations designed to man, train, and equip OPA forces. In peacetime, the OPA groups its forces into three military regions called “theaters” for administrative purposes. If the OPA elects to create more than one theater headquarters in a specific area, it may allocate parts of the AFS from the other theaters. Typically, these peacetime theater groupings differ from the country’s go-to-war (fighting) force structure. Other parts of the AFS consist of assets centrally controlled at the national level. (See FM 7-100.4 Opposing Force Organization Guide: Chapter 3, Task Organizing.)
Strategic High Command
The Strategic High Command consists of a headquarters and three military theaters – East, South, and Central. In addition, there are strategic assets that report directly to the SHC. These assets can be allocated to the military theaters as needed. These units include the following:
- 1 Militia Command
- 1 Tank Division
- 1 Mechanized Infantry Division (IFV)
- 1 Airborne Corps
- 1 Information Warfare Brigade
- 1 UAV Brigade
- 1 SPF Command
- 1 Strategic Missile Command
- 1 Artillery Command
- 1 Air Defense Command
- 1 Engineer Command
- 1 Integrated Fires Command
- 1 Integrated Support Command
- 1 Internal Security Unit
Additionally, the PRO naval and air forces report to the SHC. See the sections below for additional information on these units.
National Strategic Goals
Olvanan strategic goals stem from its long history as the major power in the Western Pacific for more than 20 centuries. While Olvana has periodically been occupied by other powers for short periods, the people have always risen up to reinstate their independence from their oppressor. Olvana today wishes to be regional hegemon, with major influence in all parts of the world.
Examples of specific strategic goals for Olvana may include:
- Defend Olvana’s sovereignty
- Support and defend the Olvanan Communist Party (OCP)
- Maintain standing as a nuclear power
- Become a regional superpower
- Obtain world superpower status on par with Donovia and the US
- Develop a major foreign military sales presence
- Influence world affairs, including those in the Middle East and Africa
- Become energy independent
- Maintain and protect international trade while creating new markets for Olvanan exports
- Ensure access to rare-earth metals and other resources necessary for manufacturing high tech weapons and equipment
Implementing National Security Goals
Placehoder for Strategic Operations Diagram
Strategic operations for Olvana remain a continuous process, not limited to wartime or preparation for war. Once war begins, strategic operations continue during regional, transition, and adaptive operations. Each of the latter three types of operations occurs only during war, and only under certain conditions. Transition operations can overlap regional and adaptive operations.
In pursuit of its national security strategy, Olvana finds itself prepared to conduct four basic types of strategic-level courses of action. The four types of operations include:
- Strategic operations use all instruments of power in peace and war to achieve a country’s national security strategy goals through attacks against the enemy’s strategic centers of gravity.
- Regional operations include conventional, force-on-force military operations against overmatched opponents, such as regional adversaries and internal threats.
- Transition operations bridge the gap between regional and adaptive operations and contain some elements of both. The country continues to pursue its regional goals while dealing with developing outside intervention that has the potential to overmatch its military.
- Adaptive operations preserve the country’s power and apply it in adaptive ways against opponents that overmatch the country’s military.
National Security Strategy
Although Olvana may refer to them as “operations,” each of these courses of action are actually a subcategories of strategy. Each type of operation aggregates the effects of tactical, operational, and strategic actions, in conjunction with instruments of national power, to achieve each country’s strategic goals. The types of operations employed at a given time will depend on the types of threats, opportunities, and other conditions present.
Olvana will attempt, if possible, to achieve its ends without armed conflict. Accordingly, Olvana does not limit strategic operations to military means, and usually does not begin an operation with armed conflict. Olvana may achieve the desired goal through pressure applied by nonmilitary instruments of power, perhaps by merely threatening to use superior military power against the opponent. These actions fall under the general framework of “strategic operations.”
Olvana considers armed conflict when nonmilitary means prove insufficient or not expedient. Strategic operations continue, however, even if “regional operations,” that may include military means, commence. Prior to the initiation of hostilities—and throughout the course of armed conflict with its regional opponent—the government will continue to conduct strategic operations. These are designed to preclude intervention by outside parties such as regional neighbors or, more seriously, global powers that could overmatch its forces. Such operations, however, always include branches and sequels to deal with the possibility of intervention by an extra-regional power.
Military-Political Missions Relationship
The Olvanan government/OPA fields a number of units to carry out its military and political missions. Most of these assets are located in the various OPA SPF units. The Ministry of Interior (MoI), however, has five paramilitary brigades and five SPF brigades to help it complete its political related missions. See the paragraph on the 84th Internal Security Force for additional details.
In addition, the Olvana Supreme High Command (SHC) has five SPF brigades that report directly to the SHC. In addition, each of the three military theaters has a single direct reporting SPF brigade. Each OPA Army also fields its own SPF brigade creating a theater with four SPF brigades. The OPA Navy (OPAN) also fields a single SPF battalion. Some of the other SPF units can conduct waterborne missions similar to the OPAN SPF and some OPA SPF units can conduct airborne operations.
It is likely that the theater SPF Brigades and the naval SPF battalion will conduct strategic missions, but they could also conduct operational missions as well. The Army SPF brigades will conduct primarily operational missions, but could be assigned a strategic target or be attached to lower units for specific tactical missions. The SPF, no matter its level of its operations, will conduct long-distance reconnaissance, targeting of high value targets for indirect and aerial fires, and selective direct action missions. These direct action missions will likely be against strategic bridges, chokepoints, communications nodes, and other targets that would help their unit achieve its mission.
Some of these SPF units may contain soldiers that speak a foreign language and it is possible that they may wear foreign military uniforms in order to deceive its enemy. These SPF soldiers are some of the best trained soldiers in the entire OPA and are considered as some of the most politically reliable.
The following SPF units are within the OPA force structure. For specific missions, an SPF unit may be attached to a subordinate unit.
| UNIT | HIGHER HQS | THEATER | NATIONAL LEVEL | PRIMARY MISSION (SECONDARY) |
| 1 SPF Bde | State Security | NA | MoI | Strategic |
| 2 SPF Bde | State Security | NA | MoI | Strategic |
| 3 SPF Bde | State Security | NA | MoI | Strategic |
| 4 SPF Bde | State Security | NA | MoI | Strategic |
| 5 SPF Bde | State Security | NA | MoI | Strategic |
| 770 SPF Bde | 77 SPF Cmd | NA | SHC | Strategic (Operational) |
| 771 SPF Bde | 77 SPF Cmd | NA | SHC | Strategic (Operational) |
| 772 SPF Bde | 77 SPF Cmd | NA | SHC | Strategic (Operational) |
| 773 SPF Bde | 77 SPF Cmd | NA | SHC | Strategic (Operational) |
| 774 SPF Bde | 77 SPF Cmd | NA | SHC | Strategic (Operational) |
| Naval SPF Bn | Naval HQs | NA | SHC | Strategic (Operational/Tactical) |
| 120 SPF Bde | NA | ETO | NA | Operational (Strategic/Tactical) |
| 148 SPF Bde | 10 Army | ETO | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 182 SPF Bde | 11 Army | ETO | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 230 SPF Bde | 12 Army | ETO | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 249 SPF Bde | NA | CMT | NA | Operational (Strategic/Tactical) |
| 282 SPF Bde | 13 Army | CMT | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 320 SPF Bde | 14 Army | CMT | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 371 SPF Bde | 15 Army | CMT | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 390 SPF Bde | NA | SMT | NA | Operational (Strategic/Tactical) |
| 479 SPF Bde | 16 Army | SMT | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 510 SPF Bde | 17 Army | SMT | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
| 818 SPF Bde | 18 Army | SMT | NA | Operational (Tactical) |
Land Forces/Army Overview
Olvanan military strategy revolves around three primary objectives: nuclear weapons deterrence, control of the South China Sea, and ensuring global freedom of navigation. Olvana attempts to limit the US and its allies in Western Pacific through a combination of economic and military strategies. Olvana often provides funding for infrastructure projects in other countries—as long as Olvanan firms receive the bid for contract. Olvana often provides aid for regional natural disasters, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and tsunamis. The OPA provides soldiers to the UN for peacekeeping operations, especially those in the Pacific region. Besides being able to influence the political situation by the presence of the OPA, the OPA’s participants are exposed to the professionalism of western armies. The OPA maintains a large enough army to defend its homeland and to project its ground forces anywhere in the Pacific region. The OPN can patrol its territorial waters, inland waterways, and protect the sea lanes vital to its commerce. The OPAF can protect and support the OPA and OPN, and is in the midst of developing a carrier air wing following successful sea trials of OPN’s first aircraft carrier with the second carrier undergoing its final sea trials.
Land Forces/Army Size and Structure
Land Forces/Army Forces Distribution Map
Approximately five years ago, OPA land forces made major doctrinal revisions to its organization. The new OPA structure changed the primary maneuver element from a division to a brigade. The purpose of the restructuring was to reduce the active force size of the OPA to 1,120,000 soldiers, a reduction of approximately 500,000 soldiers. Brigades now report directly to an Army headquarters subordinate to a military theater command. The three primary brigade formations are: heavy (mechanized infantry with supporting tanks), medium (motorized infantry), and light (either truck-mounted infantry or airborne. Amphibious brigades are a heavier force than the light brigades, but without the full punching power of the medium brigades.
The estimated 1,120,000 OPA ground troops are divided between three military theaters reporting to the SHC. Each theater contains three “armies” (actually divisions in TC 7-100.2 terms and the map symbols indicate division in order to not confuse the observer thinking a unit marked with "XXX" is composed of several divisions), three separate infantry brigades (type varies between theaters), other combat units, combat support (CS) and combat service support (CSS) units. Each OPA “army” contains six infantry brigades, but the ratio of mechanized, motorized, and truck-mounted varies from army to army. Each “army” contains, however, at least one of each of these three types of infantry brigades. The types of brigades assigned to each army depend on the terrain and mission of the theater commander. In each theater, three brigades report directly to the theater. The fourth type of brigade—airborne— report to the 74th Airborne Corps that is a strategic asset of the SHC. There are three airborne brigades. The total number of maneuver brigades (heavy, medium, and light) total 78 counting all ground force, airborne, and amphibious types. Each Army also contains a combat helicopter brigade that employs attack, transportation, and reconnaissance aviation assets.
The maneuver brigade serves as Olvana’s basic combined arms unit. In the AFS, some maneuver brigades are organic to the base structure of the OPA’s armies. In reality, these “armies” are actually division-sized, and structured as a divisional brigades. The OPA also organizes some units as separate brigades, designed to be more independent and less reliant on augmentation from higher-level headquarters. Separate brigades possess some subordinate units with the same force structure as a divisional brigade of the same type (for example, the headquarters); some units that are especially tailored to the needs of a separate brigade, marked “(Sep)” in the organizational directories; and some that are the same as units of this type found at division level, marked “(Div.).”
The Olvanan army designs its maneuver brigades to serve as the basis to form a brigade tactical group (BTG). A brigade, separate or as part of a BTG, can fight as part of an army (division or division tactical group, a separate unit in an operational-strategic command, an organization of the AFS (such as army, corps, or military district), or as part of a field group. (See TC 7-100.2: Opposing Force Tactics, Chapter 2, Command and Control.) The Olvanan SHC routinely tasks organizes units giving maneuver brigades and armies (actually divisions) assets assigned to higher headquarters.
Eastern Military Theater
The Eastern Military Theater (EMT) occupies the land in northeast Olvana and its headquarters is based in Wuhan. Its mission is to defend the northeastern land border and airspace, and eastern coastline and territorial waters north of Hong Kong to its northern border. It is habitually supported by the OPN Eastern Fleet and the OPAF Eastern District Air Force.
The Eastern Military Theater’s task organization is suited to the terrain in which it operates. There are three armies and each army consists of six infantry maneuver brigades (five mechanized and one motorized) plus other combat, combat support, and combat service support units. These armies are headquartered in Shanghi, Chungsha, and Fuzhou.
There are other units that report directly to the Eastern Military Theater commander including:
- 2 Separate Mechanized Infantry Brigades (IFV)
- 1 Motorized Infantry Brigade (APC)
- 1 Separate Amphibious Brigade
- 1 Recon Brigade
- 1 Anti-tank Brigade
- 1 SPF Brigade
- 1 Artillery Command
- 1 Air Defense Command
- 1 Combat Helicopter Brigade
- 1 Engineer Command
- 1 Chemical Brigade
- 1 Smoke Brigade
- 1 Signal Brigade
- 1 RISTA Command
- 1 Integrated Support Command
- 1 Integrated Fires Command
- 1 Traffic Control Brigade
- 1 Medical Battalion
- 1 Material Support Brigade
Central Military Theater
The Central Military Theater (CMT) occupies the land in northwest and western Olvana and its headquarters is based in Chongqing. Its mission is to defend the western and northwestern land border and airspace. It has no coastal responsibilities. Since it has no coastal responsibilities, there is no habitual associations with the OPN. It is habitually supported by the OPAF Eastern District Air Force.
The Central Military Theater’s task organization is also suited to the terrain in which it operates. There are three armies, but they contain a different mixture of maneuver brigades than the Eastern and Southern Armies. The three armies are composed of five mechanized infantry brigades, a single motorized brigade, with additional combat, combat support, and combat service support units. There are other units that report directly to the Central Military Theater commander including:
- 2 Separate Mechanized Infantry Brigades (IFV)
- 1 Motorized Infantry Brigaded (APC)
- 1 Recon Brigade
- 1 Anti-tank Brigade
- 1 SPF Brigade
- 1 Artillery Command
- 1 Air Defense Command
- 1 Combat Helicopter Brigade
- 1 Engineer Command
- 1 Chemical Brigade
- 1 Smoke Brigade
- 1 Signal Brigade
- 1 RISTA Command
- 1 Integrated Support Command
- 1 Integrated Fires Command
- 1 Traffic Control Brigade
- 1 Medical Battalion
- 1 Material Support Brigade
Southern Military Theater
The Southern Military Theater (SMT) occupies the land in southern Olvana and the south and southwestern coastline of Olvana and its headquarters is based in Guangzhou. Its mission is primarily maritime and has no responsibility for any land border. Its mission is to defend the southern coast line and airspace. Its port facilities support the amphibious brigades and force projection platforms. It is habitually supported by the OPAF Southern District Air Force.
The Southern Military Theater’s task organization is also suited to the terrain in which it operates. There are three armies, but they contain a different mixture of maneuver brigades than the Eastern Army. The three armies are composed of two mechanized infantry brigades, four motorized infantry brigades, with additional combat, combat support, and combat service support units. There are other units that report directly to the Southern Military Theater commander including:
- 1 Separate Mechanized Infantry Brigade (IFV)
- 2 Motorized Infantry Brigades (APC)
- 3 Separate Amphibious Infantry Brigades
- 1 Recon Brigade
- 1 Anti-tank Brigade
- 1 SPF Brigade
- 1 Artillery Command
- 1 Air Defense Command
- 1 Combat Helicopter Brigade
- 1 Engineer Command
- 1 Chemical Brigade
- 1 Smoke Brigade
- 1 Signal Brigade
- 1 RISTA Command
- 1 Integrated Support Command
- 1 Integrated Fires Command
- 1 Traffic Control Brigade
- 1 Medical Battalion
- 1 Material Support Brigade
84th Internal Security Unit
The 84th Internal Security Force is assigned to the Olvana Supreme Command, but actually operates as part of the Ministry of the Interior (MoI). The MoI consists of five directorates and the Chief of Internal Security. These directorates are State Security, Political, General Police, Intelligence, and Civil Defense. All these organizations are inward looking to ensure that the Olvanan people conform to the policies set forth by the OCP. The Political Directorate works with the OCP to develop policy for the country. The General Police Directorate coordinates the law enforcement operations for the entire country. The Intelligence Directorate gathers information to ensure that no coups take place against the current regime. The Civil Defense Directorate plans operations in case of uprisings or other internal disorder.
The State Security Directorate is possibly the most important directorate when it comes to military action. There are five paramilitary brigades and five SPF brigades that work directly for the MoI. The paramilitary brigades would likely operate in cooperation with the 72nd Tank Division, the 73rd Mechanized Infantry Division, and the other most reliable OPA units in case of internal strife. These units are mostly located in or near the capital city.
The five SPF Brigades will conduct strategic missions outside, as well as inside, Olvana’s borders. These SPF units are trained in a number of Asian languages, French, and in English. They will be used to attack strategic targets if Olvana goes to war in the region or even against a major world power. The SPF missions may include, but are not limited to missions to assassinate or kidnap foreign leaders; seize strategic bridges, communication nodes, or other important structures; or long distance reconnaissance that would help facilitate the OPA in the fulfillment of its military mission and ultimately the OCP’s political goals.
Army/Ground Forces Reserve
Olvana maintains an operational reserve of about 340,000 soldiers in the Olvanan People's Reserve (OPR) and in addition the county also maintain an inactive ready reserve similar to many Western militaries. Both the active reserve force and the inactive ready reserves are geographically based. Former Olvanan soldiers in the inactive reserve must report annually, in person, to the local militia brigade commander and provide their most recent contact information until 40 years of age. Each year, the active duty military releases over 300,000 draftees after they have completed their two years of military service. This creates a reserve force of over 6 million inactive reserve members with two years of active military experience. See Land Forces Training and Readiness paragraph below.
Land Forces/Army Doctrine and Tactics
The OPA believes that victory can only be achieved through bold offensive actions. OPA offensive doctrine is based on Olvanan history modified by Donovian advisors’ influence over the past 80 years. The OPA believes that a minimum of a 3:1 offensive-to-defensive force ratio is needed for battlefield success, and prefer a 10:1 advantage at the site of the main attack.
The OPA seeks to annihilate the enemy while occupying the enemy’s important terrain and strategic targets. To achieve offensive objectives, the OPA modifies its actions based on the current actions of the enemy (TC 7-100.2 terms listed in parentheses):
Enemy in defense (complex battle position)
Enemy not well-established (simple battle position) Enemy on the move
Basic Offensive Principles
The OPA’s basic offensive principles include the following (US terms listed):
- Centralize strength (mass): Use organic and supporting forces and weapons systems to create comprehensive superiority over the enemy in both quantity and quality at a certain place and time.
- Conduct full-depth attack, partition, encirclement, and annihilation (offensive): Offensive actions should take place simultaneously and throughout the depth of the enemy to divide the enemy’s forces in the shortest time possible to weaken the enemy to the point that containment and annihilation is possible.
- Keep in mind the entire situation and attack the enemy’s vital points (objective): Understand the enemy and the situation in order to carry out prioritized attacks and focused assaults against the key targets.
- Make changes based on the situation and launch flexible attacks (flexibility): Do not remain rigid and make adjustments according to changes in the battlefield conditions in order to achieve the directed mission
- Fight a quick decisive battle and annihilate the enemy through sudden and violent actions (offensive): Use sudden, firm, quick, and continuous offensive actions to maintain pressure on the enemy to achieve a positive outcome in the shortest time possible.
- No matter what the OPA’s enemy is doing, their actions will accomplish certain basic tasks. Of these, the annihilation of the enemy is the most important consideration.
- Break through the enemy’s positions
- Eliminate the enemy in the defensive positions
- Occupy the important areas/targets
- Attack/annihilate the enemies that are on the move or in stagnation Occupy the enemy’s key depth points
- Cut apart the enemy’s operations disposition
Basic Defensive Principles
- The OPA only goes on the defense in order to transition to the offense. OPA defensive operations attempt to cause enemy casualties, protect key areas or targets, delay or foil enemy’s offensive operations, trade space for time, or preserve combat strength to set the stage for the next offensive. The OPA conducts three types of defense (TC 7-100.2 terms):
- Positional Defense (Area Defense)
- Mobile Defense (Situational Defense/Maneuver Defense)
- Maneuver Defense (Maneuver Defense)
- The OPA espouses five key principles in their defensive tactics:
- Full-depth integrated defense: Maximize the use of terrain and the friendly forces to conduct an integrated defense.
- Amass strength to form focused resistance: Centralize defensive forces to mass combat power and provide protection against the enemy’s offensive while maintaining the maneuverability of the OPA’s units.
- Combine protection, resistance, attack, and counterattack actions: Conduct close protection to preserve combat power, block the enemy’s offensive tactics, and attrite the enemy in order to prepare friendly forces for future offensive operations.
- Fight for initiative through firm and active actions: Fight for local superiority in inferior circumstances by using forces flexibly, smart planning, and imaginative techniques.
- Whatever defense the OPA chooses, the force will conduct five basic tasks: Safeguard important areas or targets to foil the enemy’s offensive actions.
- Block the enemy’s reinforcement, breakthroughs, or retreats, and attempt to delay all enemy actions.
- Entice the enemy to create favorable battle opportunities for annihilating the enemy or to draw forces away from the OPA main effort.
- Consolidate occupied areas to resist the enemy’s counterattack or assure the flank security of the OPA main effort.
- Cover the centralization, maneuver, transfer, or rest and reorganization of the main force.
Land Forces/Army Training and Readiness
The OPA ground forces rely on short-term conscription to meet most of its manpower requirements. Each year, about 12 million Olvanan citizens reach military draft age; 53% of them are males. Females are currently exempt from mandatory military service. The OPA annually drafts over 300,000 males between the ages of 18 and 24, following completion of high school. Deferments are easy to obtain for university studies. Males selected for military service must serve for two years. Most go to the army; a small number are assigned to the navy. All OPA officers are volunteers. Non-commissioned officers are as educated or better educated than their western peers. Due to the large pool of potential soldiers, the OPA can be more selective about who is drafted. Despite the higher education level, a turnover rate of almost 50% of the force every two years reduces the OPA’s ground forces’ capabilities. Due to this turnover, the operational readiness rate of most OPA ground units is only about 87%.
The OPA is decreasing the number of personnel assigned to officer candidate schools as the military modernizes its force, focusing more on new technologies and less on fighting the wars of yesteryear. The number of officer cadets selected to attend infantry and artillery schools will decrease by about one-quarter over the next two decades. Branches that will receive an increase of about 15% include aviation, missile, space intelligence, electronic warfare, unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and the naval forces. Logistics and support departments will maintain their officer levels despite the overall anticipated reduction in the total army.
In addition to the active duty ground forces, the OPA maintains about 340,000 active reservists. These soldiers come primarily from two sources. Those soldiers that leave active duty after their two- year obligation can join the Olvana People’s Reserve (OPR) voluntarily and stay to the age of 45. Olvanan citizens not selected for active duty military service can also apply to serve in the OPR. Acceptance into the OPR can be based on a variety of reasons to include political connections, overall personnel shortages, or the individual has a specific skill set that is needed. When jobs are in short supply in the rural area, interest in the OPA increases due to the possibility of being paid for part-time miitary service.
If there is a shortage in the OPR, the active duty draft for a particular year will be extended to make up for the shortfall. Those drafted for the OPR still must serve until they reach 40 years of age. Reserve units are based on geography and report through a chain of command to the local theater commander. Reserve units include the following types:
- 1 Tank Regiment (Sep)
- 30 Infantry Brigades (Sep)
- 6 Artillery Brigades
- 20 Air Defense Brigades
- 8 Engineer Brigades
- 2 Pontoon Bridge Brigades
- 5 Chemical Brigades
- 5 Signal Brigades
- 5 Material Support Brigades
Olvana maintains a robust special-purpose forces (SPF) capability. The national SPF Command fields five SPF brigades and five commando brigades. Each of the three theaters and nine armies contain an SPF brigade. Soldiers who wish to serve in the SPF units must volunteer and go through a rigorous training program before assignment. SPF units receive priority of new equipment, with their old equipment being cascaded down to lower priority units.
Land Forces/Army Equipment and Weapons
The Olvanan army operates primarily tier 1 or tier 2 equipment, though reserve units may operate some tier 3 equipment. When a high priority unit receives new equipment, the unit’s old equipment is passed to a lower priority unit. At some point, the equipment ends up in reserve, or is sold to another country. Active duty equipment is maintained very well due to the education of the individual soldier and the OPA’s strict disciplinary procedures. Reported equipment readiness rate is 93%. (For further information see the Worldwide Equipment Guide (WEG), Vol. 1, Chapter 1, OPFOR Tier Tables.)
Maritime Forces Overview
Unlike many navies throughout the world, the OPN is a subordinate branch of the OPA. The OPN operates more ships than any other Western Pacific country. The OPN is both a blue- and brown- water force, divided into two fleets—Eastern and Southern. The OPN also operates riverine ships that secure the navigable rivers within Olvana. The OPN operates a large number of submarines, both ballistic missile and attack. Olvana states that their military force is for defensive purposes, with its size and capabilities as a deterrent against other major powers. Currently, the OPN has one fully operational first aircraft carrier and its second carrier is in the final stages of its sea trials. The OPN has determined the initial aircraft that can be carrier based while conducting research into additional research to determine what other existing aircraft might successfully convert to being carrier-based. It is also seeking to increase research and development in more advanced submarine technology and naval surface-to-air missiles. Two other aircraft carriers are under construction in Olvana. One is only a year out from being finished, but the other recently laid its keel meaning that it will be several years before it is completed. Both are Shandong-class carriers like the second currently active carrier. However, unlike much military hardware production, shipbuilding capacity must compete with the civilian sector, as Olvana is heavily reliant on maritime shipping capacity and upgrades to keep its export-based economy growing.
Maritime Forces Size and Structure
Approximately 115,000 sailors— including 20,000 conscripts—serve in the OPN. Each year, the OPA drafts about 10,000 civilians to serve in the OPN. The OPN also fields a 10,000 man marine division that is assigned to the Southern Fleet. This is double the number of marines from five years ago; the numbers are due to double again over the next decade. The OPN fields its own information warfare (INFOWAR) brigade and SPF battalion that report directly to the OPN headquarters. While both the Eastern and Southern Fleets are similar in structure, the types of ships assigned to each may vary depending on the mission. The Southern Fleet is geared to amphibious operations while the Eastern Fleet operates mainly in blue water. The Southern fleet contains more mine/countermine ships and amphibious landing craft than the Eastern Fleet.
Olvana assigned its first carrier to the Eastern Fleet, but assigned its newest and more capable Shandong-class carrier to its Southern Fleet. When Olvana’s third carrier is operational, the oldest aircraft carrier may be moved to the Southern Fleet.
Maritime Forces Distribution Map
Eastern Fleet
The Eastern Fleet has the most capability for worldwide deployment, but is primarily a bluewater fleet aimed at keeping the shipping lanes to Olvana open. One carrier is already assigned to the Eastern Fleet and it is expected that when the second aircraft carrier that is now going through its final sea trials will become part of the Southern Fleet. The OPN Eastern Fleet currently contains the following major maritime units:
- 3 Submarine Divisions
- 3 Carrier/Destroyer Divisions
- 1 Mine/Countermine Division
- 1 Amphibious Division
- 1 Naval Aviation Bomber Regiment
- 2 Naval Aviation Fighter/Attack Regiments
- 1 Naval Aviation Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Regiment
- 1 Naval Aviaiton Transportation Regiment
- 1 Naval Aviation Helicopter Regiment
Southern Fleet
While the Southern Fleet has similar capabilities to the Eastern Fleet, this fleet has additional amphibious capabilities. This could be because of preparation for actions in the South China Sea or other areas where amphibious operations may occur. The newest Shandong-class aircraft carrier is assigned to the Southern fleet, but is undergoing its final sea trials. There are two additional aircraft carriers that Olvana shipyards are currently building. When all four carriers are completed, the Eastern Fleet will likely be assigned two, if not three of the carriers. The OPN Southern Fleet currently contains the following major maritime units:
- 2 Submarine Divisions
- 3 Destroyer Divisions
- 1 Mine/Countermine Division
- 3 Amphibious Divisions
- 1 Naval Aviation Bomber Regiment
- 2 Fighter Aviation Fighter/Attack Regiments
- 1 Naval Aviation
- 1 Naval Aviation ASW Regiment
- 1 Naval Aviation Transportation Regiment
- 1 Naval Aviation Helicopter Regiment
- 1 Marine (Naval Infantry) Division
Marines
The OPN force structure contains one dedicated Marine (Naval Infantry) Division. This unit conducts training solely focused on amphibious operations. This does not mean that other OPA units cannot conduct amphibious operations. Each OPA light infantry battalion is scheduled to conduct a month's worth of amphibious training every five years working with the Eastern Fleet. If all landing craft in the OPN fleet is operational, the entire Marine Division can conduct an amphibious assault in a single landing.
Coast Guard
There is no coast guard in Olvana. The five river patrol squadrons conduct the missions associated with most coast guards. From their bases, they conduct operations along the coastline as well conducting operations along all major rivers in Olvana. While these river patrol squadrons can operate out of any port, the five homeports are located in the following cities:
- Ma long
- Hong Kong
- Fuzhou
- Shanghai
- Dongying
Martime Reserves
There is no naval reserve in Olvana, but the government tracks those that have served in the navy. Each former sailor under the age of 45 must annually inform the government of their current contact information during the month of their birth.
Maritime Forces Doctrine and Tactics
The main purpose of the OPN is to ensure freedom of navigation for Olvanan exports to reach their destinations. The OPN is also available to project military power in the region, and, increasingly, globally through its aircraft carrier and future fleet upgrades.
Typical OPN missions might include:
- Mine laying, particularly in narrow channels and coastal areas
- Minesweeping
- Naval gun fire
- Insertion/extraction of SPF
- Defensive patrolling of coastal areas
- Riverine patrolling of Olvana’s navigable rivers
- Counterdrug search and seizure
- Anti-smuggling and piracy operations
- Sea search and rescue
- Submarine operations
- Convoy escort
The Marine Division can conduct amphibious operations. Other OPA units are also trained in amphibious operations as all light infantry battalions go through a one-month training every five years. Once on the ground, the amphibious ground units will operate in a similar manner to OPA units of a similar size.
With a large pool of possible draftees to choose from, the OPN can be selective with the approximately 10,000 conscripts that join the navy each year. Many of these conscripts decide to stay longer than their two-year military obligation. There is no naval reserve in Olvana, but the government tracks those that have served in the navy. Each former sailor under the age of 45 must annually inform the government of their current contact information during the month of their birth. After a short basic training period, new sailors receive an assignment to a ship; they will likely serve on this same ship until their two-year service ends. Trained sailors—including draftees—are usually very proficient in their occupations, generating an operational readiness rate of over 90%.
The OPN operates primarily tier 2 equipment. Replacement ships arrive annually and Olvana then sells the older ships to other countries. While smaller than American carriers, the LIAONING Class aircraft carrier is a state-of-the-art tier 1 ship. On the second Shandong-class carrier, Olvana will place some of its latest tier 1 fixed wing aircraft on the carrier for air operations. The equipment readiness rate for the OPN runs normally around 91%.
Air Force Overview
Air Forces Size and Structure
The three theater air forces align with the three military theaters—Eastern, Southern, and Central. There is also a large Strategic Air Division that reports directly to the OPAF commander. Each theater air force commander is subordinate to the OPA theater commander. Each of the three theater air forces is almost identical. An air force may be augmented by assets from the strategic air division based on mission requirements.
Air Forces Force Distribution Map
Strategic Air Division
The OPAF Strategic Air Division (SAD) contains the country's global assets and is charged with protecting the country's capital city. Assets from the SAD are detached to the the air forces when they are assigned missions that the air force district does not organically possess the assets needed to complete the mission. At the end of the mission, control of the attached units revert back to the SAD. The SAD headquarters is located in Shanghai. Units without locations on the wire diagram are co-located with their higher headquarters. Normally, the SAD fields the following major units:
- 3 Fighter Regiments
- 1 Bomber Regiment
- 1 Fighter/Ground Attack Regiment
- 1 Ground Attack Regiment
- 1 Electronic Warfare (EW) Regiment
- 1 ISR Regiment
- 1 AEW&C Regiment
- 1 Combat Search and Rescue (SAR) Regiment
- 1 Refueling Regiment
- 1 Transportation Regiment
- 1 VIP Transportation Regiment
Eastern Air Force District
Based in Wuhan, the Eastern Air Force (EAF) works with the OPA ground force units in the area. The EAF also works with the naval units in his area of operation. The EAF would also operate against any forces that came from the north. Units without locations on the wire diagram are co-located with their higher headquarters. The EAF fields is normally composed of the following major units, but could receive attachments from the SAD for specific missions.
- 7 Fighter Regiments
- 1 Bomber Regiment
- 3 Fighter/Ground Attack Regiment
- 2 Ground Attack Regiment
- 1 Electronic Warfare (EW) Regiment
- 1 Transportation Regiment
Southern Air Force District
The Southern Air Force (SAF) is based in Hong Kong. While it may have similiar missions to the EAF, the SAF also has responsibility to support any amphibious operations in the South China Sea or in (or against) any countries within the region (North Torbia, South Torbia, Belesia, or Gabal). The SAF is normally composed of the following major units, but could receive attachments from the SAD for specific missions.
- 7 Fighter Regiments
- 1 Bomber Regiment
- 3 Fighter/Ground Attack Regiment
- 2 Ground Attack Regiment
- 1 Electronic Warfare (EW) Regiment
- 1 Transportation Regiment
Central Air Force District
The Southern Air Force (CAF) is headquartered in Chongqing. With missions similar to the other two air force districts, the CAF is more familiar with operations against insurgent and guerrilla forces. The CAF has been involving in fighting these groups for over two decades. The CAF is normally composed of the following major units, but could receive attachments from the SAD for specific missions.
- 7 Fighter Regiments
- 1 Bomber Regiment
- 3 Fighter/Ground Attack Regiment
- 2 Ground Attack Regiment
- 1 Electronic Warfare (EW) Regiment
- 1 Transportation Regiment
Air Force/Air National Guard Units
There is no reserve or national guard air force units in Olvana. Olvana reserves the right to requisition any civilian aircraft that operates within the country for national defense purposes. The OPAF also can recall trained pilots that have left the miilitary for civilian occupations.
Air Forces Doctrine and Tactics
OPAF operations were heavily influenced by Donovian aviation doctrine until the 1970s. Since then, the OPAF has developed their own doctrine. As the OPA introduces air and ground forces into an area of operations, the OPAF (primarily the theater air forces) concentrates on gaining and maintaining air superiority. Mission allocation is determined by the operational situation and the number of aircraft needed to obtain air superiority, versus support of the OPA ground forces.
Early in a conflict, most OPAF air theater air force assets will conduct strategic and operational- level missions. Examples of these higher-level missions are strategic bombing, long-range strike, wide-area defensive and offensive counter-air, air interdiction, theater air reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and possibly chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) delivery.
Early operational and tactical missions—air interdiction, close air support, and local offensive/ defensive counter air—are intended to gain and maintain air superiority. Airspace conditions dictate aircraft employment throughout the theater of operations at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels.
The OPAF, through the Strategic Air Division and/or the Theater Air Forces, may reinforce tactical maneuver units by allocating a small number of aviation assets, through either attachment or assignment as supporting aviation to a subordinate unit such as an OPA army. An attached aviation unit is under the control of the maneuver unit commander. An aviation unit assigned to support a maneuver force remains subordinate to its parent squadron or regiment, but carries out missions in support of the maneuver commander.
The OPAF possesses the following aviation-related capabilities:
- Bomber Aviation
- Fighter Aviation
- Fighter/Ground Attack Aviation
- Reconnaissance Aviation
- Aerial Refueling
- Mixed Aviation (Fixed Wing and Rotary Wing)
- Long-Range Fixed and Rotary Wing Aviation
- Electronic Warafare including Heliborne Jamming
- Integrated Air Defense System (in conjunction with the 80th Air Defense Command)
- Combat Search and Rescue (SAR)
- Strategic, operational, and tactical UAS Systems
Although the OPAF aviation is not normally found at the tactical level, the OPAF is often tasked to provide support to the OPA ground units. The primary function for tactical aviation is to provide continuous fire support to ground forces by serving as “flying artillery,” quickly responding to changes in the battlefield situation. They can be used to strike targets out of artillery range, and provide maneuver support to the tactical and operational depth of the enemy. Fixed-wing assets available to the ground commander are found at the military district level in the administrative force structure. The majority of the direct aerial support that ground commanders receive comes from the army-level helicopter brigades.
Air Forces Training and Readiness
The OPAF is an all-volunteer air force with all officers possessing a university degree. The OPAF is considered an excellent career or as a great place to obtain skills useful in a civilian occupation. The OPA reserves the right, however, to conscript civilians for service in the air force if there are not enough volunteers. Any airman who leaves the service must annually submit his contact information to the government during the month of his birth. It takes approximately five years to train a pilot from the time they are selected for pilot training to assignment to a deployable unit. OPAF pilots average flying 120 hours per year—more than many American pilots. While the OPAF does possess some flight simulators, the OPAF spend less time on them than American pilots. Due largely to the high quality volunteer professional force, the OPAF maintains a 93% operational readiness rate for its personnel.
The operational readiness rate (OR rate), or “ready to fly rate,” refers to the capability of a unit, equipment, or weapon system to perform the mission or function for which it was organized or designed. Factors such as on-hand major-end items, spare part availability, scheduled aircraft maintenance, logistical and resupply procedures, transportation capabilities, and aircraft cannibalization and/or transfer procedures are considered. Initially, an OR rate in excess of 85 to 90 percent is considered normal. As hostilities continue, this rate can diminish considerably.
Air Forces Equipment and Weapons
The OPAF operates mostly tier 1/2 level equipment and aircraft, though some units may have tier 3 equipment. It also possesses the potential to employ niche and emerging technologies. The OPAF fields domestically manufactured advanced aircraft, including long-range bombers, fighters/interceptors, and multi-role aircraft. These capabilities allow the OPAF to project power both regionally and potentially globally.
Due to the relatively newness of many of the aircraft and the regular replacement of aircraft with the surplus sold to other countries, the equipment operational readiness rate of the OPAF averages around 92%.
Air defense from the ground is handled primarily by the OPA. The 82nd Integrated Fires Command at the national level coordinates air defense between the OPA air defense units and the OPAF aerial assets.
Paramilitary Forces
There are several paramilitary forces that operate in Olvana. Many of these are part of the government, but there are other forces that are not part of the government. Some of these forces operate against the Olvana government.
Government Paramilitary Forces
There are three primary government paramilitary groups that could provide combat power to Olvana in case of a national emergency. These are the Olvana National Police, OAP Internal Security Force, and the Olvana Militia.
Olvana National Police
The Olvana Armed Police (OAP) is a national police force of approximately 700,000 officers equipped with small arms and civilian or modified civilian vehicles. There is no set structure for the OAP, as the number assigned to any area is based on the population, criminal activity, and the area’s importance. The OAP has the authority to arrest, investigate, and patrol all parts of Olvana, except those under military control. The OAP also serves as Olvana’s border control agents and guard strategic civilian infrastructure such as power stations, water purification plants, and dams. The OAP reports to the Minister of Interior.
OAP Internal Security Forces
The OAP operates an internal security force (ISF) of approximately 200,000 personnel, whose mission is to ensure that there are no revolutions against the current Olvana regime. The average Olvanan cannot tell the difference between the two types of OAP members, as both wear the same uniform. The OAP ISF maintains a large number of its members in the country’s capital city to protect government leaders and to deter attempts at destabilizing or overthrowing the government. Though lightly armed when compared to the regular ground forces, OAP ISF members operate some of the latest military equipment that Olvana possesses.
There are two types of military style units in the OAP ISF: the paramilitary brigade, and the SPF brigade. There are five of each type of brigade. The paramilitary brigades’ primary mission is to protect the OCP from insurrection or overthrow, with a secondary mission to suppress political protest. The SPF brigades have two primary missions. In peacetime, the SPF is focused on stopping any terrorist activities before they happen, or reacting to terrorist events in case prevention fails. In wartime, the OAP ISF conducts strategic level SPF missions. The OAP, including the ISF, operates a large anti-criminal/anti-terrorism intelligence operation.
Olvana Militia
Olvana does not maintain an organized reserve force typical to many Western militaries. There is, however, a geographically based organized militia. Former Olvanan soldiers must report annually, in person, to the local militia brigade commander and provide their most recent contact information until 40 years of age. Many of these military veterans forget to report during the month of their birth, but little is done to track down those that fail to comply with the requirement.
Males who do not serve in the active military receive two weeks of local basic training after graduating from high school. After their military training, these militia members are also required to report annually to the local militia brigade commander, just like active duty veterans until the age of 40. Again, many of these militia members fail to comply. This is especially true in the rural areas. With over one million militia members in each of the military regions, the local militia commanders do not receive enough resources to force compliance with the annual reporting requirement.
There are three active militia brigades in each military region. Militia members can opt to serve in one of these units by volunteering during their annual check-in with the local militia brigade. In times of economic difficulty, there are always plenty of volunteers. In good economic times, volunteers are scarce. Active militia members serve two weeks of duty followed by a furlough of four weeks. Thus, there is always one active militia brigade at all times. In a local emergency, the other active militia members can be called up to triple the size of the militia force.
Militia units only use small arms and travel in wheeled vehicles. They are poorly trained. During a national emergency, the intent is for the militia to defend Olvana’s borders, serve as quick replacements for active military casualties, and protect internal supply lines. They may also conduct irregular warfare operations behind enemy lines in the event parts of Olvana are occupied by an external enemy, though the militia receives little training in the techniques to conduct such activity. In peacetime, the militia may be called upon to help out in natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes.
Non-State Paramilitary Forces
There are a number of non-state paramilitary forces. Most of these operate against the Olvana government. The amount of activity depends on the number of members available and the charisma of the leaders. It is often difficult to distinguish between true guerilla forces and insurgent forces. Often, an insurgent group will use guerilla tactics to accomplish a mission. The definition of a guerrilla is an individual within a irregular unit structure organized along military lines in order to conduct military and paramility opertions in enemy-held, hostile, or denied territy. An insurgent is an individual organized within an irregular insurgent organization structure uses subersion and/or violence in order to overthrow or force change of a governing authority.
Guerrilla Forces
While the insurgent and guerilla forces listed here could be classified into either category, the Yellow Sashes Sashes come closer to the definition of a guerilla force than the other two groups.
Yellow Sashes
The Yellow Sashes are primarily Hindu. Their intent is to resist the OCP’s suppression of religion. The Yellow Sashes are often traditionalists who wish to return the country back to the way it was 150 years ago. The Yellow Sashes want a return to the pre-communist form of government: a hereditary monarchy. They want to restore Zhang Wei Hunan, the fifth great-grandnephew of the last Olvanese ruling dynasty to power. Zhang Wei Hunan is living in exile in Belesia under an assumed name. There are no indications that Zhang Wei Hunan is directing the Yellow Sashes from his overseas location. The Yellow Sashes operate primarily in the central and northern portions of Olvana, but pockets of the group can be found in the western or southern regions. Their primary technique is to ambush small groups of government officials or soldiers. Cells operate independently of each other and the elimination of one cell has little effect on the overall group. The Yellow Sashes are estimated at under 10,000 active members, but the true figure is probably closer to 3,000.
See the Yellow Sashes page for additional information on this guerilla group.
Insurgent Forces
Several groups in Olvana actively oppose the central government and the single-party socialist political system. The three largest are the Yellow Sashes, the Olvana Jemaah Islamiyah, and the Olvana Mission. All three groups operate primarily in the rural areas of Olvana. This choice of location is driven by three main reasons. First, the cities are more homogeneous: large numbers of Hindu faith make recruiting for their causes more difficult. Second, the Olvanan government maintains better control of the people in the cities than the rural areas, making it easier for insurgent groups to survive in rural areas. Lastly, the groups often operate in some of the most difficult terrain in Olvana, making it difficult for the police or military to destroy the groups’ cells without suffering large number of casualties in ambushes. The Yellow Sashes have been covered in the Guerilla section above.
Olvana Jemaah Islamiyah
The Olvana Jemaah Islamiyah (OJI) is a Muslim insurgent group that operates primarily in north western Olvana. Many of its leaders are trained in the Middle East. As the OJI becomes stronger, the group continues insert itself into the mainstream narrative among Olvana’s Muslims. OJI is extremely adept at conducting information and influence operations among the Muslim population while remaining beneath the radar of the civil authorities. OJI typically seeks to take advantage of missteps by the Olvanan government. If an abuse occurs, OJI is quick to exploit the opportunity in order to gain favor among the general population, and will seek to radicalize vulnerable young men from poor rural populations. Due to the fact that Olvana has a large surveillance capability, OJI is more likely to attempt to operate among the population quietly rather than openly. The OJI tests the loyalty of potential members, including young children by using them as couriers to carry messages, supplies, ammunition, and arms, as local police seldom bother the children carrying goods in rural areas. It is estimated that there are less than 10,000 true OJI believers, but due to fear, many others support the group or at least do not stand in their way.
See the OJI page for additional information on this insurgent group.
Olvana Mission
The Olvana Mission (OM) is a group of Christian missionaries whose objective is to make the lives of rural Olvanans better while converting them to Christianity. The Olvanan central government is not extreme in its denunciation of religion, and will generally allow free religious practice as long as those practicing their faith do not seek to use it as a means to overturn the current political structure. The OM is on the cusp of going from a group tolerated by the Olvana government to one that the OCP will seek to suppress. John Henry Brown from Europe founded the OM when he arrived in the extreme northeastern part of Olvana ten years ago. At the time, Brown was a 30-year old self-proclaimed missionary who just wanted to help the Olvanese people improve their lives. Brown grew up in a European commune whose purpose was to worship God in an agricultural setting. Brown learned to farm at an early age and in the commune learned all sorts of skills necessary to survive in nature without many resources. When Brown was 20 years of age, he left the commune to spread his vision of God’s work, working his way east before eventually arriving in northeastern Olvana. Brown has taught the Olvanan people better farming techniques, helped dig wells for improved access to water, taught better hygiene to reduce sickness, and introduced simple ways to improve their life while trying to convert them to his brand of Christianity. While Brown may seem peaceful, he will defend himself and his supporters with force because he believes his cause is just. Brown’s supporters will not give him away, but his presence bringing Christianity to the Olvanan people brings him in conflict not only with the Olvana central government so far away, but with the Yellow Sashes and OJI as well.Brown and the OM do not normally attack other groups, but will not hesitate to defend what he is trying to build. There are less than 1,000 active OM members, but many people support them because of the humanitarian projects they bring to rural Olvana communities.
See the Olvana Mission page for additional information on this group.
Red River Liberation Army (RRLA)
The Red River Liberation Army (RRLA) is a multi-ethnic militant organization focused on rejecting all Olvanan political and cultural influence and maintaining the unique ethnic identities found in and around the Red River in southwestern Olvana. The movement has existed for decades in one form or another. Previous efforts to gain independence have been violently crushed by the Olvanan Government. They now recognize that they cannot fight the Olvanan security forces toe to toe, and instead seek to grow their support while conducting asymmetrical operations against security forces. Operations within urban environments tend to be non-kinetic, or conducted in such a way that attribution is difficult. The RRLA has camps located throughout the jungles and mountainous areas of southwestern Olvana.
For more information on this group, go to the RRLA page.
One Hui Front (OHF)
While the OHF are an ethno-nationalist organization, rather than an Islamist organization, Islam remains a large part of the organizations identity. While they are rumored to receive support from sympathetic actors around the Pacific and Middle East, they have purposefully steered away from any public connection to any entities that support Olvana Jemaah Islamiyah (OJI). Given their close proximity, the OHF often competes with OJI for resources and recruits, however they have been known to cooperate on occasion. Despite the ethno-nationalist ideals, OHF has been known to recruit non-Hui members. Despite their ability to maintain operations against the Olvanan government for several decades, the small size of the Hui population limits the size of OHF. While the OHF claims to be fighting for all Hui peoples, there are significant portions of the Hui population that do not approve of their actions.
For more information on the OHF, go to their page.
Criminal Organizations
There are a number of criminal organzations that operate in a country the size of Olvana from local street games to international crime syndicates. Some of the major ones are listed here, but the list is not all-inclusive.
Tantoco Cartel
The Tantoco Cartel was founded in the Republic of Torbia; it has expanded its operations into the largest cities of Olvana. The Tantoco Cartel is involved in almost every type of criminal activity imaginable: drug and weapons smuggling, extortion, motor vehicle theft, illegal gambling, money laundering, counterfeiting, and murder-for-hire.
Tantoco’s cartel has now spread to other countries, including Olvana. There are rumors of bribery of local officials and even officials at the national level. The Olvanan government’s recent crackdowns on corruption forced some senior officials to resign or imprisoned after being caught taking bribes. It is estimated that less than 500 people in Olvana work for the Tantoco Cartel.
See the Tantoco Cartel page for additional information on this criminal organization.
Black Societies
There are a number of “black societies” or organized criminal networks in the largest cities in Olvana. Each Black Society group is semi-autonomous and operates almost exclusively in their own city. These criminal networks are normally family affairs, with each family staying local to avoid conflict with other groups. These criminal networks are involved in armed robbery, racketeering, smuggling, narcotics trafficking, prostitution, gambling, and contract killings. These groups are not happy with the Tantoco Cartel moving into their cities, and may fight them to keep Tantoco out. These groups are normally named after a color and an animal, usually a bird of prey. These are the most prevalent groups by city.
See the Black Societies page for additional information on these criminal networks.
Local Crime Gangs
In cities where the Black Societies do not operate, local gangs are often present. The Black Societies usually violently eliminate any other local crime gangs and the local criminals do not have the resources to take the organized criminals on and win. The type of gang activity will correspond to the local conditions. Most likely, this will involve narcotics, gambling, and racketeering. Local gangs are less well armed than the organized criminal networks or the Tantoco Cartel.
Private Security Organizations
Due to restrictive firearm control policies there are few private security organizations in Olvana. Only the richest citizens can afford to hire personal security guards that can carry guns. Legal civilian firearm ownership is rare, as there is no guaranteed right to own a gun in the country. The Olvana government will issue a firearm to those civilians that can establish a genuine reason, such as animal control, hunting, or sports shooting. All individuals that apply for a gun permit must pass a rigorous criminal, mental, and domestic violence check of their records. It is not unusual for it to take up to a year to even receive permission to own a gun for those that apply. Before receiving their government issued firearm, the applicant must pass a written and practical test administered by Olvana governmental officials.
Foreign Military Presence
Except for security personnel at the embassies, there is no continuous foreign military presence in Olvana. The OPA regularly conducts exercises with multinational partners, including ground- based exercises, naval exercises near the Olvanan coasts, or in Olvanan airspace.
Nonmilitary Armed Combatants
Despite the tight restrictions on civilian gun possession, it is estimated that about 15 million people in Olvana possess a firearm. Most of these are illegal, as the registered number of guns in Olvana is only 5 guns per 10,000 people. It is estimated that the OPA possesses approximately 15 million firearms, while the police possess another 1.5 million firearms.
Unarmed Combatants
In case of full-scale military action in Olvana, most of the people over the age of ten years of age will be ordered to heldp defend their homeland. This could be helping to build tank ditches, tearing up clothing to make medical dressings, or providing resources (food and anything) else to the military to increase the abilities of the armed forces to defeat their enemy. Children, from eight to fifteen years of age, may be used to gather information on the enemy. Many occupying forces pay little attention to the younger children thinking they are too young to be of any value. There are cases throught out history where children that were allowed to move about unchecked were actually providing human intelligence to the other side.
Any Olvanans over the age of ten not supporting the government will likely be in opposition to the current regime. They will join a guerrilla or insurgent group providing non-combat support through intelligence or supplies. They may be willing to join the invading force and conduct operations as outlined above; just for the opposite side.
Military Functions
Each of the military functions listed below exist in varying degrees in the OPA as well as in some of the government paramilitary organizations. Military functions as sub-variables can have values on a scale of High, Medium, or Low, defined as follows (See TC 7-101, Exercise Design, Table 3-13. Military: military functions):
- High: Can conduct sustained, complex, synchronized tasks of the selected military function; ability to influence friendly forces is not limited to the theater of operations; and/or associated equipment is predominantly Tier 1, as specified in the Worldwide Equipment Guide (WEG).
- Medium: Can conduct limited, complex, synchronized tasks of the selected military function; ability to influence friendly forces is primarily limited to the theater of operations; and/or associated equipment is predominantly Tier 2, as specified in the WEG.
- Low: Cannot conduct complex, synchronized tasks of the selected military function; ability to influence friendly forces is limited to local, tactical impact; and/or associated equipment is predominantly Tier 3 and below, as specified in the WEG.
Joint Capabilities
Demonstrate Joint Capabilities: (High)
Olvana and its armed forces may act independently, or as part of a multinational alliance or coalition, and may engage in regular, irregular, or hybrid warfare. When conducting hybrid warfare, Olvana’s regular forces will act in concert with irregular forces and/or criminal elements to achieve mutually benefiting effects. In such cases, the national-level strategy, operational designs, and courses of action of the Olvana military constitute a wide range of capabilities and motives Discussed below is an assessment of select military functions:
The OPA is adept at conducting joint operations, primarily because the OPA controls the ground forces, naval, and air forces of Olvana. The overarching mission of the Olvanan navy and air force is to support OPA ground forces while maintaining control of the sea lines of communication and air superiority over the battlefield.
Command and Control
Exercise Command and Control: (Medium)
While Olvanan military doctrine stresses that military decisions should be made at the lowest levels based on commander’s intent, in actuality the Olvanan command and control procedures have created the opposite effect. Often, commanders will not take initiative in the absence of orders to avoid mistakes. In peacetime training, the OPA often fires commanders who fail to accomplish their missions. Commanders, in response to the zero defects mentality, will do everything possible to comply with orders from their superiors, but will risk nothing for fear of retribution.
Maneuver
Execute Maneuver: (Medium)
The OPA fields various types of units that can maneuver in all types of terrain, from deserts to mountains to jungles. In the last decade, Olvana developed a smaller, lighter tank that is built to fight in mountainous terrain. The OPA deploys types of units best suited for the terrain on which the battle will take place. The OPA can conduct relatively small amphibious, heliborne, or airborne assaults. Within Olvana, the train system can deploy larger size units relatively rapidly. It would take control of the seas to move large numbers of OPA ground forces to attack another country.
Air Defense
Conduct Air Defense Operations: (Medium)
The OPA possesses a large and modern layered national air defense command composed of four long-range, four medium-range, and two short-range air defense brigades. Each military theater and army also fields their own air defense command. Each OPA brigade contains an air defense capability. Olvana recognizes that air defense is an all-arms effort. Thus, all ground units possess some type of an organic air defense capability to differing degrees, depending on the type and size of the unit. Many weapons not designed specifically as air defense weapons are used to target aircraft when possible. For example, machine guns on armored personnel carriers, and automatic cannon on infantry fighting vehicles can engage both ground and air targets. Most antitank guided missiles (ATGMs) are extremely effective against low-flying helicopters. Several ATGM manufacturers offer anti-helicopter missiles and compatible fire control, which are especially effective against low-flying rotary-wing aircraft. Field artillery and small arms can also be integral parts of the air defense scheme.
Olvana considers every soldier with a man-portable air defense system to be an air defense firing unit. These weapons are readily available at a relatively low cost and are widely proliferated. The small size and easy portability of these systems provides the opportunity for ambush of enemy airframes operating in any area near Olvanan units. Ground units also employ them to set ambushes for enemy helicopters, especially those on routine logistics missions. (For more information, see TC 7-100.2: Opposing Force Tactics, Chapter 11, Air Defense.)
Another facet of the Olvana military’s air defense is their aircraft, especially those with extremely long range that can help control maritime airspace well outside their economic exclusion areas.
Information Warfare (INFOWAR)
Conduct INFOWAR Operations: (High)
Olvana considers INFOWAR an integral piece of all operations, and resources the INFOWAR capabilities accordingly. At the national level, an INFOWAR brigade conducts strategic missions. This brigade is composed of subordinate units that conduct the seven types of INFOWAR missions. Below the national level resources, the theaters and armies contain units that can conduct some types of INFOWAR. Cyber warfare, such as information attack and computer attack, are controlled and executed at the national level.
The other five INFOWAR types can take place at any level by many types of units. This includes electronic warfare, deception, physical destruction, perception management, and protection and security measures. The OPAF recently introduced a new aircraft, the Gaoxin-7, which can be used as a flying broadcast station that can transmit media in AM, FM, HF, TV, or on military communication frequencies. The OPA places great weight on deception operations at all levels including emphasis on camouflage down to the lowest level.
RISTA
Conduct RISTA: (Medium)
The OPA possesses a large number of the most modern reconnaissance, intelligence, surveillance, and target acquisition (RISTA) assets. At the national level, there is a UAS brigade in addition to the aviation assets available in the OPAF and satellites available for military use. Each theater and army commander controls his own RISTA command while lower-level units contain reconnaissance units that can conduct a variety of RISTA missions. The chart below shows the normal effective distances for RISTA elements in the region.
Intelligence
Olvana possesses one of the largest intelligence complexes in the world. Olvana maintains a sophisticated and able intelligence apparatus that operates both at home and abroad. The State Security Agency (SSA) is responsible for foreign intelligence and counter-intelligence at the national defense level, and focuses on threats from regional and Western nations. The OPA has oversight of well-trained and resourced tactical and operational intelligence disciplines. These disciplines consist of human intelligence (HUMINT), open source intelligence (OSINT), signals intelligence (SIGINT), imagery intelligence (IMINT), measurement and signatures intelligence (MASINT), and continual research and fielding of new and advanced capabilities as they become available in each discipline.
Conduct Human Intelligence (High)
Olvanan HUMINT capabilities are among the best in the world. Considering the high level of interest that the Pacific region maintains in Olvanan defense and diplomatic circles, it is reasonable to assess high activity of Olvanan HUMINT collection in the area. Olvanan HUMINT services are aggressive in exploiting these relationships and other enablers to effectively service HUMINT targets. The SSA counterintelligence service focuses on threats from external agencies seeking to acquire information on government and military forces, as well as major industrial companies. In addition, foreign intelligence activities handled by the SSA attempt to acquire technological and military secrets from abroad. These operations are normally carried out by travelers, businesspersons, and academics, with a special emphasis on overseas Olvanan students and high-tech professionals working abroad. These foreign agents are known to use pressure against Olvanan immigrants who work in technological and/or military research fields to acquire specific data. The SSA is responsible for domestic clandestine operations against foreign governments and corporations residing in Olvana. These operations normally consist of wire-taps, video surveillance and casual discussions to acquire information on selective fields or categories. HUMINT activities conducted by the armed services are mainly at the operational and tactical levels, but may include military attachés at Olvanan embassies abroad.
Conduct Open Source Intelligence (High)
Olvanan OSINT efforts generally focus on Western rivals as opposed to other smaller Pacific nations. Olvanan intelligence uses OSINT for strategic analysis efforts, versus those at operational or tactical levels. Analyst will utilize the power of the internet to obtain key information on other nations from multiple sources to exploit vulnerabilities and advancements of militaries and industrial companies. They will conduct research to support strategic objectives by reviewing reporting from multiple media agencies to determine intentions, significant new advancements, and political agendas of nations which may pose a threat to Olvana.
Conduct Signals Intelligence (High)
Olvanan SIGINT assets include ground, aircraft, maritime and satellite collection platforms. Olvana has the most extensive SIGINT capabilities in the region, and continues to research and upgrade these capabilities to remain ahead of its foes. These assets are scattered throughout the country and focused on internal as well as external threats. Compared to other major powers of the world, Olvana focuses more on their regional competitors. Personnel who operate in this discipline are well trained, as most are sent to specialized institutions or universities with an emphasis on technical aspects and language skills.
Conduct Imagery Intelligence (High)
Olvanan IMINT collection capability maintains a fleet of manned and unmanned platforms for strategic and tactical collection, as well as a robust space collection capability. Unmanned aerial systems are utilized as a tactical collection platform along its borders and in support of maritime security and interdiction operations. Fixed and rotary wing assets are used as collection platforms. Olvana maintains dedicated military imaging satellite systems, which includes electro-optical sensors for collecting digital imagery in the visual and near infrared spectrums and synthetic aperture radar sensors capable of imaging targets through cloud cover and at nighttime.
Conduct Measurement and Signatures Intelligence (Medium)
Olvana has a basic MASINT capability, primarily residing in anti-submarine warfare sensors. Olvana continues to research new capabilities in this discipline, and with its state of the art technology may employ an improved MASINT capability within the next few years.
Fire Support
Execute Fire Support Operations: (High)
The OPA emphasizes artillery and fire support for its ground forces. At the national level, there is an artillery command whose units can be distributed to the theater or armies as needed, or consolidated at higher levels to mass fires on critical targets. All levels of units down to the company level have an organic indirect fire capability, ranging from super heavy rocket artillery to infantry mortars. In the last decade, the OPA has improved its counterfire capabilities by conducting exercises especially design to enhance that skill.
The OPA at the strategic level fields the 78th Surface-to-Surface Missile Command that operates several different types of missiles. Olvana's scientific research in the missile field makes it one of the most capable ballistic missile country in the world.
Many of the OPAF aircraft are multirole, designed to perform both the air superiority and ground support missions. Each theater contains two air regiments whose sole mission is to provide support to OPA soldiers on the ground, and three other regiments who are dual-purpose. Each theater army also possesses their own combat helicopter brigade that can provide support to the ground forces.
Protection
Exercise Protection: (Medium)
The OPA uses a variety of techniques to enhance force protection from the national level to the individual soldier on the ground. At the higher levels, aircraft and radar provide early warning of enemy aerial attacks. Chemical defense units at all levels alerts local units to potential chemical attacks. At the lower level, the emphasis on camouflage provides protection against enemy aerial attacks. Soldiers possess protective masks to use against enemies that may use chemical weapons. Tanks and other armor vehicles provide limited protection against enemy small arms fire. The OPA’s newest armor vehicles feature an active protection system against enemy antitank missiles and explosive reactive armor in case the missile hits the vehicle. Engineer assets can increase the survivability of ground forces in the defense. Reconnaissance elements at all levels will provide early warning against enemy ground attacks that will allow units enough time to prepare for a potential enemy assault. (See TC 7-100.2: Opposing Force Tactics, Chapter 12, Engineer Support and Chapter 7, Information Warfare.)
Logistics
Execute Logistics Operations: (Medium)
While the OPA fields an integrated support command with various types of logistical units at all levels from the SHC down to the brigade level, the OPA still lacks the robustness of the supply system of most western militaries. An emphasis on combat units over support units still prevails through the OPA. The OPA is making plans to improve its logistical procedures by adapting many of the processes of western armies.
Olvana is developing unmanned supply trucks that are currently undergoing testing. It is not known when these trucks will be distributed to the field. While unmanned vehicles would reduce human casualties, it may be difficult to protect the supplies from theft or destruction.
The pressure on the OPA officers to be thrifty in their actions has caused some problems in the past. Some units have been known to use ammunition past its expiration date, a behavior that could cause accidents. Other officers would rather horde supplies, instead of turning excess equipment or material back into the supply system to be used by another unit.
Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN)
Execute CBRN Operations: (High)
Olvana possesses chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons. OPA doctrine states that chemical warfare may be necessary to achieve battlefield success against some enemies. Expect OPA artillery attacks to contain non-persistent chemical agents. Olvana is conducting tests to determine the best way to use biological agents against their enemies. The issue is to control the biological weapon in such a way that it only affects enemy soldiers and not their own personnel. If in a bind, there is a small possibility that Olvana may resort to radiological weapons in order to reverse their fortunes. Olvana is a nuclear power and has stated it will not initiate a nuclear launch. If faced with certain defeat with an expected regime change or if attacked by a nuclear power, Olvana could use their nuclear weapons. Currently, Olvana possesses about 500 nuclear warheads with plans to increase their nuclear arsenal to 600 warheads within 10 years.
Research and Development Goals
Olvana is a major weapons manufacturer and arms seller. It recently created a new department especially designed to develop new weapons systems similar to organizations found in advanced Western militaries. Normally, the newer equipment is assigned to the best units in the OPA with their older equipment being cascaded down to lower quality units. At some point, the oldest equipment is removed from the army, then either sold or given away in exchange for other considerations.
Olvana continues to improve its computer, communication, and satellite systems as technology at a rapid pace. Olvana will not hesitate to steal the latest plans or prototypes from any other country in the world. This can be done by cyber warfare hacking into other countries’ computer systems, or industrial spies obtaining the information overseas.
Olvana will begin building a space station next year and recently launched as well as recovered an unmanned spacecraft that landed on the moon.
Special Considerations
Political Officers
The Olvana People’s Army (OPA) assigns a Political Officer to every unit down to the company level. Each unit’s Military Commander has the mission is to direct his soldiers in war and peacetime by focusing on its combat capabilities in order to further the political objectives of the Olvana Communist Party (OCP). The Political Officer, however, enhances the combat capabilities of the unit, disseminates the OCP’s perspective throughout the OPA, and ensures the OCP maintains total control over the OPA.
The Unit Commander and the Political Officer are expected to operate as a team and make decisions collectively. The unit’s commander and the Political Officer serve as co-equals. The two share join responsibility for issuing orders, giving directions to lower levels, and overseeing all daily unit work. This practice is an extension of the democratic centralism and belief in the value of committees that is found within the central government, and OCP bureaucracy. While the relationship is ultimately dependent upon the unique personalities of the individuals involved, the intent is for the two roles to coexist in harmony. That said, political officers will often focus their attention on unit cohesion and non-kinetic efforts in support of a broader information dominance campaign. All PLA units above the regimental level also possess a Political Committee led by the unit commander and the Political Officer.
The Political Officer also serves a role as the unit’s Public Affairs Officer (PAO), Judge Advocate General (JAG), and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) Officer.
The purpose of the Political Officers include the following:
- To spread the communist theory among the rank and file soldiers as interpreted by the OCP.
- Increase each soldier’s political consciousness.
- Ensure the OCP maintains absolute leadership and control over the OPA.
- Enforce OPA policy and programs.
- Strengthen the commitment of the individual soldier to both his military unit and the OPA communist ideology.
- Enhance the combat capability of each soldier by making them fully committed to the OCP.
The missions of the Political Officers include the following:
- Maintain observation of and oversee their military unit and report back through its chain of command to the OCP on its political reliability.
- Ensure their assigned unit and all its soldiers remain loyal to the OCP.
- Provide the OCP’s current political positions, policies, and principles to the individual members of their unit.
- Oversee the education, health, personnel affairs, and civilian related issues of the unit’s soldiers.
- Enhance the morale of the unit’s soldiers and create cohesion throughout the unit.
- Coordinate or provide approved entertainment to their unit.
- Observe closely how individual soldiers are thinking and conducting themselves according to the rules and regulations that govern their political consciousness as well as their comprehension of political ideology.
- Conduct meetings and study sessions for members of their unit to better understand communism and report back through their chain of command how its soldiers are satisfactorily performing their duties in the political, military, and economic spheres of their lives.
- Provide the unit commander guidance on “legal warfare” and non-kinetic actions.
The OPA selects both its Military Officers and Political Officers based on five qualifications:
- Looking and acting like the personification of an OPA first-rate soldier (physical appearance and attitude).
- Passing the vetting process that the officer is reliable and loyal to both the state and the OCP.
- Exhibiting military excellence in all their past positions.
- Demonstrating proficiency in their assigned capabilities, and familiarity with their potential roles.
- Exhibiting impeccable personal behavior that is in line with the ideological and political philosophy espoused by the OCP.
Potential Political Officers are selected from the senior lieutenants and junior captains in the army based on the above qualifications. If chosen, the officers are sent to a special school to learn how to perform their Political Officer duties. If an officer passes the program, the newly minted Political Officer is normally assigned to a company at the same rank as the Military Commander for the company/detachment.
Other Special Considerations
Olvana is the largest and most powerful country in the Western Pacific. It wishes to be the regional hegemon, keeping all other world powers out of the area, while becoming a larger player on the international stage. Olvana is spreading its influence in the Middle East, Africa, and the Pacific region through a combination of economic assistance and military pacts to countries that need their assistance.
Olvana is a special friend to North Torbia and does not wish for South Torbia to control the entire country under a democratic regime. As such, Olvana will likely provide assistance to deter South Torbia from invading the North to unify the two countries.
Olvana sometimes tries to intimidate smaller nations in the Pacific region such as Gabal. Those nations have little recourse other than to appeal to the UN or other western nations for support. Regularly, Olvanan fishermen, in the South China Sea, will cross into Gabal’s territorial waters to harvest the fish available in the resource rich Gabal fishing grounds.
Olvana wants to influence Belesia, but is upset that the western countries have gotten there ahead of them. Olvana will attempt to undermine the western nations supporting Belesia wherever they can in hopes to make Belesia another one of their client states.
Olvana’s nuclear capability is sufficient to serve as a deterrent. Olvana will most likely not pre- emptively launch these against the US or its allies, as the country has publicly embraced a no first-use nuclear weapon doctrine. On the other hand, Olvana has seen that the western countries have been weak to react to belligerents who have attempted to coerce a neighboring country so some of their policymakers may believe that a small nuclear bomb may be a method for a quick solution without any major repercussions.