"The Tanker War - Surface units finished" Topic

I've restarted my Operation Earnest Will project after it lay undisturbed for several years. I've finished writing the campaign, a series of seven linked games covering the main actions with US public opinion and Rules of Engagement being major factors so the US won't just be able to blast the Iranians out of the water.

I've got the surface vessels done so next steps are to paint the aircraft, make a couple of GOSPs (Gas/Oil Separation Platforms) and scenery, then Henry and I will be ready to go. Henry's decided to be the Iranians – he likes the idea of trying to goad me into over-reacting.

The ships are Navwar 1:3000, the aircraft are 1:1200.

The first convoy makes its way through the Straits of Hormuz (I also need to paint a second, smaller tanker). Here the SS Bridgeton is escorted by USS Fox, USS Kidd and USS Jarrett.

Another view of the convoy, with what will be the coast of Oman in the background.

Some of the Iranian forces; the frigate Sabalan and the old British WW2 destroyer Damavand (ex HMS Sluys).

Some of the units really are tiny: here's the Iranian missile boat Joshan next to a British penny.

Some other units ready for Operation Praying Mantis – USS Trenton here in company with the USS Lynde McCormick. The helos are CAP Aero 1:1200 Seahawks from Magister Militum.

And the whole US fleet assembled. Dozens of ships were allocated to Operation Earnest Will but, as I don't put names on the bases, each model can represent any of its sisters. The only model I have more than one of are the ubiquitous Oliver Hazard Perry class.

This is the first mock-up of the board which I'll be using in three of the seven games. I'm quite looking forward to actually doing some scenery – all a bit of a novelty for a naval gamer…

Nick

Enola games made a solitare game on the Tanker War in the late 80s. I've never played it but it looked good.

I look forward to reading your games. Nice models

Forgot, what rules are you using? And no longer available, I think, the Shipwreck people did make 3 different oil platforms in 1/3000

I spent 10 years in the Merchant Marine.

Most of which was on tankers.

Not really sure how I feel about this.

I remember the Sea Isle City…

Eric

Cheers Dragon6 – just checked out the game you reference, 'Action in the Persian Gulf' and it does indeed look good. Not been able to find any oil platforms, but they should be fairly easy to knock together using odds and ends.

I'll be using my own rules as they incorporate merchant and commercial traffic, which adds greatly to the tension. I'll be posting the AARs as I go, but I've still got some things to finish before we can start.

epturner – I appreciate your point; my father in law was also in the Gulf during the tanker war, upgrading sonar as a civilian contractor on the frigates while they were deployed. That said, I find this period of naval warfare fascinating and this is a message board for modern naval gaming, after all, so it is posted here for those who share my interest. I wish you well and acknowledge the debt of gratitude to the merchant marine of all nations who have struggled to maintain supply lines during time of war.

best wishes,

Nick

Looks good Nick – thanks for posting. I am looking forward to seeing your AARs when ready – and your oil platforms!