DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

USSR vs. Finland

Mission: Meeting Engagement, Finland, 12/1939 - scattered objectives.

Enemy: Battalion Strength – 1-2 Armor Plt, 2-3 Infantry Co, 1 Artillery Btry, plus ATG and AAA. Strike aircraft possible. Average force experience, ~75.

It is difficult to estimate the enemy force size as my core is only 1140 points and I have not used any support points.

Terrain: Map = 100x100. There is mostly wooded terrain with roughly 75% of the map having trees. The wooded terrain is clustered, so there are solid areas of woods and areas of clear ground. Centered in the map is one medium sized, double peaked, level 20 hill. Deep within the enemy deployment zone is another level 20 hill, with the area to the east and northeast reasonably open for this map. Elsewhere, there are a few level 10 hills. Scattered about the map are small elongated lakes. The generally range from 250m in length to 150m in width. Man made features include two roads, one railroad and the occasional building. One road is on the southern edge of the map, is east-west and straight as can be; not one turn. The second road is generally north-south, but does turn to the NNE about 1500m from the north edge of the map. It is shifted about 250m west of the center of the map. There are a few wooden bridges where it crosses over lakes. Paralleling this road about 1000m to the east is a railroad. It starts out with a north-south heading and turns to the NW near the center of the map. There is one wooden bridge along the NW leg of the railroad. The entire map is covered with snow, but the lakes are not frozen. Visibility = 74.

Troops: Battalion Strength – 1 Armor Co. (7xM26 1939, 5xM26 M1931), 3 Infantry Co., 1 Support Co (3xHMG sec., 2x45mm ATGs, 2x82mm Mort. sec., 2xBA6 ACs, 2xScouts w/trans., 1xEng. Plt, 1xAAMG sec. and 2xSupply Trucks) 1xSpotter Plane. Average force experience, ~55.

Time: 48 Turns

Analysis

The place to start is the general force comparison. Finland has most of the edges here. They are the more experienced force. The Finish forces will stand and fight, even after they have taken some casualties. My forces are likely to run if bullets get close. The Finns are general as well or better equipped; the main difference is they have AT capability in integrated Molotov cocktails. While not the best AT weapon, it is better than nothing, which is what I have. The Finns are likely to have some troops on skis as well, which will give them better mobility.

My forces basically have two advantages. One of those advantages is numbers. My forces should generally have more of everything, troops, tanks, MGs, etc. The trick is going to be making those numbers count for something. That is where the second advantage comes into play; my force has a human mind behind it. With a little thought, I should be able to minimize Finland’s advantages and maximize mine.

There aren’t any real dominant terrain features. The central hill does have some open ground to the east, but trees are to the west and north and cover a good portion of the peaks. This hill and its two peaks (Hill1A and Hill1B) might be of more value to the enemy than to me. This hill (Hill 2) in the enemy deployment zone would be a nice position to have a few guns to cover the open areas to the east and northeast, but it is a purely defensive in nature. There are a couple of flags in the open areas that could be covered from this hill, albeit at fairly long range.

The vast number of trees more or less prevents any specific area to be significant. More significantly are the open areas that less frequent. One of these areas is along the east-west road (EW Road). This area is roughly 2000m long and 500m wide at the widest point. Moving along the EW Road will be very difficult if positions are set up along the fringes of this open area. Open areas around Hills 1 and 2 have already been mentioned above.

As far as the roads go, they aren’t really positioned well to be of much use. The EW Road being along the very bottom edge of the map provides easy access to the back edges of the map, but there isn’t much of interest in the rear areas on the bottom. The north-south road (NS Road) being located in the center might provide a route into flanks. This depends on fighting taking place around the road.

The most interesting elements of the terrain are the lakes. They create numerous obstacles and choke points. Using them as obstacles will allow me to position units behind them with the ability to fire across the lakes and without any risk of assaults, especially against my tanks. From a choke point perspective, it will control access to certain areas. If I know the enemy in approaching a choke point, I might be able to pepper them with area fire. Maybe I can rattle them some before we make actual contact. At the very least, I can concentrate units around these choke points and maybe get fire local fire power superiority. The only down side is there aren’t that many lakes.

Plan

While the mission is a meeting engagement, I’m going to try to turn it into a hasty defense. My thought is I’m better off letting the enemy come to me, rather than going to the enemy. I’m looking at an echeloned line of defense, with the southern end of the line being furthest forward. More than anything, this is to conform to suitable terrain.

In a fairly complex deployment plan, I’ll cover it from north to south:

Just outside of my deployment zone are two lakes, oriented roughly east west. The northern most lake actually crosses into my deployment zone a bit, where the southern lake is out about 150m. There is a gap between the two lakes about 200m wide. My engineers, supported by two medium tanks and two light tanks will cover this area. The engineers will deploy in the gap, my AAMGs and ATGs will be positioned in my deployment zone so that they can provide supporting fire across the northern lake and my light tanks will position to fire across the south lake. The medium tanks will be held in reserve.

Next in line is Alpha Company. They will push forward to a line from the southern lake southwest to the railroad tracks. One platoon will position forward of the Engineer Group light tanks, one in the trees on a small hill to the southwest and the last platoon will position in and around the buildings next to the railroad. One light tank and one medium tank will provide support and be kept in reserve until needed.

Bravo Company will take positions generally southwest of Alpha. The line will run southwest from the railroad tracks to a cluster of lakes. On the right side of this line is a plowed field. One platoon will take position on the east side of the field, one will take position in a salient of trees near the southeast corner of the field and the final squad will fill the gap extending to the lake cluster.

Charlie Company has the most difficult task. They will take position in the trees and buildings surrounded by the cluster of lakes. Being on foot, they might not be able to get to that position without meeting resistance. If nothing else, they need to maintain contact with the left flank of Bravo Company. To assist this company, my lone artillery registration will be placed in this area.

Delta Company (Armor), supported by recon elements and battalion HMGs will move forward to southeast edge of the lake cluster. The HMGs will deploy to cover the open area, the road and across the lake. Scouts will move forward to provide eyes in this area and into Charlie Company’s proposed position. Tanks and recon elements will provide support in this sector and to Charlie Company as needed.

Deployed in this manner, each group will be able to hit the flank of any enemy units attacking the group to their north.

Arial recon will be available and attempt to spot incoming enemy units. Any enemy AA units spotted will be engaged immediately to maintain this advantage.

Once the enemy force has been neutralized, all units will advance forward and capture objectives.

Note: I wasn't planning on doing another DAR so quickly, but this should be an interesting and difficult fight.

I've attached a map with my basic plan outlined on it.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 0 (Prep Fire)

No prep fire by either side.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.


Turn 1

All units advancing according to plan.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 2

All units advancing according to plan.

One enemy tank sighted on EW Road at a distance of 2300m. Co. D will have to abandon the road and skirt it through the trees for now.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 3

Enemy tank continuing to advance. I dismounted one leg scout and plan on keeping it out there so I have eyes on the road. Other units are moving off the road, except my tanks. Four medium and two light tanks are still on the road.

All other units advancing as planned.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 4

Three enemy tanks sighted on road now. I'm going to have to position to ambush them before Co. D can get to their objective.

All other units advancing as planned.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 5

Lead enemy tank 300m west of cross roads. Co. D deploying for ambush. Most units of company west of railroad tracks.

All other units advancing as planned.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 6

Lead enemy tank at cross roads. Dismounted six HMGs and plan on deploying them this turn. Tanks and ACs taking up positions.

Random enemy artillery and mortar fire dropped on railroad tracks. My nearest units are 500m away.

All other units advancing as planned.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 7

Two tanks east of the cross roads. Positioning HMGS, tanks and ACs. Scouts are providing intel on the advancing enemy tanks.

Artillery still falling, but mortars stopped. Fixed position of mortars and plotted counter battery.

Engineers in position. Alpha and Charlie have units crossing the railroad tracks.

So far, my spotter plane hasn't seen anything I didn't already see on the ground, which is three tanks.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 8

Enemy tanks are leaving the road and moving into a plowed field on the east end of the open area. I better hit them now before I lose them in the woods.

Artillery fire stopped.

All other units continuing to advance into position.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 9

Zapped two enemy tanks in field. Third tank has turned north along NS Road

All other units continuing to advance into position.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: 2xVickers 6s tanks destroyed.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 10

Alpha Company is almost in position. Movement is slow in the snow. Bravo and Charlie Companies still have a way to go.

Delta Company mounting back up and preparing to advance. Surviving enemy tank disappeared into Charlie Company's objective area.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 11

First platoon of Alpha Company in position and another is setting up. Third platoon has a few turns to go yet.

MG section with Bravo Company is going to set up to fire down the railroad tracks. It is a nice long line of fire and they can keep the enemy from slipping between company boundaries.

Fanning Charlie Company out some since I know there is an enemy tank to their front.

Delta Company mostly mounted up and moving forward.

Adjusted fire on counter battery. It was off target.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 12

Alpha, Bravo and Charlie continuing to move forward or into position.

Delta Company all moved out. Timing was good. Enemy artillery and mortars hit where they executed the ambush from. No one there now, so they just created some tooth picks. Enemy tank sighted again, still moving north on the road.

Counter battery hit one mortar site hard. Going to adjust to the other site since it is close.

So far, the enemy has turned no flags, even the ones close to their deployment zone. Aside from their tanks and mortars, I have no idea where their remaining force is located.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 13

Alpha, Bravo and Charlie continuing to move forward or into position.

Delta Company all moved out. Enemy artillery and mortars fell again. I should have paid more attention, because I don't know if rounds came in from one mortar or two. Oh well.

Enemy tank turned one flag. I'm moving up tanks to support the infantry in the area. My infantry can't handle the tank by themselves.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 14

Alpha Company almost completely in position. Bravo and Charlie have a way to go.

Delta Company starting to set up. It will take a few turns.

Enemy tank out of sight again.

Counter battery fell, accidentally destroyed the first mortar targeted. I need to adjust fire on the other mortar.

A flag finally turned somewhere else. I'm going to try to get my spotter plane out there to check the area. I turned a couple of flags myself.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: 1x81mm Mortar destroyed.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 15

Suspect enemy infantry approaching Alpha Company or the Engineer Group. Released a light tank and medium tank from the area, but keeping two of each for support if an attack does come.

Charlie still moving forward. This is taking a long time. Not sure I'll get all the flags this battle.

Delta Company still setting up.

Adjusted counter battery fire. My mortars have been in one place too long. I think I'll cancel the fire and move. Even with trucks, it takes time to move anywhere other than on a road.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 16

Spotter plane confirmed enemy infantry heading towards Alpha and Engineers. Both are in position and waiting, so they are as ready as they can be. The enemy are using ski troops, so they do have a speed edge.

Enemy tank turned east and is coming up on northern platoon of Charlie. Moving entire company in that direction, plus four medium tanks and two ACs from Delta.

Packed up mortars and going to move.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 17

I'm trying to confirm the strength of the enemy infantry up north. Four squads have been spotted in different locations, so I might be dealing with elements of two companies. If this is correct, that will be pretty much all the infantry they have available.

Enemy tank picked another flag. I'm trying to seal it off from my rear area, because I have nothing back there at all. Infantry and tanks moving into position. There is another flag within 300m of the flag just turned, so the tank should go there next.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 18

Spotted one enemy platoon advancing on Engineers, but some distance away. The other enemy platoon spotted earlier might be heading to Alpha or Bravo. They are too far away to tell right now.

Peppered the enemy tank with MG and small arms. Followed up with two failed assaults. Lost three men in the process. Positioned my ACs to get shots if the enemy tank keeps moving towards the other flag.

I called it right on the enemy counter battery. Rounds started to fall near my old mortar position. Good thing I moved with I did.

Casualties

Friendly: Three casualties.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 19

Bravo moving into position. One problem is that it seems I gave them too large a sector to cover. Since Charlie has Delta supporting on the flank and the fact that maybe the enemy is heading towards Bravo, I'm going to use one platoon from Charlie to fill the sector. I'm going to move my medium tanks up to support Bravo also.

Zapped the enemy tank. Peppered it again with small arms fire, assaulted it once and finished it off with an armored car.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: 1xVickers 6s tank destroyed.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 20

Spotted a total of 10 enemy squads in two groups. One is heading towards the Engineers and one is heading towards Bravo. Since each group has five squads, I'm likely facing two enemy infantry companies. The group heading towards the Engineers is spread just a bit more, so some might be heading towards Alpha as well. I've got tanks moving back to support the Engineers. One platoon isn't going to stop the lion's share of an enemy company.

The other group of five is strung out in a line heading straight for the gap in Bravo's line. The third platoon isn't in position yet and Charlie's platoon is further away. I'm sending six tanks and to ACs to help deal with this gap.

As much as I want to counter battery against the enemy mortar, I've got to hold mine to help the Engineers.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 21

Shifting troops to meet the threats. Enemy group up north vanished in the trees, but the southern group is still visible. I'm going to engage them with tank fire. Maybe I can slow them down and allow my infantry to get into position.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 22

Flag 300m northwest of Engineers turned. Enemy might have scouts out front or some troops I haven't spotted. Others are still visible after all, about 200m back from the flag. Plotted artillery near flags.

Opened up on southern enemy infantry with tanks, inflicting two casaulties.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Two casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 23

Engineers tense and waiting.

Tank fire and small arms from Bravo's position. Casualties on both sides. Artillery falling on HMG section from Charlie.

Casualties

Friendly: One casualty.

Enemy: Four casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 24

Enemy in range near Engineers. Time to open up.

Bravo pouring fire into advancing enemy. They have a few more down. Six squads spotted, so that is half a company. Tanks still moving up. Kosmolets moving north on road to add to the fire on the enemy.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 25

Flank support opened up with one AAMG and ATGs, inflicting one casualty. Mortar fire coming in also, but affect unknown.

Bravo continuing to engage enemy on their front. Several more Finns down and one squad running. No return fire.

Incoming mail suppressed Charlie HMG section, but nothing else. Charlie still moving into position. They are at their objective location, but it is pretty large and they are moving through. Kosmolets, tanks and ACs still moving up. Everything is slow in the snow.

Delta scouts moving forward to see if their area is clear.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 26

Scout sneaked up on one of my engineers and hit him for a couple of casualties. Flank guns still firing, but no damage. Mortar fire dropping around the flags, but can't assess the damage.

Bravo still peppering enemy troops. ACs finally got up and opened fire as well. Tanks still moving up. Charlie platoon still moving up and so are the Kosmolets.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Casualties

Friendly: Two casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 27

My engineers are soft and taking a beating. They are taking casualties. My flank guns are still engaging the enemy and doing damage. One tank also arrived and opened up on the enemy. This isn't going to stop an entire Finish company. My engineers are here because I didn't think they would get engaged. Now, I have to try to get some help up to them. Alpha seems clear, so I'm going to try to shift some troops over.

The enemy engaging Bravo is taking a beating. The numbers don't seem like it, but their advance has been stalled. Since Charlie's sector seems clear, I'm going to push another platoon up the road. One platoon should be able to hold the sector.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Casualties

Friendly: Estimated 5 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 28

Engineers are still taking casualties. Enemy artillery fell in the area, as much on them as me. I'm going to pull them back some to buy time for help to arrive and maybe draw the enemy more into my flank guns. Two tanks are up now and two platoons from Alpha are on the way. It will take a while for them to get there, however. One platoon will stay in place near Bravo and one HMG section is also covering the area.

Still hammering enemy in front of Bravo. They are stalled, but I need to get them running so I can move units up the road to support the Engineers.

Charlie is going to hold their sector with one platoon, two squads covering each gap coming in. Some unseen enemy is in the area, because I have seen a couple of flags turn nearby. I believe it is just a single enemy squad, because I thought I saw one heading that way a while ago.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Casualties

Friendly: Estimated 2 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 29

There is still pressure on the Engineers, but no men down this turn. Flank guns still engaging, as are tanks. One of my engineer squads actually fired and dropped one. Pulling back has helped because enemy artillery is falling completely on their own men. I need all the help I can get here. My mortars also dropped rounds on the enemy.

Most of the original enemy troops in Bravo's sector are running. A fresh squad and scout appeared on the sector boundary between Alpha and Bravo, but that is the one Alpha platoon that stayed in place. They opened up on the new arrivals and dropped a few.

I found out who was turning flags near Charlie's sector, but lost a Kosmolet in the process. There is one ski sniper there. Two assaults on the Kosmolet resulted in it being killed. The sniper put some rounds into a Charlie squad, dropping a few men there as well. I need to take that guy out.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Casualties

Friendly: 1xKosmolet destroyed, estimated 5 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 30

Holding fast in the engineer's gap. Support seems to have slowed down the enemy advance. My tanks didn't have a target for a change, so I pulled them back 100m. Flank guns didn't have targets either, so they peppered the enemy with area fire. Mortar rounds still dropping on the enemy. Several enemy units came out of the trees at the engineers. My engineers engaged sending one to the great beyond.

Spotter plane sighted two enemy squads in Alpha's sector. I'm going to have to send only one squad to help the engineers since the enemy is heading for positions just vacated.

There are still some active and unseen enemy units in front of Bravo, but three seen units were sent to the here after. Others were shot up pretty well. I moved me tanks in front of my infantry to try to speed the exit of the enemy. It is turn 30 and I need to free up my line so I can pick up some more flags.

My remaining Kosmolet finished off the enemy sniper. The one squad that took sniper fire last turn is pinned and jamming u pthe road.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 31

Still pulling engineers back a bit, but overall they are holding now. Either my mortars are slowing up the enemy or I'm not facing a full company. The engineers and tanks engaged more targets, inflicting a few casualties. I'm still hitting the gap with area fire from my flank guards.

HMG section engaged one sighted enemy squad and inflicted a few casualties. The one platoon I moved back up also engaged. One platoon is still moving to help the engineers.

Pushed two platoons forward in Bravo's sector. One of the unseen enemy showed up and drew fire from the front and flank. He is running now. Several more enemy squads sent to the great beyond. I'll push all infantry forward next turn.

Charlie platoon on the move again. Two medium tanks are also with them.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 32

Threw back last enemy squad in the gap. No enemy units in sight of engineers right now. Moving two light tanks up to provide support, but they might not be needed. There are two flags I need to get to, but will probably try to take them from the back side. Trying to push my engineers forward through the smoke and burning trees probably wouldn't be a good idea.

Two enemy squads in Alpha's sector are running. They took fire from the platoon platoon that changed direction and effectively stayed home. I'm going to push them forward and try to take the earlier mentioned flags with these guys.

All units moving forward in Bravo's sector, except tanks. I don't want to risk them until I'm sure all the enemy infantry is gone.

Support column moving north on NS Road from Charlie sector. Kosmolet turned two flags turned earlier by enemy sniper.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

One of my mortars is out of ammo, so I packed them both up and am getting ready to move.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 33

More action on the Engineer's front. Another squad popped through and took fire from engineers and tanks. Enemy artillery coming in again, help me as much as them.

Started pushing Alpha forward and found an enemy squad and scout the hard way. The enemy squad started running after taking a few casualties, as did one of my squads.

Found an enemy scout on Bravo's front and beat him into non-existence. Seems clear except for two fragments of enemy squads.

Support column moving north on NS Road from Charlie sector.

Delta scouts not sighting any enemy units.

Mortars loaded up and heading for resupply.

Casualties

Friendly: Estimated 3 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 34

One more enemy squad pushed forward to only be tossed back on the Engineer's front. Alpha squads are starting to move into the gap north of the south lake. Enemy artillery shifted to target a 50mm mortar that was firing at them.

Alpha engaged and destroyed enemy scout with help from a couple of tanks. The enemy squad was beat up pretty badly as well. Out 450m, another enemy squad fired at my forces, but I don't know where it is.

Bravo moving forward; no resistance.

Charlie column continuing to move north along road. ACs engaged one routed enemy squad without affect.

Delta scouts turned one flag.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Status Report

This is the last turn of the night, so I will provide an update. I have captured 14/21 flags. There are 4 more flags in reach, but I will have to fight hard to get two of them. The remaining three flags (230, 195, 195) are in the northwest corner of the map and given the environmental conditions, i.e. snow, and no roads heading that way, it is unlikely I will get to them. This battle is looking to be a marginal victory. I might make a run for the three flags with my ACs, but it will require smoke and luck. For all I know, there are ATGs or AA Guns sitting on each one. With 15 turns left, I don't have time for anything elegant to capture them. I suppose it is worth risking an 18pt and 19pt AC to maybe capture a 195 point flag.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 35

Enemy pushing forward again against engineers. The threw two squads back and the enemy had one retreat. Supporting infantry is on the way. One Alpha platoon is swinging around the east side of the southern lake, while another is swinging around the west side. The second platoon drew fire from the west, but popped smoke to screen the move.

Remaining platoon in Alpha sector engaged enemy to their front firing on maneuvering platoon. Some enemy down in the exchange of fire, which was supported by tanks. Enemy artillery giving one of my 50mm mortars and one squad fits. Nobody down, but the mortar has been abandoned and the crew and squad are runnining.

Elements of Bravo have rousted some enemy troops in the woods to east of Hill 1 and on Hill 1B. Two of three enemy squads were destroyed and the last one is running. All squads continuing to push to the northwest. Tanks staying behind infantry about 50m.

Two Charlie platoons slowly moving up the NS Road. One will continue to push north up the road and the other will divert to cover the two flags captured earlier by the Kosmolet.

Delta scouts holding position. ACs are going to throw caution to the wind and try to capture some flags in a rush. Hopefully, the following Charlie infantry can secure them after captured. Delta tanks not with Bravo are escorting Charlie up the road.

Casualties

Friendly: Estimated 5 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 15 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 36

Pulled two of my tanks back since the enemy forced back two of the engineers. The enemy finished one engineer off this turn. Alpha squads are still moving in. Should be able to cover my tanks to some extent next turn.

Another enemy squad spotted in front of Alpha position. Chopped it up pretty well with a couple of my own squads. Moving forward and beating the bushes.

Bravo pushing forward, firing at some Finnish stragglers. No real resistance right now.

Charlie squads still moving up road and to cover nearby flags. Tanks escorting them pulled off to lay into a running eneny squad.

Delta ACs running to nearest flag. It is located in a plowed field northwest Hill 1A. Smoke has been plotted to cover their advance after the get out of the field.

Casualties

Friendly: Estimated 5 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 37

The enemy has opened the right side of the engineers line, having pushed one back again. The right flank is covered by my AAMGs and ATGs, so I might be fine. Alpha platoon still moving in to help. Other Alpha platoon is swinging towards the flags without any resistance now.

The rest of Alpha and Bravo are performing mopping up activities.

Charlie squads still moving up road and to cover nearby flags.

Delta ACs should have field flag next turn. Sending Kosmolet after another flag.

Casualties

Friendly: Estimated 2 casualties.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 38

Platoon from Alpha moving in and closing the gap. I have them pushing forward. Any enemy they are encountering are suppressed to the point of not returning fire. As long as someone doesn't sneek through, I should be able to protect the flag to my rear. Other platoon still pushing on forward flags. Everything is slow in the snow and trees.

The rest of Alpha and Bravo are performing mopping up activities.

Delta ACs turned flag in the field. One Charlie platoon heading to cover. The other is heading to cover the two turned by Kosmolet some time ago. Enemy popped out of the woods and turned one of them, before getting clobbered.

ACs are moving up to edge of field after turning flag. Have to wait for smoke now.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 39

Everything is in full scale mopping up and playing Capture The Flag. Charlie infantry recaptured flag turned last turn. Remnants of six enemy squads dispatched this turn.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 40

Turned out to be a bit early to say all organized resistence was done. Found six enemy squads, at least, have broken through on the engineer's right flank and are in the rear. Engaged them with Alpha squads, right flank guard guns and four tanks. The enemy turned one flag, but I should be able to get it back.

One more enemy squad popped out of the trees after the Kosmolet flags again. Having a full platoon of friend troops there, he got nailed pretty quickly.

Three enemy squads completely destroyed.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 41

Squashed all visible resistence around engineer's position. I know there is at least one more enemy squad around, which would be the one that turned the flag. I'm moving forward slowly with one squad and four tanks. Alpha platoon closing in on first of two flags west of the position.

ACs dashing across open area into wood in northwest corner of map. There are three flags in there.

Kosmolet closing in another flag.

Four enemy squads completely destroyed.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 10 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 42

Found two enemy squads pushing into my rear area and engaged with ATGs. Moving up on AAMG, four tanks and one squad. Untill then, it is up to the ATGs. They did pretty well, turning both.

ACs at the woods now. Hopefully, there is time for them to move through the trees.

Kosmolet closing in another flag.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 43

Tanks engaged two enemy squads, destroying one. The other is in full retreat. Alpha infantry turned two flags; the one recently turned and another in front of the engineer's position. Another enemy squad remnant was found forward of the position and destroyed.

ACs still moving toward flags. I split them up, having them head to two different flags.

Kosmolet turned another flag.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 44

Last seen enemy squad destroyed. Two light tanks going to cover nearest rear area flag.

ACs turned one flag. Other armored car still moving forward.

Enemy squad popped out of woods near two flags covered by Charlie platoon and was quickly destroyed.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Estimated 5 casualties.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 45

No enemy units in sight.

ACs turned another flag. That leaves two to go. One the ACs are after and the Alpha after the last. I should get both.

Enemy artillery still giving my HMG section fits

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Turn 46

No enemy units in sight.

Alpha got their flag and one armored car is 50m from the last.

Incoming mail stopped, but HMG section is running.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

Decisive Victory!!!!

Turn 47

AC captured last flag.

Casualties

Friendly: Zero.

Enemy: Zero.

Total Casualties

USSR

Men: 35
Artillery: 0
Soft Vehicles: 0
APCs: 1
AFVs: 0
Air Transports/Helos: 0
Aircraft: 0

Finland

Men: 283
Artillery: 1
Soft Vehicles: 0
APCs: 0
AFVs: 3
Air Transports/Helos: 0
Aircraft: 0

Score

USSR: 3817
Finland: 38

Final Comments

I was pleased with how this battle turned out. The echelon front worked out well. Alpha Company was able to send help to the engineers (two of three engineers survived) and Charlie Company helped out Bravo. Some of this was luck, however. If the enemy had hit Alpha and engineers, the engineers would have been out of luck. As it is, the enemy did break through in significant numbers in the engineers' sector.

The enemy tossing an entire Jaeger Company at my engineers was dumb luck. It was my weakest defended area and the lakes created an obstacle in getting reinforcements into the area. For the most part, my engineers aren't much better than rifle squads. Only one out of three had flame throwers and satchel charges. The other two are engineers because they can clear obstacles, nothing more.

Enemy tanks rushing down the east-west road delayed Delta Company some, but they were able to ultimately get into position. The lone tank that escaped my hasty ambush was an annoyance, but nothing more.

The estimate of opposing forces was pretty much right on, but this is simple to determine. Set your preferences to your force point value and then start a battle taking the other side. You will get some ideas what you will be up against. The only fault I found with the enemy force selection was the ski sniper. It took out a couple of men and destroyed a Kosmolet. Given how much a ski sniper costs, they could have gotten a couple of ATGs (they had none), two more tanks or another platoon of infantry. I don't think the AI handles snipers as they should be handled and it ended up being a waste of points.

The spotter plane worked out well. It gave me enough information so I could shift troops as needed. There is no substitute for good battlefield intel. The enemy had only two AAMGs, but I made sure I kept my spotter plane out of harms way. Not expecting any SPAA units, all I had to do is keep it at least 750m outside of the enemy deployment zone.

The next battle is a Special Battle. I get to perform a delay against Finland. At least I wasn't hurt badly, so it shouldn't be too badly.

I've attached the save just before I ended my last turn. Enjoy!

Re: DAR: USSR vs Finland
 

For anyone who is interested, the Special Battle delay I fought next turned out to be a knock down, drag out fight. It would have been a much better battle to do a DAR on.

My forces squared off against five Finnish ski companies and one tank company. The right flank of my line was hit by most of their tanks supported by infantry and began to collapse almost as soon as the tanks showed up. I sent tanks over to help and after a protracted battle, this part of my line was able to regroup and throw the enemy back.

The center of my line fought long and hard, but eventually dissolved. Near as I can figure, my center company was hit by three Finnish infantry companies. If you figure the center of my line was covered by one full company and one platoon from each flanking company, almost all those infantry units were shattered. Out of 21 squads, 11 remained on my center area once the battle was complete. Of those remaining 11 squads, only 6 were more than half strength.

My left flank faired well as were only hit by one enemy company supported by a few tanks and cavalry. Fields of fire were very open here, so the Finnish forces didn't succeed in making much headway.

I've attached the save just before the battle ended. If you take a look, one thing that stands out is the almost complete lack of any line with my forces (USSR). Two platoons on my extreme right flank are lined up, but everywhere else, units are scattered all over the place.

In the center, I pulled together everyone still able to move and chased after flags captured by the Finns. Tanks, infantry and armored cars were used to counter attack. I knew that although my center fell apart, the Finns paid dearly getting through. Turns out I was correct, because they were pretty much done when I found them.

On the left, my forces are very scattered also, but for a somewhat different reason. To use the terrain properly as I saw it, I decided to yield several flags with my deployment, expecting I could recapture them after the battle. Once the enemy was beaten on the left, I sent my men out to recapture flags and destroy any stragglers. It was about this time the enemy started coming around from their rear, having busted through my center and circling around some lakes. Everyone not specifically guarding a flag was heading to engage the enemy coming from the rear.

In the end, I lost over 300 men where Finland lost more than twice that number. I held 20 out of 21 flags at the end and would have gotten the last one if I had one more turn. As it was, the battle went two turns beyond the original length. Those two turns allowed me time to recapture two flags. I had lost a total of six, but recaptured five of those. My final result was a Marginal Victory. Given my casualties, it is unlikely capturing that last flag would have changed the result. I believe you need a 10:1 point ratio to get a decisive victory and the 120 point swing on that one flag would not have allowed that to happen. Close, but it wouldn't quite have been there.

One other interesting note is how much my core value increased over the last two battles. After the first battle, my core value increased about 9%. In these last two battles, my core value has increased 42%. This increase is despite the fact that 27 units were completely destroyed and had to be replace at a base experience level of 50. In these three battles, my core has been the same each time. Honestly, there wasn't anything to upgrade to between 9/1939 and 1/1940.

I don't really expect much out of my next battle. My force is assaulting and I'm using the exact same force as the first three battles. All I'm taking out of support points is one spotter plane.

Here is the save from that last battle just before I ended my final turn.