Attached is a scenario based upon Harold Coyles 1988 book Sword Point. The fictional background and scenario background are shown below.
The map is based upon the terrain approximately 10 km north of Hajjiabad (using Coyle’s spelling), Iran. In searching google earth, I found terrain matching the battle map of the book, and adapted it using dmnt’s terrain map generating tool (
http://www.venhola.com/maps/).
To match descriptions in the book as well as provide some play balance, some adjustments were made to make the actual terrain conform to the battle map in the book.
The tactics of the Soviet assault are from the book. As such, this is heavily weighed towards a US victory. So a large loss in US forces or a marginal victory to the US should be considered a loss.
This is the first of a series of battles from Sword Point that I’m working on. Both from the US side as well as the Soviet.
It’s a great book and excellent read of mechanized warfare in the late 20th Century. I highly recommend it.
Sword Point (8 July 1987)
Adapted from the book Sword Point, by Harold Coyle
Date: 8 July 1987
Battle Location: 10 Km North of Hajjiabad, Iran.
Battle Type: US Defense v. Soviet Assault.
Fictional Historical Background:
Based upon the novel by Harold Coyle (Sword Point), the USSR invades Iran seeking access to warm water ports into the Gulf of Oman. Faced with an antagonistic Iranian government who considers both the US and the USSR to be the greater/lesser Satan, US forces lead a coalition to intercede in the conflict and stabilize the region. US forces move north from the Iranian southern ports to meet the advancing Soviet armored columns.
The US and USSR must face an additional adversary from the remnants of the Iranian armed forces and paramilitary.
This scenario is set in locations described in the fictional account, using modified topographic maps adapted to the battle maps in the book, as well as detailed descriptions of terrain features, adjusted for the almost 30 years since the book’s publication. Minor adjustments in force levels are made for play balance.
Scenario Background:
You command elements of the 3rd Battalion, 4th Armor, holding a defensive position between two ridges saddling Iranian Rt. 71 north of Hajjiabad. Facing you are elements of at least two Soviet Tank Battalions augmented by Motor Rifle Companies.
You have two scout sections out front on either side of the valley. Their mission is to report enemy movement and engage only if necessary. One tank platoon attached to Team B (Mech Infantry) is positioned forward, they will make initial contact and fall back to support Team B. The remainder of Team B is located on the west ridge (south ridge on map). C Company (Mech Infantry) is positioned on the east ridge (north ridge on map). An anti-tank ditch with minefield is situated across Rt. 71, behind which is a company of M1A1 tanks (A Coy). A Mech Plantoon screens to the west (south of the main positions). You have mortar support, as well as one Battalion of Artillery and two FASCAM batteries.
US forces have filtered opportunity fire. You may adjust this as you see fit, but the battle plan is to ascertain the main objective of the Soviet thrust then attack. Once you determine the enemy axis of advance and they are in effective range, you are free to initiate contact.
The Soviet thrust is anticipated down Rt. 71 into your positions. US Air has interdicted their Recce formation so expect armor to lead the assault. Their strategic objective is the port of Bandar Abbas.
US forces in country are limited. Battle losses cannot be easily replaced. Husband your forces accordingly but the current Soviet attack has to be stopped. Remember, this is not the last battle we expect. It’s a long road to Tehran. Good Hunting!
Design by: Thomas Garlock
Sword Point. 8 July
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