“In my dreams I hear again the crash of

guns, the rattle of musketry, the strange,

mournful mutter of the battlefield.”
— Douglas MacArthur
 Writing
Andy C. Davis, Alexander Flagg, Clayton A. Oliver, Jason Olsan, Patrick Parrish

Line Developer Project Manager

Patrick Kapera Clayton A. Oliver

System Development and Editing

Scott Gearin

Consultants Creative Director

George Anderson, Alexander Gentry, Scott MacLeod, Mark Jelfo
Christophe Mouchel, Ed Thomas, Chad Underdonk,
D.M. Van Hise, David J. Vargas, Scott Wade, Graphic Design & Cartography
Jim Wardrip, Marcus Wischik Nate Barnes

Art Director Chief Executive Officer

jim pinto John Zinser

Cover Art Chief of Operations

Veronica V. Jones Maureen Yates

Interior Art Production Manager

Ilya Astrakhan Mary Valles

Editors ADDITIONAL MATERIAL

Patrick Kapera, Katie Yates Scott Gearin

Spycraft Created by Patrick Kapera and Kevin Wilson

Dedication
Writing and editing on this book was completed the week of November 11, 2004. The eleventh day
of the eleventh month is the anniversary of the armistice that ended hostilities on the Western Front
of the Great War — now known to us as World War I. In the United States, this is now Veterans Day,
and in the nations of the British Commonwealth, it's Remembrance Day.
We remain. We remember.

The Spycraft/Shadowforce The Spycraft/Shadowforce

Archer Story Team is… Archer Design Team is…
Steve Crow, Robert J. Defendi, B.D. Flory, Sean Michael Fish, Alexander Flagg, James Maliszewski,
Meredith Patterson, Les Simpson Scott Gearin, Clayton A. Oliver, Rodney Thompson

Playtesters
Tony Allen, Alexander Andersson, Bryan Armor, Carl Ballard, Jon Bancroft, Allan Barber, John Barber, Kevin Barbour, Steve Barr, Clark Barrett, Bruce Baugh, Rob Buckley, Matt Birdsall,
Tyler Blount, Kyle Burckhard, Nick Campbell, Simon Campey, Ben Caplan, Chris Carlson, Richard Cattle, Jeff Churchill, David Crabbe, Joshua Cremosnik, Steve Crow, Andy C. Davis, Matt Davis,
Nathan Devonshyre, Ray Edwards, Steve Emmott, Charles Etheridge-Nunn, Sean Fish, Alex Flagg, B.D. Flory, Jerry Ham, Rich Harkless, Nabil Homsi, Ashley Jestico, Stephen Johnstone,
Alex Matarazzo, Dave McAlister, Christi McCray, Matt McGowan, Vivika McKie-Woods, Angus McNichol, James McPherson, Kalai McPherson, Andrew Mertz, Steven Mileham, Justin Miller,
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Alasdair Stuart, Michael Surber, Andrew Fraser Taylor, Colin Thomas, Eric Thompson, Seth Tupper, Kris Wagner, James Wiley, Marcus Wischik, Matt Wright

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Reproduction without AEG's written permission is expressly forbidden, except for the purpose of reviews and when permission to photocopy is clearly stated.

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 Table of Contents
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 1: afghanistan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The War Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Timeline of the Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
After the War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
The End? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
The Warriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mujahideen/Northern Alliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Taliban/Al Qaeda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Soviet Union/Peoples Democratic Party of Afghanistan . . . . . . . . . . .12
Coalition Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
The Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Desert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Desert Urban . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Mountains . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
The Mission: Operation Ant-Eater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
The Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
The Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
The Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Chapter 2: bosnia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
A Window to Genocide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
The War Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
People and Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Important Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
The War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Timeline of the Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
The Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
After the War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
The End? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
The Warriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Serbian Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Ethnic Cleansing and Nationalism . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Croatian Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Muslim and Federal Bosnian Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
International Peacekeepers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
The Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Pulling Back the Curtain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
By Any Means Necessary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Bring Them to Justice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Smuggling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
The Mission: Operation Fell Hand . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
The Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
The Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
The Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Chapter 3: central and south america . . . . 37
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
The War Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Geography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
People . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Important Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
The War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Columbia (1986 to Present) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
Falkland Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Grenada (1983) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
After the War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
Nicaragua (1981 to 1990) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Panama (1989) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
The End? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
The Warriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Falklands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
Grenada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Nicaragua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Panama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
The Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Falkland Islands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
Grenada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Nicaragua . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
Panama . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
The Mission: Operation Fallen Angel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
The Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
The Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48
The Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
3
Chapter 4: Vietnam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
The War Zone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
The War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
After the War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60
The End? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61
The Warriors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
The Viet Cong . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62
The North Vietnamese Army . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
The South Vietnamese Army . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
United States Armed Forces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
The Conflict . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Espionage Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66
Military Missions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
The Mission: Operation Great Catch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
Firebase Heaven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
The Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68
The Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
Chapter 5: the last war — and after . . . . . 73
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
The End of the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
Setting the Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
The Timeline of the Apocalypse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75
The Super Flu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77
No Man’s Land . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
Life After the Last War . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78
The State of the World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80
We Few . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
National Military . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .84
Infantry Squad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
Intelligence Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
Local Government . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
Extremist Community . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Neo-Barbarians . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
In the Silence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Isolation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
Recommended Viewing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
The Necessities of Survival . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90
Agents Without an Agency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
Recommended Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
The Mission: Operation Dark Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
The Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
The Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95
The Action — Option #1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96
The Action — Option #2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .97
Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .98
Chapter 6: new rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Long Term Gearing Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Personal Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
Mission Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104
Field Expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Gadget Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Leveling Up During a Long Term Mission . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Medical Treatment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Bleeding and Squealing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105
Taking a Hit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107
The Road to Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .107
Reconstruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
Gear Abuse and Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108
Undoing Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Preventative Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Cannibalization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Vehicular Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Gadget Abuse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
Scavenging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .110
In-Mission Scavenging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
Downtime Scavenging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
Procurement in the Wasteland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .111
Foraging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
Fuel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112
Weapons of Mass Destruction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
WMD Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
WMD Effects . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .113
Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .119
New Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
Air Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .120
Ground Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .122
Water Vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124
Mass Combat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
Mass Combat Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .125
Battlefield Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126
 Introduction
INTRODUCTION
In the last two Spycraft releases, U.S. Militaries and
World Militaries, we’ve focused on real-world forces
across the globe — their personnel, resources, conflicts,
histories, training, and ways to use them as agent
options and backdrop support in your games. This book
concludes our exploration of the military arena with
a journey into the world of small-scale squad combat —
and the places it happens.
Battlegrounds introduces a variety of historical,
modern-day, and future settings within which espionage
or military campaigns may be posed. The information
contained in this book is useful to Spycraft games
of any type, but shines in games portraying the military
giants of our time, and their titanic campaigns of
ideological or territorial superiority. The next time you
find yourself hard-pressed for an evening of RPG fun,
all you need do is flip through one of this release’s
Mission sections for a rapid-fire one-shot encounter.
Likewise if you’re short a scene in your latest serial.
And for a special treat, you might use one of those
criminal geniuses’ master plans the agents fail to stop as
a launching pad for this book’s most exciting material
— an all-new post-apocalyptic setting drawn from
current real-world events right outside your window!
What This Book Contains
Battlegrounds is broken into six chapters, as follows.
Chapter 1: Afghanistan presents one of the most
notable military landscapes of the mid- to late-20th
century, caught between the super powers of the Cold
War.
Chapter 2: Bosnia strives to present one of the
longest-maligned territories in the world, with roots in
modern conflict dating to World War I and before.
Chapter 3: Central and South America covers the
Marxist factions, drug cartels, and other forces waging
bitter revolutionary skirmishes and battles of personal
interest through some of the deepest jungles on the globe.
Chapter 4: Vietnam focuses on the bitter historical
struggle between communist and capitalist ideals in one
of the least hospitable terrains ever encountered.
Chapter 5: The Last War — And After is Spycraft’s
homage to a classic but often overlooked genre of
fiction and roleplaying: the end of the world. From the
modern day to post-collapse, this chapter presents an
all-too-possible road upon which we might already be
traveling, and the terrors that await us at road’s end.
4
Chapter 6: New Rules presents many optional
mechanics to support squad-style play and alternate
military play styles (including the conditions inherent in
any post-apocalyptic campaign).
Long-term gearing up rules are introduced, allowing
agents to choose a precise set of gear that they keep
from mission to mission (rather than giving it back to
a central clearing house, as seen in typical Spycraft
games). Military and non-military avenues are given,
along with different gear schemes based on the missions
undertaken, and explanations for using every aspect
of the standard Spycraft gear system in conjunction.
With agents potentially hanging on to gear
for indefinite periods, we’ve also included more
comprehensive rules for how vehicles and other gear
can be damaged and repaired, factoring in general
abuse, preventative maintenance, and cannibalization.
Rules for scavenging new parts for old items are also
presented, along with ways to find food in the wild.
Both rules sets may be used during missions and during
“downtime,” expanding the options available to agents
beyond the bounds of standard mission structure.
Realistic medical treatment rules are also offered,
including alternate injury effects and ways to recover
from them.
Updated weapon of mass destruction rules offer tools
for the aspiring global dictator — or criminal mastermind
— and material on radiation poisoning further supports
the horrific post-apocalyptic scenario seen in Chapter 5.
Next up is an assortment of never-before-seen
vehicle stats for transports and weapon platforms
found on modern battlefields, with historical notes and
complete game play notes.
Finally, Battlegrounds presents an agent-centric set
of mass combat rules — but they’re not what you may
think. Instead of detailing troop movements and
complex maneuvers involving thousands or tens of
thousands of soldiers, these simple mechanics provide a
fast-paced backdrop for any scene taking place in a war
zone. With just a few die rolls, the GC can determine
whether an agent team moving through a battlefield is
plagued by an enemy sniper or random shrapnel, and
effortlessly present plausible intensity and scope against
which the team’s actions occur.
Remember, agents: nowhere is safe from the ravages
of war, but every war produces heroes. Somewhere out
there, glory awaits you on the field of battle…
 “The Americans want us to continue fighting,
but not to win, just to bleed the Russians.”
— Ismael Khan

afghanistan
1
 battlegrounds
INTRODUCTION THE WAR ZONE
Afghanistan is an arid, landlocked country, bordered
by Pakistan to the south and east, Iran to the west,
Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north,
and China to the distant northeast. The nation is split by
a north-south divide along the Hindu Kush mountain
range, which rises more than three miles at certain
points. The western and southern provinces are upon
the Iranian plateau, forming high altitude desert lands.
This area is flat and bare, with a sparse population
dotting the land. North of the Hindu Kush are the
Central Asia steppes, which stretch for thousands
of miles into Siberia. Afghanistan is a harsh land with
hot summers and cold winters; only ten percent of the
land is arable, mostly near Jalalabad in the east, Herat
in the west, Bamiyan valley towards the center, and in
the northern river valleys.
Afghanistan’s story is a tale of bloodshed, violence,
and oppression. Kings, warlords, rebels, and occupying
forces have vied to control the tumultuous nation for
millennia. Despite its lack of arable land, technology,
and other resources, many of its mountain passes and
valleys are considered the “back doors” into other
nations. This fact has made it a keystone for military
success in Asia for as long as history has been written.
Conquerors from Alexander the Great to Genghis Khan
have taken Afghanistan as theirs, knowing its strategic
importance.
Once considered a distant and inconsequential
country, it did not achieve much prominence until after
World War II. The King of Afghanistan asked both the
United States and the Soviet Union for military training
and aid, hoping to improve the nation’s defenses.
President Eisenhower deemed Afghanistan too distant
to benefit U.S. interests, but the Soviet Union lent
support through the donation of vehicles and ordnance.
It also offered Soviet training to all Afghani military
leaders, which set up the conflict that has marred the
nation’s recent history.
6
Afghanistan is a land of steep rocky mountains and
dusty plateaus. Approximately half of the country lies
over a mile above sea level. This altitude, compounded
with the extreme climate, creates an arid, rugged land
that supports little life. The brutal scorching tempera-
tures of the dry summers are compounded by the relent-
less cold of the winter. In the western and southern
regions, intense heat and sandstorms are common
during the summer. Rising in the midday or early after-
noon, “dust winds” of 60-100 mph raise high clouds of
dust from the ground, lowering visibility along the vast
steppes. This can be dangerous to electronics and
mechanical devices.
Precipitation rapidly changes throughout the year.
Sudden rainstorms will cause shallow rivers to turn into
torrents without warning. Many of the local fighters use
such unpredictability to their advantage, trapping or
swallowing their enemies after leading them towards
shallow rivers at the first sign of rain. Within the moun-
tains, the frozen winters can temperatures to plummet
well below zero degrees Fahrenheit, difficult to survive
without special protection. Relics of past wars and inva-
sions can be found throughout the country, from
destroyed vehicles to the corpses of unaccounted soldiers.
One of the key methods to controlling Afghanistan
is the many tunnels and passes that can be found with-
in the country. There are over 200 passes along the bor-
der between Pakistan and China. Ninety of these can be
traversed by vehicles, making them extremely important
strategic military locations. In a country where it can
take weeks to travel around mountains to get from one
city to another, the shortcuts between them – or through
them – can make a huge difference in a military strike…
and even help determine control of the entire country.
The Salang Pass tunnel, a relic of the Soviet occupation,
is a typical example of such sites. Connecting Kabul,
Herat, Kandahar, and Ghazni, it serves as a crucial sup-
ply route between those cities. The tunnel is considered
the highest in the world and is over a mile and a half
long, making it a high target for ambushes or collapse.
Local fighters often make use of the limestone caves
that surround the mountainsides across the country.
These caves are created from runoff trickling down to
the water table deep below the earth, which creates
enormous lengthy caverns that are primarily used for
irrigation. Resistance fighters have transformed them
into defensive strongholds and hidden training camps.
They act as natural bunkers, able to repel the fiercest
assaults. They can also serve as an excellent method of
hiding from satellite reconnaissance, making them
 afghanistan
excellent hideouts for fugitives. However, cave com-
plexes are susceptible to “bunker buster” bombs which
can easily collapse them with precision. Most of these
cave complexes can be found north of Kabul, and south
in the mountains that border Pakistan.
Control of the nation has been a very slippery
proposition in the last twenty years. During the Soviet
occupation, the communist government actually only
controlled the northern third of the nation, as well as
military-backed governing facilities within most major
cities. When the Taliban ran Afghanistan, it was in con-
trol of most of the cities in some greater or lesser form
yet not the outlying countries. Even when the U.S.-led
Coalition declared Afghanistan to be free of Taliban rule
and under the authority of the Afghan Transitional
Government, most of the nation remained under the
command of regional warlords. (For more information
on Afghanistan during these periods, see page 8).
The warlords in Afghanistan are men who, either
through familial hierarchies or money and muscle, have
obtained enough power to run small armies and militias.
They typically retain their power with “iron fist” tactics
such as forced taxation, racketeering, and other forms of
intimidation against the local populace. Most of the
nation’s power depends upon the loyalty of these warlords,
which is typically either bought or bartered for. They retain
regional control and care not who runs the country, as
long as they are left alone with their cities or regions.
Indeed, part of any attempt to control Afghanistan
involves careful courting of the warlords’ favor.
7
Drug money flows from Afghanistan like a river, and
has helped fund a great many of its regional warlords.
Afghanistan is one of the world’s largest growers of
opium poppies, which can be distilled into narcotics and
smuggled into the black markets of the world.
As money trickles back, the millions raked
in from the harvests and refinement
help line the warlords’ pockets.
The money helps to feed and
arm their troops, as well
as allowing the higher
echelons of their paramilitary
organizations to live very comfortably.
When the Taliban controlled the country,
a significant amount of Al Qaeda’s money
came from sales of drugs.
Throughout all of this, the
people of Afghanistan
have demonstrated a
superhuman endurance
to the difficulties of wars.
They have adapted to the terrain, to
the extreme conditions, and to the ever-shifting
political and economic conditions. With the hardships
that the people of Afghanistan have to endure, family
and community are the major tie that binds. They don’t
give loyalty to a country or a major political power,
but to the community and especially to the family.
As a result, Afghan society has always broken down
into factions, factions which sometimes war with each
other. Unless there is a family tie of some sort, most of
the people will not help strangers — especially foreigners
— within these conflicts.
The capital city of Kabul is located in eastern
Afghanistan, with a population estimated between
2 and 4 million people. Its refusal to buckle under
repeated assaults and seizures may also explain why it
is the largest city within Afghanistan. It rests upon the
strategically important valley of the Kabul River.
The remnants of Bala Hissar stand on the southern bank
of the Kabul River, an ancient fortress turned military
college. About a mile and a half west of the college is
the University of Kabul which became a battleground in
the mid-1990s between a fundamentalist group and
supporters of the then-Afghan president. The campus
still shows the signs of the battle: bullet damage upon
the trees, crumbled fences from shells, and rocket craters
marring pathways. Some of the books within the library
show damage.
The main home away from home for foreigners
within the city is the Intercontinental Hotel, which has
been a lasting landmark. Multiple bazaars nestled in the
narrow, crooked mud-filled streets within the old sec-
tion of the capital act as the ancient hub of commerce
 battlegrounds
in town. The larger parts of the bazaar are open squares
filled with the local populace, with the brush-covered
THE WAR
mountains visible in the distance. The city is also home
to the only television and radio stations throughout the
The country’s current turmoil began in 1973,
country. When an assault occurs against the country,
when King Zahir Shah traveled to Italy for eye surgery
these two communication hubs are among the first
and a vacation. While he was away, his cousin Daud
targets. Between 1991 and 1996, the southern side
Shah seized power in a bloodless coup and instated
of town was continuously sundered by shelling. Despite
a republic-based government with himself as president.
the shelling, the town as a whole has been little
His cabinet contained a large number of communists.
damaged. It is one of the most heavily landmined cities
Daud brought many modern ideas to the country,
in the world, however, making it dangerous to walk
which went against much of rural Afghanistan’s tradi-
down certain roads and streets for fear of setting one
tions and values. For example, he made women’s veils
off. During the Soviet incursion of Afghanistan, Kabul
optional to wear. He also banned all religious parties
acted as the Soviet command center. The Soviets left the
that opposed the government, which angered a large
city in 1989; the Taliban seized it in1996, and then
percentage of the populace. The kettle came to a boil
abandoned it in September of 2001, when it fell to the
when Mir Akbar Khyber, an important figure within the
control of the Northern Alliance.
communist People’s Democratic Party of Afghanistan
Approximately 100 miles west of Kabul is Bagram
(PDPA) was assassinated. The act sparked a riot, and
Air Base, built in 1976. The Soviets used it heavily
many religious leaders, such as Burhanuddin Rabbani
during their war in Afghanistan, and the Coalition made
and Ahmad Shah Masoud, then fled to Pakistan in order
extensive use of it during Operation: Enduring Freedom.
to organize resistance.
The Air Base consists of three large hangars, a control
On April 27th, 1978, the PDPA initiated a bloody
tower, and numerous support buildings that were built
coup and surrounded the presidential palace. Daud and
during the Soviet occupation. The base is surrounded by
his entourage were killed In the exchange, and the party
the heaps of destroyed and useless planes, a grave
seized power. The coup came to be known as the Saur
reminder of the Soviets’ misadventure in the country.
Revolution (“Saur” means “April” in Afghan). The coun-
Kandahar is the second largest city in Afghanistan,
try was then rechristened as the Democratic Republic of
with around 200,000 people. It lies about 100 miles
Afghanistan. The two factions of the PDPA, the Khalq
north of the Pakistan border. Despite its size, Kandahar
(“People”) and the Parcham (“Flag”) split most govern-
is considered the chief trade center of Afghanistan,
ment positions between them. The Khalq’s leader,
housing numerous mosques and bazaars, as well as
Muhammad Taraki, soon began purging all Parcham
a technical college. The surrounding lands represent
members from the cabinet and major government func-
some of the few fertile areas within the country,
tions. The organizer of the Saur Revolution and the
surrounded by an ancient mud wall. Kandahar was
prime minister under Taraki, Hafizullah Amin, was
a site of Soviet command and the birthplace of the
among the chief targets. However, the attempt on
Taliban in 1994. During the Taliban’s rule, it served
Amin’s life failed; rather, it was Taraki who died in the
as the capital of Afghanistan.
exchange, cut down in a gunfight by Amin’s followers.
Mazar-i-Sharif is near the Uzbekistan border. It was
Amin then became president of Afghanistan. Though he
an important city during the Soviet war, containing
attempted to moderate the PDPA’s anti-religion reputa-
a strategic road between Kabul and Termez in then-
tion, many Afghans considered him to be responsible
Soviet-run Uzbekistan.
for the regime’s sometimes harsh measures.
Jalalabad is a leading trade center in eastern
In Moscow, Taraki’s elimination without consent
Afghanistan. It lies near the Khyber Pass on the Kabul
angered the Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev. The KGB
River, linking trade with India and Pakistan. This city
chairman and the defense minister opened a special
is an important military center with its air strip and
commission on Afghanistan. The findings reported that
strategic command of the entrances to Laghman and
Amin was purging his opponents, including Soviet sym-
Konar valleys. The town is surrounded by a large
pathizers; that his loyalty to Moscow was feigned; and
irrigated plain that produces much of the city’s food.
that he sought diplomatic links with Pakistan and per-
Jalalabad was badly damaged during the Russian
haps China without consent from Moscow. In December
invasion as well as the civil war that occurred
24, 1979, Soviet airborne forces seized Kabul airport.
afterwards. Sympathetic to the Taliban’s social policies,
Elite Alpha Group commandos gunned down Amin in
it was bloodlessly taken in August 1996, which served
his bedroom. Simultaneously, columns of Soviet troops
as the door opener for the Taliban’s assault upon Kabul.
crossed the Uzbekistan border and headed towards
Kabul. The USSR had invaded Afghanistan with 80,000

8
 afghanistan
men. The Parcham’s leader Babrak Karmal, who was in Timeline of the Conflict
exile after his party was eliminated from major govern-
• July 17, 1973 — Daud Shah seizes power in
ment posts, became president under the USSR’s wing.
bloodless coup from Zahir Shah.
The invasion proved anything but decisive, however;
guerrilla fights soon began launching attacks against their • April 27, 1978 — People’s Democratic Party
Soviet “liberators.” The fighters, known as mujahideen, of Afghanistan, headed by Muhammad Taraki,
were led by exiled religious leaders and soon grew in initiates a bloody coup, killing Daud Shah.
skill, technology, and numbers. A jihad, or holy war, was
• September 1979 — Hafizullah Amin seizes
declared upon the PDPA, and other countries began
power from Taraki.
to lend their assistance. The U.S. covertly trained the
fighters and equipped them with surface-to-air missiles, • December 26, 1979 — Soviet invasion forces kill
Pakistan offered training grounds, and Saudi Arabia Hafizullah and install Babrak Karmal as Prime
offered money. The CIA alone invested $2.1 billion over Minister.
10 years to help the anti-Soviet resistance.
• December 27, 1979 — Soviet ground forces invade
The Soviet government eventually grew dissatisfied
from the north.
with Karmal’s governing and replaced him with the
chief of the Afghan secret police, Ahmadzai Najibullah, • 1984 — Mujahidin start receiving assistance
in May 1986. He changed the name of the country back from U.S. and other outside powers.
to the Republic of Afghanistan as a symbolic gesture to
• May 1986 — Karmal is replaced by Ahmadzai
show he was willing to negotiate with the mujahideen,
Najibullah.
but they refused to deal with a Soviet “puppet govern-
ment” and the war continued for another three years. • 1988 — Geneva Accords signed.
After 13,000 Soviet soldiers were killed, the USSR
• February 1989 — Last Soviet troops leave
had had enough. Soviet president Mikhail Gorbachev
Afghanistan.
signed the Geneva Accords, outlining the retreat of
Soviet troops from Afghanistan and the establishment • 1992 — Mujahideen forces, led by Ahmed Shah
of a coalition government run by Najibullah. By Massoud, remove Najibullah from power.
February 1989, the last troops left the country. But
• 1993 — Factions form government, with
peace once again proved short-lived. In April 1992,
Burhanuddin Rabbani as president.
mujahideen forces, led by Ahmad Shah Massoud — a
major religious and military leader of the resistance — • September 1994 — Taliban emerge as a strong
took Kabul, and Najibullah fled to a UN compound. The faction.
new rulers proclaimed the Islamic Republic of
• September 1996 — Taliban seizes control of Kabul.
Afghanistan and made Burhanuddin Rabbani, who was
Rabbani is exiled and Najibullah is executed.
in exile during the Soviet conflict, their president.
Not long after, each faction of mujahideen started to • September 10, 2001 — Massoud is assassinated
fight with one another. The leaders of the factions by a suicide bombing.
became warlords of their territories, ruling their people
• September 11, 2001 — Terrorists hijack multiple
as tyrants with little regard for central authority. Many
U.S. airplane flights, destroying the World Trade
became bandits, engaging in extortion, drug smuggling,
Center and damaging the Pentagon. Thousands
kidnapping, and other criminal ventures. Hizb-I Wahdat,
die in the aftermath; the Taliban-sheltered
a faction of resistance, launched massive rocket attacks
Al Qaeda is suspected for the attack.
on Kabul from 1992 to 1995. By the time the attacks
ceased, one third of the city was reduced to rubble. • October 7, 2001 — U.S. begins strategic bombing
In September 1994, the Taliban emerged under the of Taliban sites.
Islamic teacher Mullah Mohammad Omar. Starting in its
• December 22, 2001 — Hamid Karzai sworn in as
birthplace of Kandahar, it successfully captured most of
chairman of interim government.
the country with the support of the local population,
who were disillusioned with the mujahideen and the • January 2002 — Taliban officially surrenders the
ongoing bloodshed they fosters. Kabul fell to the country.
Taliban in September 1996. Najibullah was publicly
• May 2003 — U.S. claims most of Afghanistan
executed by hanging and the nation once again had
is secure.
new leadership. In 1997, the country was renamed
again, to the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

9
 battlegrounds
Soon the Taliban’s oppression of the people began
to be felt. Their harsh and inflexible interpretation
of Islamic law led to brutal curbs on personal liberty.
Under their regime, women were required to be fully
veiled nor could they participate in work. Men were
forced to grow beards. Minority religions were
grievously persecuted, culminating in the destruction of
two priceless Buddhist monuments in cliffsides
at Bamiyan in March of 2001. They also launched
a serious effort to rid the country of opium production…
which threatened the livelihood of many mujahideen
factions. The previous in-fighting between warlords —
on-going during all of the nations power transfers —
was ended, and new resistance rallied under ex-president
Rabbani as the Northern Alliance.
Osama bin Laden, a known global terrorist who had
left Afghanistan in 1990, was welcomed by the Taliban
and allowed sanctuary in the country in 1996.
A financier of the war against the Soviets, his money
helped finance the Taliban’s regime. In return, he was
allowed to set up terrorist training camps for his reli-
giously-motivated terror group, Al Qaeda, or “the Base.”
The United Nations instituted sanctions against
Afghanistan in 1999 and 2000, citing the support of ter-
rorism — Osama bin Laden specifically — as well as the
cultivation of narcotics. In all that time, only three
nations — Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab
Emirates — formally recognized the Taliban’s rule.
The Taliban and the Northern Alliance fought
continuously with little major success until September
2001. On September 10, a Taliban assassin posing as
a news reporter killed Northern Alliance leader Massoud
10
during an interview. The day after, the United States
was hit by the largest terrorist attack in the country’s
history. Al Qaeda terrorist hijacked a quartet of passenger
jets, flying two of them into the World Trade Center in
New York City. A third plane crashed into the Pentagon
building in Arlington, Virginia, while a fourth crashed
into a field outside of Shanksville, Pennsylvania
(it is widely believed that this last crash occurred after
passengers aboard the doomed jet fought back against
their captors). The day after, President George W. Bush
declared a “War on Terror” with Afghanistan as its
first target. The U.S. demanded that they turn over
Al Qaeda mastermind Osama bin Laden or face severe
consequences. The Taliban then refused this demand.
Within a month, the U.S. rallied 70 other countries
under the banner of the “Coalition,” which then forged
agreements to free Afghanistan from the Taliban with
the assistance of the Northern Alliance. On October 7,
2001, this unified force then attacked Taliban-held
Afghanistan with a strategic bombing of major Taliban
sites, including air bases and defense outposts, as the
inaugural assault of Operation: Enduring Freedom. Most
major warlords in the country were paid to assist the
Coalition and the Northern Alliance. By December 22,
most of the major cities and strategic points were con-
trolled by Coalition troops. Hamid Karzai, the director of
operations for a resistance group, was elected by the
loya jirga, a gathering of Afghanistan’s tribal leaders,
and sworn in as president of the Afghan Transitional
Administration. By January 2002, the Taliban officially
surrendered the country and in May 2003, the U.S.
claimed that most of Afghanistan is secure.
 afghanistan
After the War
The current governing body of Afghanistan
is the Afghan Transitional Administration, or ATA.
This new government is headquartered in Kabul
and is run by interim president Hamid Karzai.
The heavy fighting may have died down, but the
country is far from peaceful. In September 2002,
Karzai survived an assassination attempt when a
gunman infiltrated a security detail for the
governor’s palace and attempted to shoot him as
he traveled in Kabul. The Coalition remains in the
country acting as a peacekeeping force. U.S. and
French special forces have spent much of their time
training the new Afghan-run military known as the
Afghanistan National Army, or ANA, which are
responsible for the protection of political figures and
are beginning to take up a national policing role.
As of the time of writing this book, public elections
are occurring within the country to determine the first
democratically-elected president within Afghanistan.
THE WARRIORS
Once the Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in order
to back the fledgling PDPA, militant native forces began
to reveal themselves in an attempt to repel the commu-
nist forces. Ten years later, they succeeded in their task,
driving the invading Soviet force back to the USSR.
After the Taliban rose up out of seemingly nowhere to
takeover the country in 1996, many of the veteran lead-
ers of the previous war took up arms as the Northern
Alliance. During its tenure as the ruling party in
Afghanistan, the Taliban allowed Osama bin Laden and
Al Qaeda to safely live within their protected confines
as an ally. These three factions battled one another until
the events of September 11th, 2001, which then intro-
duced the multi-national Coalition forces to the war
against the Taliban.
Mujahideen/Northern
Alliance
During the Soviet incursion of Afghanistan,
the primary defenders of the Afghani people were
the mujahideen, which means “strugglers” in Arabic.
The mujahideen weren’t an organized army, but more
accurately a “population in arms.” They consisted
of native people who decided to rise up in revolt of their
oppressive new regime. Their numbers were completely
tallied, with estimates ranging from 90,000 up to 9 million
of Afghanistan’s people. The name isn’t even considered
a title, but a term for a resistance fighter. It was divided
along tribal, ethnic, regional, religious, and ideological
lines, but despite these many differences, it was still
11
considered formidable. It was capable of denying
the PDPA and Soviets control of as much as 80 percent
of the countryside. They assassinated state and party
officials, and would attack targets even deep within the
heart of Soviet-run territory.
The mujahideen had only one goal in mind:
the elimination of the PDPA and the expulsion of Soviet
rule. Beyond that, they had no solid plan for a replace-
ment government. Once the Taliban seized power,
remnants of the mujahideen fighters banded together
to form the Northern Alliance, which was considered
the only major resistance to their religious rule.
Taliban/Al Qaeda
During their defense of Afghanistan against the
Coalition forces, Taliban and Al Qaeda fighters worked
together. Though their units were separate, they fought
as a whole against all who opposed Taliban rule and its
intolerant beliefs. They were unified under the idea that
they were fighting a jihad, or holy war, against the
Coalition forces — specifically, the United States.
Al Qaeda was responsible for multiple attacks upon
American interests in the 1990s, which made them
a prominent threat to the United States.
The End?
• During the Soviet conflict, the United States
publicly enters the war in order to help the
mujahideen. This declaration is taken as an act of
war against the Soviet Union. Politically-allied
countries come to the defense of both nations and
World War III is waged upon battlefields across the
Earth. After a false reading upon a missile defense
system claims that the USSR has launched
a nuclear missile towards a U.S. military target,
the U.S. retaliates by launching its missiles
towards Soviet military targets. By the time the
false missile is confirmed, the first wave of missiles
hit. Allied nuclear-capable countries fulfill their
treaty obligations and fire towards enemy nations.
Nuclear wastelands replace once-great cities
across all allied global regions and the world’s
population is reduced to a scattered few sifting
through the radioactive rubble.
• Serendipitous to their plans, Al Qaeda obtains
a working bioengineered virus created by a world
power’s biological warfare program. This virus
is altered using captive scientists, changing its tar-
gets to match broad genetic types. Within months,
millions of people are killed by this mysterious
virus until scientists discover what it is. The engi-
neers attempt a quick delivery of the cure and
vaccine. By the time the virus is controlled, only
a handful of survivors are left across the world.
 battlegrounds
Afghanistan Units Over 80,000 Soviet troops helped the PDPA try to
(Mujahideen/Northern Alliance/Taliban/Al Qaeda Units) keep control of the country, fighting battles and
ambushes against the mujahideen.
The majority of units found between the four locally-
Among the units that were deployed to Afghanistan
based factions of Afghanistan have very similar weapons
were a special unit of the Spetsnaz — the Soviet Union’s
and training. As such, all four will be described below
special operations forces — called the Spetsnaz MVD,
as the “Afghanistan Units”.
which is an interior unit used to counter terrorist
Missions: Units within these factions are the whole
threats.
of the Afghanistan troops. There isn’t a regimented
breakup of these people. As such, members of these Soviet/PDPA Infantry
units are jacks-of-all-trades. They will learn to sabo-
Missions: During an assault mission, the infantry
tage, engage in assaults, and do reconnaissance as the
is responsible for quelling any guerrilla uprisings from
mission requires.
the many mujahideen forces across the country. When
Manpower: There isn’t really a breakdown of unit
infantry is sent in to a known battlefield, they send
members; troops are merely sent where needed. All
in superior numbers to ensure victory where possible.
members are trained in basic weapons use, some demo-
During an escort mission, the troops are responsible
litions, vehicle use, and rudimentary tactics. Specialists
for protecting their designated target — typically
are rare, but can appear among the groups through
a supply convoy. With the mountains making direct
personal experience.
travel impossible, convoys must drive through passes
Gear: Most gear carried by a unit consists
that could easily be ambushed. The infantry flank the
of scrounged remnants of previous battles. During the
vehicles, walking alongside, listening and watching for
80’s, much of their gear was also given to them
any sign of the enemy. A support APC drives behind
by the U.S. in their attempt to thwart communism
with extra troops. The troops are cycled between walk-
in Afghanistan. As such, they are usually armed with
ing and riding in the APC to prevent fatigue.
a ramshackle collection of U.S. and Soviet assault rifles,
Manpower: A typical infantry unit has 4 enlisted
rocket launchers, and explosives.
soldiers and one officer. The officer, more often than
Vehicles: Most Afghanistan units travel in run-down
not, is a trained sniper. Sniper tactics are typically used
vans and pick-up trucks. Some tanks and other military
for suppression fire, as opposed to the U.S. tactic of
vehicles are used, but the availability of them primarily
using the SAW as suppression fire.
has to do with the success of the men in previous
Gear: The unit’s gear typically consists of 1 PKM
missions as they are scavenged from the enemy.
general purpose machine gun, 1 SVD Dragunov sniper
Allies: This is where most of the units differ from
rifle, and 3 RPK-74 assault rifles. The sniper rifle is used
each other. The mujahideen had many allies: the U.S.
by the officer/sniper. The enlisted each have one
would send them weapons, Pakistan gave them grounds
weapon, be it the RPK-74 or PKM. AK-74 assault rifles
for troop training, and Saudi Arabia gave them money
are common as a secondary or surplus rifle.
to help fight their guerrilla war. The Northern Alliance
Vehicles: APCs and helicopters are the common
had little backing until the creation of the Coalition,
method of transportation among the troops. Troops are
who then worked with them to stop the Taliban.
trained how to use common combat vehicles, such as
The Taliban were allied with Al Qaeda units, ensuring
jeeps, APCs, and the like, and will use them if necessary
assistance in any effort which either force required.
in the middle of battle.
Soviet Union/Peoples Allies: The troops generally have allies only among
Democratic Party of other troops. The Soviet forces within Afghanistan are
Afghanistan (PDPA) pretty much fighting alone, with the exception of those
PDPA-sympathetic troops that fight alongside them.
When the PDPA was instated as the government of
Afghanistan, it proved immensely unpopular among the Spetsnaz MVD
populace. The Soviet Union expected the industrial
Missions: During a reconnaissance mission, this
workers of the nation to rise up in defense of the new
squad will infiltrate an unknown location in order to
regime. However, the Soviets had little understanding of
determine the security of the area. The unit will only
Afghanistan: there was hardly any “industry” to employ
engage the enemy if required. Unlike the old proverb,
such workers. At the end of 1979, the Soviet Union sent
dead men do tell tales; a corpse proves that a hostile had
in troops to help quell resistance from the locals. Once
been there.
there, the troops were used to protect key strategic and
During an assault mission, this squad is sent out into
symbolic locations across the country, as well as assault
the cities or desert of Afghanistan to fight guerrilla
the uprising militants known as the mujahideen.
mujahideen forces head on. These battles can stretch on

12
 afghanistan
for days, especially in urban situations where the guerril-
la forces have the advantage. Fatigue is very typical
upon these missions, with the constant barrage of
enemy fire and the lack of sleep.
Manpower: A Spetsnaz MVD unit has an officer
as unit commander, a technical chief, and four enlisted
soldiers. The enlisted soldiers can have many specialties to
round out the group: sniper, explosives, heavy weaponry,
and the like. The group is designed to be flexible enough
to carry out whatever operation they require, while still
having an established chain of command.
Gear: A standard Spetsnaz MVD soldier has a 5.45
AKS-74 assault rifle as well as a 5.45 PRI automatic
pistol. All Spetsnaz have a special ballistic knife with
a spring loaded blade for emergency ranged combat.
Beyond that core gear, other weaponry and such are
optional depending upon the mission requirements of
the group. Spetsnaz are trained in foreign equipment as
well. This ensures they can scrounge enemy equipment
as necessary in the field.
Vehicles: Though trained in military vehicle use,
Spetsnaz MVD are usually dropped off in the field by
either armored personnel carriers (APCs) or helicopters.
If necessary, they will commandeer a local vehicle in the
field.
Allies: The Spetsnaz MVD has PDPA ground troops
and Soviet military troops as their direct allies. During
an assault mission, they will fight alongside both
against the guerrilla forces. They are highly trained and
can quickly assume a field command presence to guide
the PDPA and Soviet troops.
Coalition Forces
The day after the terrorist attacks of September 11th,
the United States began building up its allies to help
with its newly dubbed “War on Terror.” In the end,
70 nations rallied around the U.S., publicly abhorring
the atrocities of 9/11 and officially condemning those
who were responsible. These 70 nations were known
as “the Coalition”.
One of the major directives of the Coalition was they
would not allow countries to harbor terrorists. Once the
Taliban refused to turn over Osama bin Laden to the
United States for trial, this gave the forces enough reason
to invade Afghanistan.
Despite Afghanistan being a land-locked nation, the
U.S. Navy SEALs assisted in Operation: Enduring
Freedom. With their ability to quietly work behind
enemy lines, as well as their demolition skills, they were
an invaluable asset in securing the tumultuous nation.
U.S. Navy SEALs
Missions: During a demolition mission, the SEALs are
sent in to assess a target location and destroy it.
Sometimes, it’s as simple as destroying a cave entrance.
13
Sometimes the missions are rather complex, such as set-
ting a chain of explosives to take out a military bunker.
During a mine sweeping mission, SEALs are used
to search out and disarm mines in the field. With their
skill as demolition experts, these specialized troops are
able to uncover and clear enemy mines.
During an infiltration mission, SEALs are dropped
behind enemy lines, usually with the intent to retrieve
a captive or to prepare a location for a planned assault.
These can be the most dangerous missions, as being
spotted could mean instantly being outnumbered.
Manpower: A SEAL unit has an officer as unit
commander, a technical chief, and four enlisted soldiers.
The enlisted soldiers can have many specialties to round
out the group: sniper, explosives, heavy weaponry,
and the like. The group is designed to be flexible enough
to carry out whatever operation they require, while still
having an established chain of command.
Gear: The SEALs’ primary weapon is the Heckler &
Koch MP5-N submachine gun with a Colt M1911 pistol.
The specialty weapons typically are the M203 grenade
launcher, the M14 sniper rifle, or the Benelli M4
Super 9 combat shotgun. SEALs trust their equipment
implicitly — with good reason, as most of it has been
meticulously designed for them — and will rarely use
scrounged equipment found upon enemy soldiers.
Vehicles: SEALs are inserted into enemy combat
in many ways. Most are dropped in by plane, using the
high altitude low opening (HALO) parachuting method,
or by helicopter. Few are actually driven to the location
of the mission, though occasionally it does happen.
As with most units, the SEALs will commandeer
vehicles if it is necessary for the mission.
Allies: The SEALs have a great many allies in
Afghanistan during the Coalition’s “War on Terror.” The
thousands of multinational troops as well as the allied
Northern Alliance may work to assist the SEALs in some
missions.
THE CONFLICT
Throughout Afghanistan’s numerous wars, it is the
smaller conflicts throughout the towns, countryside,
and mountains that have the most impact on the
populace and the soldiers involved. Below are examples
of these conflicts that can be put into any military
or espionage-based Spycraft campaign.
Desert
The desert is an almost endless stretch of dry,
featureless land. The weather created by such high
altitudes and extreme temperatures can lead
to interesting events and dangerous situations —
the staple of a good Spycraft game!
 battlegrounds
Driving across a stretch of the savannah towards
Kabul searching for the soldiers of a local warlord,
the agents could be ambushed by a large group
of local resistance fighters that oppose this dictator,
easily flanking the agents with their superior native
knowledge of the region.
Dust storms could rise in the distance and rushes across
the open desert plain. This would force the agents to find
cover and hide from the storm’s dangers. The group will
need to be resourceful to protect themselves and their sen-
sitive equipment from the whirling fury of dust and sand.
The nomadic people of the desert, seeking a fertile
place to live could also bring many roleplaying oppor-
tunities. As family is a key element in the lives of the
people of Afghanistan, they are very wary of foreigners.
Weapons caches can be found hidden under the sand
and coarse rock of the deserts, buried by mujahideen
cells in the area, or serving as a storage depot for an
arms dealer. It could be a recent trove, placed there for
daily re-supply, or perhaps it could be a dust-covered
relic of a long forgotten resistance fighter that died the
decade before. Another potential threat could be found
in the mystery of a recently-used weapons cache in
a location that is considered secure and under control…
the precursor to an assault that was — until this
serendipitous discovery — previously unknown.
Dangerous mistakes can also happen out in the
desert. Perhaps the agents are ambushed by terrorists
patrolling from a nearby camp. Upon capture, numerous
options are available. The camp could be unknown
to the Agency, which would make this capture very
beneficial, though dangerous. The camp could also
be the staging ground for a major assault upon the
established regime, the great and final strike to topple
the government. The camp could also house interrogation
facilities, creating a sense of urgency to escape lest
sensitive Agency secrets may be revealed.
Desert Urban
Certainly, the desert is a great location for adventure,
but one should never forget the possibilities of the
desert cities. Small urban oases between stretches of
arid dry wasteland can be a welcome sight and attract
flocks of people to its vital resources. Compound this
with the fact that desert communities are bound by
familial ties more often than political or industrial ones
and you have a very unique atmosphere.
An agent may have infiltrated a warlord’s Kabul
fortress in order to determine where he intends to strike
within the next month. Successfully sneaking in during
the middle of the night, he transfers all of the planned
strikes to a small disk. Upon leaving, he is discovered by
patrolling guards. While being chased into the city, the
agent trips and lands next to a land mine. Sliding the
disk underneath the mine in case of capture, he flees.
14
Eventually he reaches his safe house and tells his con-
trol of the situation. This could lead to many adventure
possibilities. The agents must search a wide area near
where the fleeing agent left the disk for mines, seeking
the one which hides the disk. Another possibility
is a child, accustomed to playing on these dangerous
streets, found the disk and took it home.
Perhaps the same local warlord is becoming a threat
to the success of the Afghan Transitional Administration.
In order to quell the threat, he must be dealt with —
permanently. There is a problem with this simple plan:
the warlord has become very reclusive after three recent
assassination attempts. The agents could infiltrate the
warlord’s inner sanctum in disguise and build trust
among his inner circle. Once trust is built, the team is
expected to be introduced to the warlord himself. Another
option is an organized covert infiltration of the warlord’s
fortress, efficiently eliminating guards as they travel
deeper and deeper until they reach their target. Perhaps
an opposing faction’s assassin could already be in the
room and ready to carry out the exact same mission.
Mountains
The mountains can be a prime location for action
and suspense. With craggy surfaces to hide in,
the mountain passes and tunnels make great ambush
locations. The thin roads could easily lead to crashes
or a very lethal drop off the side of a mountain.
The extreme temperatures can create a sense of urgency,
like a ticking time bomb leading to the death of agents
or allies if they don’t move fast.
A crucial mountain pass can easily become a major
point of conflict, with skirmishes waged along nearby
terrain. Resistance fighters could attempt to wire explo-
sives to the sides of the valley to collapse it.
Reinforcements could be needed at an air base on the
other side of the pass within a couple of hours, requir-
ing urgency to secure the pass. All explosives, traps, and
resistance would need to be cleared before that convoy
of troops reached the pass.
A sympathetic organization within Pakistan may have
decided to bring an arms convoy to help the resistance
fighters. Fortunately, the Agency was able to intercept the
communications negotiating the deal and timetables. The
convoy is to travel through one of the unpaved passes in
order to not be noticed by Pakistan authorities. A snow
storm is brewing within the pass, which is supposed
to help hide the convoy from satellites. This would also
provide excellent cover for the agents to assault it.
Another option is that a high-ranking lieutenant of
the resistance is attempting to flee the country in order
to build up his forces and train them in neighboring
Pakistan. The only problem is that there are thousands
of square miles of mountains and his group probably
only numbers between ten and fifty — a difficult job for
 afghanistan
the agents if they were put up to the task. The agents DC 25 from the air). The edges of the entrance can be
must find this lieutenant before he disappears into the used as half cover to defend the complex from attack.
Pakistani frontier. They could run into diversion groups, 2. Weapons Storage: The weapons storage room is a
which were sent to confuse any enemies that might be major cache within the complex as well as housing vehi-
looking for the lieutenant. They may know the location cles, fuel, and communication equipment. It also contains
of the correct pass which this lieutenant is taking, which the diesel generators to light the rest of the command
would make capturing one of them a top priority. Then complex. This room has an especially large ventilation
again, what if the lieutenant was actually fleeing the shaft (see sidebar) for vehicle fumes and generator heat
country in order to defect, using the recruitment and (–5 cumulative to Spot DCs with thermographic imaging).
training story as a smoke screen, and offers information It contains a surplus of 8 Kalishnikov AK-47 assault
regarding the resistance and their strongholds…? rifles, 2 Kalishnikov AK-74 assault rifles, and ammo
drums of all calibers (at least 50 bullets each). Reinforced
cases against the wall contain 2 rocket launchers and
THE M ISSION
Operation ANT-EATER
2 HE rockets, 2 A/A rockets, and 4 A/T rockets.
3. Worship Space: The worship space is sparsely
filled with prayer mats. Lights dimly illuminate the
room and a few inspirational and religious paintings are
This mission is appropriate for a team of 3–5 agents
found upon the walls.
levels 3, 8, 13, and 18.
4. Sleeping Quarters: The sleeping quarters are about a
The Setting s sparse as the worship space, with mats for sleeping and
simple pillows laying upon the floors. One wall contains
Limestone caves are prevalent within the mountains
a rack of 10 AK-47 assault rifles for quick access. These
and plateaus of Afghanistan. The local population has
quarters can handle between 10 and 12 people comfortably.
expanded them into irrigation systems to help grow
5. Food Stores: The food stores are a room with dry
crops upon the dry mountainous lands. During the
goods as well as perishables from local sympathetic vil-
Soviet incursion, mujahideen used the caves as hideouts
lages. A few small pieces of cooking equipment, such as
and fortresses, expanding and fortifying their natural
old refrigerators and hot plates, can be found there as well.
defensive capacities. Power was brought in thanks to
6. Escape Tunnel: The escape tunnel is a thin hall —
generators, as well as stores of food supplies. After the
wide enough for but a single person to pass through —
end of the war, terrorist camps moved into the area and
that leads out into the mountains. The exit is well-dis-
used many of the caves to hide from view of spy satel-
guised with brush and rocks and is watched every hour of
lites. Once the Coalition invaded Afghanistan, Al Qaeda
the day to ensure there isn’t an assault on the complex
and Taliban forces used the caves as a line of defense.
from behind (Spot DC 25 from outside of complex).
The walls are smoothed out and extra rooms are
B. Living Quarters: Much like the sleeping quarters of
carved out of the ancient caverns. All of the corridors
the command bunker, the living quarters are populated
have at least one ninety-degree angle to prevent extend-
by sleeping mats and pillows. These quarters can handle
ed damage from explosives or rocket blasts. This prevents
20 to 24 people comfortably at a time, and arms are
collateral damage within nearby rooms. Every 15 feet
quickly available for the fighters.
within the hallways between rooms, as well as the
C. Ammunition Storage: Closer to ground level, the
entrance, contains a dynamite tripwire trap (CR 3; 2d6
ammunition storage depot is where most of the heavy
normal damage, blast increment 5 ft.; Search DC 20;
artillery and vehicles are held. This section could com-
Jump DC 20 to avoid; Mechanics DC 20 to disable) that
fortably house a couple of tanks, or up to four jeeps.
defenders of the cave system placed as a nasty surprise
Drums of ammunition and cases of explosives, are safe-
(+4 to avoid rolls if agent is a defender of the complex).
ly secured within this room. It also contains a cache of
Locations 20 Kalishnikov AK-47 assault rifles, 2 Dragunov SVD
sniper rifles, and ammo drums of all calibers (at least 200
A. Command Bunker: The command bunker acts as the
bullets each). Reinforced cases against the wall contain 2
coordination center for the massive cave complex. This
rocket launchers and 2 HE rockets and 10 A/T rockets.
section is expanded into the areas below (areas 1-6).
Fifteen blocks of C4 explosive compound rests upon
1. Entrance: This corridor is approximately 100 feet in
shelves with the ammo drums. A Soviet T-55 main bat-
length, 15 feet wide and 20 feet high. It is wide enough
tle tank is currently parked here, but no other vehicles.
to allow tanks to enter. The mouth of the entrance is usu-
D. Water Table: Deep within the complex, hidden
ally guarded to ensure it is not infiltrated, and typically
from direct access, a small chamber containing the
booby-trapped. The mouth itself has a natural rock out-
water table. The room looks like an underground lake,
cropping jutting out from the roof of the entrance to help
with buckets near the shore for the men to bring up
disguise the opening from flyby surveys of the area (Spot

15
 battlegrounds
BP* Weapons and Gear**
water. The water is clean for the most part, filtered
1–25 AKS-74 assault rifle + 3 clips, ballistic knife***,
through the earth until it reaches the baseline and
1 flashbang grenade, Kevlar vest, headset radio,
cleansed of impure elements.
nightvision goggles and desert camouflage
The Action — Option #1 Spetsnaz fatigues.
26–50 AKS-74 assault rifle + 3 clips, Tniitochmash PSS
The Soviet-backed PDPA forces have sent a Spetsnaz
Silent service pistol + 2 clips, ballistic knife***,
unit to clear out a mountain complex containing elements
2 flashbang grenades, 1⁄2 lb C-4, Kevlar vest,
of the local mujahideen. These resistance fighters have
headset radio, nightvision goggles and desert
been responsible for repeated attacks upon PDPA convoys
camouflage Spetsnaz fatigues.
in the region.
51–75 AKS-74 assault rifle + suppressor, night vision
The unit has three objectives. The first is to clear every
sight (2nd generation) and 4 clips, Tniitochmash
room in the complex. This is accomplished either by elim-
PSS Silent service pistol + 2 clips, ballistic
ination of the enemy or secured detaining of the enemy
knife***, 2 flashbang grenades, 2 smoke
for later interrogation. The second objective is to clear the
grenades, 1⁄2 lb C-4, Kevlar vest, headset
mountain of traps. Each room must be swept and
radio, gas mask, nightvision goggles and
searched. The third objective is to search through materi-
desert camouflage Spetsnaz fatigues.
als in the complex for any sort of information regarding
76–99 AKS-74 assault rifle + suppressor, ACOG sight
locations and plans of other mujahideen in the area.
and 4 clips, Tniitochmash PSS Silent service
When the agents enter a section of the complex, roll
pistol + 2 clips, ballistic knife***, 2 flashbang
a d20. Upon a roll of 11-20, a squad of Mujahideen
grenades, 2 fragmentation grenades, 2 smoke
Fighters is within the room. Whether they are armed
grenades, 1⁄2 lb C-4, Kevlar vest, headset
and prepared is the GC’s decision as appropriate.
radio, gas mask, nightvision goggles and
Agent Description desert camouflage Spetsnaz fatigues.
100+ AKS-74 assault rifle + suppressor, ACOG sight,
Read the following aloud to begin.
underbarrel grenade launcher and 4 clips,
A group of mujahideen have been raiding PDPA con- Tniitochmash PSS Silent service pistol + 2 clips,
voys between Kabul and Mazar-i-Sharif. Six ambushes ballistic knife***, 2 flashbang grenades,
have occurred in as many months. The assaults occur 2 fragmentation grenades, 2 smoke grenades,
after hitting a checkpoint in Pol-e Khomri, a town mid- 2 CS gas grenades, 1 lb C-4, Kevlar vest,
way between the two cities. After months of intensive headset radio, gas mask, nightvision goggles
searching within the Hindu Kush mountains, the guer- and desert camouflage Spetsnaz fatigues.
rillas’ base has been found. * Per agent.
** The agent gains only the weapons and gear listed for
Your squad is within 100 feet of the entrance, which is his total BP allotment. He does not gain any of the items
flanked by two guards. They seem to be very dedicated listed for lower total BP allotments.
to their post, speaking to each other without even *** See the MAG Expansion Vol. 1 PDF.
looking. A rock overhang shades them from the harsh
sun above and they are protected by brush and rock,
making a very rudimentary bunker. The rock you
Events
currently crouch behind juts up abruptly, giving Within the Water Table (D), a member of the Afghan
you partial cover from the enemy and enough space Secret Police is found tied up, guarded by a full squad
to hide behind without being detected. of Mujahideen Fighters. His name is Amet Najiib. He
was presumed dead when he disappeared a month back
after proof of an ambush upon his patrol route. His sta-
Gearing Up tistics are the same as a Mujahideen Fighter. When
The GC may either allow the agents to gear up per freed, he will attempt to help clear out the complex in
the standard Spycraft rules with a Threat Code of “Red,” thanks to his saviors.
or, for a more realistic experience, use the following
alternative Gearing Up rules.
This mission has no Threat Code and the agents do
not gain any personal gear. Instead of selecting
weapons and standard-issue gear, the agents are
assigned weapons and gear according to the number of
personal BP at their disposal, as follows.

16
 afghanistan
Optional Rule: Ricochets
Ricochets are a very real and very lethal danger of
cave fighting. As an optional rule for critical failures,
2 action dice may be spent to cause a ricochet. When
a ricochet occurs, roll a die. If the number is odd, the per-
son spending the action dice gets to choose the target
of the ricochet. If the number is even, the person firing
the weapon gets to choose the target of the ricochet.
The weapon damage is rolled as if it were
a successful hit upon the ricochet target. The ricochet
target must be within one range increment of the
weapon and in line of sight of the shooter.

a
b
c
d

1 Square = 5’
6

4
3

Ventilation Shafts
Each major section of the cave complex has at least
one large ventilation shaft that rises through the
mountain to the surface above the bunker. Spotting the
shaft from above ground is very difficult (Spot DC 20);
it is well disguised by brush and rocky outcroppings.
Thermographic image scoping will make this task eas-
ier (-5 to Spot DC) as heat rises through the shaft.

17
 battlegrounds
XP Rewards
Upon completion of this action scene, each agent
gains the following XP rewards.
• Killing one or more of the enemy characters*:
75/200/325/475 XP per agent.
• Killing all enemy characters*: 150/400/650/950 XP per
agent.
• Capturing one or more of the enemy characters*:
225/600/975/1,425 XP per agent.
• Capturing all enemy characters*: 300/800/1,300/
1,900 XP per agent.
• Clearing every room in the complex of traps:
150/400/650/950 XP per agent.
• Recovering information about other mujahideen in
the area: 150/400/650/950 XP per agent.
* Each agent earns only the highest of these rewards.
Statistics
The following NPCs are encountered during this scene.
Mujahideen Fighters
The mujahideen fighters around the complex were
mostly farmers before their time as mountain warriors.
As such, they wear simple clothes made of wool and
cotton, worn in layers. Their faces are weathered from
the harsh climates and adorned with long beards, which
are rarely cut or trimmed.
These men will fight to the death if necessary to
repel invaders to the complex, but will attempt to shout
for reinforcements the moment they are given a chance.
Since each cell of fighters could be family or close
friends, they are willing to do what it takes to help them
survive — even if it means sacrificing their life in the
process.
Mujahideen Fighters (first-tier — target average
agent level 3), 1st-level standard minions (minions,
squads of 4 – 32 MP): CR 1. SZ M; vp/wp 11/16; Init +3
(+2 Dex, +1 class); Spd 30 ft; Def 13 (+2 Dex, +1 class);
Atk: knife +3 (dmg 1d4+2 normal, error 1, threat 20 –
thrown range 5 ft.); Kalishnikov AK-47 +3 (dmg 3d6
normal, error 1, threat 19-20, range 150 ft., qualities
and mods: DP, RG – 30 shots of FMJ ammunition);
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ None;
SV Fort +5, Ref +3, Will +2; Str 15, Dex 14, Con 16,
Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 12;
Skills: Craft (Trapmaking) +3, Demolitions +3, Driver +3,
First Aid +5, Hide +3, Intimidate +4/+3, Survival +4.
Feats: None.
Gear: Weapons, worn dusty clothes.
18
Mujahideen Fighters (second-tier — target average
agent level 8), 6th-level standard minions (minions,
squads of 4 – 40 MP): CR 5. SZ M; vp/wp 48/16; Init +8
(+2 Dex, +6 class); Spd 30 ft; Def 14 (+2 Dex, +2 class);
Atk: knife +8 (dmg 1d4+2 normal, error 1, threat 20 –
thrown range 5 ft.); Kalishnikov AK-47 +8 (dmg 3d6
normal, error 1, threat 19-20, range 150 ft., qualities
and mods: DP, RG – 30 shots of FMJ ammunition);
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ None;
SV Fort +8, Ref +5, Will +4; Str 15, Dex 14, Con 16,
Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 12;
Skills: Craft (Trapmaking) +5, Demolitions +5, Driver +4,
First Aid +7, Hide +6, Intimidate +6/+5, Survival +9.
Feats: Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons, worn dusty clothes.
Mujahideen Fighters (third-tier — target average
agent level 13), 11th-level standard minions (minions,
squads of 4 – 48 MP): CR 10. SZ M; vp/wp 86/16; Init
+11 (+2 Dex, +9 class); Spd 30 ft; Def 16 (+2 Dex, +4
class); Atk: knife +13 (dmg 1d4+2 normal, error 1,
threat 20 – thrown range 5 ft.); Kalishnikov AK-47 +13
(dmg 3d6 normal, error 1, threat 19-20, range 150 ft.,
qualities and mods: DP, RG – 30 shots of FMJ ammuni-
tion); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ
None; SV Fort +10, Ref +7, Will +5; Str 15, Dex 14,
Con 16, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 12;
Skills: Craft (Trapmaking) +9, Demolitions +9, Driver +5,
First Aid +10, Hide +8, Intimidate +8/+7, Survival +11.
Feats: Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot.
Gear: Weapons, worn dusty clothes.
Mujahideen Fighters (fourth-tier – target average
agent level 18), 16th-level standard minions (minions,
squads of 4 – 56 MP): CR 10. SZ M; vp/wp 123/16;
Init +15 (+2 Dex, +13 class); Spd 30 ft; Def 18 (+2 Dex,
+6 class); Atk: knife +18 (dmg 1d4+2 normal, error 1,
threat 20 – thrown range 5 ft.); Kalishnikov AK-47 +18
(dmg 3d6 normal, error 1, threat 19-20, range 150 ft.,
qualities and mods: DP, RG – 30 shots of FMJ ammuni-
tion); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ
None; SV Fort +13, Ref +9, Will +7; Str 15, Dex 14,
Con 16, Int 10, Wis 14, Cha 12;
Skills: Craft (Trapmaking) +14, Demolitions +14,
Driver +6, First Aid +12, Hide +9, Intimidate +10/+9,
Survival +14.
Feats: Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Sharp-shooting.
Gear: Weapons, worn dusty clothes.
 “When people ask me, ‘Whom do you blame?’, I say,
‘Give me the day and the month, and I'll tell you.’”
— Canadian Major-General Lewis MacKenzie

bosnia
2
 battlegrounds
A W INDOW
TO G ENOCIDE
T HE W AR Z ONE
Bosnia-Herzegovina is a small, nearly landlocked
former republic of Yugoslavia, located on the western
Bosnia and Herzegovina have a history as a military
half of the Balkan Peninsula. Originally, the republic
and political flashpoint that stretches the length of the
was two separate nations — Bosnia and Herzegovina —
twentieth century. Some historians have said that World
that grew together as they shared a common political,
War I was the birthing cry of the 20th century, and it
economic and cultural development over the centuries.
was in the streets of Sarajevo, when a Bosnian Serb
Herzegovina composes the southern 20% of the country
nationalist shot Archduke of Austria-Hungary Franz
and is home to the republic’s coastline, a scant 13-mile
Ferdinand, that the first shot of that war was fired.
strip on the Adriatic Sea.
In many ways, the Bosnian war saw the chaos and
During the conflict, Bosnia-Herzegovina was broken
destruction sown at the beginning of the century reaped
into three distinct regions. The “Serb autonomous
at century’s end.
zones” of the Serbian Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina,
The war in Bosnia is a conflict that defies definition.
under control of the Serbian Democratic Party (SDS),
At its core, it appears to be a civil war, in which political
occupied the eastern and northern territories of the
disagreement has torn the nation asunder. But there is a
country. The Croat Community of Herzeg-Bosnia, under
deeper current to the conflict, drawn from years of ethnic
the control of the Croatian Democratic Council of
and nationalist propaganda, an aggressive campaign by
Bosnia-Herzegovina (HDZ), occupied the southwestern
neighboring nations to divide and conquer the nation,
portions; and the Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina (BiH)
and clandestine international support for the chaos there.
occupied the center of the country.
All of these factors led the Bosnian conflict to
Despite its enormous reputation, the country is little
become the bloodiest and most chaotic war in Europe
larger than the state of Tennessee, and is bordered by
since WWII. Alliances were made and broken whenever
the Republic of Croatia to the north, south and west, and
one side saw a potential advantage. Every attempt at
the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (known in 2004 as
peace was met with open arms, only to be summarily
Serbia and Montenegro) to the east. All told, the region
dismissed weeks later. The conflict witnessed the birth
comprises nearly 20% of the total area of the former
of “ethnic cleansing” – the most horrific and systematic
Yugoslavia.
application of genocide since the Nazi Party’s ‘Final
Like much of the Balkan peninsula, Bosnia-
Solution.’
Herzegovina is perched atop the Dinaric Alps, character-
So why Bosnia? What could make this little country
ized by unbroken, jagged hills and mountainous terrain
such a powder keg? In this chapter, we will explore the
criss-crossed by rocky streams and rivers. Lowlands are
history, factors and decisions that made the Bosnian war
few and far between, mainly in the deep valleys cut by the
such a savage conflict, and discover what agents can do
region’s largest rivers. The Bosnian region is heavily
to stop it.
forested, covered in deciduous and mixed woodlands that

20
 bosnia
become large stands of conifers at higher elevations. Large
game such as wild elk and deer still wander the forests,
making for good hunting.
To the south, Herzegovina is a dry and stony
wilderness, save for the Neretva river valley, whose
flatter terrain and more fertile soils make fine land
for farming, particularly towards the coastline.
Weather in Bosnia is typical of south-central Europe;
falls and springs are damp and grey, winters severe and
prone to freezing winds and heavy snows, and summers
tend to be muggy and hot. At the higher elevations,
summers are generally shorter and cooler. The weather
is the most pleasant from May to October, the driest and
warmest part of the year. Evenings tend to be cool,
regardless of season.
People and Culture
The ethnic and political landscape of the Balkan states
is complicated, to put it lightly. At the beginning of the
Balkan wars, Yugoslavia was a Communist league,
comprised of 6 member republics — Bosnia-Herzegovina,
Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia, and Slovenia.
The republics shared a rotating presidency that controlled
federal elements, most important of which was the
Yugoslavian National Army.
The region is also home to 6 major ethnic groups:
Serbs, Croats, Muslims, Montenegrins, Macedonians, and
Slovenes. When Tito built the Yugoslavian government
following WWII, he conceived each republic as a home-
land for a particular ethnic group in the interest
of diffusing tensions and creating stronger national
identities. There was only one major exception —
the region of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Bosnia-Herzegovina is perhaps the most ethnically
and culturally diverse region in the Balkan states.
The people are composed of three distinct ethnic groups —
Serbs, Croats, and Muslims (also known as Bosniaks).
All of groups are of South Slav stock, and have broad
faces, dark hair and dark eyes. All these groups speak the
same language, though it is called “Bosnian” in the Muslim
areas, “Croatian” in the Croat-controlled areas and
“Serbian” in Serb zones. The major difference is that
the Muslims and Croats use Latin script, while Serbs
use Cyrillic.
Religion is likewise varied. When the Ottomans seized
control of Bosnia, many Orthodox Christians converted to
Islam in order to improve their ability to travel and trade.
Though today the peoples of Bosnia are mostly secular,
religion remains an important part of their ethnic
and nationalist identity — nearly all Serbs are Orthodox,
while nearly all Bosniaks and Croats are Muslim.
21
Thanks to the diversity of its population, there is no
majority ethnic group in Bosnia, which is split fairly
evenly between Muslims (51%), Serbs (23%), and Croats
(21%). However, this multiculturalism is not indicative of
true integration: while big cities like Sarajevo and Mostar
are characterized by interethnic marriages and cross-
pollination, most of the country remains ethnically
subdivided by geography and tradition (a feature that
became a major contributing factor in the war).
Traditionally, the people of Bosnia-Herzegovina
live in small communities and villages typical of central
and Eastern Europe – small homes line narrow streets,
surrounding a central square or church that forms the
heart of the town. These villages are often secluded and
ethnically exclusive. It is not unusual to see traditional
small farms and villages perched precariously on steep
slopes and hilltops, surrounded by small grounds for
grazing sheep or subsistence farming. Many of these
communities have changed little for hundreds of years,
and Slavic and Ottoman influence on architecture and
culture still show through.
Important Locations
Sarajevo, in the approximate center of the country,
is Bosnia-Herzegovina’s largest city and has been the
economic, political, and cultural capital for nearly 1,000
years. Located in the deep narrow valley on the banks
of the Miljacka river, the city consists of a dense core,
surrounded by a number of quarters which reach up the
various slopes, and several municipalities located in
open ground at its western end. Sarajevo remained
under siege for most of the war by the Bosnian Serb
Army, who used the terrain to mercilessly shell the city
from the hills nearby.
Sarajevo was a vital strategic point during the war.
The UN mission began with efforts to keep Sarajevo
Airport open for humanitarian aid, and eventually
based most of its mission there. Half a million people —
approximately 11% of Bosnian-Herzegovina’s popula-
tion — lived in the city, and it remained the besieged
government’s seat of power throughout the conflict.
But most importantly, Sarajevo was a symbol for the
heart of the country – a trait that each faction wished to
claim for its own.
Like Sarajevo, the southern city of Mostar was
besieged for a good portion of the war. Formerly known
as one of central Europe’s most breathtaking cities,
it was noted for its strong interethnicity and connection
to its Ottoman roots. Its most notable feature was the
historic Stari Most (Old Bridge), a 500-year-old high
arched bridge soaring over the Neretva river that was
destroyed in 1993 during the siege by Croat troops.
 battlegrounds
Timeline of the Conflict
THE WAR
• October 1991 — The Bosnian government
declares its sovereignty from Yugoslavia.
• November 1991 — Bosnian Serb legislatures vote
almost unanimously to remain in a common
Yugoslav state with the rest of a “greater Serbia.”
• December 1991 — Bosnian Muslims and Croats
apply for recognition by the European Community.
• January 9, 1992 — Bosnian Serbs declare inde-
pendence as the Serbian Republic of Bosnia and
Herzegovina, or Republica Srpska.
• March 1, 1992 — The Bosnian referendum on
independence receives a 97% vote to secede.
Bosnia declares independence.
• April 1992 — The SDS declares a separate Serb
Republic.
• April 6, 1992 — Bosnian president Alija
Izetbegovi? declares a state of emergency and
mobilizes territorial defense forces. The U.S. and
EC recognize Bosnia’s independence on April 6.
Civil war breaks out that week between Serbs
and a Muslim/Croat allied force.
• May 1992 — Serb forces control nearly 70%
of Bosnia. Serb forces lay siege to Sarajevo,
and engage in “ethnic cleansing” within Serb-
majority areas.
• July 1992 — Bosnian Croats break with the
Bosnian government and declare independence
as the Croat Community of Herzeg-Bosnia.
• July 1992 — March 1994 – War in Bosnia and
Herzegovina escalates to a three-way conflict
between the Serb, Croats, and Muslims.
• February 1994 — The Markala marketplace
shelling in Sarajevo spurs NATO to provide air
support and enforcement of a Serb withdrawal.
• March 1994 — Bosniaks and Croats sign an
agreement creating a joint Bosniak/Croat
Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• December 1994 — Beginning of a 4 month cease
fire brokered by former U.S. president Jimmy Carter.
• July 1995 — The Srebrenica Massacre unleashes
full commitment by the international community
to end the war.
• December 1995 — Dayton Peace Accords establish
the end of the war in Bosnia.
22
The war’s roots begin back in the late 1980’s, follow-
ing the death of Yugoslavian leader Josip Broz Tito. His
death and the subsequent vacuum of power herald the
beginning of nearly a decade’s worth of economic and
social depression. Raging unemployment and hard times
hit the entire country, and from the disenfranchised
rises a new surge of nationalism amongst the people. At
the head of this wave is a young Serbian politician
named Slobodan Milosevic.
Milosevic quickly rises through the ranks to a posi-
tion of substantial power amongst the Serbian national-
ist party. Once firmly entrenched, he begins an “anti-
bureaucratic revolution” dedicated to removing dissent-
ing voices from the government and the media and
replacing them with nationalists in agreement with his
agenda. Simultaneously, Milosevic begins an aggressive
propaganda campaign, warning of the imminent threat
of Serbian genocide by the Muslims of Yugoslavia, par-
ticularly those in Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina.
Milosevic ascends to the presidency of Serbia short-
ly before Communism began to disintegrate in Europe.
The League of Communists of Yugoslavia dissolves in
January 1990, and Slovenia and Croatia immediately
holds referendums to declare sovereignty. Bosnia’s first
democratic elections create a new coalition government
comprised of three nationalist parties: the Party of
Democratic Action (PDA) for the Muslims; the Serbian
Democratic Party (SDS); and the Croatian Democratic
Union (HDZ).
By 1991, chaos is in full bloom in Yugoslavia.
Milosevic threatens that Serbia will seize Serbian-populat-
ed areas as part of a “greater Serbia” if attempts are made
to break from the Yugoslav government. Simultaneously,
the SDS announces its intent to join a “greater Serbia” by
remaining part of the Yugoslavian national government.
When Milosevic refuses to hand Croatia the rotating pres-
idency of Yugoslavia in June, war breaks out in Croatia.
Bosnia quickly declares neutrality in the conflict, but
Milosevic begins amassing and arming troops in SDS-
controlled areas of Bosnia-Herzegovina, under the pretext
of national security. Bosnia declares sovereignty (but not
independence) in November 1991, after SDS leaders walk
out of the national assembly in protest. The stage is now
set for war.
 bosnia
The Conflict divide Bosnia-Herzegovina into a set of autonomous
provinces under a central government is introduced in
The Bosnian crisis begins in earnest in March 1992,
the fall. However, none of these attempts at intervention
when the democratic Bosnian government holds a refer-
lead to a cessation of hostilities.
endum on independence. The election, which is boycotted
1993 is a record of failed attempts at peace. Bosnian
almost unilaterally by the Serbian population, is over-
and Croatian forces sign the Vance-Owen peace treaty,
whelmingly in favor of secession from Yugoslavia. Shortly
only to turn on one another later. The UN establishes
thereafter, the SDS declares its statehood as the Republika
“safe zones” to protect Bosniak civilians with peace-
Srpska (Serbian Republic), and Bosnia-Herzegovina
keeping forces, but they are unprepared to handle
requests recognition of its independence from the interna-
protection on the scale required. Much of Mostar is
tional community. On April 6, 1992, the European
destroyed in brutal Muslim-Croat fighting in the south,
Community recognizes Bosnia’s independence. Later that
and ethnic cleansing in the north continues unabated.
week, the war officially begins when Serbian nationalists
Though all sides in the conflict meet on numerous occa-
open fire on a parade in Sarajevo.
sions over the course of the year, each meeting ends at
By the end of the month, Serbians have laid siege to
an impasse, and by the winter of 1993, the UN strongly
Sarajevo, “liberated” the towns of Bejeljina, Zvronik,
considers withdrawing UNPROFOR from the region.
Visegrad, and Foca and begun a campaign of ethnic
1994 opens with NATO intervention on behalf of the
cleansing to expel Muslims and win the hearts and
Bosnians. The February shelling of the Markala market-
minds of Serbs in Serb-controlled areas. Bosnian army
place in Sarajevo produces a NATO ultimatum for Serb
forces, underequipped and undertrained in the wake of
forces to withdraw their artillery out of range of civil-
Bosnia-Herzegovina’s status as an independent nation,
ian populated areas or face punitive airstrikes. In March,
are ill-prepared for the Serbian onslaught and are
the Bosniak and Croatian forces sign a mutual cease fire
quickly overrun.
treaty, agreeing to share control of the central Bosnian
The Yugoslavian government, under the command of
government. Bosnian and Croat forces quickly join
Milosevic, makes a concerted effort to label the conflict in
together and renew the offensive against the Serbs,
Bosnia as a civil war, and officially removes YNA forces
slowly pushing Serbian forces back towards their
from the region (leaving behind Bosnian Serb soldiers to
pre-1992 boundaries.
fight in the new Bosnian Serb Army). The United Nations
Protection Force (UNPROFOR) withdraws from the region,
After the War
imposing a tight arms embargo on the Yugoslavian
republics that cripples the poorly-equipped Bosnian mili- • December 1995 – The Dayton Peace Accords are
tary, but ultimately fails to stop the burgeoning conflict. signed by Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia in Paris,
Croatian Defense Council (HVO) forces initially fight officially ending the war. The following day, the
on the Bosnian side as part of a counter-offensive NATO-led Intervention Force (IFOR) of over
against Serb forces. While both Croatia and Bosnia are 50,000 troops is assigned to the region to see the
officially allied, Bosnian Croats request a confederation agreement through.
of the two countries. Bosnian president Izetbegovic
• December 1996 – The NATO-led Stabilization
rejects the request, believing that Bosnia-Herzegovina
Force (SFOR) takes over IFOR’s mission of uphold-
can be a successful multi-ethnic state. This leads to the
ing the agreements of the peace accords, with an
secession of the Creation Community of Herzeg-Bosnia
annually renewed mission until the conflict is over.
by the Croatian Democratic Union, and the dissolution
of the alliance between the two groups in July. • December 2001 – Milosevic brought to trail
The war quickly devolves into a three-way conflict: before the UN War Crimes Tribunal on charges of
conflict between the Bosnians and Serbs; between the crimes against humanity for his role in orches-
Serbs and the Croatians; and between the Croatians and trating ethnic cleansing in Bosnia and Kosovo.
the Bosnians. Each group consolidates its territory by
• September 2004 – After a decade of denial
engaging in ethnic cleansing within territory it controls,
of responsibility, the Serbian government
creating a refugee crisis of massive proportions.
acknowledges its role in ethnic cleansings and
By August, pictures of detention camps and human
other crimes perpetrated in Bosnia-Herzegovina.
rights abuses fuels an international call for intervention.
The United Nations again deploys troops in an attempt • October 2004 – The European Union takes over
to demilitarize Bosnian towns, while establishing unen- peacekeeping duties from the decade-old SFOR
forced no-fly zones over the region and strengthening on December 2, 2004, thus ending NATO’s
the sanctions against Serbia. The Vance Owen plan to involvement in the conflict.

23
 battlegrounds
The End?
THE WARRIORS
The apocalyptic nature of the conflict lends itself to
the post-apocalyptic story quite well. In one alternative
ending, Muslim forces, pressed into a corner by increas-
ing Serbian and Croatian aggression and the bureau-
cratic waffling of the UN, tap into the international
black market to acquire a weapon of mass destruction.
While the weapon successfully proves that the Bosnian
government is serious about defense, fallout or danger-
ous waste from the weapon blows into other regions of
Europe, throwing central Europe into a crisis.
Another path the conflict can take is that the inter-
national community abandons all notions of neutrality
and enters the war in an attempt to stop it. The coun-
terattack sends the Serbs and Croats staggering, and
they call on other Eastern Bloc countries to ally against
“Allied aggression.” Eventually, NATO and Russia
become involved and things get even uglier.
Though the international community believes that the
stabilization of the front heralds a “winding down” of the
war, the bitter fighting continues as more and more atroc-
ities committed by all sides come to light. The year closes
on a good note when Jimmy Carter’s peace plan produces
a 4-month cease-fire – the longest in over 2 1⁄2 years.
The Muslim-Croat federation continues to make
inroads against the Serbs throughout the winter and
spring of 1995, supported by NATO air strikes and UN
aid. Serb forces, desperate and suffering a manpower
shortage, begin capturing and handcuffing UN person-
nel to radar and missile batteries in an effort to deter
airstrikes. In July, Serbian forces attack the UN-protect-
ed area of Srebrenica, taking thousands of hostages and
murdering over 7,000 Muslims in a week — Europe’s
worst atrocity since the end of WWII.
Outrage at the massacre removes the last barrier to
international involvement in the conflict. Over 10,000
British and French troops are deployed by the end of the
month, the U.S. removes its arms embargo from the
region, and UN drafts what would become the Dayton
Peace Accords. Serbian forces finally agree to a cease fire
in October 1995, and after a month and a half of negoti-
ations, a permanent cease-fire and agreement is signed
by Bosnia, Serbia, and Croatia, officially ending the war.
The war leaves Bosnia-Herzegovina in shambles. The
civilian populace pays the biggest price: by the end of
the war, over 200,000 Bosnians are dead, and more than
60% of the populations are displaced. The historical
cities of Mostar and Sarajevo are nearly destroyed in the
conflict, laid to waste by grinding sieges. The economy,
also wrecked by the war and division of the country,
suffers very high inflation and near-collapse for the fol-
lowing decade. For many people of the region, the peace
is not so much an end to hostility as a pause, as the
nation holds its breath for the next conflict.
24
The plastic nature of the factions fighting in the
conflict makes them difficult to define — the average army
is a combination of militia, volunteers, police, soldiers
and paramilitary forces. The only shared trait between the
fighters is the ethnic group from which they are drawn.
Thus, there are 4 significant forces involved in the Bosnian
conflict — Serbian forces, Croatian forces, Muslim forces,
and the international peacekeepers trying to stop them all
from wiping each other from the face of the Earth.
Serbian Forces
Serbian forces fighting in the Bosnian war are com-
prised of three main groups. The first is the Bosnian Serb
Army, the official force of Republika Srpska, composed pri-
marily of officers and soldiers of the dissolved Yugoslavian
National Army. The second are the Territorial Defense
Forces of the Serbian Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina,
a force of police, retired army officers and reservists trained
and equipped through the policy of Total National Defense
(see page 27). Third is a core of nationalist and volunteer
paramilitary forces — such as “Arkan’s Tigers,” “The White
Eagles,” and the “Cetniks” — that fight at the behest or in
the employment of the Bosnian Serb government.
Serbian forces draw heavily from the Yugoslavian
National Army, which contains a high percentage of
ethnic Serbs, particularly in the officers’ corps. When
the YNA officially withdrew its troops from Bosnia-
Herzegovina in May 1992, many Serb soldiers remained
behind to fight on the side of the Bosnian Serbs.
Additionally, Republika Srpska received substantial
materiel and intelligence support from the Serbian gov-
ernment during the conflict.
Missions: The Serbian campaign’s central goal is to
capture and secure territory for the Bosnian Serb gov-
ernment. Their tactics and strategies are very aggressive,
particularly during the first year of the war, and the
missions undertaken by squads reflect this.
Assault missions are common throughout the con-
flict as Serb forces push forward into Bosniak or Croat-
held territory. Squads rely on speed and intimidation to
achieve these goals, shocking the often-unsuspecting
residents to surrender as quickly as possible. Shortly
after capturing an area, squads will establish a head-
quarters and begin working to convince local Serbs to
take up their cause against other non-Serb residents.
After territory is captured, squads are sent on raid
missions, generally as part of “ethnic cleansing.” With
the local populace subdued, a squad may be charged
with searching homes for possible insurgents, disarming
the populace, expelling non-Serbian residents from
their homes or gathering prisoners to be sent to prison
or labor camps.
 bosnia
As the lines of control begin to gel in late 1992, siege
missions become more common, particularly in central
Bosnia. Serbian forces rely heavily on superior firepower
during these missions, shelling towns with mortar
and howitzer fire regularly to break the besieged civilians
and soldiers. Snipers are also widely employed during
the sieges to terrorize and demoralize the population,
often through random attacks.
Manpower: Serbian units tend to be small, but
better trained and better equipped than opposing
Croatian and Muslim forces. Their access to a strong
corps of officers ensures superior training and tactical
and strategic planning.
Ethnic Cleansing and Nationalism
Ethnic Cleansing
The term ethnic cleansing is one of the most endur-
ing artifacts of the Balkan wars that raged throughout
the 1990’s. Ethnic cleansing began as an extension
of the Yugoslavian government’s desire to create
a “Greater Serbia” out of the chaos of the dissolving
republic, by establishing a territorial and defensible link
between Serbia and the Serbian regions located in
Bosnia-Herzegovina and Croatia. The process involved
the identification and expulsion of undesirable and
potentially hostile elements from these lands. However,
in the hands of the severely outnumbered Serbian forces
in Bosnia and Croatia, this policy quickly escalated into
a license for wholesale pillaging and slaughter of the
populace in a captured region.
While Serbian units were most notorious for ethnic
cleansing, all sides engaged in the same behaviors
during the conflict. Croatian forces, fueled by revenge,
brutally “cleansed” Serb villages and neighborhoods,
and Bosniak fighters purged areas won back from
Serbian or Croatian forces of all non-Muslim residents
in the interest of “internal security.”
The process of ethnic cleansing is a horrible one,
regardless of the perpetrator. First, a military force
seizes control of an area, often warning people of
their ethnic group to evacuate. Homes and cultural
institutions of other ethnic groups — such as schools,
churches, and government buildings — are then van-
dalized or destroyed. Next, the armed attackers sweep
through an area, terrorizing the civilians with random
violence, pillaging and other crimes. People of the
“wrong” ethnicity are evicted from their homes, fired
from their jobs, detained and abused. Sometimes,
civilians are forced to sign documents relinquishing
their rights and property to the invading force, and
detainees may be forced into prison or labor camps.
25
However, manpower remains a significant problem
for Serbian forces throughout the conflict. Though only
25% of the population is Serbian at the beginning of the
war, the Bosnian Serb army must control over 70% of
the country for most of the conflict. Consequently,
Serbian squads must often work understrength and have
a more difficult time in mustering reinforcements. This
is especially evident in the extensive use of paramilitary
forces by the Serbian government early in the war.
Gear: Members of Serbian military units are the best
equipped of the war, thanks to backing by Serbia, access
to YNA armories, and an international arms embargo
that cripples the opposition. The common armaments of
Ethnic cleansing and its lasting legacy have
proven to be one of the greatest barriers to peace and
closure in the years following the war. Many families
— Serb, Croat, and Muslim — have been affected
in some way by this brutal doctrine, and only time
will tell if the wounds can ever really heal.
Ethnic Nationalism
The concept of ethnic nationalism is alien to most
people in the modern world, but is a key part of under-
standing the motivations behind the war in Bosnia-
Herzegovina. Loosely defined, ethnic nationalism
is a communal consciousness exalting members
of one ethnic group above all others, and emphasizing
the promotion of that group’s culture and interests over
those of other ethnicities.
At the time of the Bosnian conflict and collapse of
Yugoslavia, ethnic nationalism was at a fever pitch.
Nationalist leaders, including Slobodan Milosevic,
have risen to power with fiery rhetoric, playing off
the disenfranchisement of their people to stir hatred
and paranoia. Propaganda accusing other ethnicities
of threats — real or perceived — escalated into all out
paranoia and widely accepted misrepresentations
of other cultures. Even the geography of the region
provided fertile ground for such movements. The geo-
graphic and cultural isolation of Yugoslavia’s many
peoples from one another created a physical and
intellectual barrier to understanding.
The war and its subsequent resolution crystallized
these elements throughout Balkan society. Perceived
threats escalated to real ones; the people lost homes,
jobs, and family; and even today, post-war Bosnia
remains haunted by the specter of war, economically,
physically and socially.
 battlegrounds
riflemen in these units are the M-70, AMD-65 and M-80
– copies of the Kalashnikov AK-47, AKM, and AK-74,
respectively. Combat shotguns, such as the Franchi
SPAS 12, can be found in the hands of units operating
in urban environments. Serb soldiers rarely have access
to body armor, though grenades and combat knives are
often carried.
Squad leaders often carry a Yugoslavian copy of the
AKSU-74 or CZ Scorpion submachine guns, as well
as Makarov backup pistols as sidearms. Sharpshooters
typically carry a CZ M76 sniper rifle for long-range
engagement.
Because the Bosnian war is predominantly a battle
of infantry and artillery, anti-personnel weaponry is a
common sight. Squad support weapons include
Rheinmetall MG-3 and Kalashnikov PKM machine guns,
and the ubiquitous RFAS RPG-7 rocket launcher. It’s not
uncommon to find squads in possession of the man-
portable 60mm or heavier 81mm mortars, particularly
during a siege.
Vehicles: Serbian squads are the most likely units to
have access to APCs and tanks of all forces participating
in the conflict. These AFVs are a mixture of newer
26
personnel carriers such as the BTR-80 (see World
Militaries, page 118) and vintage WWII workhorses like
the American M3 halftrack. BOV-M and M-8 armored
cars are frequently used for reconnaissance, and are
more likely to be in the hands of smaller squads.
Artillery is a key part of the Serbian arsenal, and is
often used to compensate for the Serb force’s deficient
manpower. Carriage-mounted 105mm, 122mm and
155mm howitzers are widely employed in sieges and
containment missions, as are Soviet 82mm and 120mm
mortars.
Though rarely used by squads, tanks often served
as self-propelled artillery. While venerable armored
vehicles such as the Russian T-55 main battle tank
are still in wide use, Yugoslavian copies of newer tanks
like the T-72 MBT (see World Militaries, page 121), the
Soviet P-76 light amphibious tank, and the American
M47 Patton also serve in the conflict.
Allies: The Yugoslavian National Army occasionally
assists Serbian forces, mostly during the early years of
the war. Paramilitary squads, particularly homegrown
military units and Russian volunteers, also fight on the
Serbian side.
 bosnia
Croatian Forces
The primary Croatian military presence in the
Bosnian conflict are the forces of the Croatian Defense
Council (HVO), an army composed of Croatian National
Guard Corps veterans, police, civilian volunteers,
and special forces like the military wing of the Croatian
Party of Rights (named after the fascist Ustasha
of WWII, who also fought the Serbs). Most of these
irregulars are absorbed into the ZNG and disbanded
later in the conflict.
Like Serbian forces, Croatian military squads receive
financial and material support from backers outside
the theatre, mainly in Croatia. Many HVO soldiers
have fought in the recent Croatian war with
Yugoslavia, and so are better prepared militarily for
the Bosnian conflict than federal Bosnian troops
at the beginning of the conflict.
Missions: Croat forces are responsible both for offen-
sive and defensive operations during the conflict, usually
depending upon their current relationship with the
Bosniak government.
Ambush missions are a favored tactic of Croatian
soldiers. Squads utilize narrow passes, urban terrain
and hit-and-run tactics to harass and demoralize enemy
formations, while allowing them to nullify the advan-
tages of larger Muslim forces and more heavily-armed
Serbian troops.
Like Serb troops, raid missions are a regular part of
a Croatian soldier’s job, especially those fighting in the
south. Generally, raids are carried out against predomi-
nantly Muslim villages in efforts to “ethnically cleanse”
an area, or to secure a zone against insurgency.
The south is home to siege missions, particularly in
and around Mostar, where a bitter battle between
Muslim and Croat forces lays much of the historical city
to waste.
Manpower: HVO forces operating in Bosnia are
noted for their strong discipline; the Croatians do not
rely as heavily upon paramilitary, militia or other irreg-
ular units to fight the war, and so have a stronger chain
of command.
Though Croatian forces have numbers similar
to those of the Serb military, the smaller amount
of territory to patrol and guard prevent them from
suffering the same manpower issues. However,
they cannot muster effective enough manpower to over-
come the superior firepower of the Serbs or massive
infantry strength of the Muslims.
Gear: On the main, Croatian forces are poorly
equipped in comparison to Serbian units. Most gear
carried by Croatian squads is captured YNA or Serbian
weaponry, augmented by TDF weapons caches, black
27
Total National Defense
A major feature contributing to the escalation and
perseverance of the Bosnian conflicts had its roots
in the Yugoslavian government’s policy of Total
National Defense. Established by Josip Broz Tito,
a famed Yugoslav partisan who played a major role of
in the liberation of his country during WWII and
ruled it for nearly 40 years after the war, this policy
stated that all citizens between the ages of 15-60
(55 for women) must be trained and ready for
partisan warfare should the need arise. Weapons
caches were distributed with local territorial defense
forces, and much of the command and control of
the military was decentralized to allow for greater
independence should disaster befall the government.
Consequently, each republic of Yugoslavia
maintains a territorial defense force (TDF), comprised
of independently-operated police and reserve military
units, and a civilian defense force (CDF), composed
of civilians between 15 and 60 years of age.
Thus, nearly all civilians of Yugoslavia are familiar
with weapons, and armed and equipped to fight
an extensive guerrilla campaign. The combination
of an armed populace trained in winning war by any
means with nationalist fervor is one of the largest
obstacles to overcome in stopping the violence that
raged throughout the Balkans throughout the 1990’s.
market purchases and arms from Hungary, Romania,
and other former Eastern Bloc nations.
In addition to weaponry used by Serbian forces,
Croatian riflemen also carry FN FALs, Heckler & Koch
G-3s or APS-95s, a Croatian knockoff of the IMI Galil
AR. Early in the conflict, the HVO acquires a substantial
amount of STK/CIS Ultimax light machine guns on the
black market, which replace the standard Kalashnikov
PK or MG-3s carried by Serbian forces.
Vehicles: Armored vehicles are rarely used by
Croatian soldiers during the Bosnian conflict, though
what they do use are of captured YNA or Serbian stock.
The one striking difference in Croatian forces is the
employment of armor-plated tractors and civilian trucks
as improvised transports.
Allies: Early and late in the war, Croat forces are
allied with the Bosnian federal government and fights
alongside Muslim troops against the Serbs. Between
July 1992 and February 1994, however, conflict over
the formation of an independent Croat state within
Bosnia-Herzegovina turns the Croats against the
Bosnian government as well as the Serbs.
 battlegrounds
Muslim and Federal However, BiH forces suffer from the territorial ties of
Bosnian Forces units, the hodgepodge of experience amongst the ranks,
and the poor training and material support for the
The forces of the Bosnian government are a mish-
fighting men. It is often difficult for Bosniak commanders
mash of volunteers, paramilitary fighters and Muslim
to execute large actions, as soldiers are reluctant
partisans and militias. The core of the Army of Bosnia-
to move to regions where they are needed, and morale
Herzegovina (BiH) is the 120,000 man Bosnian
can be fragile in the face of superior enemy firepower
Territorial Defense Force, which is organized into opistina
and training.
(county) brigades. Each of these brigades operates
Gear: Unlike Serbian and Croatian forces in the
primarily within their own counties, and is manned by
Bosnian war, Muslim units and the army of the federal
former reservists and conscript soldiers. Mobile
government operate without outside support, and are
brigades, made up mainly of expatriates and Bosniaks
crippled by the international arms embargo on the
who lost their homes to Serb or Croat aggression,
region. During the most difficult times, squads often
serve as a roving support and reinforcements for
hand off weapons to soldiers between duty shifts.
opistina units.
Consequently, a BiH squad’s armament tends to be
Missions: Muslims are frequently on the receiving
an eclectic mix of YNA surplus, WWII TDF weapons
end of siege warfare waged by Serb and Croat forces,
caches, and personal arms of police and civilians.
and breakthrough missions are not uncommon for units
Armament amongst squads tends to be consistent,
operating in urban areas. In these missions, a squad
ranging from captured Serbian weapons and early
is tasked with driving a wedge in enemy lines, taking
assault rifles like the AK-47 and FN FAL to post-war
out artillery or snipers, or cutting off supply and
vintage arms, including bolt-action Mauser rifles,
reinforcement lines.
Siminov SKS semi-automatic rifles, and American-
Likewise, rearguard missions are frequent duties
made Thompson submachine guns. Aside from these,
for squads early in the war, in which they have
Muslim fighters may also carry improvised close
the undesirable task of distracting and/or harassing
combat weapons, such as daggers, clubs or bats.
advancing enemy forces to cover the retreat of allied
Squad support weapons are found less frequently
units and local populations.
in the hands of Bosniak fighters than in Serbian
Harassment missions are a regular duty for Muslim
or Croatian units. Older weapons such as German
forces, and employed often by units fighting in the
MG 3 and Kalashnikov PKM machine guns, and WWII-
cities. These missions are the essence of hit-and-run
era Panzerfaust bazookas comprise most squads’ heavy
guerrilla warfare – units will choose locations to pick
weapons.
at the flanks of advancing forces with sniper fire
Vehicles: Muslim forces are direly underequipped
and mortar shelling, then pick up and move before
for an armored and artillery battle at the beginning
the enemy can bring their guns to bear.
of the war – some estimates place their initial heavy
Called zasjeda by the Yugoslavian soldiers, ambushes
equipment strength at a dozen tanks, half a dozen
are also a favored tactic of Bosniak fighters — the hope
to two dozen APCs, and around 20 heavy guns! Many
being that initiative and sheer numbers can help
of these weapons are cast-off relics from WWII and the
compensate for their lack of heavy firepower. Common
early postwar YNA, including T-34 and T-55 tanks,
tactics included the use of roadside bombs to attack
lend-lease halftracks, and the like.
supply lines, mining towns, and areas surrendered
To compensate for their severe lack of heavy
to invading forces, and attacking troops caught in passes,
weapons, Bosnian troops often mount light artillery and
villages, and other bottlenecks.
mortars in the backs of civilian trucks. During sieges,
Squads are typically sent on raids as part of
these mobile firebases allow the soldiers engage in an
a counter-assault to recapture territory lost to invading
aggressive mobile defense – firing and moving before
forces, or to “ethnically cleanse” recaptured territory.
the enemy can mount a response – to great effect.
Fueled by rage, Bosniak response is as brutal as the
Allies: Bosniak and Croat forces are allied for
cleansing by the invaders themselves. Pillaging, arson,
approximately half of the 3-year conflict against the
and execution of enemy soldiers is not uncommon.
Serbs, and squads from both groups fight side by side in
Manpower: The sheer numbers of men operating on
some of the war’s largest battles. Additionally,
behalf of the Bosnian government is the government’s
the Bosnian government receives substantial support from
greatest strength during the war. Muslim forces
international peacekeepers, in terms of humanitarian aid,
often outnumber their opponents two to one in most
protection of Bosnian civilians, and enforcement of the
engagements, allowing them to accept the punishing
peace process.
firepower of the Serbs or ambushes of Croat units
without suffering unduly.

28
 bosnia
International abuses by local police forces, accosting insurgents
Peacekeepers and infiltrators in protected areas, enforcing adherence
to cease-fires, and keeping an eye out for snipers
Aside from embargoes and sanctions on the warring
and other hostile forces.
factions, the crisis in Bosnia-Herzegovina also spurred
Oversight missions are a dangerous undertaking
the international community to deploy troops on behalf
for peacekeeping squads. Units are sometimes deployed
of Bosnia’s embattled civilian population. For most
to the field to bear witness to any atrocities or human
of the conflict these troops are part of the United
rights violations by the warring factions — be they on
Nations Protection Force (UNPROFOR), a multinational
the battlefield, in cities and villages, or prison camps —
force of troops. Toward the end of the conflict and
and can come under attack for doing so.
in the decade following, members of the NATO-led
Manpower: Manpower is an issue for peacekeeping
Intervention Force (IFOR) and Stabilization Force
forces through most of the conflict. Despite the Security
(SFOR) fall into this category as well.
Council resolutions authorizing 35,000 or more peace-
Nicknamed “Blue Helmets” by Bosnians, peacekeepers
keepers to be deployed to Bosnia during the conflict,
are frequent targets for hostility. Despite the interna-
troop strength rarely tops 10,000 total until NATO’s
tional community’s best efforts to remain outside
deployment of IFOR, a 50,000-strong force, in 1995.
and unengaged in the conflict, peacekeepers are
Peacekeeping forces, outnumbered and outgunned,
attacked by all three factions in the war at one time
cannot afford to risk casualties except in the most dire
or another as they attempt to go about their mission
circumstances. Thus, most peacekeeping units are under
of helping the civilian population and enforcing the
instruction to fall back when faced with overwhelming
mandates of internationally-sponsored peace accords.
forces or firepower.
Missions: Peacekeepers in Bosnia have an unenvi-
Gear: UN peacekeeping forces in Bosnia are lightly
able task ahead of them – to keep a peace that doesn’t
armed and equipped — typically too light to do much
exist in a war with no lines, all without authorization to
more than defend themselves and individuals in their
use force outside of self-defense. Later in the war, as the
charge. UNPROFOR troops are mostly French, Belgian,
nature of the conflict becomes more self-evident,
and Canadian soldiers, and so carry weapons such as the
UNPROFOR’s — and the follow-up IFOR and SFOR
FAMAS and FN FAL assault rifles. Officers, drivers, and
missions — become more like military deployments
other support personnel carry 9mm sidearms like the
with defined rules of engagement.
Beretta M92 for self-defense. Kevlar vests and helmets are
Humanitarian aid missions are the overarching
standard issue amongst all peacekeeping troops.
responsibility of peacekeeping units. Units work with
Members of the NATO-led IFOR and SFOR are much
organizations such as the Red Cross to distribute food
better equipped to enforce the peace agreements made
and medicine to besieged cities, war victims, and other
late in the war. M-16 assault rifles, M249 light machine-
non-combatants affected by the conflict.
guns, and Kevlar vests and helmets are the
Peacekeeping units also engage in escort missions,
typical armament for these troops.
particularly those transporting humanitarian aid or
Vehicles: Peacekeeping forces have access to a wide
Muslim civilians through “hot” areas. During these
variety of decommissioned armored personnel carriers
missions, soldiers frequently find themselves playing
and armored cars, such as the Warrior infantry fighting
negotiator, arguing for safe passage or brief cease-fires
vehicle and M113 APC (see page 122). Each squad
between warring groups so they can assist residents
generally has access to one of these vehicles when
nearby.
operating in the field.
Peacekeepers are instrumental in ordnance disposal
Peacekeeping forces are the dominant airpower dur-
and mine clearing missions, particularly as areas are
ing the conflict and the enforcers of UN determined “no
reconstituted for civilian life.
fly zones.” When NATO enters the scene later in the
Guard missions are another important function
conflict, bombing missions and close air support are
of peacekeepers in Bosnia. After the UN establishes
used extensively as a deterrent to aggression against
protected areas around major civilian centers in Bosnia,
peacekeeping and Bosniak forces, and to break sieges
peacekeepers are assigned to ensure that these areas
against UN-protected areas.
become and remain demilitarized and civilians residing
Allies: Peacekeeping forces do not fight alongside
within them remain out of harm’s way. This mission
with any of the factions in the conflict; however, their
includes authorization to use deterrent force as necessary.
commitment to and assistance for Bosniak victims of
Likewise, police and patrol missions become a large
the war limits aggression towards them by all groups
part of the peacekeeper’s routine. UN squads act as
save the Serbs.
observers to prevent discrimination and human rights

29
 battlegrounds
THE CONFLICT
The Bosnian war is quite different from most
conflicts of the late 20th century — a murky and savage
battle, built of rage, blood, and broken treaties. Revenge
and deep ethnic rivalries ensure any notion of rules
of engagement goes out the window. Often, the hatreds
run so deep that factions flout external attempts to
restore order to the region almost without blinking. And
unlike conflicts over resources, political philosophy,
or overt aggression, the fighting in the Balkans has
a much more visceral core — survival.
Each of the warring factions sees the struggle as
a war for survival — of oneself, one’s people, one’s nation,
and one’s culture. Milosevic’s five-year campaign
of aggressive propaganda convinced most of the Serbian
people they face an imminent threat of a Muslim
genocide; fresh off a war, the Croatians are eager to build
a buffer zone to prevent further attack or creeping
destabilization at the hands of Serb nationalists; and the
Bosnians have lost nearly three-quarters of their country
and 10% of their population to Serbian and Croatian
aggression. The desperation amongst these fighters —
be it manufactured, engendered, or immediate — causes
the conflict to spiral into a brutal war of survival
in which no quarter is given or expected.
Though the Bosnian conflict is an incredibly
complex and chaotic event, it presents many unique
opportunities for espionage and military roleplaying.
Here, the information that spies gather can spur the
entire globe to action, and the battles soldiers fight can
liberate a nation. The following are just a few themes
that can enhance any Spycraft game set in this era.
Pulling Back the Curtain
There is a tremendous amount of conflicting informa-
tion and propaganda about the nature and events of the
Bosnian war — from governmental spin to misinterpreted
journalism to outright propaganda. Access to the press —
and thus the outside world — becomes a tremendous
weapon for governments to control or delay an interna-
tional response to the crisis.
Spies working in the early parts of the war might
very well be assigned to get to the truth of the matter,
on behalf of the Agency or another governmental body.
Most likely, they might be assigned to investigate
allegations of atrocities and massacres against civilians,
to infiltrate paramilitary units, or to gather intelligence
on clandestine military support for this “civil” war.
30
By Any Means Necessary
The international community’s official policy
towards the Bosnian conflict is one of containment,
using negotiation, sanctions, and later threat of force, to
create a return to normalcy. Ultimately, these methods
prove ineffective, and brutal shelling, ethnic cleansing,
and other crimes against the civilian populace continue
unabated. At times like these, governments might decide
to fight fire with fire.
Elite military units, operating as part of a black
operation, are perfectly prepared for these sorts of
missions. Agents might be involved in surgical strikes
against artillery and missile batteries, conduct long
range reconnaissance behind enemy lines, spot for
NATO air strikes, assassinate rogue warlords, or disrupt
supply lines.
Bring Them to Justice
The Balkan conflict is a tragic reminder of the evil
that lurks in the hearts of all men, and home to the
worst atrocities Europe has seen since the Second World
War. The War Crimes Tribunal in the Hague is re-estab-
lished once again to hold leaders accountable for their
crimes. However, these leaders can prove elusive. Both
spies and soldiers make excellent bloodhounds to track
these criminals down wherever they may hide, spending
weeks or months in the field to slowly close the net and
ultimately, bring them to justice.
Smuggling
The issue of arms and munitions is a huge issue dur-
ing the war. The Serbian war machine has tremendous
access to the arsenals and training of the Yugoslavian
National Army, a fact that proves disastrous for the
relatively impoverished forces in Croatia and Bosnia.
To make matters worse, an international arms embargo
widens the arms gap even further, leaving the defenders
to fight with weapons that are 50 years old.
Governments and agencies supporting the efforts
of Muslims and Croats might well send military
or intelligence teams with supplies and munitions
to support the struggling war efforts against Serbian
aggression, or by the same hand, use these soldiers
to sabotage ammo dumps and armories in an effort
to slow the hostilities.
 bosnia
THE M ISSION :
Operation Fell Hand
This mission is appropriate for a team of 3–5 agents
levels 3, 8, 13, and 18.
The Setting
The village of Drozbrenca in the southern Bosnian
countryside lies approximately 50 miles southwest
of Sarajevo, roughly midway between the capital
and Mostar. It is fairly typical of villages in the region.
This small agricultural community of approximately 100
is set atop of a small hill in the Naretva river valley,
overlooking a broad patch of land used to raise small
crops, sheep and cattle.
The town itself is a tight cluster of modest stucco
buildings, painted in earthen tones and topped with
red tiled roofs. A single paved road passes through
the village square, which is surrounded by the town’s
small businesses and church.
Drozbrenca’s proximity to the front and Serbian
territory has ensured the area has traded hands between
Muslim and Serbian paramilitary groups several times.
The village is not weathering the fighting well. Mortar
and artillery fire from both sides has badly damaged
many of the town’s farms and wooden buildings,
and those that have not been destroyed have had
plywood and rough wooden slats nailed over windows
in a desperate attempt to fortify them against further
damage. Carcasses of dead cattle and sheep litter the
fields outside of town where mines and shells have
overshot their marks.
Locations
1. The Square: This simple 150 ft. cobblestone
square, ringed with abandoned markets and civic
buildings, is the heart of Drozbrenca. A simple road
enters the square at the north and exits at the south.
In peacetime it was doubtlessly idyllic, but now it has
become the command and supply point for the current
inhabitants of the town, and so is crisscrossed with
muddy tracks of heavy vehicles, empty brass casings,
makeshift tables and seats, and broken glass.
The area is flat and plain, save for a dry fountain,
and filled with refuse of units inhabiting the town,
which sits at the center of the square. Agents hiding
in the fountain receive 1⁄2 cover, though the trash inside
reduces any movement to 1⁄2 normal and inflicts
a –4 penalty to Move Silently checks in the fountain.
2. The Church: This unornamented two-story church
has served both Orthodox Serbs and Bosniak Muslims as
a house of worship over the years, but appears to have
been site of a fire. The dome of the church is the high-
31
est point in Drozbrenca, and allows anyone climbing
to the top a view stretching the width of the valley —
an ideal location for a sniper or artillery spotter.
The church has thick concrete walls (Hrd 7, 112 WP)
and narrow windows, making it an ideal place to hold
against a numerically superior force. Agents fighting
against opponents outside the church receive 1⁄2 cover
against ranged attacks.
The only ways into the church are a pair of heavy
iron-shod doors facing the square (Hrd 7, 20 WP, Break
DC 25), and a hole facing north towards the road 8 feet
off the ground (Jump DC 20) used as a machine gun nest.
3. Town Hall: The second largest building in town,
behind the church, this long one-story wooden building
is the civic center of the town. The interior features
a small theatre with seating for around 100 people,
much have which has been removed to make the room
into a makeshift barracks, and a few small rooms that
appear to have recently served as offices or armories.
The most significant feature of the town hall is
not its tactical value, but rather the small trapdoored
area beneath the theatre’s stage, which has been used
to hide a cache of LAW anti-tank weapons (Search
DC 20 — see Option 1 for more information).
4. Bunkers: Two identical makeshift bunkers are
stationed roadside at the north and south ends of town,
most likely as checkpoints and guard posts for people
entering the town. Each is a haphazard affair made
of sandbags (Hrd 5, 50 WP, 3⁄4 cover to agents inside) with
a removable corrugated steel roof. Both bunkers are
equipped with an 81mm mortar (and 1d6+3 rounds) for
use against targets approaching along the road. Each
bunker is usually manned by a pair of the town’s current
residents who keep an eye out for trouble or fire the occa-
sional mortar round to scare off enemy scouts and patrols.
5. Trenches: Hastily dug fieldworks, probably created
by defenders of Drozbrenca before the Serb attack, sit to
the southwest and north of the village, roughly 20 yards
from the bunkers. Recent rains have made them soggy
pits filled with a few inches of water and sucking mud,
and the walls have partially collapsed from erosion and
lack of maintenance.
Agents can fight in the trenches in a pinch, though
it’s miserable work. The trenches provide 1⁄4 cover against
attackers outside of the trench, but fighters in the trench
reduce their movement by 1⁄4 and suffer a –2 penalty
to all Reflex saves (thanks to the swampy bottom).
6. Stone Bridge: This brick and mortar bridge to the
south of the village is the only easy way to ford
the creek in the immediate vicinity — the next bridge
is approximately two miles to the east. Agents hoping
to cut off reinforcements from the south can easily
sabotage the bridge supports with the suitable applica-
tion of explosives (Hrd 5, WP 20; 2 must be destroyed
to collapse the bridge).
 battlegrounds
1 square = 10’

11

12

2
10

1
3

32
 bosnia
7. Rocky Creek: Drozja Creek, a small tributary of the
Neretva river south of the village, runs from east to west
and is the town’s main supply of water. The water is swift
and cold and flanked with steep embankments, which
provide excellent shelter against spotters in the village.
Drozbrenca’s water pump has been damaged in the
fighting, so anyone residing in the village must send
down runners to fetch cooking and drinking water.
Resourceful teams may use this to their advantage when
in need of intelligence about activity in the village.
8. Big Farm: The largest farm in the area is located
to the southeast of the village, between the creek and the
base of the hill. Unlike some of the other more modest
plantations, the farm features not one but three
outbuildings, including a large but badly damaged barn,
chicken coops and a utility shed. The barn is connected to
a one-acre fenced area that was once used to pen cattle,
and a small family plot is used to grow vegetables.
There is little of import of the farm house, but the
barn has been used at times for storing military equip-
ment and vehicles. Currently, there is a rusty small truck
stowed here, with the keys in the ignition – an ideal
escape vehicle for agents in a bind.
9. Market: This broken-down open air building on
the town square once housed a market where local
farmers from the valley would come to peddle their
wares and visit friends. Today, the shelter serves mainly
as a staging area and hard point for heavy guns to
watch over the southern and eastern regions of the area.
Heavy coils of barbed wire have been strung about the
western, southern and northern sides of the market
to guard against assault from outside the village.
10. Residential Area: The western side of Drozbrenca
is where most residents who didn’t own farms live.
Narrow, crooked dirt paths wind between the tightly-
packed homes, creating a small maze. Many of these
buildings have suffered from shelling, and a closer look
will reveal fresh bullet and shrapnel scarring, the marks
of recent house-to-house fighting.
Though the houses are abandoned and damaged,
they still make an excellent path of approach and cover
for close-quarters firefights. Agents fighting in and
around the buildings gain 1⁄4 cover from damaged build-
ings and 1⁄2 cover from intact ones.
11. Woods: A thick copse of mixed ash and pine forest
covers the north and northeastern side of the village.
While in the forest, agents cannot run, but receive 1⁄4 cover
against ranged attacks and a +4 circumstance bonus to all
Hide and Move Silently checks.
12. Wrecked Farm: This farm on the plain northwest
of the village shows signs of a recent and fierce fire
fight — bullet holes riddle the exterior of the barn, the
farmhouse has been set alight, and a pile of charred
corpses has been burned in an unkempt field. The only
thing still standing is the barn.
33
The Action – Option #1:
Ghosts in the Night
Late in the war, rumors occasionally surface
amongst Serbian and Croat forces of small squads of
commandoes, operating under the cover of night, who
make surgical strikes behind enemy lines against heavy
weapons emplacements, sabotage weapons caches, and
kill or capture leaders of the invading factions.
In this serial option, the players are a crack squad of
SAS commandoes whose mission in is to infiltrate
Serbian lines to disrupt Serb offensives in south-central
Bosnia. Today, their target is the abandoned village of
Drozbrenca, the alleged base for a vicious group of
Serbian rebel paramilitary fighters who call themselves
“The Vipers.”
Agent Description
Read the following aloud to begin.
“The day begins like any other day in Bosnia – cold
and gloomy, a herald of impending doom that hangs
over this place like the clouds kissing the tops of the
hills. You have just arrived at the UNPROFOR head-
quarters in Sarajevo, and are ushered into a small
meeting room, where a smartly-dressed English cap-
tain in a flak vest and the blue beret of the United
Nations greets you.
“‘Good afternoon, gentlemen. As you well know, you
have been deployed to Sarajevo as part of a mission
to help disrupt the ongoing Serb offensive in south-
ern Bosnia. One particularly troublesome group in this
region is known as the Vipers, a former Serbian inter-
nal security unit cum nationalist militia that has
taken to arming and inciting Serbian paramilitary
fighters in the area to violence against Muslims. We
believe that a surgical strike against their base, in the
abandoned village of Drozbrenca 80 kilometers
south-west of here, would put a damper in the vio-
lence in the area and give the UN time to establish
protected areas in the region.
“‘Your mission is simple: you will be inserted by heli-
copter south of Drozbrenca shortly after dusk. You are
to infiltrate the village, locate and destroy any and all
weapons and ordnance caches there, and escape as
quickly as you can. You are authorized to terminate
any resistance you encounter with extreme prejudice.
Because this mission is not authorized by NATO or the
United Nations, we will disavow all knowledge of the
mission should you be captured or killed.’
“‘Be ready to go at 1900 hours. Godspeed, lads, and
give them hell.’”
 battlegrounds
Gearing Up
This mission has no Threat Code and the agents do
not gain any personal gear. Instead of selecting
weapons and standard-issue gear, the agents are
assigned weapons and gear according to the number of
personal BP at their disposal, as follows.
BP* Weapons and Gear**
1–25 H&K MP-5 SD SMG + 3 clips, survival knife,
1 flashbang grenade, 1⁄2 lb. C-4, rectangle armor
vest, headset radio, nightvision goggles, black
fatigues and balaclava.
26–50 H&K MP-5 SD SMG + 4 clips, P226 service
pistol + silencer and 2 clips, survival knife,
2 flashbang grenades, 1⁄2 lb. C-4, tactical
deployment vest, headset radio, nightvision
goggles, black fatigues and balaclava.
51–75 H&K MP-5N SMG + silencer, ACOG sight
and 4 clips, Browning Hi-Power service pistol
+ silencer and 3 clips, survival knife, 2 flash-
bang grenades, 1 fragmentation grenade, 1⁄2 lb.
C-4, tactical deployment vest, headset radio,
nightvision goggles, black fatigues and balaclava.
76–99 Colt M4A1 assault rifle + silencer, ACOG
sight and 4 clips, H&K USP .45 service pistol
+ silencer and 2 clips, survival knife, 2 flash-
bang grenades, 2 fragmentation grenades,
1 smoke grenade, 1⁄2 lb. C-4, ballistic vest,
headset radio, nightvision goggles, black
fatigues and balaclava.
100+ H&K PSG-1 sniper rifle + suppressor, nightvision
scope and 5 clips, H&K USP .45 service pistol
+ silencer and 3 clips, survival knife, 3 flash-
bang grenades, 2 fragmentation grenades,
1 smoke grenade, 1 lb. C-4, ballistic vest,
headset radio, nightvision goggles, black
fatigues and balaclava.
* Per agent.
** The agent gains only the weapons and gear listed for
his total BP allotment. He does not gain any of the items
listed for lower total BP allotments.
Deployment
The agents begin the mission in the south, on the
banks of the river (location 7). The night is starlight
only (see the Spycraft Espionage Handbook, page 299).
Objectives
Destroy the weapons caches: There are three hidden
weapons caches scattered about the village, one at loca-
tion 3 (beneath the theatre’s stage), another at location
8 (hidden in a hay pile in the barn), and the third in
location 12 (in the ruins of the farmhouse). All caches
34
are well hidden and require a successful Search check
(DC 20) to locate. Each cache contains 1d4+2 RPG-7
missile launchers, and 2d6 additional rockets.
To destroy the cache, the agents must place at least
1
⁄2 lb. of C-4 to one of the stocked warheads, and set the
timer with a successful Demolitions check (DC 15). The
agents may select anywhere between 30 seconds and 30
minutes on the detonators. The resulting explosion is
huge, inflicting 6d10 fire damage with a blast increment
of 15 ft (DC 21 for half damage) to anyone caught once
the cache goes. Once the first charge is detonated,
the alarm will be sounded.
Once all three caches are detonated, this objective is
completed.
Eliminate the guards: 3 squads of Vipers are in the
village. The first group are in the town square (location 1),
tending a fire; the second squad is bedding down
in the residential area (location 10); and third squad
has split up — a pair of soldiers walk the north and
south perimeters, while a straggler is at the stone bridge
(location 6) getting water and having a smoke.
The Vipers are hardcore nationalists, and so will not
rout without a fight. They are considered to have a
Loyalty rating equal to 1⁄2 the team’s average agent level
(rounded up) for the purposes of all morale checks. Once
a unit suffers over 50% fatalities, they will make a tac-
tical withdrawal to cover and wait for reinforcing
squads.
When 3 squads have suffered 50% or more in casu-
alties, this objective is completed.
Escape the village: Once the first two objectives are
completed, the agents must escape the village as quick-
ly as possible with all members of their team. There are
two commuter trucks in the village — one in the town
square (location 1), and a second in the big farm to the
south (location 8).
When all agents have been removed from the vil-
lage, this objective is completed and the mission ends.
Events
Sound the Alarm!: Once unsilenced gunshots or
explosives have been exchanged, any conscious fighters
within line of sight to one of the agents will fire his
flaregun into the air — a signal to forces outside the
village that they are under attack!
Roll d20 once per minute after the alarm has been
sounded. If the result equals or exceeds 20 — the number
of minutes since the alarm has been sounded,
a squad arrives on a random side of the map (roll d4:
1–north; 2–south; 3–east; 4–west). A total of 3 squads
may arrive as reinforcements in this fashion.
 bosnia
XP Rewards Serbian Paramilitary Fighter (first-tier — target
Upon completion of this action scene, each agent average agent level 3), 2nd-level mercenaries (minions,
gains the following XP rewards. squads of 3-4 – 40 MP): CR 1. SZ M; v/wp 21/16; Init +2
(+1 Dex, +1 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 12 (+1 Dex, +1 class);
• Killing one or more of the enemy characters*:
Atk: survival knife +4 (1d6+2 normal dmg, error 1,
75/200/325/475 XP per agent.
thrown 5ft.), Kalashnikov AK-74 assault rifle +3 (3d6+1
• Killing all enemy characters*: 150/400/650/950 XP
normal dmg, error 1, range 175 ft. qualities and mods:
per agent.
RG, 30 shot capacity); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square;
• Capturing one or more of the enemy characters*:
SA none; SQ heavily armed (10 BP); SV Fort +6, Ref +1,
225/600/975/1,425 XP per agent.
Will +1; Str 14, Dex 12, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
• Capturing all enemy characters*: 300/800/1,300/
Skills: Demolitions +1, Diplomacy +0, Driver +2, Hide
1,900 XP per agent.
+2, Listen +1, Sense Motive +1, Spot +1, Survival +1.
• Eliminating all of the weapons caches: 300/800/1,300/
Feats: Point Blank Shot.
1,900 XP per agent.
Gear: Weapons, 90 rounds of 5.45 Soviet ammunition,
* Each agent earns only the highest of these rewards. military fatigues, flare gun, handheld radio.

Statistics Serbian Paramilitary Fighter (second-tier — target

average agent level 8), 4th-level mercenaries/3rd level
The following NPCs are encountered during this scene.
strong minions (minions, squads of 3-4 – 64 MP): CR 6.
Serbian Paramilitary Fighters SZ M; v/wp 57/16; Init +6 (+1 Dex, +5 class); Spd 30
ft.; Def 14 (+1 Dex, +3 class); Atk: survival knife +9
These grizzled veterans are members of a Serbian
(1d6+2 normal dmg, error 1, thrown 5ft.), Kalashnikov
nationalist militia, “The Vipers,” that has been implicat-
AK-74 assault rifle +8 (3d6+1 normal dmg, error 1,
ed in no less than 4 separate attacks on Muslim civilians
range 175 ft. qualities and mods: 30 shot capacity),
during ethnic cleansing operations. According to
fragmentation grenade +8 (2d10 normal dmg, error 1-2,
Serbian sources, many of the men in this unit are mem-
range 15 ft.); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA none;
bers of a disavowed YNA special ops unit who followed
SQ damage reduction 1/-, heavily armed (10 BP);
their leader into Bosnia following the dissolution of
SV Fort +10, Ref +4, Will +3; Str 14, Dex 12, Con 16,
Yugoslavia. Each Viper is shaven bald, and wears
Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
fatigues in the pattern of the Yugoslavian National
Skills: Demolitions +5, Diplomacy +1, Driver +3,
Army, emblazoned with a patch of a Snake twisted
Intimidate +5/2, Hide +3, Listen +2, Sense Motive +2,
around a lightning bolt. They are dangerous and unpre-
Spot +5, Survival +5.
dictable, and do not hesitate to bring their substantial
Feats: “Cover Me!,” Point Blank Shot.
firepower to bear – no matter what the target.
Gear: Weapons, 90 rounds of 5.45 Soviet ammunition,
fragmentation grenade, military fatigues, flare gun,
handheld radio.

35
 battlegrounds
Serbian Paramilitary Fighter (third-tier — target
average agent level 13), 7th-level mercenaries/5th
level strong minions (minions, squads of 3-4 – 80 MP):
CR 11. SZ M; v/wp 96/16; Init +12 (+1 Dex, +7 class,
+4 feat); Spd 30 ft.; Def 17 (+1 Dex, +6 class); Atk:
survival knife +14 (1d6+2 normal dmg, error 1, thrown
5ft.), Kalashnikov AK-74 assault rifle +13 (3d6+1 normal
dmg, error 1, range 175 ft. qualities and mods: RG, 30
shot capacity), fragmentation grenade +13 (2d10 normal
dmg, error 1-2, range 15 ft.); Face 1 square; Reach 1
square; SA none; SQ damage reduction 1/-, heavily
armed (10 BP); SV Fort +12, Ref +6, Will +5; Str 14,
Dex 12, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
Skills: Demolitions +8, Diplomacy +2, Driver +4,
Intimidate +7/4, Hide +4, Listen +3, Sense Motive +3,
Spot +8, Survival +8.
Feats: “Cover Me!,” Improved Initiative, Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons, 90 rounds of 5.45 Soviet ammunition,
2 fragmentation grenades, military fatigues, flare gun,
handheld radio.
36
Serbian Paramilitary Fighter (fourth-tier — target
average agent level 18), 10th-level mercenaries/7th
level strong minions (minions, squads of 3-4 – 97 MP):
CR 16. SZ M; v/wp 127/16; Init +15 (+1 Dex, +10 class,
+4 feat); Spd 30 ft.; Def 20 (+1 Dex, +9 class); Atk:
survival knife +19 (1d6+2 normal dmg, error 1, thrown
5ft.), Kalashnikov AK-74 assault rifle +18 (3d6+1 normal
dmg, error 1, range 175 ft. qualities and mods: RG, 30
shot capacity), fragmentation grenade +18 (2d10 normal
dmg, error 1-2, range 15 ft.); Face 1 square; Reach 1
square; SA none; SQ damage reduction 2/-, heavily
armed (20 BP); SV Fort +15, Ref +8, Will +7; Str 14,
Dex 12, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
Skills: Demolitions +12, Diplomacy +4, Driver +6,
Intimidate +9/6, Hide +6, Listen +5, Sense Motive +5,
Spot +12, Survival +12.
Feats: “Cover Me!,” Improved Initiative, Massive
Crossfire, Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons, 90 rounds of 5.45 Soviet ammunition,
2 fragmentation grenades, military fatigues, nightvision
goggles, flare gun, handheld radio.
 “We have to remind ourselves of this at every moment:
that we are in a war, a cold war as they call it; a war where
there is no front line, no continuous bombardment, but where
the two adversaries — this tiny champion of the Caribbean
and the immense imperialist hyena — are face to face and
aware that one of them is going to end up dead in the fight.”
— Ernesto “Che” Guevara

central and
south america 3
 battlegrounds
INTRODUCTION THE WAR ZONE
Since the late 1970’s, the mountains and rainforests
of Central and South America have served as battle-
fields for Marxist revolutionaries, drug cartels, and
counter-insurgents. These wars are waged in the moun-
tains, jungles, farmlands, and cities throughout the
region, frequently spilling over into neighboring coun-
tries. From the cold, rocky islands of the Falklands to
the steamy jungles of Nicaragua, some of the bloodiest
battles of the last twenty years have been fought in this
region.
Revolution has swept through Central and South
American nations numerous times in the last decades of
the twentieth century. Time and time again, revolution-
aries rise up to attempt to cast off the perceived yoke of
centuries of imperialist repression. Frequently, however,
the rebel governments prove as cruel and capricious as
the regimes they fought to overthrown. Meanwhile, the
international drug trade exploded in the 1980s, bring-
ing money to the region but also violence as rival car-
tels compete with each other for resources and the
regional governments struggle vainly to stem the tide of
narcotics.
The battles fought throughout Central and South
America have not been fought solely by the native peo-
ples, either. Advisors and even combat troops from the
United States, Great Britain, Cuba, the Soviet Union and
others have found their way here. British troops and
ships waged a brutal battle against Argentina in the
early 1980s, while Cuban military advisors offered sup-
port to revolutionary governments in Nicaragua and
Grenada. U.S. troops have served as advisors in
Columbia, Peru, and other countries as part of America’s
War on Drugs. CIA operatives and U.S. advisors also
worked covertly in Nicaragua, backing counterrevolu-
tionaries to check “communist aggression” in Central
America. Additionally, U.S. forces have launched two
full-scale invasions into Central America — Operations
Urgent Fury and Just Cause.
38
Geography
The geographical region referred to as Central
America encompasses all of the nations of North
America south of Mexico. The Sierra Madre mountain
range runs most of the region’s length, originating in
southern Mexico and terminating in central Costa Rica.
Almost all of the nations of Central America share the
common features of flat coastal plains giving away to
rugged foothills and then steep mountains in the interi-
or. The climate of Central America is hot and humid in
the lowlands, gradually shifting to a more temperate cli-
mate higher in the mountains. Panama, located on isth-
mus at the southern end of the region, forms a natural
land bridge between North and South America, and
controls the Panama Canal, a strategic waterway con-
necting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Earthquakes are
not uncommon in the area, especially throughout
Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador. In 1972, the
Nicaraguan capital of Managua was leveled by a mas-
sive earthquake. Hurricanes are another very real threat;
in October of 1998, Hurricane Mitch caused 10,000
deaths and billions of dollars worth of damage through-
out the region.
South America is a mixture of rich farmland,
rolling hills, lush jungles, and rugged mountains. The
Amazon River basin dominates the northern half of the
continent, and the Andes Mountains run along the
entire western coast. The Brazilian Highlands are a low
mountain range on the eastern coast, and the Guiana
Highlands, located north of the Amazon basin, are home
to Angel Falls, the highest waterfall in the world. The
rich volcanic soil of northern South America makes for
plentiful crops, a fact exploited by the drug cartels of
Columbia and Peru. Climate in South America ranges
from the tropical in the northern reaches, through the
temperate, and into the sub-arctic in the southern areas
of Argentina. Forests, woodlands, and jungles once
dominated most of the central area of South America. In
the last twenty years, however, deforestation and
expansion of population centers have destroyed mil-
lions of acres of woodlands.
 central and south america
People
THE WAR
The populace of Central and South America repre-
sent some of the most ethnically diversified people on
the planet. While many of the inhabitants are of The common themes of the wars in Central and
Spanish or Portuguese descent, many others are of South America are halting communist aggression and
Native American or African origin. This diversification winning the war on drugs. In some countries, such as
has led to conflicts among different ethnic groups in Columbia, the two go hand-in-hand, with leftist insur-
some regions. The predominant religion throughout gents receiving financial support from drug cartels in
Central and South America is Catholicism, with some exchange for protection.
countries (such as Argentina) boasting a Catholic popu-
lation of 90% or more.
Many people in this region live in abject Columbia (1986 to present)
poverty. In Nicaragua, for example, the gross domestic
Columbia has served as a battleground for the last
product (GDP) per capita is $2,000 (for reference, the
four decades, with federal military forces routinely
GDP per capita of the United States is approximately
clashing with rebel factions such as the Revolutionary
$38,000). Additionally, infant mortality rates are high in
Armed Forces of Columbia (FARC), and the National
the poorer nations of Central America, as is the occur-
Liberation Army (ELN). Both organizations wage a guerril-
rence of HIV and AIDS infection. Many people living in
la war against the military, while simultaneously carrying
rural areas make their way as subsistence farmers. Most
out kidnappings, hijackings, political assassinations,
of the population is literate; several countries, including
and attacks on civilian targets. The FARC, the largest of
Argentina, Brazil, Costa Rica, and Belize, support a 90%
the insurgent groups in Columbia, is rumored to have
or better literacy rating.
strong ties to the local drug cartels, and receives much
Increasing violence in some areas like Columbia
of its financial support from cartel coffers.
have led to serious refugee problems for neighboring
With aid from the U.S., both financially and militar-
nations. With large numbers of people being displaced
ily, the Columbian government has officially declared
by fighting, refugee encampments are becoming more
war on the drug cartels, with the stated purpose of inter-
common in the region. A few nations, notably
dicting and eradicating drug traffic at its source and
Venezuela, have closed their borders to refugees,
cutting off support to insurgent groups such as FARC.
increasing tension and hostility in the region.
Since the late 1980s, the U.S. has provided Columbia
Important Locations with $30 billion in aid for the war on drugs. Most of this
money, however, has been used to combat the FARC and
Running through the center of the Isthmus of
other insurgent groups directly, leaving the drug trade
Panama, the Panama Canal may be the most important
largely unhindered by military intervention.
waterway in Central America. The Canal links the
Furthermore, the U.S. has slowly been drawn from
Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, greatly reducing shipping
countering to the drug trade to assisting the Columbian
travel distance from East to West. It was under US juris-
government with counter-insurgency operations.
diction until December 31st, 1999, when control revert-
There are currently about 300 American military
ed to the Panamanian government. Given its immense
personnel on the ground in Columbia at any given time.
strategic value, the Panama Canal served to keep a
Most are tasked with setting up, training and directing
strong American presence in the area.
three counternarcotic battalions within the Columbian
The capital of Columbia, Bogotá, has the dubious
Army. Direct U.S. military operations in Columbia have
distinction of being one of the most dangerous cities in
been confined primarily to the southern half of the
the Western Hemisphere. With drug cartels and insur-
country, where the majority of Columbia’s drugs are
gent groups running rampant, kidnappings, murders,
grown and processed. The antinarcotic battalions are
and robberies are daily occurrences. Violence is the
charged with driving the FARC out of this region, there-
leading cause of death in Bogotá for those over the age
by eliminating the revenue they gain from drug pro-
of ten. The city looks fairly cosmopolitan, and on the
duction. U.S. operations have consisted primarily of aer-
surface, is quiet attractive. However, on closer inspec-
ial defoliation of drug crops in an effort to curtail pro-
tion, one notices the machine gun-toting guards
duction, as well as “shootdown flights,” intended to
patrolling the suburbs, and the police stations every
intercept and destroy drug smugglers’ aircrafts as they
block or two.

39
 battlegrounds
Timeline
• 1947: Rio Pact is signed, calling for mutual
defense against Communism.
• 1948: Organization of American States (OAS) is
formed.
• 1956: U.S.-supported dictator Anastasio Somoza
Garcia is assassinated in Nicaragua.
• 1957: U.S. high school students in the Panama
Canal Zone burn a Panamanian flag; resulting
riots kill or injure more than 100 people.
• 1961: Frente Sandinista de Liberación Nacional
(Sandinista National Liberation Front, or FSLN)
is formed to oppose Somoza regime in
Nicaragua.
• 1964: Columbian Communist Party forms
Revolutionary Armed Forces of Columbia
(FARC).
• 1967: Anastasio Somoza Debayle is elected pres-
ident of Nicaragua.
• 1972: Massive earthquake levels Nicaraguan
capital; Somoza embezzles most of reconstruc-
tion funds.
• 1974: Somoza is elected to presidency of
Nicaragua for a second term.
• 1977: U.S. and Panama sign a new treaty pro-
viding for Panamanian control of the canal in
1999.
• 1979: Sandinista (FSLN) Revolution overthrows
Somoza government of Nicaragua; Somoza
escapes and flees to Miami, Florida.
• 1980: Somoza relocates to Paraguay, later assas-
sinated by Sandinista agents there.
• 1981: Peruvian patrol clashes with Ecuadorian
infiltrators in southern Peru; despite urgings
from some Peruvian generals, full-scale war with
Ecuador is averted.
• 1981-86: Reagan administration supports
counter-revolutionary (Contra) forces against the
Sandinista government.
• 1982: Argentina invades the Falkland Islands,
held by Great Britain. Reagan administration
officials try unsuccessfully to negotiate peace
before siding with Great Britain.
40
• 1983: Operation Urgent Fury — U.S. forces
invade the island of Grenada to halt Cuban work
on an airstrip and insure the safety of U.S. citi-
zens living on the island.
• 1983: General Manual Noriega is placed in con-
trol of Panamanian Defense Force.
• 1986: Congress begins investigations of the Iran-
Contra scandal.
• 1986: The U.S. begins supporting Columbian
government efforts to “eradicate the drug trade
at its source.”
• 1987: Noriega is accused of murder and drug
trafficking by his second-in-command.
• 1988: U.S. courts indict Noriega on drug traf-
ficking charges.
• 1989: Manuel Noriega is named head of the
Panamanian government, and declares war on
the United States.
• 1989: Operation Just Cause — The U.S. invades
Panama with the intent to capture Manuel
Noriega and restore order to the country.
• 1990: Noriega surrenders to U.S. forces and is
flown to the U.S. to stand trial.
• 1994: Noriega is found guilty of racketeering
and drug trafficking charges and sentenced to 40
years in prison.
• 1995: Peru invades Ecuador, igniting the
“Condor War;” Ecuadorian forces successfully
repulse superior Peruvian numbers and defend
their borders.
• 1997: A treaty is signed between Peru and
Ecuador, effectively ending border disputes
between the two nations.
• 1999: Panama begins sole operation of the
Panama Canal.
• 2003: Columbian irregular forces are bombed by
Venezuelan planes during a firefight with FARC
rebels; Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez
claims that the border incident was engineered
by Columbia; tensions between the two nations
mount.
 central and south america
make their way to the U.S.
What has been essentially a civil war for the last
forty years, however, is threatening to turn into an
international conflict. In April of 2003, Columbian
forces were bombed by Venezuelan military planes after
crossing into Venezuela during a battle with FARC
forces. Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez accused the
Columbian government of engineering the border inci-
dent in an attempt to garner more support against the
FARC insurgency. Since then, tension between the two
nations has risen as Columbian security along the bor-
der detiorates and more FARC forces try to hide on the
Venezuelan side of the border.
Falkland Islands
The Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) off the coast of
Argentina have been under British rule since 1833. In
the mid-1960s, talks began to return the islands to
Argentine rule, but Great Britain refused to surrender
them unless “the islanders’ rights and way of life can be
guarenteed.” Talks would continue, with limited or no
success, for the next twenty years, until 1983, when the
Argentine government decided on a military solution to
the question.
On March 28th, an Argentine invasion fleet
launched to retake the islands by force. British intelli-
gence services learned of the invasion three days later,
and British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher dis-
patched attack submarines to defend the islands. On
April 1st, U.S. President Ronald Reagan implored the
Argentine president, Leopoldo Galtieri, to call off the
landing force, but Galtieri refused. The invasion force
landed the following day, quickly overwhelming the
British Royal Marine detachment on the island and forc-
ing Governor Rex Hunt to surrender. Prime Minister
Thatcher ordered a British naval task force to the islands
to retake them, securing a 200-mile exclusion zone
around the Falklands.
The task force arrived in the exclusion zone on the
last day of April, and military operations to retake the
islands commenced on May 1st. What followed was the
largest naval engagement since World War II. During
the next month, six British ships and five Argentine
ships were sunk, and several more were severely dam-
aged on both sides. On May 21st, British Royal Marines
landed in the Falklands; members of the 2nd Parachute
Regiment and the 3rd Commando Brigade soon joined
them. Argentine forces finally surrendered on June
14th, and Governor Rex Hunt returned on the 25th of
that same month to resume his role as Commissioner of
the Falklands.
41
Grenada (1983)
On October 19th, 1983, Marxist revolutionaries
assassinated Grenadian Prime Minister Maurice Bishop
and installed a military government. Supplied with
Soviet equipment and supported by Cuban military
advisors, the rebels declared martial law. Grenada’s
Governor-General, Sir Paul Scoon, and the Organization
of Eastern Caribbean States requested aid from the U.S.
to combat the growing influence of Cuba and other
communist states in the small island nation.
On October 25th, U.S. Marines, Navy SEALs, and
Army Rangers, along with members of the 82nd
Airborne Division, launched Operation Urgent Fury, a
dawn raid which took the Marxist military forces by
surprise. The invasion force’s stated goal was to ensure
the safety and security of approximately 1,000
American citizens living on the island (most were
attending medical school there). Additionally, U.S.
forces moved to halt construction of a military air base
being constructed in Grenada by Cuban forces. The
After the War
Columbia
The War on Drugs still wages, with no clear
progress being made. FARC insurgents still control a
large section of the Columbian countryside, and the
drug trade still produces billions of dollars every
year. The Columbian military continues to receive aid
from the U.S. in the form of money and equipment,
while the FARC still draws money from the nearly
bottomless coffers of the drug cartels.
Falkland Islands
Following the recapture of the islands by British
forces, the Falklands returned to being a protectorate
of the United Kingdom. Today, the Falklands are
peaceful, with a flourishing eco-tourism trade and a
strong fishing industry.
Grenada
After the US invasion in 1983, an interim council
ruled until free elections were held the following
year. Since then, Grenada has been fairly peaceful.
With the construction of an international airport in
1985, Grenada has developed a strong tourist trade.
Nicaragua
Following the general elections of 1990 and the
removal of the Sandinista regime from power, the
Contras officially disbanded, effectively ending the
civil war. Since then, combat operations have ceased.
Today, Nicaragua is still free of Sandinista rule, but is
struggling with social and economic difficulties.
 battlegrounds
Grenadian army, supported by Cuban soldiers and
workers from the airfield project, resisted for several
days, but were eventually overrun by superior U.S. mil-
itary forces. The leaders of the military government, as
well as Cuban, Russian, North Korean, Libyan, and East
German advisors, were rounded up and detained. By
mid-December, all American combat troops had with-
drawn. Scoon appointed a advisory council to govern
the island until general elections could be held the fol-
lowing year.
Nicaragua (1981 to 1990)
The Frente Sandinista de Liberación Nacional
(Sandinista National Liberation Front), also known as
the FSLN or simply ”the Sandinistas,” was formally
organized on July 23, 1961, in response to growing dis-
satisfaction with the American-supported government,
run by the Somoza family. With aid from the Cuban
government, the FSLN attempted, unsuccessfully, to
foment a guerrilla war against the government in the
1960s. In 1972, an earthquake leveled much of the cap-
ital city of Managua and killed thousands. Anastasio
Somoza Debayle, the leader of the Nicaraguan Guardia
Nacional (National Guard), embezzled most of the inter-
national relief funds sent to help rebuild the city. Much
of downtown Managua was never rebuilt, and animosi-
ty toward the Somoza family increased. Despite this,
Somoza was elected President of Nicaragua in 1974.
The Sandista struggle continued throughout the
1970s, with more and more people from all social back-
grounds — even business leaders — turning against the
government and calling for Somoza’s overthrow. In
1978, Pedro Joaquin Chamorro, editor of the anti-
Somoza newspaper La Prensa, was assassinated. The
FSLN led a series of labor strikes, urban revolts, and
42
guerrilla attacks on government forces. Somoza retali-
ated with ruthless attacks on civilian population centers.
Despite superior numbers and equipment, however,
Somoza’s forces were routed, and he fled the country on
July 17th, 1979. The Sandinistas now controlled
Nicaragua. A new constitution was drafted, and nation-
al elections were held in 1984, when FSNL leader Daniel
Ortega was elected president.
In 1981, U.S. President Ronald Reagan accused the
FSLN of supporting leftist revolutionary uprisings in
other Central American nations, including El Salvador
and Honduras. To combat ”the spread of communism”
in Central America, Reagan began supporting the rem-
nants of Somoza’s national guard, supplying them with
financial and logistical support as well as military advi-
sors and trainers. The resistance movement orginally
called itself The Nicaraguan Revolutionary Democratic
Alliance (ADREN), but due to its opposition of the
Sandinista revolutionary government, its members
eventually became known simply as ”Contras,” an
abbreviation of contrarrevolucionario. The U.S. also
called for a complete trade embargo and disrupted ship-
ping by illegally mining the Nicaraguan harbor in
Corinto. Meanwhile, striking from bases in Honduras to
the north and Costa Rica to the south, the Contras began
launching guerrilla attacks against the Sandistas.
In 1983, the U.S. Congress condemned the Contras as
terrorists, citing several atrocities against unarmed
civilian targets, and prohibited further funding of their
activities. The Reagan administration continued to sup-
port the movement, however, by illegally selling arms to
Iran and channelling the money to the Contras (the now
infamous Iran/Contra Affair). Meanwhile, the
Sandinistas commited their own atrocities, massacring
hundreds of pro-Somoza civilians in eastern Nicaragua.
 central and south america
In 1987, the Nicaraguan National Assembly finally
acknowledged the wrongs commited by the Sandinistas,
passing an Autonomy Law which guarenteed equal
rights to all Nicaraguans. In 1990, a second national
election was held, with Ortega losing to the United
Nicaraguan Opposition, an alliance of 14 political par-
ties ranging from ultra-conservatives to the Nicaraguan
Communist Party. With the FSLN stepping down, a
peace accord was finally reached with the Contras,
effectively ending a decade-long civil war.
Panama (1989)
In 1983, Colonel Manuel Noriega, a former CIA con-
tract operative, was placed in charge of the armed forces
of Panama. Legislation was passed to create the
Panamanian Defense Force (PDF), an all-encompassing
military force with control over the Panamanian National
Guard, the state police force, Canal operations, and such
state matters as immigration and civil air traffic. Though
a former ally of the U.S., Noriega began moving to
achieve true power in the region and break free of
American control. He began courting leftist countries such
as Nicaragua and Cuba, looking for potential allies
throughout Latin America. Noriega also accepted money
from the Medellín drug cartel to protect their money laun-
dering and smuggling operations throughout Panama.
In 1987, Noriega’s second in command, Colonel
Roberto Díaz Herrera, accused Noriega of murder and
election fraud, sparking anti-Noriega protests, which
were rapidly put down by PDF forces. Early in 1988,
Noriega was indicted on drug trafficking charges by a
U.S. court. On February 25th, 1988, President Eric
Delvalle announced that he had fired Noriega as head of
the PDF. The Panamanian National Assembly, loyal to
Noriega, blocked the move by removing Delvalle as
president of Panama. The U.S. continued to recognize
Delvalle as the rightful leader of Panama, however, and
began applying political and economic pressure to force
Noriega to step down.
Throughout early 1989, the U.S. began sending more
troops to Panama, and began increasing military opera-
tions in the country, in direct violation of several
treaties. Additionally, the U.S. provided $10 million dol-
lars to the campaign of Panamanian presidential candi-
date Guillermo Endara, who ran against Carlos Duque,
Noriega’s candidate. The Panamanian National
Assembly annulled the election, and Noriega and his
people remained in power. On December 15th, 1989,
Noriega was named head of the Panamanian govern-
ment and a state of war was declared against the United
States. The next day, Panamanian soldiers murdered an
unarmed American serviceman. On December 20th, the
U.S. military launched Operation Just Cause, with the
stated goal of apprehending Manuel Noriega and restor-
ing Panamanian liberties.
43
Approximately 200-300 Panamanian combatants
(military and paramilitary) were killed during the inva-
sion, as well as approximately 300 civilians. Twenty-
three US servicemen were killed, and several hundred
from both nations were wounded. On the first day of the
invasion, Endara was sworn in as the new President of
Panama, and on January 3rd, 1990, Manuel Noriega
surrendered to U.S. forces. He was flown to the United
States where he stood trial on charges of racketeering
and drug trafficking, and was sentenced to 40 years in
prison.
The End?
• In response to U.S. support of Contra forces in
Nicaragua, the Soviet Union sends ground forces
to the region to assist their “revolutionary
brethren” in stopping “unchecked imperialist
expansion.” The Reagan Administration uses this
as an excuse to send U.S. ground troops into the
area to prevent “Communist aggression” in
Central America. Tensions mount as American
and Russian forces engage each other for the
first time, turning the Cold War hot. The military
action escalates, with both sides sending addi-
tional troops to the region. The Kremlin demands
the U.S.’s immediate withdrawal from the area.
When the White House refuses, Soviet hardliners
push for a preemptive first strike against U.S.
forces in Europe. The U.S. responds in kind,
igniting World War III.
• Mounting tension between Columbia and
Venezuela erupts into open warfare when
Columbian forces cross the border to engage
FARC forces hiding in the Venezuelan moun-
tains. As the war escalates, the U.S. sends ground
forces to assist its longtime ally and “stabilize
the region,” seizing the rich Venezuelan oil
fields. The outcry from the international com-
munity is deafening, and several nations, includ-
ing France, the Russian Federation, and the
People’s Republic of China, impose heavy eco-
nomic sanctions on the U.S. As the situation on
the ground worsens, the United Nations attempts
to force the U.S. to withdraw via diplomatic
means. Now that the U.S. controls the
Venezuelan oil fields, however, there is little
chance of an American withdrawal without
armed intervention. Although not a full-blown
world war, the crisis in South America brings the
world closer and closer to the brink of
Armageddon.
 battlegrounds
FARC Insurgents
Missions: In addition to patrol missions similar to those
THE WARRIORS carried out by Columbian Army forces, the FARC engages
in a wide variety of terrorist activity, to include kidnap-
Columbia pings, assassination, sabotage, and drug smuggling.
Manpower: FARC units are a guerrilla force, and as
Columbian Army such they defy conventional structuring. Squads are
assembled based on the requirements of the mission,
Missions: Columbian military forces conduct several
although units are frequently organized along regional
types of patrol operations in the jungles and mountains
or family lines.
where insurgent forces hide. Reconnaissance patrols are
Gear: In addition to weapons received from outside
designed to locate enemy troop positions and gather
forces sympathetic to their cause, the FARC uses funds
intelligence on enemy movements. Tracking patrols are
from their relationship with the drug cartels to purchase
charged with trailing and locating a specific enemy or
arms and equipment on the black market. Many FARC
unit, either with the intention of gathering additional
cells also use whatever weaponry and gear they can
intelligence on the subject or destroying said subject
scrounge from battlefields.
when it is located. Ambush patrols move into an area
Vehicles: Like most insurgent forces, the FARC
with heavy enemy traffic. Once in place, the patrol waits
employs a wide variety of “liberated” civilian vehicles.
for an enemy element to move into a “kill zone,”
Owing to the mountainous and undeveloped terrain of
enabling the patrol to destroy the enemy unit quickly
the area, off-road vehicles are extremely popular.
and hopefully with minimal risk to the patrol. Assault
Allies: Despite Columbian claims to the contrary, the
patrols move against a known enemy position, attempt-
FARC seems to enjoy some popular support in certain
ing to outflank and overrun the position, capturing
regions of the country, especially in the “drug triangle”
it and destroying any enemy forces present. After
in southern Columbia. In addition, the FARC is rumored
the assault, the area is routinely swept for prisoners
to have strong connections with several powerful drug
and any possible intelligence. More information on
cartels throughout South America.
patrols can be found on page 104 of the U.S. Militaries
Sourcebook™. Falklands
Manpower: The typical Columbian squad consists of
eight to twelve men, depending on the type of squad British Commandos
and the mission involved. Squads are typically led by a
Missions: During the Falkland Island crisis, the pri-
senior NCO, and divided into two fire teams. A junior
mary missions undertaken by the elite Special Air
NCO leads each fire team. Each fire team usually has
Service included reconnaissance, raids, and diversionary
one machine gunner, and the squad has a radiotele-
actions. Members of the regiment infiltrated the islands,
phone operator (RTO) to maintain contact with higher
selecting suitable landing sites for troops. Thereafter,
headquarters. Tracking patrols will usually have at least
they launched lightning raids on lightly-defended key
one member per fire team who is skilled in tracking.
locations throughout the islands, frequently taking their
Gear: The standard rifle is the Colt M16A2, and the
objectives without bloodshed. They also provided diver-
standard sidearm is the Colt M1911A1. Each squad or
sions for larger strike forces, infiltrating behind enemy
fire team also has at least one Maremount M60 machine
lines and launching surprise attacks, thus drawing
gun, and one rifleman in each team usually has an
attention away from more conventional ground forces.
M203 grenade launcher.
Manpower: During reconnaissance missions, the SAS
Vehicles: The Columbian army uses a wide variety of
deployed small, four-man teams to infiltrate, scout, and
jeeps and trucks for troop movement, and has received
avoid enemy contact. These teams were lightly armed, with
some HMMWVs from the U.S. military. Additionally, the
an emphasis on stealth instead of firepower. Raids and
Columbians have a small fleet of UH-1 Huey and UH-60
diversionary actions were conducted by larger squads, usu-
Black Hawk helicopter at their disposal, also supplied by
ally numbering seven to ten men in a team, with
the Americans. The helicopters are used primarily for
squadrons made up of several squads for larger operations.
troop transportation in the mountain highlands,
Gear: The standard weapon of the SAS is the FN-FAL
although they can and are occasionally configured for
Self-Loading Rifle (SLR).
use as gun ships.
Vehicles: During the Falklands incursion, SAS units
Allies: Currently, American troops in Columbia are
deployed mainly by helicopter and Klepper canoes.
serving in an advisory and training function only.
Allies: The SAS frequently operated alone in the
However, as the current war on terror escalates, it may
Falklands, but could depend on support from Royal Marine
only be a matter of time before U.S. military advisors
units, as well as Royal Navy ships and aviation assets.
turn into U.S. military ground forces in the region.

44
 central and south america
Grenada Gear: The Cubans and Soviets supplied the
Sandinista Army, and most of their arms and equipment
US Marine Force Recon reflected this. The standard rifle carried by all squad
members was the AK-47. Usually, one squad member
Missions: During Operation Urgent Fury, Recon
carried a RPD light machine gun, and two or more
Marines conducted both reconnaissance operations and
members would carry RPG-7 rocket launchers.
assault operations. Reconnaissance missions were
Vehicles: Most vehicles of the Sandinista Army were
designed to pinpoint enemy locations and gather intel-
“liberated” from the Somoza government. Vehicles sup-
ligence about enemy dispositions and movements.
plied by the Soviets included BRDM and BTR-60
Assault operations were then planned against enemy
armored personnel carries, and Soviet-manufactured
positions, with the intention of engaging and destroy-
helicopters such as the Mi-17 “Hip” transport helicopter
ing the enemy force.
(see World Militaries, page 116).
Manpower: Marines deploy in squads consisting of
Allies: The Sandinistas received military advisors
three four-man fire teams and led by an NCO. During
from Cuba and the Soviet Union, who helped to train
reconnaissance missions, the four-man team is
their forces in counter-insurgency tactics. However,
deployed, while the entire squad, or even a platoon,
Cuban and Soviet troops served in a strictly advisory
fights together during an assault operation.
position, and were not deployed to combat regions (at
Gear: During Operation Urgent Fury, the standard
least not overtly).
rifle of the Marine Corps was the M16A2, and the stan-
dard sidearm was the M1911A1. Additional weapons “Death Squads”
available the Marines at the squad level were the M60 (Contra forces in Nicaragua)
machine gun, the Talley M72 law rocket, the M203
Missions: Death squads were not hardened front-line
grenade launcher, and the M21 sniper rifle.
fighters. They tended to avoid protracted firefights if at
Vehicles: Marine Force Recon soldiers specialize in
all possible. Typical death squad missions included kid-
deep reconnaissance and infiltration. As such, they do
nappings, assassinations, subjugation of local popula-
not have ready access to vehicles other than those used
tions, and harassment and interdiction.
for insertion into a mission area, such as helicopters or
Manpower: Like most irregular forces, these units
Zodiac rafts.
drew heavily on conscription from the local populace.
Allies: As part of a larger invasion force, the Marine
However, members were selected based on loyalty to the
Force Recon could call upon support from Army and
cause and their capacity for violence and terror. CIA and
Marine units operating within the AO, as well as off-
American military advisors trained the Contras; their
shore assistance from U.S. Naval vessels and air support.
training included basic weapons and tactics, psycholog-
Nicaragua ical operations, interrogation, infiltration, and counter-
intelligence operations.
Sandinista Military Forces Gear: Contra death squads used a wide variety of
weaponry. Most equipment was vintage surplus, some
Missions: Sandinista forces routinely engaged in
dating back as far as World War II, with more modern
pacification missions, where a Sandinista patrol would
equipment supplied to either side by the Americans or
move into an area suspected of harboring Contra forces
their proxies.
and round up likely ringleaders and the like, interrogat-
Vehicles: Since they ware unconventional forces,
ing, torturing and occasionally executing prisoners to
death squads did not have ready access to military vehi-
flush out their prey.
cles. As such, privately owned or “liberated” civilian
Assault operations against known control positions
and military vehicles were the norm. Four-wheel drive
were also common and involved artillery and air strikes
vehicles were preferred, given the rough, mountainous
as well as conventional ground forces. Given the irreg-
terrain of the region.
ular nature of their opposition, Sandinista forces were
Allies: By their very nature and the manner in which
not very discriminatory in their target select, and civil-
they operated, death squads alienated many potential
ian casualties were high.
allies. Even the most sympathetic supporter was hard
Manpower: Sandinista military patrols usually con-
pressed to condone the indiscriminate targeting of civil-
sisted of a platoon of four or more squads, each contain-
ians. However, Contra forces received covert aid and
ing twelve men and led by an NCO. A single squad usu-
support from military advisors from the American gov-
ally conducted patrol operations, allowing a single pla-
ernment, even after the U.S. Congress forbid further
toon to cover a larger area. Assault operations could be
support in light of the Contras’ terrorist activities.
handled at the squad level, but were more commonly car-
ried out by platoon-sized or larger elements, depending
on the nature and strength of the enemy position.

45
 battlegrounds
Panama
US Army Rangers
Missions: Rangers operating in Panama performed a
variety of missions. One of the most high-profile was
the seizing and securing of the Torrijos-Tocumen
International Airport, the Rio Hato Military Airfield, and
Noriega’s fortified beach house. Both airfields were
secured after the Rangers executed low-level parachute
insertions onto the airfields and quickly overwhelmed
the resistance there. They also conducted assault opera-
tions against the Panamanian Special Forces, as well as
search and clear operations around Panama City, elimi-
nating pockets of resistance and securing the area.
Manpower: The typical Ranger squad is composed of
ten men, led by an NCO and divided into two fire teams.
Each fire team has one SAW gunner and one grenadier.
Every member of the squad is highly trained, and tech-
nically and tactically proficient in his job.
Gear: During Operation Just Cause, the standard rifle
of the U.S. Army was the M16A2, and the standard
sidearm was the M9 Beretta (Model 92SF). Additional
weapons available to the Rangers at the squad level
were the M249 SAW, M60 machine gun, the Talley M72
law rocket, the M136 AT4 rocket, the M203 grenade
launcher, and the M24 sniper rifle. Some Ranger units
were also issued USAS 12 combat shotguns during this
operation.
Vehicles: The primary means of conveyance for
Rangers operating in Panama was the C130 transport
plane. Given the nature of its mission and structure, the
Ranger Regiment had no organic transportation or com-
bat support assets. Once the Rangers jumped in to an
area, they either hitched a ride… or walked.
Allies: As part of a much larger invasion force, the
Rangers could call upon Army artillery and air support,
as well as additional ground support from U.S. Army
and Marine forces in the area.
THE CONFLICT
With the collapse of the Soviet Union, Central and
South America have become home to the new Cold War.
Intelligence agencies pit rival factions against each
other, while small military units wage secret wars in the
mountains and jungles. Secrecy is the key to success in
the region. With that in mind, here are a number of
ideas that Game Controls can use in their own Spycraft
games, whether they be espionage adventures or mili-
tary campaigns.
46
Columbia
Blown: An American DEA agent working deep
undercover has infiltrated one of the most powerful
drug cartels in South America. Over the last twenty-four
months, he has gathered enough information on the
cartel’s production and distribution operations to effec-
tively cripple the organization. It now appears, howev-
er, that his cover identity has been compromised, and he
has gone to ground. A team of agents must locate and
extract him before the cartel’s hit men find him.
The Dogs of War: In light of increasing border ten-
sions between Columbia and Venezuela, militant hard-
liners in both the Columbian and American govern-
ments have decided to use the situation to their advan-
tage. Plans have been put in motion to fabricate evi-
dence of Venezuelan support for FARC insurrectionists,
including FARC bases across the border. The hardliners
hope to use the incident to incite a full-blown war
between the two nations, with the U.S. moving to help
its long-time ally, Columbia. Venezuela’s oil reserves
make a rich prize for the Columbians, and the
Americans would love to have the oil controlled by a
decidedly pro-American regime. The agents must find
proof of the conspirators’ plot before the region is
engulfed in another bloody war.
Pay Day: A wealthy American businessman is visit-
ing several of his holdings in Columbia. His company
would pay an exorbitant ransom to insure his return if
he were kidnapped. Are the agents there to prevent such
a kidnapping, or are they looking for a pay day?
Across The Line: A particularly brutal cell of the
FARC has taken to hiding on the other side of the
Peruvian border, striking with impunity and then
retreating back to safety. The Peruvian government will
not sanction Columbian or American troops to cross the
border, and the Peruvian Army can’t seem to find the
rebels. A small unit of soldiers could cross the border
undetected, locate the cell, and eliminate the leader. The
trick is to do it without igniting a border war.
Headhunter: American advisors have begun direct-
ing counterinsurgent operations in the field. One
American officer in particular has been extremely suc-
cessful, severely hindering FARC operations in the area.
A bounty has been placed on his head, and at least one
group of resistance fighters means to collect.
Falkland Islands
For Queen and Country: The Argentine Navy has
begun conducting “training” operations with a bit more
intensity than usual. Could this be the precursor to an
invasion of the Falklands? British intelligence agents
must infiltrate Argentine command, discover the truth,
and get the word back to Her Majesty’s Secret Service.
 central and south america
Eagle Landing: The Royal Marines are ready to
retake St. George Island in the Falklands, but the best
landing site may well be a trap. A unit of elite British
commandos is tasked to reconnoiter the island and
bring the Marines in safely.
Grenada
Slipping Through The Net: The American invasion
force has landed, and is busy rounding up any and all
suspected communist agents. Can a team of KGB (or
GRU) agents manage to slip out without getting cap-
tured?
Semper Fidelis: A Marine Force Recon unit is draw-
ing heavy fire from Grenadian and Cuban forces. Low
on ammo and weighed down with casualties, the
Marines are pinned down and in serious need of back-
up.
Nicaragua
Into The Killing Fields: U.S. military advisors are
backing Contra forces in the Nicaraguan mountains.
Rumors of atrocities have begun circulating, and the
Agency has sent in a team of agents to find out the
truth. However, the CIA doesn’t want their dirty little
secret out. The agents must find out what the Contras
are really up to, without tipping off their CIA and U.S.
military cohorts.
Heads of the Hydra: Several leaders of the Contra
movement are meeting to coordinate activities through-
out Nicaragua. Unfortunately, the Sandinistas have lit-
47
tle popular support in the vicinity of the meeting, and
direct military action would most likely fail to capture
or kill the Contra leaders. However, a skilled team of
agents could get close, and either eliminate the Contras
or discover their plans for upcoming offensives.
Hearts and Minds: Popular support for the
Sandinista Revolution is waning in some areas of
Nicaragua. However, Contra death squads have been
terrorizing local villages and butchering innocent civil-
ians. The Sandinista forces must go into the area and
stop the Contras while simultaneously convincing the
locals of their good intentions.
Be Very, Very Quiet: Sandinista snipers have been
operating in Contra-friendly areas, harassing the insur-
gents and undermining civilian morale. Operating in
one- and two-man elements, the snipers strike and fade
into the jungle. As Contra operations in the area begin
to step up, the counterrevolutionaries and their
American advisors must hunt down the snipers and put
an end to their predications.
Panama
What’s That Sound?: With tension between Panama
and the United States escalating, an American invasion
seems eminent. Plans for such an endeavor are formu-
lated at the U.S. Army Southern Command. A daring
team of agents could lay their hands on these plans if
they were careful, possibly turning the tide of the
impending battle.
Full Blast, Top Down: Rangers, lead the way!
The Panamanian Special Forces are dug in,
and resistance is expected to be stiff. It’s going
to be house-to-house fighting to clear the
Mountain Guard out.
 battlegrounds
THEOperation
MISSIONFallen Angel
This mission is appropriate for a team of 4-6 agents
levels 5, 9, 14, or 19.
The Setting
Operation Fallen Angel takes place in the Columbian
highlands, in and around an old FARC training facility.
The encampment on the map is located in a valley, with
steep, jungle-covered mountains on all sides. Access to
the camp comes from a single two-track dirt road,
which winds through the mountain pass before meeting
up with a local road several kilometers away. Many
footpaths cut through the surrounding rain forest, but
the camp’s inhabitants frequently patrol these paths.
A ten-foot chain-link fence surrounds the encamp-
ment, with concertina wire strung across the top. The
tree line was once pushed back a hundred meters in
every direction, but has since begun to grow back.
Heavy underbrush now comes to within 10 meters of the
fence line in many areas. Fifteen-foot high guard tow-
ers (#9) stand in each corner, with an additional tower
centered on the eastern fence line. The towers are con-
structed of wood, with a sheet metal roof, and the waist-
high walls are reinforced with sandbags to provide
cover from small arms fire. The main gate, located on
the western side, and the secondary gate, on the south
side (#11) are guarded by sandbag-reinforced guard
shacks on either side of a simple bar-type gate.
Inside the compound, a simple cinderblock building
(#1) serves as the armory, where surplus arms are stored
under lock and key. The tactical operations center (TOC)
(#2) is a simple wooded two-story structure, with the
lower level serving as a briefing area/auditorium, and the
upper level divided into the commander’s office and his
private quarters. A small holding cell is also located in this
building, on the ground floor. The garage (#3) is a large
sheet-metal barn containing rudimentary maintenance
equipment and the camp’s few motor vehicles. The dining
facility (#4) is a wooden structure designed to seat up to
one hundred personnel at a time, and has a large kitchen
area located in the west end of the building. Four two-
story wooden buildings (#5) serve as barracks for the
encampment. Each barracks can comfortably house fifty
soldiers. South of the barracks, an open-sided longhouse
(#12) provides latrine and shower facilities. A large grav-
el parade field (#7) is located in the center of the encamp-
ment. In the northwest corner of the compound, a one-
story wooden longhouse serves as the supply room.
The fuel dump (#6) is located in the southwestern cor-
ner of the base. This area consists of an antique pump
and several drums of gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuel
48
stacked together under camouflage netting. The south-
eastern corner of the encampment (#8) is kept clear of
debris and detritus, and serves as a makeshift helipad.
The Action — Option #1
A former U.S. military advisor operating in the area
has gone rogue, taking over the base and setting up his
operations in the area. Prior to his defection, he helped
train Columbian military forces, and established several
contacts throughout the outlying area. He was a highly
decorated Army officer who gave no indications of
compromised loyalties. His knowledge of joint
U.S./Columbian operations in the region allows him to
operate with relative impunity. He has begun training
FARC recruits, as well as cartel forces in the area, and
has conducted ambushes and raids on Columbian army
patrols throughout the area.
The agents’ objective is to locate and recover this
rogue operative. The Agency is very curious as to what
would cause a career military man to go rogue, and is
also interested in finding the party or parties responsible
for “turning” him. The agents must infiltrate the
encampment, locate and subdue the advisor, and get him
to the extraction zone, preferably without alerting the
camp to their presence. It is imperative that the advisor
be brought out alive; curtailing his unit’s operations in
the area is secondary to ascertaining who turned him
and locating other potential defectors in the ranks.
Agent Description
Read the following aloud to begin:
Four months ago, a U.S. Army Special Forces unit
under the command of Colonel Gregory MacMillan
disappeared while on patrol just north of the
Columbian-Ecuadorian border. The unit was pre-
sumed killed in action, until rumors began circulating
of American mercenaries training FARC soldiers in the
area. Intelligence has determined that Colonel
MacMillan and his men are alive, and are now work-
ing for the same people he was sent to Columbia to
fight. He has set up operations in an abandoned
FARC training facility deep in the mountains.
Your mission is to infiltrate the encampment, locate
MacMillan, and get him out. MacMillan is to be taken
alive at all costs. All other personnel within the camp are
to be considered hostiles, and lethal force is authorized.
Following a nighttime insertion, your team has made
its way through the jungle toward the camp. You can
see guards in each of the five guard towers, as well as
at each of the two gates. A two-man patrol walks the
outside perimeter of the compound, and a second
patrol makes its way through the interior of the
encampment.
central and south america
1 square = 10’

9 9

10

5
11 1

7 9
2

6 3

11

9 9

49
 battlegrounds
Gearing Up XP Rewards
The GC may allow the agents to gear up per the Upon completion of this action scene, each agent
standard Spycraft rules, with a Threat Code of “Black.” gains the following XP rewards.
For a more realistic experience, however, use the
• Killing one or more of the enemy characters*:
following alternative Gearing Up rules.
100/225/350/450 XP per agent.
This mission has no Threat Code and the agents do
• Killing all enemy characters*: 200/450/700/1,000 XP
not gain any personal gear. Instead of selecting
per agent.
weapons and standard-issue gear, the agents are
• Capturing one or more of the enemy characters*:
assigned weapons and gear according to the number of
300/675/1,050/1,500 XP per agent.
personal BP at their disposal, as shown on Tables 3.1
• Capturing all enemy characters*: 400/900/1,400/
and 3.2.
2,000 XP per agent.
Events • Capturing the military commander: 200/450/700/
1,000 XP per agent.
All of the tower guards, gate guards, and roving
• Entering and exiting the area without notice: 200/
guards are FARC recruits. MacMillan is located inside
450/700/1,000 XP per agent.
the TOC (#2), possibly asleep in his quarters. The other
American advisors are billeted in the northern-most * Each agent earns only the highest of these rewards.
barracks, while the other three contain FARC and cartel
recruits for training.

Table 3.1: Weapons and Gear

BP* Weapons and Gear**
1–25 1 5.56mm Colt Commando submachine gun, 120 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 1 survival knife,
1 set of camouflaged fatigues, 1 pair of combat boots, 1 LBE, 1 set of climbing gear, 50’ of nylon rope,
1 tactical flashlight, 1 tactical hand radio, 1 infrared strobe.
26–50 1 5.56mm Colt Commando submachine gun, 180 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 1 9mm Beretta 92SF with
removable suppressor, 60 rounds of 9mm ball ammunition, 1 survival knife, 1 set of camouflage fatigues, 1 pair of
combat boots, 1 LBE, 1 tactical holster, 1 set of climbing gear, 50’ of nylon rope, 1 pair of night vision goggles,
1 tactical hand radio, 1 infrared strobe. Additionally, one team member may substitute his Colt Commando and
Beretta for a FN M249 SAW with 200 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition.
51–75 1 5.56mm Colt M4A1 assault rifle, 180 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 1 9mm Beretta 92SF with removable
suppressor, 60 rounds of 9mm ball ammunition, 1 survival knife, 1 set of camouflage fatigues, 2 fragmentation
grenades, 1 pair of combat boots, 1 LBE, 1 tactical holster, 1 set of climbing gear, 50’ of nylon rope, 1 pair of night
vision goggles, 1 tactical hand radio, 1 infrared strobe. Additionally, up to two team members may substitute their
Colt M4A1s for a FN M249 SAW with 200 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition or a 7.62mm Remington Model
700 with 50 rounds of 7.62mm ball ammunition.
76–99 1 5.56mm Colt M4A1 assault rifle with 4X day/night scope, 180 rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 1 .45 H&K
SOCOM with removable suppressor and laser sight, 60 rounds of .45 ball ammunition, 1 survival knife, 1 set of
camouflage fatigues, 2 fragmentation grenades, 2 flash bang grenades, 1 pair of combat boots, 1 LBE, 1 tactical
holster, 1 set of climbing gear, 50’ of nylon rope, 1 pair of night vision goggles, 1 tactical hand radio, 1 infrared
strobe. Additionally, up to two team members may substitute their Colt M4A1s for a FN M249 SAW with 200
rounds of 5.56mm ball ammunition or a 7.62mm Remington Model 700 with 50 rounds of 7.62mm ball ammunition.
100+ 1 5.56mm Colt M4A1 SOPMOD assault rifle OR 1 5.56mm M4A1 with 40mm M203 grenade launcher, 180 rounds
of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 1 .45 H&K SOCOM with removable suppressor and laser sight, 60 rounds of .45 ball
ammunition, 1 survival knife, 1 set of camouflage fatigues, 2 fragmentation grenades and 2 flash bang grenades
OR 6 40mm fragmentation rounds, 1 pair of combat boots, 1 LBE, 1 tactical holster, 1 set of climbing gear,
50’ of nylon rope, 1 pair of night vision goggles, 1 tactical hand radio, 1 infrared strobe. Additionally, one team
member may substitute his M4A1 for a FN 240B machine gun with 200 rounds of 7.62mm ball ammunition.
One team member may substitute his M4A1 and hand grenades for a Barret M82A1 “Light Fifty” sniper rifle
with a 16x day/night scope and 50 rounds of .50 ball ammunition.
* Per agent.
** The agent may choose 1 set of listed weapons and gear up to his total BP allotment. He may not mix and match weapons
and items from multiple BP allotments.
Further, instead of selecting vehicles and gadgets, the agents are assigned them according to the number of personal GP at
their disposal, as follows.

50
 central and south america
Statistics

Colonel Gregory MacMillan (+2 Dex, +2 class); Atk: fist/punch +3 (dmg 1–3 subdual,
error –, threat -), .45 HK SOCOM +5 (dmg 1d12 normal,
Colonel Gregory MacMillan was on the fast track to
recoil 19, accuracy +0, error 1, threat 19–20, range 25 ft.,
bigger and better things until his deployment to Columbia.
qualities and mods: TD, WL; In laser sight — 12 shots
Somewhere during his tour, MacMillan lost his patriotic
of ball ammunition), 5.56mm Colt Commando +4 (dmg
fervor. He no longer felt that he was defending democra-
4d4 normal, recoil 0, accuracy -1, error 1-2, threat 20,
cy or keeping America safe; instead, he began to feel like
range 45 ft., qualities and mods: CS — 30 shots of ball
the Army’s errand boy, sent out to do the dirty little tasks
ammunition); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None;
no one else wanted to touch. If he was to be an errand
SQ Generous, Versatile, Lead 2/session, Tactics 1/session;
boy, he surmised, he might as well become a highly paid
SV Fort +4, Ref +7, Will +5; Str 11, Dex 14, Con 12,
errand boy. Using contacts he had cultivated through the
Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 13;
area, the colonel established links to local FARC cells, as
Skills: Balance +4, Bluff +5 (threat 19–20), Bureaucracy
well as a number of smaller drug cartels. Once he and a
+4, Climb +2, Diplomacy +12 (threat 19–20), Hide +4,
small unit of his most trusted men were ready, they broke
Intimidate +7 (threat 19–20), Knowledge (Military
away and set up a military training operation in the
History) +3, Move Silently +6, Profession (Military) +8,
Columbian mountains.
Survival +6, Swim +2.
Colonel Gregory MacMillan. (first-tier — target Feats: Hard Core, Jungle Training, Persuasive.
average agent level 4), 5th-level Pointman (special Gear: Weapons, 24 extra shots of .45 ball ammunition,
NPC): Department: Special Forces; CR 5. SZ M; v/wp 120 extra shots of 5.56mm ball ammunition, camouflage
37/12; Init +4 (+2 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 14 fatigues, infantry basic load bundle.

Table 3.2: Vehicles and Gadgets

GP* Vehicles, Vehicles and Gadgets, or Gadgets**
1–25 M1025 HMMWV (Ground, Wheeled): SZ L; Occ 2/2; Hnd -5; Spd 350 ft.; MPH 35/70; Def 4; WP 120; Hrd 6;
qualities and mods: CMF, OPT (25%), ORD, solid tires; ordnance: 7.62mm vehicular machine gun (dmg 2d10 normal
(+20), accuracy –, error 1–2, threat 19–20, range 200 ft., qualities and mods: AN — 200 shots of ball ammunition) with
2 extra loads of ball ammunition (400 extra shots), 8 GP.
26–50 M1025 HMMWV (Ground, Wheeled): SZ L; Occ 2/2; Hnd -5; Spd 350 ft.; MPH 35/70; Def 4; WP 120; Hrd 6;
qualities and mods: CMF, OPT (25%), ORD, solid tires; ordnance: 12.7mm vehicular machine gun (dmg 3d8 normal
(+20), accuracy –, error 1–2, threat 19–20, range 400 ft., qualities and mods: AN — 100 shots of ball ammunition)
with 2 extra loads of ball ammunition (200 extra shots), 9 GP.
51–75 M1025 HMMWV (Ground, Wheeled): SZ L; Occ 2/2; Hnd -5; Spd 350 ft.; MPH 35/70; Def 4; WP 120; Hrd 6;
qualities and mods: CMF, OPT (25%), ORD, solid tires; ordnance: 7.62mm vehicular machine gun (dmg 2d10 normal
(+20), accuracy –, error 1–2, threat 19–20, range 200 ft., qualities and mods: AN — 200 shots of ball ammunition)
with 2 extra loads of ball ammunition (400 extra shots), 11 GP; Guerrilla Warfare Training Program.
76–99 UH-60 Black Hawk (Helicopter): SZ L; Occ 3/8; Hnd +7; Spd 1,700 ft.; MPH 170/210; Def 16; WP 80; Hrd 7;
qualities and mods: CMF, FPH, VTL; ordnance: 2 X 7.62mm vehicular machine gun (one per side door) (dmg 2d10
normal (+20), accuracy –, error 1–2, threat 19–20, range 200 ft., qualities and mods: AN — 200 shots of ball
ammunition) with 2 extra loads of ball ammunition (400 extra shots each), 13 GP. Note: The team is neither
expected nor allowed to crew the Black Hawk. The helicopter will insert the team into the area and extract
them when the prisoner is secure.
100+ UH-60 Black Hawk (Helicopter): SZ L; Occ 3/8; Hnd +7; Spd 1,700 ft.; MPH 170/210; Def 16; WP 80; Hrd 7;
qualities and mods: CMF, FPH, VTL; ordnance: 2 X 7.62mm vehicular machine gun (one per side door) (dmg 2d10
normal (+20), accuracy -, error 1-2, threat 19–20, range 200 ft., qualities and mods: AN — 200 shots of ball
ammunition) with 2 extra loads of ball ammunition (400 extra shots each), 13 GP; Air Assault Training Program.
Note: The team is neither expected nor allowed to crew the Black Hawk. The helicopter will insert the team into
the area and extract them when the prisoner is secure.
* Per agent.
** The agent gains only the vehicles and/or gadgets listed for his total BP allotment. He does not gain any of the items listed
for lower total BP allotments.

51
 battlegrounds
Colonel Gregory MacMillan (second tier — target
average agent level 9), 5th-level Pointman/3rd-level
Officer/2nd-level Ranger (special NPC): Department:
Special Forces; CR 10. SZ M; v/wp 56/13; Init +5
(+2 Dex, +3 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 16 (+2 Dex, +4 class);
Atk: fist/punch +7 (dmg 1–3 subdual, error –, threat –),
.45 HK SOCOM +9 (dmg 1d12 normal, recoil 19, accuracy
+0, error 1, threat 19–20, range 25 ft., qualities and mods:
TD, WL; In laser sight — 12 shots of ball ammunition),
5.56mm Colt M4A1 +9 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0,
accuracy -, error 1-2, threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities
and mods: No burst, DT, MD (optics only), IN adjustable
stock — 30 shots of ball ammunition); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA Lead the charge (damage); SQ
Bushmaster, Encouragement, Generous, Lead 2/session,
Tactics 3/session (+2 bonus), Trail Boss +5, Versatile;
SV Fort +9, Ref +10, Will +11; Str 11, Dex 14, Con 13,
Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 13;
Skills: Balance +4, Bluff +5 (threat 19–20), Bureaucracy
+4, Climb +2, Demolitions +8, Diplomacy +12 (threat
19–20), Hide +7, Intimidate +7 (threat 19–20), Knowledge
(Military History) +3, Move Silently +10, Profession
(Military) +8, Survival +6, Swim +2.
Feats: Daring Ambush, Hard Core, Jungle Training,
Mountain Training, Persuasive, Track. Gear: Weapons,
24 extra shots of .45 ball ammunition, 120 extra shots
of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 2 fragmentation grenades,
camouflage fatigues, infantry basic load bundle.
Colonel Gregory MacMillan (third tier — target
average agent level 14), 5th-level Pointman/5th-level
Officer/5th-level Ranger (special NPC): Department:
Special Forces; CR 15. SZ M; v/wp 83/13; Init +9
(+2 Dex, +7 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 19 (+2 Dex, +7 class);
Atk: fist/punch +11 (dmg 1–3+1 subdual, error –, threat -),
.45 HK SOCOM +13 (dmg 1d12 normal, recoil 19, accuracy
+0, error 1, threat 19–20, range 25 ft., qualities and
mods: TD, WL; In laser sight — 12 shots of ball ammunition),
5.56mm Colt M4A1 +13 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0,
accuracy -, error 1-2, threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities
and mods: No burst, DT, MD (4X day/night sight),
IN adjustable stock — 30 shots of ball ammunition);
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA Lead the charge
(damage), Sneak attack +1d6; SQ All-terrain Expert,
Blood of Heroes +4, Bushmaster (+3), Encouragement,
Field Logistics, Generous, Lead 2/session, Tactics 4/session
(+3 bonus), Trail Boss +5, Versatile; SV Fort +11, Ref +12,
Will +13; Str 11, Dex 14, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 13;
Skills: Balance +4, Bluff +10 (threat 18–20), Bureaucracy
+6, Climb +6, Demolitions +8, Diplomacy +13 (threat
18–20), Hide +10, Intimidate +12 (threat 18–20),
Knowledge (Military History) +5, Move Silently +13,
Profession (Military) +10, Survival +9, Swim +6.
52
Feats: Advanced Skill Mastery (Persuasive), Aquatic
Training, Command Decision, Daring Ambush, Hard Core,
Jungle Training, Mountain Training, Persuasive, Swamp
Training, Track.
Gear: Weapons, 24 extra shots of .45 ball ammunition,
120 extra shots of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 2 fragmen-
tation grenades, camouflage fatigues, infantry basic
load bundle, 20 BP.
Colonel Gregory MacMillan (fourth tier — target
average agent level 19), 10th-level Pointman/5th-level
Officer/5th-level Ranger (special NPC): Department: Special
Forces; CR 20. SZ M; v/wp 120/14; Init +11 (+2 Dex,
+2 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 21 (+2 Dex, +9 class); Atk:
fist/punch +15 (dmg 1–3+1 subdual, error –, threat –),
.45 HK SOCOM +17 (dmg 1d12 normal, recoil 19,
accuracy +0, error 1, threat 19–20, range 25 ft.,
qualities and mods: TD, WL; In laser sight — 12 shots
of ball ammunition), 5.56mm Colt M4A1 SOPMOD +17
(dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0, accuracy -, error 1-2, threat
20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods: No burst, DT, MD
(4x day/night sight), IN adjustable stock — 30 shots
of ball ammunition); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square;
SA Lead the charge (damage), Sneak attack +3d6; SQ
All-terrain Expert, Blood of Heroes +4, Bushmaster (+3),
Cross-class Ability (sneak attack ×2), Encouragement,
Field Logistics, Generous, Lead 4/session, Serendipity
1/session, Tactics 5/session (+3 bonus), Trail Boss +5,
Versatile; SV Fort +13, Ref +14, Will +15; Str 11,
Dex 14, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 14;
Skills: Balance +4, Bluff +15 (threat 17-20), Bureaucracy
+7, Climb +11, Demolitions +13, Diplomacy +18 (threat
17-20), Hide +15, Intimidate +19 (threat 17-20),
Knowledge (Military History) +5, Move Silently +12,
Profession (Military) +10, Survival +19, Swim +6.
Feats: Advanced Skill Mastery (Persuasive), Aquatic
Training, Command Decision, Daring Ambush, Grand
Skill Mastery (Persuasive), Hard Core, Jungle Training,
Mountain Training, Persuasive, Swamp Training, Track.
Gear: Weapons, 24 extra shots of .45 ball ammunition,
120 extra shots of 5.56mm ball ammunition, 2 fragmen-
tation grenades, camouflage fatigues, infantry basic
load bundle, 20 BP.
US Army Military Advisors
Before his defection, MacMillan handpicked a platoon
of fellow American soldiers to join him. Each is a seasoned
combat veteran and a professional soldier. The men are
unswervingly loyal to MacMillan, and share his general
disillusionment with the American government. They
tend to look at the FARC and cartel recruits as ignorant
rubes and incompetents, who require the advisors’
constant supervision and training to get anything done
properly.
central and south america
U.S. Army Military Advisors (first-tier — target average
agent level 4), 3rd-level Infantryman (minions, squads
of 4 — 33 MP): Department: U.S. Army Infantry. CR 2.
SZ M; v/wp 24/12; Init +3 (+1 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30
ft.; Def 12 (+1 Dex, +1 class); Atk: fist/punch +4 (dmg
1d3+1, error -, threat -.), 5.56mm M16A2 +4 (dmg 4d4
normal, recoil 0, accuracy 0, error 1-3, threat 20, range
125 ft., qualities and mods: No strafe — 30 shots of ball
ammunition), 5.56mm FN M249 SAW +4 (dmg 4d4 nor-
mal, recoil 13, accuracy -, error 1, threat 20, range 100
ft., qualities and mods: HB, In muzzle brake —
100 shots of ball ammunition); Face 1 square; Reach
1 square; SA None; SQ Department Training, “This is
my rifle”; SV Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +3; Str 12, Dex 12,
Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
Skills: Hide +2, Listen +1, Move Silently +3, Profession
(Military) +3, Spot +1, Survival +3. Feats: Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons (three squad members carry M4A1s,
one carries a M249 SAW), 180 extra shots of 5.56mm
ball ammunition (M4) or 100 extra shots of 5.56mm
ball ammunition (M249), basic infantry load.
U.S. Army Military Advisors (second-tier — target
average agent level 9), 4th-level Infantryman/4th-level
Special Forces Operator (minions, squads of 4 — 70 MP):
Department: U.S. Army Infantry. CR 8. SZ M; v/wp 55/12;
Init +5 (+1 Dex, +4 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 15 (+1 Dex, +4
class); Atk: fist/punch +9 (dmg 1d3+1, error –, threat –.),
5.56mm MM4A1 +9 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0, accuracy –,
error 1–2, threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods:
No burst, DT, MD (4x day/night sight), IN adjustable
stock — 30 shots of ball ammunition), 5.56mm FN M249
SAW +9 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 13, accuracy –, error 1,
threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods: HB, In muzzle
brake — 100 shots of ball ammunition); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ Basic Load, Department
Training, Team Player +1, Terrain Training, “This is my
rifle”; SV Fort +7, Ref +4, Will +5; Str 12, Dex 12,
Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
Skills: Demolitions +7, Hide +5, Listen +2, Move
Silently +6, Profession (Military) +6, Spot +6, Survival +8.
Feats: Jungle Training, Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons (three squad members carry M4A1s,
one carries a M249 SAW), 180 extra shots of 5.56mm
ball ammunition (M4) or 100 extra shots of 5.56mm ball
ammunition (M249), basic infantry load, 2 fragmentation
grenades, night vision goggles.
53
U.S. Army Military Advisors (third-tier — target
average agent level 14), 7th-level Infantryman/6th-level
Special Forces Operator (minions, squads of 4 — 87 MP):
Department: U.S. Army Infantry. CR 13. SZ M; v/wp 86/12;
Init +5 (+1 Dex, +4 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 15 (+1 Dex, +4
class); Atk: fist/punch +14 (dmg 1d3+1, error –, threat –.),
5.56mm MM4A1 +14 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0, accuracy –,
error 1–2, threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods:
No burst, DT, MD (4x day/night sight), IN adjustable
stock — 30 shots of ball ammunition), 5.56mm FN M249
SAW +14 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 13, accuracy –, error 1,
threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods: HB, In muzzle
brake — 100 shots of ball ammunition); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ Basic Load, Bonus Feat,
Department Training, Lay Down Fire, Team Player +1,
Terrain Training, “This is my rifle”; SV Fort +10, Ref +6,
Will +7; Str 12, Dex 12, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
Skills: Demolitions +10, Hide +8, Listen +3, Move
Silently +7, Profession (Military) +10, Spot +8, Survival +13.
Feats: Coolness Under Fire, Jungle Training, Lay Down
Fire, Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons (three squad members carry M4A1s,
one carries a M249 SAW), 180 extra shots of 5.56mm
ball ammunition (M4) or 100 extra shots of 5.56mm ball
ammunition (M249), basic infantry load, 2 fragmentation
grenades, night vision goggles.
U.S. Army Military Advisors (fourth-tier — target
average agent level 19), 8th-level Infantryman/10th-level
Special Forces Operator (minions, squads of 4 — 70 MP):
Department: U.S. Army Infantry. CR 17. SZ M; v/wp 114/12;
Init +8 (+1 Dex, +7 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 17 (+1 Dex, +6
class); Atk: fist/punch +19 (dmg 1d3+1, error –, threat –.),
5.56mm MM4A1 +19 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0, accuracy –,
error 1–2, threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods:
No burst, DT, MD (4X day/night sight), IN adjustable
stock — 30 shots of ball ammunition), 5.56mm FN M249
SAW +19 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 13, accuracy -, error 1,
threat 20, range 100 ft., qualities and mods: HB, In muzzle
brake — 100 shots of ball ammunition); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ Armor Use (+1/-1), Basic
Load, Bonus Feat, Coordinate Fire, Department Training,
Lay Down Fire, Team Player +2, Terrain Training, “This is
my rifle”; SV Fort +10, Ref +6, Will +7; Str 12, Dex 12,
Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 8;
Skills: Demolitions +16, Hide +11, Listen +4, Move
Silently +10, Profession (Military) +13, Spot +13,
Survival +18.
Feats: Coolness Under Fire, Coordinate Fire, Jungle
Training, Lay Down Fire, Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons (three squad members carry M4A1s,
one carries a M249 SAW), 180 extra shots of 5.56mm
ball ammunition (M4) or 100 extra shots of 5.56mm ball
ammunition (M249), basic infantry load, 2 fragmentation
grenades, night vision goggles.
 battlegrounds
Colonel MacMillan’s men have two M1025 FARC Recruits (third-tier — target average agent
HMMWVs (“Humvees”) at their disposal. The vehicles level 14), 6th-level Resistance Fighter/5th-level Mercenary
are commonly parked inside the garage structure, and (minions, squads of 8 — 12 MP): CR 10. SZ M; v/wp
are fueled and ready to go. 66/12; Init +6 (+6 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 18 (+8 class);
Atk: Machete +10 (dmg 1d8+1 normal, error 1-2, threat 20),
M1025 HMMWV (Ground, Wheeled): SZ L; Occ 2/2;
5.56mm Colt M16A1 +10 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0,
Hnd -5; Spd 350 ft.; MPH 35/70; Def 4; WP 120; Hrd 6;
accuracy -, error 1-4, threat 20, range 125 ft., qualities
qualities and mods: CMF, ORD, solid tires; ordnance:
and mods: no burst — 30 shots of ball ammunition);
7.62mm vehicular machine gun (dmg 2d10 normal (+20),
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ Ambush
accuracy -, error 1-2, threat 19–20, range 200 ft., qualities
Tactics +2, Cause, Damage Reduction (1/-), Guerrilla
and mods: AN — 200 shots of ball ammunition) with 2
Warfare, Heavily Armed (10 BPs); SV Fort +7, Ref +6,
extra loads of ball ammunition (400 extra shots), 8 GP.
Will +5; Str 12, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 6;
FARC Recruits Skills: Bluff +2, Craft (Farming) +3, Demolitions +6,
Diplomacy +2, Driver +6, First Aid +5, Hide +6,
The recruits are rough and unseasoned. They lack the
Intimidate +7, Listen +3, Sense Motive +3, Spot +3,
discipline and military bearing of MacMillan’s advisors.
Surveillance +6, Survival +6.
FARC Recruits (first-tier — target average agent Feats: Explosives Basics, Point Blank Shot.
level 4), 1st-level Resistance Fighter (minions, squads Gear: Weapons, 60 extra shots of 5.56mm ball
of 8 — 12 MP): CR 1. SZ M; v/wp 7/12; Init +1 (+1 class); ammunition, camouflage fatigues.
Spd 30 ft.; Def 11 (+1 class); Atk: Machete +1 (dmg 1d8+1
FARC Recruits (fourth-tier — target average agent
normal, error 1-2, threat 20), 9mm IMI Uzi submachine
level 19), 9th-level Resistance Fighter/7th-level Mercenary
gun -2 (dmg 1d10+1, recoil 10, accuracy -2, error 1-2,
(minions, squads of 8 — 12 MP): CR 15. SZ M; v/wp
threat 20, range 3- ft., qualities and mods: CS — 30
93/12; Init +12 (+8 class, +4 feat); Spd 30 ft.; Def 21
shots of ball ammunition); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square;
(+11 class); Atk: Machete +14 (dmg 1d8+1 normal,
SA None; SQ Cause; SV Fort +1, Ref +2, Will +0; Str 12,
error 1–2, threat 20), 5.56mm Colt M16A1 +13 (dmg
Dex 10, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 6;
4d4 normal, recoil 0, accuracy –, error 1-4, threat 20,
Skills: Hide +1, Intimidate +2, Survival +1.
range 125 ft., qualities and mods: no burst — 30 shots
Feats: None. Gear: Weapons, 30 extra shots of 9mm
of ball ammunition); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA
ball ammunition, camouflage fatigues.
None; SQ Ambush Tactics +2, Cause, Damage Reduction
FARC Recruits (second-tier — target average agent (1/–), Guerrilla Warfare, Heavily Armed (10 BPs); SV Fort
level 9), 4th-level Resistance Fighter/2nd-level Mercenary +8, Ref +8, Will +6; Str 12, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 10, Wis
(minions, squads of 8 — 12 MP): CR 5. SZ M; v/wp 37/12; 10, Cha 6;
Init +3 (+3 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 14 (+4 class); Skills: Bluff +3, Craft (Farming) +4, Demolitions +9,
Atk: Machete +6 (dmg 1d8+1 normal, error 1-2, threat Diplomacy +4, Driver +9, First Aid +7, Hide +9,
20), 5.56mm Colt M16A1 +5 (dmg 4d4 normal, recoil 0, Intimidate +10, Listen +5, Sense Motive +5, Spot +5,
accuracy -, error 1-4, threat 20, range 125 ft., qualities Surveillance +7, Survival +11.
and mods: no burst — 30 shots of ball ammunition); Feats: Explosives Basics, Improved Initiative, Point
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ Ambush Blank Shot.
Tactics +2, Cause, Heavily Armed (10 BPs); SV Fort +5, Gear: Weapons, 60 extra shots of 5.56mm ball
Ref +4, Will +2; Str 12, Dex 10, Con 12, Int 10, Wis 10, ammunition, camouflage fatigues.
Cha 6;
Skills: Bluff +1, Craft (Farming) +2, Demolitions +4,
Diplomacy +1, Driver +4, First Aid +3, Hide +4,
Intimidate +5, Listen +2, Sense Motive +2, Spot +2,
Surveillance +2, Survival +6.
Feats: Point Blank Shot.
Gear: Weapons, 60 extra shots of 5.56mm ball
ammunition, camouflage fatigues.

54
 “This is not a jungle war, but a struggle for
freedom on every front of human activity.”
— Lyndon B. Johnson

vietnam
4
 battlegrounds
field. Nine months later, nearly 200,000 American troops
would be on the ground in Vietnam, leading to the even-
INTRODUCTION
The Cold War reached its hottest point in a corner of
tual maximum troop strength of 540,000, combined with
some 50,000 Australian and Canadian soldiers.
Initially an internal conflict, the Vietnam War spilled
Southeast Asia. The ideological conflict between capi-
out of the borders of North and South Vietnam into
talism and communism erupted into open warfare in
neighboring Laos and Cambodia. The North Vietnamese
Vietnam, spilling over into the neighboring nations of
and Vietcong forces found both safe routes for troop
Cambodia and Laos.
and supply movement and populations receptive to their
Following the conclusion of the Korean War in 1953,
philosophy and methods.
President Dwight Eisenhower espoused the “Domino
Formally described as a “low-intensity conflict,” the
Theory,” arguing that if communists supported by the
Vietnam War exhibited the difficulty attempting to fight
Soviet Union succeeded in conquering a sovereign
a conventional war against irregular and indigenous
nation, particularly in Southeast Asia, then neighboring
enemies. Vietcong forces found great popular support
countries — Thailand, Burma, and Indonesia, in this case
from civilians in both North and South Vietnam, allow-
— would thereafter fall to Soviet-sponsored communist
ing them to conduct a guerrilla war and campaigns of
takeover, leading to uncontrolled expansion of commu-
terrorist attacks with impunity. Conversely, American
nist governments. Eisenhower’s successors embraced
forces, though numerically and technologically superi-
this theory, relying on it as a directive to halt the spread
or, found the prosecution of a war with no defined front
of communism anywhere in the world, and specifically
line of conflict or safe rear area to be extremely diffi-
in Indochina. The United States adopted a policy of con-
cult, and were often seen as invaders or aggressors
tainment regarding the spread of communism in
instead of allies and defenders.
Southeast Asia, simultaneously promoting democratic
The war in Southeast Asia caused tremendous divi-
and capitalist forms of government.
sion within the citizens of the United States. Anti-war
The war began with the first communist insurgent
demonstrations and riots became all-too-common, with
activity in South Vietnam in 1957. In 1962, American
National Guard troops being used to quell riots at some
military advisors began to arrive in South Vietnam, with
universities, resulting in the deaths of four students at
the first American combat troops — two Marine battal-
Kent State University. Thousands of young men —
ions — landing in March, 1965, to defend Da Nang air-
including two future Presidents — used various methods
to avoid serving in the war, such as education defer-
ments, stateside National Guard duty, or simply avoid-
ing the draft by moving to Canada.
Civil unrest along racial, political, and economic
lines in the United States affected soldiers in the
Vietnam War. Fratricide was a recurring problem in
some military units, with the practice of “fragging,”
or killing a superior officer with a fragmentation
grenade, becoming almost commonplace. The com-
bined stresses of vicious combat in a constantly-
hostile environment and a perceived lack of sup-
port from the home front led to morale and disci-
pline problems in combat units.
The Vietnam War shattered the myth of
American military invincibility, and for-
ever changed how nations fight wars.
Technological and numerical superiori-
ty were no longer seen as guarantors of
victory; new tactics and weapons for con-
ducting irregular warfare against irregu-
lar troops fighting on their home turf
were developed. Lessons learned by
American forces in Vietnam assisted other
nations in later conflicts, most notably
Soviet forces during the 1979 invasion of
Afghanistan.

56
 vietnam
the American military presence. Bicycles, motor scoot-
ers, civilian cars, jeeps, and 2-1⁄2 ton cargo trucks clog
THE WAR ZONE
Southeast Asia is hot. Very hot. The northern border
the city streets, and the air is filled with the sound of
helicopters and transport and combat airplanes. Bars,
brothels, and other establishments designed to separate
of Vietnam is only a few miles south of the Tropic of
the American soldier from his paycheck are everywhere,
Cancer, and the entire region endures high temperatures
and children barely out of diapers try to sell cigarettes,
year-round. During the monsoon season, which runs
jewelry, watches, and myriad other items. The often-
from May until January, heavy rains soak the region,
corrupt South Vietnamese government — civilian or
turning the earth into mud and flooding the Mekong
military, depending on the year — is based here, and the
River delta at the southern end of Vietnam. The high-
Viet Cong infiltrate the city to spy on, destabilize, and
lands of central Vietnam are covered in dense tropical
openly attack the American-supported capitalist
rain forests, leading into a mountainous north.
regimes. The city’s atmosphere is one of barely-con-
Cambodia is dominated by low, flat plains, with a
trolled chaos, with danger and intrigue around every
mountainous region in the north, along the Laotian bor-
corner. Agents of all forces — military, government, and
der. Laos itself is mostly mountains, with some plains
otherwise — find fertile ground for espionage and
and plateaus.
adventure. French expatriates abound, years after
The annual monsoons, while destructive, are essen-
Vietnamese independence. Intelligence agencies from
tial to production of the region’s staple crop, rice.
around the world conduct operations out of their
Paddies cover just about any piece of flat, arable land.
national embassies, doing their best to figure out what’s
After the growing season is over, the weather cools by
going to eventually happen to the country, and how
a handful of degrees, and the dry season sets in. The
best to profit from it.
thick mud becomes dry, choking dust, filling the air with
The South Vietnamese and American forces have, on
thick red and tan clouds.
paper, similar goals — to prevent the expansion of
North Vietnam’s capitol, Hanoi, lies roughly 30 miles
Soviet-sponsored communism into South Vietnam
inland of the Gulf of Tonkin, relying on the major sea-
through military strength. American soldiers, airmen,
port of Haiphong for shipping. During the war, Hanoi is
sailors, and marines are expected to support their
well-defended by surface-to-air missile and anti-aircraft
Vietnamese allies, providing the assistance of a better-
artillery sites, with several thousand soldiers of the
trained and better-equipped fighting force. Early in the
North Vietnamese Army in the area as well. The region
war, South Vietnamese officers interpret the American
surrounding Hanoi is a regular target of American
mission as using air power and artillery to fight the war
bombing missions, but the American aircraft operate
for them. South Vietnam’s president prefers to use his
under strict target restrictions, and much of the city is
army to defend against a coup — to no avail, as a cabal
immune to attack as a result. Further protection for
of generals overthrows the civilian government in 1963.
Hanoi is assured when North Vietnam places a prison
Until 1968, Saigon is a relatively safe area for
camp for captured American airmen in the city limits,
Americans and South Vietnamese. The city is far
knowing that American pilots won’t risk injuring or
enough away from the border between the two
killing their fellow aircrews with a poorly-aimed bomb.
Vietnams that large-scale communist attacks are highly
North Vietnam, formally named the Democratic
unlikely. During the Tet Offensive in January 1968,
Republic of Vietnam, is ruled by the Lao Dong, or
communist forces approach within a few miles of the
Workers Party — officially, the Communist party had
city, with handfuls of infiltrators entering Saigon to
been dissolved in 1945. The Lao Dong aligned itself with
conduct extensive terror attacks. Following the offen-
the Soviet goal of global communism, focusing first on
sive, the city is never quite the same, and insurgent
the capitalist half of the divided nation. A regular armed
attacks remain fairly common.
force is raised, supported and equipped by the Soviet
Northeast of Saigon, the Chaine Annamitique moun-
Union and Communist China, and a guerrilla army
tains rise, twisting back to the northwest to form the
called the Viet Cong evolves out of the Vietminh rebels
boundary between Vietnam and Laos. Lush green jungle
who broke French control of the nation after World War
covers the mountains, except for the scattered areas laid
II. The Viet Cong is tasked with infiltrating the capital-
bare by American defoliants. This region is home to
ist south, to prepare the way for northern invasion
some of the most bitter fighting of the Vietnam War.
through assassination, fomenting revolution, and terror
Footpaths and primitive roads — little better than ani-
attacks.
mal trails — snake through the jungle, connecting vil-
Hanoi’s opposite number in the South is Saigon,
lages still living at an Iron Age technological level.
renamed Ho Chi Minh City after the war. Located on the
These paths are also an infiltration route for communist
northern edge of the Mekong Delta, Saigon is a sprawl-
insurgents, branching off from the Ho Chi Minh Trail
ing city, dominated by French colonial architecture and

57
 battlegrounds
winding through neighboring Cambodia and Laos. On
foot, on bicycle, sometimes in trucks, insurgents and
supplies find their way into South Vietnam. South
Vietnamese and American forces seek to confound the
communist operations through “hearts-and-minds” pro-
jects — creating fortified hamlets throughout the moun-
tains and bringing the advantages of modern technolo-
gy to the isolated villages.
When the open hand of friendship and humanitari-
an aid fails, the stark fist of military might takes over.
The sounds of animals in the jungle are replaced by the
bark of automatic weapons fire, the high thin whine of
artillery rounds, the roar of jet engines, and the deafen-
ing thunder of bombs dropped from miles above.
Villages believed to be harboring enemy forces are sum-
marily destroyed, sometimes by the devastating power
of a B-52’s bombing run, more often by the more per-
sonal methods of incendiary grenades and even the cig-
arette lighters of individual soldiers. Entire populations
are displaced, forcibly evacuated to nearby villages or
large cities, where the refugees would be left to fend for
themselves, often resorting to criminal activities or beg-
ging to survive. In many cases, displaced villagers sim-
ply return to the site of their homes and rebuild the sim-
ple structures in a matter of a few days. Patrols sent out
by the various factions stumble across the rebuilt vil-
lages, and depending on the amount of enemy activity
still present in the area, ignore the rebuilding, attempt
to establish friendly relations, or destroy the village
again, restarting the cycle.
In the highlands bordering Cambodia, an indige-
nous people called the Montagnard (French, meaning
“mountaineers”) fight their own guerrilla war against
communist forces from both Cambodia and North
Vietnam. American advisors train the Montagnard in
the use of modern weapons and learn from the moun-
taineers where communist infiltrators are entering
Laos, Cambodia, and South Vietnam. The moun-
taineers become involved in the greater conflict, and
are well-regarded by their American and South
Vietnamese allies.
In Laos, Viet Cong and North Vietnamese forces
move supplies and men down the Ho Chi Minh Trail, a
loosely-connected network of roads and trails. Soldiers,
weapons, food, and the other material of war find their
way into the south, safe from American reprisal outside
58
of Vietnam. This changes with Nixon’s rise to power in
the United States. Covert bombing raids slow down the
flow of material, and secret American aid and training
programs in Laos and Cambodia develop friendly forces
to interfere with communist activities. In time,
American Marine and Army units are operating secret-
ly in Vietnam’s western neighbors. North Vietnam does-
n’t ignore these changes, and soon, communist insur-
gents in Cambodia are conducting their own war
against the government and its American ally. American
soldiers are withdrawn from Laos and Cambodia in
early 1971, replaced by South Vietnamese troops raid-
ing the Ho Chi Minh Trail. American bombing missions
against Cambodian territory and insurgents end five
months after the last troops leave Southeast Asia in
March, 1973.
Zones of control shift greatly as the war progresses.
North Vietnamese forces slowly but inexorably move
south, occupying more and more of South Vietnam’s
territory. The American presence in South Vietnam
steadily decreases as troop reductions cycle soldiers out
of the country and back to the United States — “the
World,” as soldiers began calling their home country.
By 1973, when the United States completes its troop
withdrawal, communist forces in South Vietnam equal
the defenders in manpower, and a cease-fire agreement
is in effect.
The cease-fire fails in the beginning of 1974. During
the dry season, communist forces build up their
strength, laying in supplies and manpower in South
Vietnam. Combat is a daily occurrence in the South,
with ARVN forces pushed back constantly. With the
arrival of monsoon season, the communist offensive
comes to a halt, and Viet Cong and North Vietnamese
Army leaders make plans for the resumption of fighting
in the next dry season.
In the first four months of 1975, South Vietnam
disappears as a political entity. The nation’s northern
provinces are ordered abandoned as North Vietnamese
forces drive towards Saigon. Many ARVN units sur-
render or simply disband in the face of opposition. As
Saigon comes under Communist siege, the city falls
into chaos — thousands of citizens, as well as foreign-
ers, seek to escape the city, or barring that, to find
refuge from the invaders. The Vietnam War ends on
April 30, 1975.
 vietnam
THE WAR
In 1946, Vietminh forces under the command of Ho
Chi Minh began a war against the French colonial gov-
ernment in northern Vietnam. Within four years, the
Democratic Republic of (North) Vietnam is recognized
by China and the Soviet Union, with modern weapons
provided by Chinese communists.
France maintained a presence in Southeast Asia
until 1954, when the Geneva Accords provided for inde-
pendence and self-rule in the region. A staunch anti-
communist, Ngo Dinh Diem, became president of South
Vietnam in 1955 and appealed to the United States for
financial assistance in modernizing his nation. In short
order, this assistance grew to include military material
and support.
Communist insurgency began in South Vietnam in
late 1957, focusing on the Mekong Delta. By mid-1958,
a coordinated command structure had been formed, and
North Vietnamese military and political officers and
weapons began infiltrating into South Vietnam via the
Ho Chi Minh Trail through Laos and Cambodia. Viet
Cong forces continued the work of their Vietminh pre-
decessors, conducting a guerrilla war against techno-
logically and numerically superior forces. Early Viet
Cong operations placed great importance on stealth and
secrecy, as a stand-up fight against regular South
Vietnamese forces was usually outside the scope of Viet
Cong military capability. The Viet Cong also advanced
the cause of communist government and philosophy,
creating a base of popular support among South
Vietnam’s civilian population. The insurgents enjoyed
material support from China, the Soviet Union, and
North Vietnam, receiving supplies and reinforcements
via the Ho Chi Minh Trail through neighboring
Cambodia and Laos.
With the formation of large Communist units in
South Vietnam, the South Vietnamese army (Army of
the Republic of Viet Nam, or ARVN) began facing oppo-
sition from a military power with the ability to place
equivalent troop strength on the battlefield. ARVN
forces could no longer simply outnumber their oppo-
nents and gain victory through attrition. ARVN forces
were, in fact, reluctant to confront Viet Cong forces,
even before 1962. South Vietnam’s president, Ngo Dinh
Diem instructed his officers to avoid casualties, seeing
the primary role of the army not as fighting the Viet
Cong, but protecting Diem against a potential coup. The
ARVN relied on American Military Assistance
Command artillery and air strikes, rather than their own
combat capabilities.
The battle at Ap Bac showed the weaknesses in
ARVN leadership. The South Vietnamese Seventh
Division and its attached units outnumbered Viet Cong
59
Timeline
• 1962: American Military Assistance Command
forms in South Vietnam. Battalion-sized
Communist units assemble in Central Vietnam.
• 1963: Vietcong units defeat South Vietnamese
forces at Ap Bac, the first major Communist vic-
tory of the war. South Vietnamese generals stage
a coup.
• 1964: U.S. President Johnson given power to act
in Southeast Asia. American aircraft bomb North
Vietnam for the first time.
• 1965: Operation Rolling Thunder, sustained U.S.
bombing of North Vietnam, begins. First American
combat troops, two Marine battalions, arrive.18
U.S. battalions in Vietnam in July; 200,000 troops
by end of the year. American forces defeat North
Vietnamese in first major conventional battle.
• 1966: American bombing resumes.
• 1968: Tet Offensive begins in January. North
Vietnamese and Vietcong forces attack through-
out South Vietnam. My Lai massacre. Highest
American troop strength of the war – 540,000.
• 1969: U.S. President Nixon begins secretly
bombing Cambodia. Troop reductions begin.
• 1970: U.S. and South Vietnamese forces attack
communist forces in Cambodia.
• 1971: South Vietnamese forces begin incursions
into Laos.
• 1973: Last American troops leave Vietnam.
• 1974: Communist forces build up troops and
supplies in South Vietnam.
• 1975: Last Americans evacuate Saigon on April
29. South Vietnam surrenders the next day.
forces by almost ten to one, yet lost the day due to
refusals by ARVN corps commanders to coordinate their
efforts. ARVN units found themselves skirmishing with
each other when paratroops were landed between ARVN
and Viet Cong positions.
Diem’s presidency came to an end at the hands of a
cabal of his generals. Diem had dealt harshly with the
Vietnamese Buddhist population and its practices — he
was a staunch Catholic — and his policies were accept-
ed by the United States only because of his anti-com-
munist stance. After crackdowns on Buddhists, includ-
ing attacks on temples, the United States removed sup-
port for Diem and backed the coup, led by General
Duong Van Minh, who was replaced by General Nguyen
Khanh only three months after taking power.
 battlegrounds
The first direct acts of aggression taken by North
Vietnam against the United States came in August 1964,
when patrol boats attacked the destroyer U.S.S. Maddox
in the Tonkin Gulf. Congress passed a resolution five
days later, giving President Johnson remarkable power
to act in the region. American aircraft bombed North
Vietnam in the first acts of reprisal.
Large-scale Viet Cong attacks against American
installations came in early 1965. Viet Cong forces
equipped with mortars and recoilless rifles laid siege to
a U.S. base near Pleiku, in South Vietnam’s central
highlands, destroying several aircraft and inflicting over
a hundred casualties. A detailed map of the base was
found on the body of a Viet Cong soldier, showing the
results of dedicated espionage action.
To defend another American installation — the air-
field at Da Nang — against an estimated 6,000 guerril-
las in the area, General William Westmoreland deployed
two Marine battalions. The Marines, in full battle kit,
waded ashore in a spectacle arranged by the U.S. Navy,
greeted by Vietnamese girls handing out flowers.
After the War
Since the fall of Saigon and Vietnam’s unification
under communist rule, Southeast Asia has not
remained peaceful and stable.
• In early May, 1975, a United States merchant
ship, the Mayaguez, was boarded and seized by
Cambodian communist forces in the Gulf of
Siam. American aircraft bombed Cambodia in
retaliation, and in the rescue of the vessel’s 39
seamen, 38 U.S. Marines were killed.
• Vietnamese military forces invaded neighboring
Cambodia in December, 1978, citing Cambodia’s
internal insecurity as a threat to the well-being
of Vietnam. Thousands of Vietnamese began
fleeing the nation via boat.
• The Vietnamese invasion launched a 13-year
civil war within Cambodia, with Khmer Rouge
(“Red Cambodian”) forces eventually surrender-
ing 8 years after the formal cease fire was
declared in 1991.
• In retaliation for the invasion of Cambodia,
Chinese forces invaded Vietnam in February,
1979. Under pressure from the Soviet Union,
China withdrew its troops by summer.
• The United States and Vietnam began working
towards normalized relations in the early 1990s,
with trade agreements coming into effect over the
decade. In 2001, a U.S. Navy warship made a port
of call at Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), the
first such visit since the end of the Vietnam War.
60
The Marine battalions secured the sector around Da
Nang and went on to launch the first major American
offensive of the war, crippling a Viet Cong regiment.
Two months later, an American airborne division
smashed three North Vietnamese regiments at Ia Drang,
a jungle-filled valley near Pleiku. This battle prevented
the communist forces from sweeping out of the central
highlands down to the heavily-populated coast of South
Vietnam. Ia Drang also proved the effectiveness of two
new tactics — deploying large units into battle via heli-
copter, and using B-52s, designed as strategic nuclear
bombers, to give tactical support to ground forces.
American troop strength increased in 1966, reaching
nearly 400,000 deployed in Southeast Asia. In Hue and
Da Nang, near the border between the two Vietnams,
Buddhists conducted demonstrations against the Saigon
government, claiming that interests of their movement
were being ignored. The demonstrators in Da Nang had
the support of troops under the command of South
Vietnamese General Nguyen Chanh Tri. ARVN troops
were dispatched to the city to restore order by force, and
violence was avoided when the commander of the
American Marines at Da Nang airfield intervened.
On January 31, 1968, the Tet Offensive began. North
Vietnamese regulars and Viet Cong guerrillas launched
massive simultaneous attacks on towns and cities
throughout South Vietnam, expecting the assaults to
inspire uprisings by the urban population. The Viet
Cong focused its efforts on the southern provinces of
South Vietnam, leaving the area along the national bor-
der to North Vietnamese forces. For nearly a month,
there were no safe areas to be found in the south, as
communist forces engaged American and South
Vietnamese defenders throughout the country. Viet
Cong units even conducted operations in Saigon, going
so far as to assault and break into the American
embassy compound. Marine security forces repulsed the
assault, but not before five embassy staff members were
killed.
By the end of February, almost all territory captured
by communist forces was retaken by American and
South Vietnamese troops. The stated goal of the Tet
Offensive was not achieved, making the operation a
military failure. But Tet provided the communists with a
psychological and political victory, however. The assess-
ment of the war by the U.S. military was called into
question, and the American people’s faith in President
Johnson collapsed. At the end of March, Johnson
announced a partial halt to bombing in North Vietnam,
offered peace talks, and declared that he would not seek
re-election as President.
After Tet, American commitment to defense of South
Vietnam began to wane. Under the new Nixon adminis-
tration, secret bombing of communist targets in
Cambodia began in March, at the same time as with-
 vietnam
drawal of 60,000 American troops began. The The End?
Cambodian sanctuaries came under ground assault by
Although incredibly destructive, the Vietnam
American and South Vietnamese troops in 1970, fol-
War’s hostilities were contained in a relatively small
lowing the overthrow of Prince Sihanouk by members
area of the globe. The conflict could have escalated
of his government.
into a worldwide war, possibly culminating in a
South Vietnamese forces began incursions into Laos,
nuclear exchange.
against the Ho Chi Minh Trail, in early 1971. The with-
drawal of American troops continued, with 140,000 • In 1969, President Richard Nixon ordered the
remaining at the end of the year. United States military to raise its level of pre-
The first half of 1972 saw an escalation in the fight- paredness, including the deployment and ready
ing. North Vietnam invaded the south at the end of use of nuclear weapons. Rumors of American
March, prompting American bombing around Hanoi aircraft carrying nuclear bombs over Vietnam
and Haiphong in response and the mining of Haiphong have persisted since the latter days of the con-
harbor. Peace talks continued in spite of these acts. flict, and shortly before his death in 1994,
In March 1973, the last American combat troops left Nixon confirmed that he had prepared to use the
South Vietnam, and bombing of Cambodia ended in weapons against targets in North Vietnam. With
August. The United States continued assisting South the policies in place at the time, use of a nuclear
Vietnam with money and equipment, but the war was, weapon against North Vietnamese targets would
for all practical purposes, won by North Vietnam by this have provoked an equivalent response by China
time. Communist forces began stockpiling troops and or the Soviet Union, leading to a full-scale
supplies throughout South Vietnam in 1974, with the nuclear war between the superpowers.
intent of having resources in place for a final offensive
• Soviet freighters and warships were frequent vis-
when the dry season began.
itors to North Vietnamese ports, carrying
North Vietnam’s plans came to fruition in early
weapons and supplies to friendly forces.
January, 1975. Provinces began falling to communist
American bombers and attack aircraft were pro-
forces as South Vietnam’s army suffered defeat after
hibited from attacking these vessels, as Soviet
defeat. South Vietnamese President Thieu ordered the
reprisal was nearly certain. An errant bomb or
northern provinces abandoned in March. Da Nang,
missile, or deliberate attack by a frustrated or
where American troops had waded ashore for the
confused pilot, could have damaged or destroyed
first time in 1965, was captured by North Vietnam
one of these ships, leading to a nuclear war.
on March 30. The next day, NVA General Van Tien
Dung was ordered to push towards Saigon.
Neighboring Cambodia’s capital came under commu-
nist control on April 17, and the final South
Vietnamese defense line before Saigon, Xuan Loc, fell
four days later.
The end came on April 30, 1975, when NVA
Colonel Bui Tin accepted South Vietnam’s
surrender. Evacuation of the last
Americans from Saigon had
begun the previous day.
Almost 18 years
after the first
insurgencies in
the south, Vietnam
was once again
united, under the
gold-and-red
flag of the
communist
north.

61
 battlegrounds
The United States committed all branches of its mil-
itary to the war in Vietnam. Presidents Eisenhower,
THE WARRIORS
The Vietnam War was fought primarily by four sep-
Kennedy, Johnson, and Nixon were the ultimate author-
ities, with Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara
directing policy and Army General William
arate military forces. Communist Viet Cong guerrillas
Westmoreland commanding the combined U.S. forces
and North Vietnamese regular forces opposed American
during the Johnson presidency.
and South Vietnamese troops. Laotian and Cambodian
forces fought on both sides of the conflict, supported by The Viet Cong
North Vietnam or the United States as their allegiance
Viet Cong forces in South Vietnam were insurgents
and politics demanded.
and terrorists, fighting a guerrilla war against South
The Viet Cong forces that had infiltrated into South
Vietnamese and American troops. In addition, selected
Vietnam began the hostilities in 1957, with the assassi-
Viet Cong leaders presented the communist ideology to
nation of over 400 minor South Vietnamese officials. As
South Vietnamese citizens in order to garner popular
irregular forces, the Viet Cong relied upon terror attacks
support and further the cause of communist revolution.
and skirmish fighting instead of conventional battlefield
action. The Viet Cong operated with the material sup- Viet Cong Irregular Infantry
port of the North Vietnamese government, but rarely
Missions: Viet Cong infantry were tasked with carry-
conducted operations with the regular North
ing the war to South Vietnamese rear areas. Their mis-
Vietnamese Army. Viet Cong guerrillas had a loose
sions were typically conducted by squads of less than 35
command structure, with independent cells conducting
men, with an emphasis on undetected movement and
operations with occasional regular cooperation. Le Duc
rapid execution of actions to achieve the mission goals.
Tho, a founder of the Indochinese Communist party, was
If local citizens were believed to be neutral or friendly
responsible for building and directing the insurgency in
towards communist forces, Viet Cong would regularly
South Vietnam, and may be considered the overall
use villages as rest and resupply points, enjoying local
leader of the Viet Cong. His deputy, General Tran Do,
hospitality. Unfriendly populations were at best ignored
spent most of the war in villages near the Cambodian
by the Viet Cong; at worst, supplies would be taken by
border.
force as a warning to those siding against the North.
The forces of the North Vietnamese military were the
Viet Cong infantry missions can be grouped into
conventional counterparts to the Viet Cong. North
three broad categories: reconnaissance, combat patrol,
Vietnamese Army troops conducted more large-scale
and sabotage/terror attacks.
combat operations than the Viet Cong, fielding larger
During a reconnaissance mission, squads entered
units under direct command of trained officers.
areas known to contain concentrations of American or
Throughout the Vietnam War, Vo Nguyen Giap served
South Vietnamese forces with the intent of gauging
as the chief strategist for North Vietnam, directing the
hostile strength without detection. These missions were
conduct of the war against United States and South
typically three to five days in duration.
Vietnamese forces. His subordinates included Tran Van
Combat patrol missions sent squads out with the
Tra, who directed the attacks on Saigon during the Tet
intent of finding a hostile force of similar or lesser
Offensive, Van Tien Dung, who handled logistics during
strength and destroying the enemy through force of
the war until leading the offensive against Saigon in
arms.
1975, and Bui Tin, deputy editor of the North
Sabotage/terror missions were undertaken with the
Vietnamese army newspaper and the man who accept-
objective of destroying valuable equipment or facilities
ed the surrender of South Vietnam in April 1975.
possessed by hostile forces or conducting rapid,
The army of South Vietnam fought a defensive war
extremely violent attacks on civilian populations or
against the insurgency and invasion from the North.
military rear areas.
This force also occasionally warred with the civilian
Manpower: Viet Cong infantry units ranged from a
government, with a coup in 1963 replacing the nation’s
half-dozen to three dozen men. Command structure was
president, Ngo Dinh Diem, with General Duon Van
very loose, with a single soldier selected as the squad
Minh. General Nguyen Khanh seized power in 1964, to
leader.
be replaced by Dr. Phan Huy Quat a year later. Nguyen
The squad leader was ultimately responsible for the
Van Thieu became South Vietnam’s president in 1967,
success of every mission. He led the squad into the tar-
holding power until the effective collapse of civilian
get area, directed its actions, and ensured the survival of
government in 1973. He fled South Vietnam just days
his squad members. He provided some degree of trained
before the communist victory.
leadership to an irregular combat unit.

62
 vietnam
A Viet Cong rifleman was the core of his squad. Most
members of a squad were riflemen, responsible for
delivering firepower onto targets and transporting need-
ed supplies. During reconnaissance or sabotage mis-
sions, riflemen would take on the role of scout, search-
ing for hostile forces or high-value targets. Terror mis-
sions saw riflemen attack convenient targets, with sig-
nificantly less discrimination than when on combat
patrol missions.
Saboteurs were the most potentially destructive
members of Viet Cong squads. While they were compe-
tent riflemen themselves, saboteurs also carried and
used explosives ranging from grenades and improvised
bombs to sophisticated bombs and incendiary devices.
Gear: Viet Cong squads dressed in the same clothes
as the civilian population (the infamous “black paja-
mas”). Most personal weapons were supplied by Soviet
and Chinese allies, commonly AK-47 assault rifles or
SKS semiautomatic rifles, but some squads used
weapons left over from French or Japanese occupation.
Squads would be supplied with enough food — almost
always rice — for the duration of the mission, with
instructions to acquire further supplies if necessary.
Radios were occasionally available, particularly if other
friendly units were operating in the target area.
Saboteurs could requisition (or create) various portable
destructive devices if necessary.
Viet Cong forces were innovative in their acquisition
and use of explosives. Mines were provided by Soviet
and Chinese backers, but the guerrillas were also known
to dig up and reuse American mines, steal Claymore
antipersonnel mines from their tripod mounts, and even
remove components from unexploded air-dropped
bombs to recycle into other munitions.
Vehicles: Viet Cong squads almost always traveled
on foot, occasionally making use of heavy-frame bicy-
cles or other civilian vehicles for overland transport.
Allies: In areas held by North Vietnamese forces, Viet
Cong squads could count on limited assistance (rein-
forcing troops and occasional heavy weapons fire) from
North Vietnamese units.
The North Vietnamese Army
The North Vietnamese Army made up the conven-
tional counterpart to Viet Cong irregular combatants.
The mission of the NVA early in the war was defense of
the north against attack by South Vietnamese or
American forces. As the guerrilla war in the south pro-
gressed, the NVA began launching large-scale incur-
sions into the south, capturing and holding territory,
and eventually reaching and conquering Saigon in
1975.
63
North Vietnamese Infantry
Missions: North Vietnamese Army forces undertook
missions similar to Viet Cong units, with a greater
emphasis on large-scale (up to regiment-sized, in many
cases) combat operations and securing rear areas
against attack by American or South Vietnamese units.
Patrol missions sent squads of NVA soldiers out into
a specified area to ensure the area was secure and free
of hostile forces.
Defense missions required NVA soldiers to protect a
particular area, or even a specific installation or struc-
ture within the area. These missions were common early
in the war, but declined somewhat as communist forces
advanced into the south.
During a dedicated attack mission, NVA forces num-
bering in the hundreds or thousands of troops would
assault a selected target with the intent of capturing or
destroying it. These missions grew in frequency during
the latter stages of the Vietnam War.
Manpower: The North Vietnamese Army fielded
larger units than the Viet Cong, using 48-man platoons
broken down into 12-man squads. Command structure
was rigid and hierarchal, with a junior officer com-
manding the platoon and a senior enlisted man com-
manding each squad.
The squad leader had the responsibility for directing
his troops in battle.
Most of the soldiers in a squad were riflemen,
assigned to engage the enemy and destroy him.
Machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and the
like were the domain of the heavy weapons soldier. He
was trained to use his heavy weapons to knock out
vehicles, tight concentrations of troops, and defensive
emplacements.
Medics were trained in trauma treatment and basic
medicine. They carried first aid and field surgery kits, as
well as a rifle or carbine.
A scout was selected from the riflemen on a rotating
basis. He ranged ahead of the rest of the unit, watching
for traps, ambushes, and routes for the rest of the squad
to take.
Gear: North Vietnamese Army soldiers were equipped
with a pith-type helmet made of pressed paper or some-
times plastic, a backpack, a green canvas uniform,
jungle boots, and a personal weapon, almost always
the AK-47 assault rifle. A personal first aid kit, food,
bedding and shelter, additional ammunition, and small
personal items were carried in the backpack. Heavy
weapons troopers carried rocket-propelled grenade
launchers or machine guns instead of the assault rifle,
almost always Soviet-designed 7.62 mm RPD light
machine guns and RPG-7 rocket-propelled grenades
(see the Modern Arms Guide, pages 125 and 127).
 battlegrounds
NVA troops in the south were sometimes able to
acquire shoulder-fired SA-7 Grail anti-aircraft missile
systems. Grails were difficult to suppress, being man-
portable, and highly effective against helicopters.
Tactical radios were available to most NVA units.
Vehicles: The North Vietnamese military made use of
a variety of Soviet-designed combat vehicles. The eight-
wheeled BTR-60 armored personnel carrier transported
up to sixteen soldiers.
Allies: North Vietnamese Army units could call on the
assistance of Viet Cong forces in the area of operations.
North Vietnamese Army Armor
Armored units saw limited use in the Vietnam War,
with the Tet Offensive and the final push towards
Saigon making use of tanks.
Missions: Tanks serve a single purpose on the battle-
field — the destruction of enemy armored fighting vehi-
cles and emplacements.
Manpower: North Vietnamese tank units were made
up of platoons of four four-man T-54/55 main battle
tanks.
The driver drove the tank, and was responsible for
basic maintenance on the vehicle.
The commander directed the actions of the tank
crew, selecting targets and routes of travel.
The gunner operated the tank’s main gun and turret-
mounted anti-personnel machine gun.
64
The loader kept the main gun loaded with ammuni-
tion, selecting between munitions types based on the
commands of the gunner and commander.
Gear: Tank crew members were equipped in a man-
ner similar to infantrymen, with the exception of per-
sonal weapons. MAT-49 or PPSh41 submachine guns
replaced the AK-47.
Vehicles: NVA tank crews operated the Soviet-
designed T-54/55 tank.
Allies: Armor units usually operated in conjunction
with infantry squads. Air support, if available, was reg-
ularly assigned to assist tanks in the destruction of
enemy targets.
The South Vietnamese Army
The Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) fought
a primarily defensive war. It was tasked with repelling
North Vietnamese Army aggression and suppressing
Viet Cong guerrilla activity.
ARVN Infantry
Missions: On reconnaissance missions, ARVN troops
ventured into a designated area to search for hostile
forces.
Defense missions saw the soldiers protecting a par-
ticular objective or repulsing a more generalized attack.
Manpower: Organized along similar lines to American
infantry, ARVN forces fielded 11-man platoons.
The squad leader had the responsibility for directing
his troops in battle.
 vietnam
Most of the soldiers in a squad were riflemen,
assigned to engage the enemy and destroy him.
Machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and the
like were the domain of the heavy weapons soldier. He
was trained to knock out vehicles, tight concentrations
of troops, and defensive emplacements.
Medics were trained in trauma treatment and basic
medicine. They carried first aid and field surgery kits, as
well as a rifle or carbine.
A scout was selected from the riflemen on a rotating
basis. He ranged ahead of the rest of the unit, watching
for traps, ambushes, and routes for the rest of the squad
to take.
Gear: ARVN troops wore steel helmets, and were
issued olive drab fatigues. First aid kits, food, addition-
al ammunition, and personal items rounded out the sol-
diers’ kits. The issued weapon was the M-16A, with M-
60 machine guns and M-79 grenade launchers in the
hands of heavy weapons troopers.
As the North Vietnamese made limited use of aircraft
in a ground support role, no anti-aircraft missiles were
made available to ARVN forces.
Vehicles: The South Vietnamese counterpart to the
BTR-60 was the American-designed M113 tracked
armored personnel character. ARVN soldiers also had
access to conventional jeeps and 2-1⁄2 ton trucks.
Allies: ARVN squads regularly operated alongside
American squads.
United States Armed Forces
Every branch of the United States military saw service
in Vietnam.
Infantry
The following information applies to both Army and
Marine units, for purposes of the Spycraft role-playing
game.
Missions: American infantry squads conducted sev-
eral different mission types throughout the war.
Patrol missions sent squads out into friendly or neu-
tral territory to ensure that no hostile forces were in the
area. Contact with civilians was recommended, as they
were seen as potential sources of information.
During an attack mission, troops attempted to cap-
ture or destroy a specific objective. Enemy troop con-
centrations and emplacements were the most common
targets. These missions tended to have the highest casu-
alty rates.
Defense missions were the other side of attack.
Troops acted to defend a target against enemy aggres-
sion.
Reconnaissance missions were conducted to seek out
and identify hostile forces.
Manpower: The squad leader had the responsibility
for directing his troops in battle.
65
Most of the soldiers in a squad were riflemen,
assigned to engage the enemy and destroy him.
Machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades, and the
like were the domain of the heavy weapons soldier. He
was trained to use his heavy weapons to knock out
vehicles, tight concentrations of troops, and defensive
emplacements.
Medics were trained in trauma treatment and basic
medicine. They carried first aid and field surgery kits, as
well as a rifle or carbine.
A scout was selected from the riflemen on a rotating
basis. He ranged ahead of the rest of the unit, watching
for traps, ambushes, and routes for the rest of the squad
to take.
American units had a designated sharpshooter, a sol-
dier with better accuracy with his rifle. He fought as a
rifleman, and was tasked with taking quick, highly-
effective shots against high-value tactical targets.
Many squads had a radioman, carrying a backpack-
sized field radio. As he could call in fire support,
artillery barrages, and reinforcements, the radioman
was often the first target of enemy squads.
Gear: Soldiers were issued a steel “pot” helmet and
fatigues made of either cotton or a ripstop cotton/poly
blend. Rain ponchos often served double duty as
bedrolls. First aid kits, C-rations, personal items,
Claymore mines, entrenching tools, sometimes extra
clothes, and a canteen rounded out the commonly car-
ried gear.
The M-16 assault rifle was standard issue, with most
soldiers carrying several additional ammunition clips
and fragmentation grenades.
Machine gunners carried the M60 light machine gun
and additional belts of ammo, often crisscrossed over
the chest to form makeshift body armor.
60mm mortars were issued to some units expected to
encounter strong enemy resistance.
Vehicles: M113 armored personnel carriers trans-
ported soldiers into battle, along with jeeps and 2-1⁄2 ton
cargo trucks. For air transport, the UH-1 “Huey” and
CH-47 Chinook helicopters saw heavy use.
Allies: Infantry worked with armor and air assault
squads, and ARVN forces.
Airborne
Airborne cavalry units saw their first effective use
during the Vietnam War. Helicopters made the rapid
insertion and extraction of infantry feasible, and heav-
ily-armed gunship helicopters supported attacks.
Missions: Airborne units conducted attack missions,
using the helicopter weapons and transported infantry
squads to assault enemy forces and positions.
Medevac missions airlifted wounded soldiers out of
battle zones.
 battlegrounds
Manpower: Pilots flew the helicopters and were usu-
ally the vehicle commanders.
Co-pilot/gunners assisted the pilot with flight and
visual identification duties, and operated the aircraft’s
forward-mounted weapons.
Door gunners operated side-mounted weapons, usu-
ally M60 machine guns or 6-barreled miniguns.
Gear: Airborne cavalry were issued flight suits and
helmets, conventional fatigues, maps, and sidearms —
either M1911 semiautomatic pistols or .38-caliber
revolvers. Many air crews augmented their personal
weapons with M16 assault rifles or CAR-15 carbines,
and affected cavalry-style hats in addition to the flight
helmets.
Vehicles: The iconic vehicle of Vietnam-era airborne
cavalry was the Huey helicopter, configured as troop
transport, air ambulance, or gunship.
Allies: Airborne cavalry operated alongside (or
above) infantry units and assisted Air Force and Navy
aviators in ground attack runs.
THE CONFLICT
The Vietnam War presents ample opportunity for
Spycraft players and Game Controls to conduct missions
on either the military or espionage side of the conflict —
or even both at the same time! This section contains a
few ideas for action; most can be played out by agents
on either side of the war.
Espionage Missions
During the Vietnam War, the region was home to
untold numbers of espionage agents representing the
interests of various powers. Action was very rough-and-
tumble, and when things went wrong, more than a few
agents made the supreme sacrifice for their country.
For the Good of the People: A cabal of South
Vietnam’s generals has tired of the president’s brutal
and ineffective leadership. Agents in the employ of
these rebel generals are tasked with infiltrating the pres-
ident’s staff and determining how best to capture him
without undue bloodshed and casualties in the civilian
population. Alternately, the agents could be loyal to the
president, and have the task of preventing the coup
from taking place.
The Viet Cong have an interest in this, too. The
insurgent agents in Saigon have gotten word of the plot
to overthrow the president — and they want him to
remain in power. His unpopular policies are causing
unrest in the nation’s citizens, which makes the mission
of spreading revolution much easier. Viet Cong agents
are assigned to prevent the coup, placing communist
insurgents in the unusual position of sustaining the rule
of a U.S.-backed president!
66
Death to the Running Dog Imperialists!: The
American Military Assistance Command housed its offi-
cers and soldiers in civilian hotels in Saigon.
Communist forces in the city target these sites for
bombing or other terror attacks. Viet Cong agents must
determine the best target and time for the attack, avoid-
ing American and South Vietnamese security.
From the other side, a bomb is planted at a hotel
housing an AMAC detachment, but doesn’t go off.
Agents are tasked with finding the terrorists who placed
the bomb and ferreting out the rest of the cell.
Information Wants to be Useful: Good old-fash-
ioned-intelligence gathering never goes out of style. The
Vietnam War was conducted on several fronts at once,
and information on opposing forces was very important
to commanding officers. Missions such as this can read-
ily involve a mixture of military and espionage agents,
no matter where the mission takes place. Basic spying
can have any number of targets and objectives.
Peace is at Hand: The Vietnam War has cost thou-
sands of lives and millions of dollars on both sides. The
agents are assigned to secretly meet with their counter-
parts on the other side of the conflict to arrange for a
cease-fire or even a permanent end to the fighting.
Every dove has its hawk, though, and the peace talks
may come under attack by elements opposed to any-
thing besides a complete military victory. The Agency
itself may be opposed to a peaceful resolution, sending
agents to disrupt peace talks or gather information on
the other side under the guise of escorting the real
diplomats.
Hearts and Minds: Villages in the countryside are
important resources for both sides in the war. Agents are
to assess the particular needs and wants of a selected
village or area, and provide assistance to the people
there. Along the way, the villagers’ loyalties need to be
determined and either changed or reinforced, depending
on the sponsoring agency’s point of view.
A Fox in the Henhouse: Information on Agency
activities and military operations is being leaked to the
other side. The scant evidence points to a turned agent
at a high level, and the damage is getting worse. Time
to clean house, agents — no one is above suspicion
when the stakes rise.
Guerrilla Radio: Broadcast propaganda is a time-
honored tactic for damaging the enemy’s will to fight,
as well as influencing the thoughts and opinions of
civilians. A broadcast station in the central highlands
could reach a significant fraction of the Vietnamese
population, but also makes a tempting target for the
opposition.
 vietnam
Military Missions as potent psychological and political resources. To the
agency employing the captives, they’re valuable assets
Virtually any type of mission can be undertaken
in the hands of a hostile force — and to individual
during the course of the Vietnam War.
agents, they’re friends and colleagues. Raids on prison
We May Have to Destroy It: A friendly village has
camps are dangerous in the extreme, as the captors may
come under the control of a hostile force. Some of the
adopt a “sour grapes” policy and execute the captives
village’s citizens are in league with the invaders, while
rather than allow their rescue.
others are loyal to the agents’ side. Without harming
One Shot, One Kill: Unlike the abduction mission
innocents and allied residents, the agents have to
above, the agents have a specific target to kill. The
remove the occupying force and flush out the collabo-
means of this are up to the agents — results here are
rators. For extra spice, maybe the village has a supply
much more important than the procedure used to
cache important to the agents, or is home to an agent’s
achieve them.
family or romantic partner.
Search and Destroy: The primary mission of any mil- Getting a Little Weird
itary force is to defeat the enemy, by destroying the
Wars throughout history have spawned stories of
ability or will to fight. This is a straightforward assign-
supernatural events, and a war as bitterly fought and
ment: go out, find the bad guys, and wipe them out.
destructive as Vietnam is no exception. For Game
Agents on these missions will be well-equipped and pre-
Controls and players who might like to step outside the
pared for lots of action.
carefully documented realm of Agency operations and
Reinforcements: Friendly units often find them-
military missions, Vietnam has opportunity for brushes
selves in difficult situations — surrounded or badly out-
with the unknown.
numbered by hostile forces. Squads assigned to rein-
Neither Fish nor Fowl: Legend tells of an unidenti-
force friendly forces can expect to take the field along
fied flying object shot down by Air Force F-4 Phantoms
with significant numbers of other squads with a clear-
over a Vietnam battlefield. When the alien craft crashed,
ly-defined victory condition — the relief and assistance
American M60 tanks opened fire on it, destroying the
of the beleaguered friendly force. As with search-and-
vessel before any potential survivors could exit. As in
destroy, expect to be well-equipped and face strong
any good they-are-not-our-friends conspiracy game,
resistance.
there would be a mad scramble by any interested par-
Air Support: For those who take to the air and favor
ties to recover the wreckage… and the technology and
the smell of napalm in the morning, air support mis-
bodies therein. Agents can be assigned to the recovery
sions can be quick trips to excitement and glory.
and cover-up, having to spin believable lies about an
Helicopters and fighter-bombers streak over the jungle
unbelievable event, or can be on the other side of the
canopy to assist friendly forces and wipe the bad guys
fence, striving to let The Truth be known about our vis-
from the face of the Earth. If a nearby clearing allows
itors from other worlds.
the helicopters to drop down to ground level, airborne
MKULTRA: In the years previous to and during the
infantry leap from the choppers to make the fight a
Vietnam War, the American Central Intelligence Agency
more personal matter.
conducted research into mind control and similar para-
Bring ’em Back Alive: Sometimes, a particular enemy
normal abilities. These experiments may have succeed-
agent is more valuable as a prisoner than as a casualty.
ed, resulting in a strike team of telepaths, clairvoyants,
Agents have their work cut out for them in missions like
and other “shadow forces.” Send your psionic agents
this. Finding the enemy operative is the first step — if
out to face their counterparts on the other side, with
agents are very lucky, the Agency they work for may
blasts of mental energy accompanying the roar of
have a reasonable idea of where the target is located.
machine guns.
Then it’s time to go get him — without killing him. If the
Against Darker Forces: There are parts of Southeast
target is on the agents’ home turf, it may be a simple
Asia that remained unexplored and unknown even to
matter of kicking in the proper door and hauling the
indigenous populations. The parts of maps that would
target out to the truck. Should the target be in a more
have been labeled “Terra Incognita” in another era hide
inaccessible region, say, on the other side of a battalion
lost temples and artifacts, along with degenerate tribes
of hostile troops, things are going to be much more dif-
worshipping unknowable deities. The Agency’s
ficult.
“Basement” has an interest in investigating rumors of
Tonight There’s Gonna be a Jailbreak: Prisoner-of-
these people and places, and assigns a team of agents,
war camps are located throughout the area of opera-
with special EMERALD TRIANGLE clearance, to find out
tions. The agents held in these camps are valuable
what things lurk in the shadows of Indochina.
sources of potential intelligence to their captors, as well

67
 battlegrounds
THEOperation
MISSION Great Catch
This mission is appropriate for a team of 3-5 agents
levels 3, 8, 13, and 18.
Firebase Heaven
On top of a hill designated 3H-1 on military maps,
the remains of a U.S. Marine Corps firebase roasts
in the tropical sun. There are pair of rusting Quonset
huts (#1) surrounded by decaying sandbag walls,
once waist-high, and a three-story watchtower (#2) with
four-feet-deep trenches (#3) on three sides. A cleared
area in the center of the firebase was used for infrequent
helicopter supply and transfer landings (#4), and a crude
road (#5), little more than a path hacked out of the jun-
gle, leads down the hillside and away to the south. The
1 square = 10’
4
6 1
68
ground is hard-packed earth when dry, and clinging mud
during the monsoon season.
The Quonset huts provide nine-tenths cover for
agents inside against opponents outside the structure,
and vice versa. The DC to break down the doors (one at
each end of the hut) is 10, and the unlocked doors and
walls have Hardness 5 and 6 wound points.
The wooden watchtower provides full cover for agents
inside the tower’s platform against agents on the ground.
The DC to break the tower’s supports is 30, and the legs
and platform have Hardness 5 and 8 wound points.
Agents in the trenches surrounding the watchtower
have half cover against other opponents, and the jungle
provides the same cover.
The wreckage of the Skyraider (#6), near the heli-
copter pad provides half cover for agents hiding under
and against it, and nine-tenths cover for agents in the
cockpit.
3
 vietnam
THE ACTION – Option #1
The agents are Americans, either Agency spies or
military soldiers, or a mixture of both, serving in South
Vietnam. Recent Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army
activity in their region has led to regular air strikes and
combat missions, and the agents should be able to han-
dle themselves in difficult or violent situations.
Agent Description
Read the following aloud to begin.
Early this morning, a Navy Skyraider went down near
one of our old firebases. The pilot managed a crash-
landing and has taken cover in a building at the crash
site. The Skyraider was carrying an experimental bomb
design, and we need to recover it before the Viet Cong
guerrillas in the area secure the crash site. The pilot has
to be recovered, too, as he has technical information
on the bomb, and the North Vietnamese use captured
pilots for propaganda purposes.
We’ll deliver you to the site via helicopter, and an
engineer team in APCs will arrive in a couple of hours
to haul out the bomb. Just secure the device, and you’ll
be fine.
Gearing Up
Allow the agents to gear up per the standard Spycraft
rules with a Threat Code of Black. Agents may select any
items or gadgets desired, within the restrictions presented
in The 1960s Decade Book, pages 120-137.
Events
Any agent who investigates the bomb will discover,
by virtue of reading its stencils, that it is not an exper-
imental design — it is instead a 200-kiloton nuclear
bomb. The bomb is not damaged, and there is no dan-
ger of radiation poisoning from being near it. It was not
armed when the plane crashed, and unless tampered
with (Demolitions DC 35) cannot be made to explode.
The pilot, Lieutenant Dale Hammond, is hiding in the
northern Quonset hut. He has watched the agents arrive,
and will call out to them when the helicopters have lift-
ed off.
A few minutes after the agents are dropped off at the
site, Viet Cong guerrillas hiding in the surrounding jun-
gle will attack. These guerrillas will take prisoners, but
are more interested in simply killing the agents and tak-
ing the bomb, intending to use its explosives to make
smaller bombs. They do not know it is a nuclear
weapon.
69
XP Rewards
Upon completion of this action scene, each agent
gains the following XP rewards.
• Killing one or more of the enemy characters*:
75/200/325/475 XP per agent.
• Killing all enemy characters*: 150/400/650/950 XP
per agent.
• Capturing one or more of the enemy characters*:
225/600/975/1,425 XP per agent.
• Capturing all enemy characters*: 300/800/1,300/
1,900 XP per agent.
• Securing the experimental bomb: 300/800/1,300/
1,900 XP per agent.
* Each agent earns only the highest of these rewards.
Statistics
The following NPCs are encountered during this scene.
Lieutenant Dale Hammond
Until a few hours ago, Hammond was roaring over
Vietnam at treetop level, picking off Viet Cong insur-
gents and escorting search-and-rescue flights. That was
before the 57-millimeter anti-aircraft gun knocked his
Skyraider from the air and platoons of Viet Cong start-
ed closing in on him.
Dale is tall and lanky, with dark blue eyes and pale
yellow hair. He’s out of his element on the ground, and
is saving the last bullet in his sidearm for himself,
should it come to that.
Dale Hammond (first-tier – target average agent
level 3), 2nd-level wingman (NPC class): Department
D-2: Military Operations. CR 2. SZ M; v/wp 9/13; Init +4
(+2 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 13 (+2 Dex, +1 class);
Atk fist/punch +3 (dmg 1d3 subdual), Colt M1911A1 +3
(dmg 1d12 normal, error 0, threat 19–20, range 25 ft.,
qualities: TD, DP – 7 shots of military ball ammunition),
.45 caliber; Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA reduce
opponent’s concealment Defense bonus by half when
attacking with ranged weapon, SQ suffers only –4
penalty when attacking as driver of moving vehicle;
SV Fort +2, Ref +5, Wil +1; Str 11, Dex 15, Con 13,
Wis 13, Int 13, Cha 13;
Skills: Jump 1, Knowledge (Aircraft) 1, Mechanics 1,
Pilot 2, Profession: Military 2, Sport (Skydiving) 1, Spot 2,
Survival 1, Tumble 1.
Feats: Armor Group Proficiency (Light, Medium), Limited
Custom Ride (+4), Ride Shotgun, Weapon Group Proficiency
(Handgun, Tactical), Well-Equipped, Zen Focus.
Gear: M1911A1, 21 extra shots of .45-caliber military
ball ammunition, flight suit, pilot bundle.
 battlegrounds
Dale Hammond (second-tier – target average agent
level 8), 4th-level wingman (NPC class): Department
D-2: Military Operations. CR 3. SZ M; v/wp 16/13; Init +5
(+2 Dex, +3 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 14 (+2 Dex, +2 class);
Atk fist/punch +4 (dmg 1d3 subdual), Colt M1911A1 +4
(dmg 1d12 normal, error 0, threat 19–20, range 25 ft.,
qualities: TD, DP – 7 shots of military ball ammunition),
.45 caliber; Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA reduce
opponent’s concealment Defense bonus by half when
attacking with ranged weapon, SQ suffers only –4
penalty when attacking as driver of moving vehicle;
SV Fort +4, Ref +6, Wil +2; Str 11, Dex 15, Con 13,
Wis 13, Int 13, Cha 13;
Skills: Jump 2, Knowledge (Aircraft) 2, Mechanics 2,
Pilot 4, Profession: Military 4, Sport (Skydiving) 2,
Spot 4, Survival 2, Tumble 2.
Feats: Armor Group Proficiency (Light, Medium), Baby
It, Limited Custom Ride (+4), Ride Shotgun, Weapon
Group Proficiency (Handgun, Tactical), Well-Equipped,
Zen Focus.
Gear: M1911A1, 21 extra shots of .45-caliber military
ball ammunition, flight suit, pilot bundle.
70
Dale Hammond (third-tier – target average agent
level 13), 7th-level wingman (NPC class): Department
D-2: Military Operations. CR 3. SZ M; v/wp 27/13; Init
+8 (+2 Dex, +6 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 15 (+2 Dex, +3
class); Atk fist/punch +7 (dmg 1d3 subdual), Colt
M1911A1 +7 (dmg 1d12 normal, error 0, threat 19–20,
range 25 ft., qualities: TD, DP – 7 shots of military ball
ammunition), .45 caliber; Face 1 square; Reach 1
square; SA reduce opponent’s concealment Defense
bonus by half when attacking with ranged weapon,
SQ suffers only -4 penalty when attacking as driver
of moving vehicle; SV Fort +5, Ref +7, Wil +3; Str 11,
Dex 15, Con 13, Wis 13, Int 13, Cha 13;
Skills: Jump 4, Knowledge (Aircraft) 4, Mechanics 4,
Pilot 7, Profession: Military 7, Sport (Skydiving) 4,
Spot 7, Survival 4, Tumble 4.
Feats: Armor Group Proficiency (Light, Medium),
Baby It, Drive By, Limited Custom Ride (+4), Ride
Shotgun, Weapon Group Proficiency (Handgun,
Tactical), Well-Equipped, Zen Focus.
Gear: M1911A1, 21 extra shots of .45-caliber military
ball ammunition, flight suit, pilot bundle.
 vietnam
Dale Hammond (fourth-tier – target average agent
level 18), 9th-level wingman (NPC class): Department
D-2: Military Operations. CR 3. SZ M; v/wp 34/13; Init +9
(+2 Dex, +7 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 16 (+2 Dex, +4 class);
Atk fist/punch +9 (dmg 1d3 subdual), Colt M1911A1 +9
(dmg 1d12 normal, error 0, threat 19–20, range 25 ft.,
qualities: TD, DP – 7 shots of military ball ammunition),
.45 caliber; Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA reduce
opponent’s concealment Defense bonus by half when
attacking with ranged weapon, SQ suffers only -4
penalty when attacking as driver of moving vehicle;
SV Fort +7, Ref +8, Wil +4; Str 11, Dex 15, Con 13,
Wis 13, Int 13, Cha 13;
Skills: Jump 5, Knowledge (Aircraft) 5, Mechanics 5,
Pilot 9, Profession: Military 9, Sport (Skydiving) 5,
Spot 9, Survival 5, Tumble 5.
Feats: Armor Group Proficiency (Light, Medium), Baby It,
Drive By, Daredevil, Defensive Driving, Limited Custom Ride
(+4), Ride Shotgun, Weapon Group Proficiency (Handgun,
Tactical), Well-Equipped, Zen Focus.
Gear: M1911A1, 21 extra shots of .45-caliber military
ball ammunition, flight suit, pilot bundle.
Trang Chi
Trang is a rising star in the local Viet Cong cells. He is
a solidly-built Vietnamese man with close-cropped black
hair. It was his guerrillas that brought down the Skyraider,
and he wants to be responsible for the capture of the
pilot and the recovery of any explosives salvageable from
the plane.
Trang Chi (first-tier – target average agent level 3),
3rd-level soldier: Department: Infantry. CR 3. SZ M;
v/wp 30/14; Init +5 (+2 Dex, +3 class); Atk fist/punch +5
(dmg 1d3 subdual), machete +5 (dmg 1d8 normal, error
1–2, threat 20), AK-47 +5 (dmg 3d6 normal, error 1, threat
19–20, range 150 ft., qualities: DP, RG – 30 shots of military
ball ammunition), 7.62 millimeter; Face 1 square; Reach
1 square; SA +1 on attack and damage rolls on targets
within one range increment, SQ Damage Reduction 1/–,
gives allies +6 bonus to defense when providing them
with cover fire, inflicts –6 penalty on enemies when
using suppressive fire; SV Fort +6, Ref +4, Wil +1;
Str 15, Dex 14, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 10, Cha 12;
Skills: Climb 2, Craft (Gunsmith) 2, First Aid 2, Profession
(Military) 2, Spot 2, Survival 2.
Feats: accurate, Armor Proficiency (All), Blind-Fight,
Jungle Training, Point-Blank Shot, Lay Down Fire, Track,
Weapon Proficiency (Hurled, Melee, Handgun, Rifle,
Tactical).
71
Trang Chi (second-tier – target average agent level 8),
8th-level soldier: Department: Infantry. CR 8. SZ M;
v/wp 74/15; Init +8 (+2 Dex, +6 class); Atk fist/punch +10
(dmg 1d3 subdual), machete +10 (dmg 1d8 normal, error
1–2, threat 20), AK-47 +10 (dmg 3d6 normal, error 1,
threat 19–20, range 225 ft., qualities: DP, RG – 30 shots
of military ball ammunition), 7.62 millimeter; Face 1
square; Reach 1 square; SA +1 on attack and + 3 on
damage rolls on targets within one range increment, +1
on attack rolls to opponents for each ally who has fired
on same opponent, SQ Damage Reduction 1/-, gives
allies +6 bonus to defense when providing them with
cover fire, inflicts –6 penalty on enemies when using
suppressive fire, armor use +2, weapon specialization
AK-47; SV Fort +10, Ref +6, Wil +2; Str 15, Dex 14,
Con 15, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 12;
Skills: Balance 4, Climb 2, Craft (Gunsmith) 2,
Demolitions 2, First Aid 2, Hide 2, Move Silently 2,
Profession (Military) 2, Spot 4, Survival 8.
Feats: accurate, Armor Proficiency (All), Blind-Fight,
Coordinate Fire, Jungle Training, Lay Down Fire, Point-
Blank Shot, Power Attack, Track, Weapon Proficiency
(Hurled, Melee, Handgun, Rifle, Tactical).
Trang Chi (third-tier – target average agent level 13),
8th-level soldier/5th-level ranger: Department: Infantry.
CR 13. SZ M; v/wp 117/15; Init +11 (+2 Dex, +9 class);
Atk fist/punch +16 (dmg 1d3 subdual), machete +16
(dmg 1d8 normal, error 1-2, threat 20), AK-47 +16
(dmg 3d6 normal, error 1, threat 19–20, range 225 ft.,
qualities: DP, RG – 30 shots of military ball ammunition),
7.62 millimeter; Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA +1
on attack and + 3 on damage rolls on targets within
one range increment, +1 on attack rolls to opponents for
each ally who has fired on same opponent, sneak attack
+1d6, SQ Damage Reduction 1/-, gives allies +6 bonus
to defense when providing them with cover fire, inflicts –6
penalty on enemies when using suppressive fire, armor
use +2, weapon specialization AK-47; SV Fort +16, Ref +8,
Wil +6; Str 16, Dex 14, Con 15, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 12;
Skills: Balance 4, Climb 2, Craft (Gunsmith) 6,
Demolitions 2, Driver 4, First Aid 2, Hide 4, Jump 2, Move
Silently 2, Profession (Military) 6, Spot 4, Survival 12.
Feats: accurate, All-Terrain Expert, Armor Proficiency
(All), Blind-Fight, Coordinate Fire, Fortunate, Hard Core,
Jungle/Mountain/Forest/Urban Training, Lay Down Fire,
Point-Blank Shot, Power Attack, Track, trailblazer, Trail
Boss Weapon Proficiency (Hurled, Melee, Handgun,
Rifle, Tactical).
 battlegrounds
Trang Chi (fourth-tier – target average agent level 18),
8th-level soldier/10th-level ranger: Department: Infantry.
CR 18. SZ M; v/wp 171/15; Init +14 (+2 Dex, +12 class);
Atk fist/punch +21 (dmg 1d3 subdual), machete +21
(dmg 1d8 normal, error 1–2, threat 20), AK-47 +20
(dmg 3d6 normal, error 1, threat 19–20, range 225 ft.,
qualities: DP, RG – 30 shots of military ball ammunition),
7.62 millimeter; Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA +1 on
attack and + 3 on damage rolls on targets within one range
increment, +1 on attack rolls to opponents for each ally who
has fired on same opponent, sneak attack +2d6, SQ Damage
Reduction 1/–, gives allies +6 bonus to defense when
providing them with cover fire, inflicts –6 penalty on
enemies when using suppressive fire, armor use +2,
weapon specialization AK-47; SV Fort +20, Ref +11,
Wil +10; Str 16, Dex 14, Con 15, Int 11, Wis 10, Cha 13;
Skills: Balance 8, Climb 4, Craft (Gunsmith) 8,
Demolitions 2, Driver 4, First Aid 4, Handle Animal 2,
Hide 6, Jump 4, Move Silently 2, Profession (Military) 6,
Spot 8, Survival 12, Swim 2.
Feats: accurate, All-Terrain Expert, Armor Proficiency
(All), Blind-Fight, Career Operative, Coordinate Fire,
Fortunate, Great Fortitude, Hard Core, Jungle/Mountain/
Forest/Urban Training, Lay Down Fire, No Quarter, Overrun,
Point-Blank Shot, Power Attack, Silent Rush, Track,
trailblazer, Trail Boss, Weapon Proficiency (Hurled,
Melee, Handgun, Rifle, Tactical).
Viet Cong Guerrillas
These men are committed soldiers, dedicated to the
communist cause of reuniting Vietnam under a red ban-
ner. One member of each squad is equipped with a
Kalashnikov PK light machine gun or RFAS RPG-7
(Modern Arms Guide, pages 124 and 127 respectively),
and is considered to have the Weapon Group
Proficiency (Tactical) feat.
Viet Cong Guerrilla (first-tier – target average agent
level 3): 2nd-level conscripts (minions, squads of 5 – 4 MP):
Department: D-2: Military Operations. CR 1. SZ M; v/wp
9/11; Init +2 (+1 Dex, +1 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 13
(+1 Dex, +2 class); Atk: fist/punch +1 (dmg 1d3 subdual),
AK-47 +2 (dmg 3d6 normal, error 1 threat 19–20 range
150 ft., qualities DP, RG – 30 shots of military ball
ammunition), 7.62 millimeter; Face 1 square; Reach 1
square; SA none; SQ none; SV Fort +4, Ref +3, Wil +0;
Str 11, Dex 13, Con 11, Wis 11, Int 11, Cha 11;
Skills: Diplomacy 1, First Aid 1, Handle Animal 1, Hide 2,
Knowledge (Local Area) 2, Listen 1, Move Silently 1, Spot 1,
Survival 2.
Feats: Armor Proficiency (Light), Native (Jungle Training),
Track, Weapon Proficiency (Exotic, Archaic, Handgun,
Hurled, Melee, Rifle).
Viet Cong Guerrilla (second-tier – target average agent
level 8): 4th-level conscripts (minions, squads of 5 – 8 MP):
Department: D-2: Military Operations. CR 3. SZ M; v/wp
16/11; Init +3 (+1 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 14
(+1 Dex, +3 class); Atk: fist/punch +3 (dmg 1d3 subdual),
AK-47 +4 (dmg 3d6 normal, error 1 threat 19–20 range
150 ft., qualities DP, RG – 30 shots of military ball
ammunition), 7.62 millimeter; Face 1 square; Reach 1
square; SA none; SQ none; SV Fort +4, Ref +3, Wil +1;
Str 11, Dex 13, Con 11, Wis 11, Int 11, Cha 11;
Skills: Diplomacy 2, First Aid 2, Handle Animal 2, Hide 4,
Knowledge (Local Area) 4, Listen 2, Move Silently 2, Spot 2,
Survival 4.
Feats: Armor Proficiency (Light), Native (Jungle Training),
Point Blank Shot, Track, Weapon Proficiency (Exotic, Archaic,
Handgun, Hurled, Melee, Rifle).
Viet Cong Guerrilla (third-tier – target average
agent level 13): 7th-level conscripts (minions, squads
of 5 – 14 MP): Department: D-2: Military Operations.
CR 6. SZ M; v/wp 27/11; Init +5 (+1 Dex, +4 class); Spd
30 ft.; Def 17 (+1 Dex, +6 class); Atk: fist/punch +5
(dmg 1d3 subdual), AK-47 +6 (dmg 3d6 normal, error 1
threat 19–20 range 150 ft., qualities DP, RG – 30 shots
of military ball ammunition), 7.62 millimeter; Face 1
square; Reach 1 square; SA none; SQ none; SV Fort +6,
Ref +5, Wil +3; Str 11, Dex 13, Con 11, Wis 11, Int 11,
Cha 11; Skills: Diplomacy 4, First Aid 4, Handle Animal
4, Hide 7, Knowledge (Local Area) 7, Listen 4, Move
Silently 4, Spot 4, Survival 7. Feats: Armor Proficiency
(Light), Native (Jungle Training), Point Blank Shot,
Precise Shot, Track, Weapon Proficiency (Exotic,
Archaic, Handgun, Hurled, Melee, Rifle).
Viet Cong Guerrilla (fourth-tier – target average
agent level 18): 9th-level conscripts (minions, squads
of 5 – 18 MP): Department: D-2: Military Operations.
CR 8. SZ M; v/wp 34/11; Init +6 (+1 Dex, +5 class); Spd
30 ft.; Def 18 (+1 Dex, +7 class); Atk: fist/punch +6
(dmg 1d3 subdual), AK-47 +7 (dmg 3d6 normal, error 1
threat 19–20 range 150 ft., qualities DP, RG – 30 shots
of military ball ammunition), 7.62 millimeter; Face 1
square; Reach 1 square; SA none; SQ none; SV Fort +6,
Ref +5, Wil +4; Str 11, Dex 13, Con 11, Wis 11, Int 11,
Cha 11; Skills: Diplomacy 5, First Aid 5, Handle Animal
5, Hide 9, Knowledge (Local Area) 9, Listen 5, Move
Silently 5, Spot 5, Survival 9. Feats: Armor Proficiency
(Light), Native (Jungle Training), Point Blank Shot,
Precise Shot, Quick Reload, Track, Weapon Proficiency
(Exotic, Archaic, Handgun, Hurled, Melee, Rifle).

72
 “I do not believe that civilization will be wiped out in
a war fought with the atomic bomb. Perhaps two thirds
of the people of the earth might be killed, but enough men
capable of thinking, and enough books, would be left
to start again, and civilization could be restored.”
— Albert Einstein

The Last War

– and after 5
 battlegrounds
In Europe, the impetus of the European Union to
form a unified continental economy (and military) ran
INTRODUCTION
The preceding four chapters have examined real-
afoul of residual nationalist movements — violently, in
some cases. Turkey’s resistance to changing its theolog-
ically based legal system to one more acceptable to its
world conflicts, from their beginnings to their conclu-
neighbors was the final straw necessary for widespread
sions. This chapter takes a slightly different approach,
discontent to become overt opposition. Polish citizens,
presenting a grim vision of a possible future conflict
seeing their already-shaky economy receiving its death-
ending in apocalypse. The following material is a loose
blow from EU trade agreements, entered a state of near-
framework that GCs may use intact or strip-mine for
revolt against their government. Conversely, in Western
ideas as they see fit.
European nations, labor movements rose up against EU
Each of the real-world conflict chapters included a
expansion into Eastern European markets and their
sidebar about ending the world. With the exception of
abysmally low labor prices.
the super flu described below, any of these options can
With the exception of North Korea’s continued
be adapted into the events of this chapter with a little
nuclear program, Asia remained relatively quiet during
creativity. If desired, however, the conflict presented
the immediate prewar years. The shaky Japanese econ-
below stands on its own.
omy stabilized, with its effects being felt throughout the
region. Domestic strife continued in Hong Kong, with
Taiwan using these problems to reinforce its own desire
TTHE
HE E ND OF
WORLD for continued sovereignty.
Civil wars continued throughout Central Africa
before the Final War, and UN peacekeeping missions
The world as we knew it took a little over a year and proved largely ineffective in the face of widespread eth-
a half to die. The following timeline provides a month- nic violence. The United States, already heavily com-
by-month summary of the events leading up to the cur- mitted in other areas, was loath to intervene, and few
rent post-apocalyptic situation, giving agents a compre- European nations save for France had any motivation to
hensive overview of the way their world ended — or assist.
allowing the GC to begin his game at any point during The specter of radical Islamic fundamentalism
the global collapse of civilization. loomed large in the Middle East. The continuing occu-
pation of Iraq and Afghanistan maintained high levels
Setting the Stage of tension between the Arab world and the U.S. and
The Last War, as it is commonly known among its Europe. The ebb and flow of Israeli territorial
survivors, had no clear starting point. The consensus disputes remained just below its
among the surviving members of the intelligence com- boiling point, with Syrian and
munity is that the beginning of the Jordanian troop movements
end was the American response to mirrored by Israeli
the attacks of September 11th. The buildups.
United States didn’t stand alone, but its
Middle East policies incited no small degree
of global outrage, inspired a new generation of
fanatics, and, perhaps most importantly, over-
committed the most powerful military in the
world. As the occupation of Iraq continued with
no end in sight after America’s 2004 presi-
dential elections, the strain on a mili-
tary reduced so heavily during
the 1990s became telling,
with morale and unit
readiness at lows not seen
since the post-Vietnam
years.

74
 the last war
The Timeline of Apocalypse Indian and Pakistani forces skirmish inconclusively
along the Kashmir border. The United Nations threatens
Special Note: In the interest of flexibility, no specif-
sanctions against both nations but neither disputant
ic dates are provided in the following narrative, though
takes the threats seriously. Several nations, including
the preceding political situation assumes a “near future”
Canada, Norway, and Sweden, withdraw their forces
timeframe. GCs may choose to set these events at any
from UN peacekeeping missions to return home and
point from 2003 to the end of the decade. We suggest
maintain order.
that the timeline begin between September and
In Iraq, insurgent leaders initiate a rumor that U.S.
December to correspond with the usual annual emer-
and British forces possess a cure for the super flu but are
gence of flu strains.
withholding it to kill off the Iraqi population. Mass upris-
18 Months Ago (Year 1, September): The first cases
ings in every major city in Iraq result in heavy American
of what will become known as the super flu are report-
losses — and heavier Iraqi civilian casualties. The U.K.,
ed in India and Thailand. The virus is an exceptionally
citing potential domestic instability in the wake of the
contagious influenza mutation combining a relatively
super flu, reluctantly withdraws its forces from Iraq.
long incubation period with rapid development after
Israel mobilizes the IDF’s reserves and seals its border.
onset of symptoms and a high mortality rate.
In an announcement sent to every major news affiliate,
17 Months Ago (Year 1, October): The second wave
the Israeli government publicly announces its possession
of super flu outbreaks strikes Australia, China, Japan,
of nuclear weapons — which it has denied since the 1960s
Taiwan, and Vietnam. Isolated cases are reported in vir-
— and states that it will strike both troop concentrations
tually every city with an airport. Research into a super
and population centers if any nation threatens to invade.
flu vaccine begins under World Health Organization
12 Months Ago (Year 2, March): Unable to peace-
direction, and most industrialized nations initiate their
fully seal their border against the tide of Eastern
own programs as well.
European citizens, Polish forces fire on a Russian
16 Months Ago (Year 1, November): The third wave
refugee column outside Bialystok. Russia orders a full
of the super flu, now at global epidemic status, strikes
troop mobilization and demands that Poland make
Eastern Europe, Brazil, France, Nigeria, Mexico,
immediate reparations. The Polish government, confi-
Morocco, and South Africa. Virtually every nation in
dent that Russia is bluffing, responds with an insulting-
Asia struggles to cope with widespread infections.
ly phrased series of demands that Russia keep its own
15 Months Ago (Year 1, December): The super flu
citizens under control.
has reached every corner of the world, save for the most
In Iran, government-imposed restrictions on the
isolated small communities. India is the first nation to
availability of health care spawn widespread resent-
levy accusations — against Pakistan, in this case — that
ment, which boils over into a student revolt that quick-
the super flu is a biological weapon. Pakistan responds
ly expands to the general population. American forces
with charges that India manufactured the super flu itself
in the Middle East support the uprising with air strikes
and the initial outbreak in Mumbai was the result of a
against Pasdaran bases and troop concentrations.
laboratory accident. Pakistani and Indian military forces
Pakistan becomes the first nation since 1945 to use a
begin massing on the Kashmir border.
nuclear weapon against another power, launching a set
14 Months Ago (Year 2, January): Japan is the first
of tactical strikes against Indian troop concentrations in
nation to seal its borders against all traffic and declare
Kashmir. India responds in kind, using its air superiority
martial law in an attempt to enforce quarantines and
to attack Pakistani command and control centers. Initial
manage the sheer scope of the epidemic. It will not be
civilian casualties are assessed at five million.
the last. Mass refugee migrations begin throughout
11 Months Ago (Year 2, April): Russian forces, out-
Africa and Asia as millions of desperate citizens flee
raged at what the Russian media portrays as Polish mas-
heavily infected population centers in search of rumored
sacres of Russian citizens, stream through Belarus and
— but ultimately ephemeral — cures or safe areas.
the Ukraine and shatter Polish defenses all along the
13 Months Ago (Year 2, February): The overbur-
border. Former Soviet client states, unable to oppose
dened Russian health care system, barely able to meet
Russia even if they so desired, add their own contribu-
the demands of its citizens under normal circumstances,
tions to the invasion. The Polish military suffers intense
collapses. Russian refugee movements are joined by
initial losses as it struggles to buy time for its own cit-
Belarus, Lithuanians, and Ukrainians as Eastern
izens to evacuate westward.
European governments are unable to maintain order.
The last Canadian peacekeeping forces return home.
Finland creates a 50-kilometer-deep “dead zone” on
Canada withdraws from NATO, citing limited military
its border with Russia, staging a massive evacuation of
funding and the need to maintain order within its own
its own citizens and stripping the area of all food and
borders. Relations between the United States and
fuel reserves. The majority of Russian refugees who
Canada quickly sour.
attempt to enter Finland die while crossing this area.

75
 battlegrounds
China considers intervention in the India-Pakistan
conflict, but negotiations with Pakistan fall through and
China sees insufficient opportunity in invading India
across the Himalayas.
Wars both civil and international wrack virtually
every Central African nation as new problems inflame
old resentments.
10 Months Ago (Year 2, May): The Russian offensive
drives to the Vistula River in central Poland before
NATO reinforcements — primarily American and
German forces — battle the Russian forces to a standstill.
Unable to force a crossing in the face of NATO artillery
and air strikes, Russian forces settle in for a protracted
battle as reserve units from the eastern part of the
nation begin moving west.
The Four-Day Revolution hits Colombia. The FARC
revolutionary movement and its cocaine cartel allies
stage a series of bombings at private medical clinics
used by government officials. The Colombian govern-
ment is decapitated in four days of intense violence.
North Korea sees American distraction in Europe and
the Middle East as its best opportunity to mount its
long-awaited invasion of its southern neighbor. Using a
tunnel originally dug for intelligence operations, it
emplaces a nuclear weapon under Seoul and detonates
it. The blast disrupts South Korean and American com-
mand and control across the peninsula. North Korean
ground forces reach the shattered outskirts of Seoul,
where a fierce ruin-to-ruin battle erupts.
With the outbreak of NATO-Russia hostilities, the
International Space Station program falls apart. The two
crewmen on the station put aside their national differ-
ences, place the ISS into the most stable orbit they can
achieve, and abandon it. Their Soyuz capsule, designed
for a landing on solid ground, comes down in the North
Atlantic and its passengers are rescued at the last
minute by an Icelandic fishing vessel.
9 Months Ago (Year 2, June): The India-Pakistan war
grinds to a halt with the effective collapse of both
nations’ governments and military command structures.
With desertion rates greater than 50%, the surviving mil-
itary forces in the region quietly melt away and return
to their prewar borders in a tacit ceasefire agreement.
Peru’s Sendero Luminoso Marxists, once hunted
nearly to oblivion by government forces, use the dis-
ruption caused by regional unrest to regroup and recruit
fresh blood. The organization follows FARC’s lead,
enjoying similar successes.
Seeing United States involvement in Iran as a threat
to its own sovereignty, the House of Saud orders all
American forces out of Saudi Arabia. With most of its
sealift capability already committed to moving supplies
to Europe and Korea, the American military’s options
are limited to overland movement. CENTCOM comman-
ders and civilian diplomats broker a deal with the inter-
76
im Iranian government to assist it in consolidating its
authority in exchange for basing rights and logistical
support.
North Korea, seeing its initial gains rapidly eroding,
threatens to launch nuclear weapons against Japan if
American does not withdraw from South Korea’s
defense. American forces launch air strikes against
North Korean launch facilities. One North Korean mis-
sile is launched and strikes Yokohama, destroying a
large part of the city and the American carrier strike
group in harbor there.
8 Months Ago (Year 2, July): Shaken by the sudden
loss of over 5,000 seamen and Marines, the American
public demands reprisals against North Korea. America
is on the verge of launching nuclear strikes, despite the
recent and graphic example of India and Pakistan, when
China, unnerved by the possibility of a second nuclear
war on its borders, steps into the conflict. A brief and
tenuous Sino-American alliance flattens North Korea
within two weeks, using only conventional forces.
On the brink of starvation, Libya invades Algeria for
the purpose of acquiring arable land. Diplomatic
protests abound, but no nation with serious interest in
the area has the resources necessary to devote to inter-
vention.
The last remaining outbreaks of super flu are
resolved — through medicine in some cases, through the
death of the last victims in others. The worldwide death
toll is estimated at 800 million — approximately 12% of
the population of the planet. The wars initiated by the
virus continue with no end in sight.
7 Months Ago (Year 2, August): China, flush from its
North Korean success, demands an immediate American
withdrawal from the Korean Peninsula. America, reluc-
tant to confront a second nuclear-armed opponent that
can strike the continental United States, agrees to
China’s terms, a move that is universally unpopular. The
forces originally intended to reinforce Korea instead
retrieve the remaining troops stationed there, then head
for the Middle East.
The last American forces leave Iraq and Saudi Arabia
and move into their new bases in Iran.
The European war settles into a stalemate, with
NATO holding the line in Austria, the Czech Republic,
and Poland against Russia and several re-absorbed for-
mer Soviet republics.
All contact with New Zealand is lost.
6 Months Ago (Year 2, September): As the northern
hemisphere enters autumn, the super flu re-emerges.
Health agencies, still struggling to rebuild their
resources from the first epidemic, are slow to recognize
this resurgence as a new mutation of the virus. Strain II,
as it is labeled, is highly resistant to the vaccines devel-
oped for the initial Strain I. Unlike Strain I, which took
four months to spread worldwide, Strain II appears in
 the last war
major population centers on every continent within two The Super Flu
weeks, baffling epidemiologists with its apparent spon-
The world’s slow slide into chaos became inex-
taneous eruption.
orable with the emergence of the so-called “super
The United Nations, once seen as the best hope for
flu” that epidemiologists had predicted for years. The
both world peace and the eradication of the super flu,
warning of the 1917-18 influenza epidemic was a dry
slides into irrelevance. Delegates continue to give hope-
historical case, not something for actual considera-
ful speeches and pass empty resolutions, but no UN
tion or precautions, and modern global travel
effort has a noticeable effect on the world situation once
ensured the rapid spread of the virus. The first out-
Strain II emerges.
break was recorded in Mumbai, India, but virtually
Media outlets around the world are hit with a wave
every city with an airport had reported at least a
of hacking, conflicting reports, and outright disinforma-
handful of cases within two months. The super flu’s
tion from countless sources, resulting in virtually no
average mortality rate was higher than 25% even in
civilian in the world maintaining a complete or accurate
industrialized nations with developed public health
picture of global events. No source is ever positively
systems, and the death toll in countries with no
identified, but virtually every intelligence agency sus-
healthcare system to speak of rose as high as 90%.
pects one of its rivals.
From a microbiological perspective, the disease was
5 Months Ago (Year 2, October): Nuclear war final-
perfect: highly communicable, but not fast-acting
ly comes to Europe, then to the rest of the world. A
enough to kill its victims before it had spread to the
French infantry division near Krakow uses tactical
entire world.
nuclear artillery shells to prevent Russian armor from
The first outbreak — later designated Strain I —
overrunning it. In retaliation, Russia destroys Lyon, the
took the better part of a year to burn itself out. The
division’s home city, with an ICBM strike launched from
world’s health care infrastructure was completely
a submarine in the North Sea.
unprepared for the emergence of an equally virulent
The Thirty-Minute War plays out under the world’s
mutation at the beginning of the next flu season.
oceans. NATO hunter-killer subs, which have been shad-
Strain II was equally dangerous, but claimed many
owing Russian boomers since the outbreak of war in
more victims due to the losses of medical personnel
Poland, receive clearance to attack. Within half an hour,
and facilities over the last year.
every Russian ballistic missile submarine not in port is
The few still-functioning epidemiological
a shattered wreck on the seabed.
research laboratories have uncovered a horrifying
The United States activates its continuity of govern-
truth in recent months: Strain II is not the end of the
ment plan in preparation for a possible nuclear attack
super flu. There is a high probability that another
on the continental U.S. The federal government evacu-
mutation will emerge in the coming months, much as
ates Washington D.C., dispersing to secure locations
the “ordinary” prewar flu did on an annual basis.
across the eastern half of the country.
This anticipated Strain III is likely to be as deadly as
Russia, fearing an imminent nuclear attack on its
its predecessors, but most researchers believe that the
territory, launches preemptively against NATO C3I cen-
vast majority of the susceptible population is already
ters. France, the U.S., and the U.K. retaliate in kind. Over
dead. Within five years, the super flu’s impact will be
72 hours, both sides empty their missile silos and sur-
as minimal as that of its prewar cousin.
viving SSBNs in a paroxysm of mutual annihilation.
In game terms, Strain I is identical to Influenza
Many of the 8,000 warheads launched in the exchange
(see page 116), but with all DCs raised by 10. Each
hit empty silos, but enough detonate over major cities to
subsequent strain’s DC increase is 2 less than the pre-
produce an uncountable number of casualties.
vious strain.
Air Force One is damaged in the first nuclear air-
bursts over the United States and makes an emergency
landing at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona. The EMP from multiple high-altitude nuclear deto-
The President and several cabinet members are killed in nations fries computers and communication systems
the crash. The Secretary of Defense authenticates the across the northern hemisphere. The Internet is
nuclear launch codes, transfers command of American destroyed, as are most systems capable of receiving data
nuclear forces to NORAD, then signs off with the cryp- from surviving satellites.
tic message, “we have to destroy Air Force One to pre- 4 Months Ago (Year 2, November): As America
vent capture.” Davis-Monthan AFB goes off the air at begins putting itself back together, the federal govern-
the same time. Later high-altitude surveillance photos ment is nowhere to be found. Fewer than 20% of the
reveal that Air Force One was destroyed by an internal members of Congress are accounted for, the entire
explosion — presumably its center fuel tank — and most Supreme Court is missing, and the Presidential chain of
of the base’s buildings burned to their foundations. succession is disrupted down to the Secretary of

77
 battlegrounds
Commerce. No provision exists for appointing a new
President under such circumstances. Complicating the
NO MAN’S LAND
issue further, no readily evident reason exists for many
of the missing personnel to be missing. They simply dis-
The world as a whole survives, as does humanity —
appeared during or immediately after the activation of
but the margin of survival is narrow. Strain I killed 800
the continuity of government plans.
million people — an unthinkable catastrophe prior to the
Without a government to which to report, American
Strain II outbreak. Without intact health care systems to
forces in Europe attempt to withdraw from combat and
provide aid, Strain II killed an estimated two and a half
begin to seek a means of returning home. Russia,
billion people before it ran its course. The global break-
shocked into immobility by its own losses in the nuclear
down of transportation networks caused another quar-
exchange, agrees to an indefinite ceasefire, though east-
ter-billion casualties through starvation. The strategic
ern Poland remains under its control.
nuclear exchange directly killed an equal number and
Strain II wipes out the entire upper echelon of
its lasting effects will contribute to yet more deaths over
China’s government. The marshals in charge of three
the next decade. With the direct and indirect casualties
Military Area Commands independently declare martial
of conventional wars added to the equation, best esti-
law, and then declare war upon their competitors. The
mates place the planet’s postwar population at no more
four remaining Military Area Commands quickly follow
than one and a half billion — less than a quarter of what
suit, and the Middle Kingdom splinters into seven war-
it was two years ago.
ring provinces dominated by military warlords.
Saudi Arabia declares itself the center of a new Life After the Last War
Islamic regional government. Six days later, a pair of
two-megaton nuclear ground bursts destroys Mecca and The Basic Necessities
Riyadh. No nation or group claims responsibility for the
Globally speaking, few resources are in short supply.
blasts, which various conspiracy theories attribute to
The problem is getting them where they’re needed.
Israel, the United States, Syria, or an Al Qaeda splinter
Agricultural production is still high enough to feed
group.
every mouth on the planet, but few freighters or trains
3 Months Ago (Year 2, December): In the absence of
have the fuel necessary to transport crops and food ani-
the federal government, state governors — or acting
mals across thousands of miles. Tragically, this distrib-
governors, in many cases — take the remaining federal
ution problem has already resolved itself by the end of
assets in America under their control “for the duration
the Last War — the inhabitants of areas without suffi-
of the constitutional crisis.” State police forces and
cient food supplies have either migrated to more agri-
National Guard units, supplemented by civilian volun-
culturally rich regions or are dead of starvation. The
teer militias, set up checkpoints at state borders to inter-
same basic principle applies to water supplies, and any
dict travel and contain the spread of Strain II.
survivor of the Last War is now well aware of the need
The Chinese warlord of Guangzhou scores a major
to always boil or otherwise decontaminate water before
coup with a peaceful takeover of Taiwan, bringing the
using it for drinking, cooking, or bathing.
island’s surviving industry into the fold.
Shelter, another first-order necessity of survival, is
Limited restoration of the Internet occurs on a
readily available. Even in the most devastated areas,
regional basis, using low-bandwidth backup systems
habitable structures still outnumber inhabitants.
salvaged from basement storerooms and college cam-
Travelers can find abandoned “fixer-uppers” in virtual-
puses.
ly any area of the world.
With the ravages of Strain II and both nuclear and
conventional warfare, many of the world’s dead now lie
where they fell. For the short term, the wise traveler
avoids major cities, which have become festering dens
of disease thanks to the combination of unburied bod-
ies and failed sanitation systems. Advanced medicines
are in short supply or nonexistent, and most individu-
als who had health conditions requiring daily medical
maintenance are already dead. Strain II infections are
falling off as the second super flu iteration runs its
course, but it’s far from the only disease capable of
killing its victims.

78
 the last war
Infrastructure
Even in the wake of a global war, a significant por-
tion of the world’s industry and infrastructure is large-
ly intact, at least physically. Mines echo with the sound
of dripping water, factories slowly rust, and libraries
gather dust. The two greatest problems with restoring
civilization are lack of electrical power (see below) and
lack of trained personnel. Generally speaking, the super
flu’s mortality rate was higher among city-dwellers than
it was among rural folk, due largely to the greater san-
itation problems faced by plague-ridden urban areas.
This correspondingly led to a greater loss of life among
professional and technical personnel than among farm-
ers and blue-collar laborers. In short, the tools to restore
civilization are available — but the people who know
how to use them aren’t.
In particularly short supply are medical personnel.
No postwar census data is available, but anecdotal evi-
dence indicates that doctors, nurses, and their support
staff suffered heavier losses during the Last War than
any other profession — including soldiers on the front
lines in Europe. Constant super flu exposure may have
killed as many as 95% of all doctors on the planet. In
only slightly lesser demand are skilled engineers and
chemists, both of whom are desperately needed to
restore basic services and manufacturing facilities to
full operation. This high demand for technical personnel
has given rise to many technocratic dictatorships, small
communities controlled by a handful of former profes-
sionals who now demand subservience in exchange for
electricity, clean water, or medical care.
Travel
Across the world, vehicles sit abandoned for lack of
fuel. Petroleum production is at less than 10% of its pre-
war levels, with Venezuela supplying the majority of the
world’s crude oil. The U.K.’s North Sea platforms, the re-
opened wellheads of the American Gulf Coast states,
and Vietnam’s recent Spratly Island exploration sites
are all secondary producers. Most areas farther than a
hundred miles from a refinery designate their limited
fuel reserves for military, government, and emergency
use only, and the small amounts that do reach the civil-
ian market are sold at exorbitant prices.
Air travel is a thing of the past outside the immedi-
ate areas of oil production, as aviation fuel and the air-
craft that require it are both too precious to risk on any
but the most critical missions. Likewise, no national
space program survives — though in North America, a
handful of former X-Prize competitors now struggle to
complete their craft in the hopes that suborbital survey
missions may provide them with critical information
about postwar weather patterns and crop growth.
79
In the absence of gasoline and its relatives, travelers
rely on a variety of alternate solutions. Neither solar
power nor hydrogen fuel cells, both touted as the solu-
tions of the future, had reached a reliable level of devel-
opment before the Last War, but rumors persist of isolat-
ed research facilities that had produced working proto-
types of both technologies. Some agricultural communi-
ties have converted gasoline-powered vehicles to run on
alcohol, but this solution depends on surplus grain crops.
In areas without the necessary agricultural surplus or
fossil fuel reserves, the best remaining alternate is the
oldest one: muscle power. Draft animals are a highly val-
ued commodity, and rural communities across the world
are engaging in aggressive breeding programs to meet the
renewed need for horses, oxen, and other beasts of bur-
den. Most of the common draft animal species of the
world require two to four years to reach a level of matu-
rity and training sufficient for daily work, so these pro-
grams will require some time to meet demand.
In the immediate postwar period, most roads have suf-
fered no more than two winters without maintenance and
are still in passable condition. However, weather takes its
toll, and even superhighways will soon become rugged
and impassable in places. Landslides and bridge collapses
are ever-present hazards to long-distance travel, particu-
larly in areas that saw extensive ground combat.
Power
Most of the world’s power plants are physically
intact. The nuclear war may have fried control systems,
but the generators themselves, able to handle immense
amounts of power, came through with no more than a
few twitches. The problem is in the less robust distribu-
tion networks, which were unable to handle the massive
Gasohol?
Virtually any vehicle that runs on standard gaso-
line can be converted to burn alcohol fuel instead.
This is a lengthy but easy process: a complex
Mechanics skill check (DC 100, four-hour interval)
can accomplish it. Reversing the conversion is iden-
tical in difficulty. This process is only good for gas
burners, however — diesel engines rely on different
principles of operation and will not convert to alco-
hol use, and aviation engines require a higher ener-
gy density than can be found in alcohol fuels.
In the prewar decade, a very few models of civil-
ian vehicle — including Ford’s Taurus sedan and
Ranger light pickup — were sold as flexible fuel vehi-
cles (FFVs). The engines of these vehicles can burn
gasoline or alcohol fuel with no conversion work,
making them exceptionally valued by travelers.
 battlegrounds
currents induced by EMP. Long wires, such as power
lines, tend to attract EMP and amplify its effects, result-
ing in spectacular explosions of power transmission
equipment across the world.
In the absence of fuel oil, the primary sources of
electrical generation are hydroelectric dams and coal-
fired power plants. Nuclear power, which had previous-
ly earned at least minimal acceptance in many coun-
tries, is now widely regarded as a power source whose
risks aren’t worth the benefits. Several nuclear plants
also suffered catastrophic meltdowns when EMP
destroyed their control systems, which makes restarting
the surviving ones a chancy proposition.
Even with fuel oil shortages and nuclear plant shut-
downs, the world’s electrical generating capability from
usable sources is now at half its prewar level — more
than sufficient for the remaining population, if only the
electricity could be sent to the places that need it. As it
stands, most major population centers are without elec-
trical energy save for the trickle provided through emer-
gency generators, and fuel for these is in such short
supply that electricity is a luxury for all but the most
essential uses.
Communication and Computing
Nuclear explosions, particularly the high-altitude
blasts detonated by Russia to neutralize NATO C3I capa-
bilities, wreaked havoc on the world’s electronic
devices. Antennas and landlines inflicted the same
effects on their connected equipment as power lines did,
and telecommunications equipment suffered some of
the worst EMP damage. Transoceanic data lines are still
in place on the seabeds, but the switching equipment
PCs and Agents
In a post-Last War game, working computers are
rarely available, but may be critical to a mission’s
success on the occasions when they do appear. The
GC is strongly advised to tailor the frequency of these
occasions to the capabilities of the players — if no
one in the team has invested heavily in computer
equipment and the skills and feats necessary to sup-
port it, then it’ll only be frustrating to run computer-
centered plots. On the other hand, if one of the agents
is a hacker, then it’s only fair to give him occasional
opportunities to shine, so long as the player recog-
nizes that his agent no longer has an Internet on
which to work.
During the gearing up process prior to beginning
a Last War-era game, agents should be allowed to
requisition computers and computer equipment for
their standard price. After the beginning of play,
however, the BP price of all such items is multiplied
by five to represent their rarity.
80
required to make calls is so many tons of fused junk.
Satellite communications and cellular phones are fond
memories — even if the terminals and handsets sur-
vived, the satellites and relay towers did not. The best
available method of long-distance communication is
radio, often using archaic solid-state components, but
even this is subject to frequent weather interference.
The Internet, originally envisioned as a distributed
data network capable of surviving a nuclear war, failed
to live up to its designers’ first and best intentions. It
ceased to exist as a viable network within minutes of
the first detonations. Most First World nations have ini-
tiated reconstruction efforts on a limited scale, using
1980s-vintage equipment salvaged from university
basements and computer recycling centers, but such
projects are a comparatively low priority in the face of
food shortages and public health threats.
Individual PCs fared no better. Virtually every
microprocessor built in the past twenty years is now a
useless lump of fused silicon and metal, and most mag-
netic storage devices contain little but random data.
Those computers that survived, whether by accident or
through careful preparation, are literally worth their
weight in gold to governments, militaries, and intelli-
gence agencies struggling with reconstruction and data
management needs.
In a minor ironic twist, the GPS satellite constella-
tion came through the war largely intact. Anyone with
a working GPS terminal can still learn his exact loca-
tion. Likewise, the expected ravages of EMP on vehicu-
lar computers failed to materialize, and the majority of
the world’s automotive engines would still turn over
today if fuel were available for them.
The State of the World
At the close of the Last War, it should be emphasized
that no one on Earth has a clear picture of the state of
the planet as a whole. Rumors of ghost cities or havens
of civilization are the order of the day. The following
information is presented as a guide and framework for
GCs, not a comprehensive atlas to which every agent
has access.
Africa
In the Last War, Africa became the personal play-
ground of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse. Strains
I and II swept through the AIDS-ravaged populations of
Central Africa like a vast scythe, killing two-thirds of
the area’s inhabitants. Those whom the virus spared
were finished off by unrestrained civil war and ethnic
cleansing. No national government survives between
the Mediterranean coastal states and the southern tip of
the continent.
Heavier-than-usual rainfalls and Nile flooding left
Egypt in a better position than predicted to survive the
 the last war
loss of food imports. Egypt remained strictly neutral
through the Last War, allowing passage through the
Suez Canal to all nations’ merchant vessels but no war-
ships. It has remained aloof from the religious schis-
matic warfare that erupted in the Middle East following
the destruction of Mecca, and now finds itself in an
uneasy alliance with Israel to establish stability in the
region.
Libya’s government came through the Last War with
minimal disruption, but its reliance on imports for 75%
of its food led to massive famine. A rapid invasion of
Algeria to secure necessary arable land led to wide-
spread protests from African neighbors and other
Islamic nations, but no amount of diplomatic outrage
changed the situation. Having moved to secure Algerian
natural gas reserves, Libya is now a major economic
power in the Mediterranean, being courted heavily by
much of Europe.
South Africa and Botswana, their own populations
heavily infected with HIV, survived by the simple and
draconian expedient of euthanizing all known HIV-pos-
itive citizens, as well as using deadly force at their bor-
ders once Strain II erupted. In the immediate postwar
period, these two nations have combined their efforts
for mutual survival. With both the industrial capacity
and the agricultural area to support the surviving 18%
of their population, they may be Africa’s best hope for
recovery in the short term.
Asia
China is the world’s last major nuclear power by
default. The country avoided any major military
engagement during the Last War, but Strain II and the
resulting civil disorder wiped out enough of its govern-
ment to trigger a massive schism in the military com-
mand structure. The former leaders of the People’s
Liberation Army now rule the seven provinces that were
their respective command areas, and China’s 400
remaining atomic weapons may soon be turned on its
own people. Three of the warlords have already clashed
over control of the incomplete Three Gorges Dam and
its hydroelectric power generation systems, and only
fear of destroying the dam has kept the aggressors from
using excessive force on the defending units.
The inhabitants of Hong Kong and the New
Territories cut all ties to China when the civil war began.
The presence of a Royal Navy task force, which was in
the Pacific when the Last War began and had insuffi-
cient fuel to return home, ensures that the warlords keep
their distance for the time being. Trade with China con-
sists solely of rebuilt electronics exchanged for agricul-
tural goods.
India survives as a culture — or, perhaps more accu-
rately, a loose confederation of hundreds of cultures —
but the post-Colonial nation is gone. The Indian sub-
81
continent has found peace through exhaustion, and the
survivors of the super flu and the Pakistani nuclear
strikes are content to burn their dead and move on with
day-to-day survival. Mumbai, the initial outbreak point
of Strain I, is already haunted in Indian legend, and no
one willingly goes within sight of the city outskirts.
Japan came through the Last War unscathed (with
the exception of the North Korean nuclear strike on
Yokohama) but its high population density led to one of
the highest Strain I death rates in the industrialized
world. Ruthless quarantine measures at the outbreak of
Strain II kept the second wave of deaths comparatively
low, but Japan’s population is still less than 45% of its
prewar 127 million. The JSDF now patrols Japanese ter-
ritorial waters and airspace with an iron fist and will
destroy any unauthorized visiting vessel or aircraft
without warning. Domestic food production is an ongo-
ing concern, and only trade with Australia staves off
widespread famine.
The Korean Peninsula north of Seoul is a battle-
scarred wasteland. The former North Korea lies in sham-
bles, with greater than 90% of its population dead
between war, super flu, and famine. The reconstituted
unified Korean government has little time to enjoy its
pyrrhic victory from its new capital of Chonju, as much
of the country’s industrial capacity was destroyed by
North Korean artillery. The hundred miles that separate
Korea and Japan are trivial compared to the animosity
that still exists between the two nations, which could
otherwise provide each other with invaluable recon-
struction assistance.
Vietnam, completely ignored by the Last War, stands
poised to establish itself as a regional power if it can
muster the industrial might to make good on its plans.
With China in the throes of civil war and the Philippines
torn apart by domestic terrorism, no nation is capable of
opposing Vietnam’s claim to the Spratly Islands and the
vast oil reserves below the area’s shallow waters.
Europe
The Last War was fought largely on European soil.
Ironically, the nations that felt themselves most likely to
become battlegrounds during the Cold War were some
of the hardest hit. Poland, invaded so many times over
its long history, was the focal point of the NATO-
Russian ground war. No order exists there above the
local level, and bands of military deserters roam a
wasteland pockmarked by tactical nuclear craters.
An exceptionally harsh winter in France during the
first super flu outbreak led to higher-than-average casu-
alties from Strain I. When the ground war broke out in
Europe, the French government honored its NATO treaty
obligations only reluctantly — and many now wish they
never had. France was the first nation to use nuclear
weapons in the European conflict, and the first to
 battlegrounds
receive Russian warheads in exchange. DGSE headquar-
ters in Orleans somehow avoided destruction in the
strikes, and the French government has moved its oper-
ations there while it tries to reassert authority over a
fragmented country. Perhaps a quarter of the surviving
provincial governments are responding to the national
government, while the rest are in a state of silent rebel-
lion against the leaders who ignited the world.
A disproportionate number of Russian warheads
were targeted on Germany — perhaps to deprive NATO
of its ports and heavy industry, perhaps as delayed ret-
ribution for German reunification. The German govern-
ment ceased to exist in the initial strikes, but has since
been reconstituted by agents of the BfV. The
Bundeswehr is rumored to have assisted this effort by
conducting a series of covert operations to eliminate
German Communist and Socialist leaders who might
have threatened the process.
The United Kingdom and Ireland came through the
nuclear exchange with moderate damage, mainly to
port facilities — by some estimates, Strain II-related civil
disorder actually did more damage to local industry.
Currently, these nations’ governments are focusing on
increasing North Sea oil production and restoring their
naval forces and merchant shipping fleets, with partic-
ular attention being paid to retaining control of
Gibraltar. With the demise of the United States’ federal
government, the U.K. finds itself setting its own priori-
ties without American advice, a state of affairs that
appeals to all parties except American military person-
nel in England. The British government has rebuffed all
requests for ships sufficient to return these troops home,
citing a more pressing domestic need to use those hulls
to evacuate U.K. forces from Europe. Rumors persist that
the Royal Navy’s SSBNs did not actually launch on
Russia and that the U.K. still has 200 nuclear warheads
in reserve.
Finland, Norway, and Sweden, all of which handled
the super flu outbreaks with slightly better than average
results, have established a mutual defense and medical
assistance pact. The nascent Nordic Union, as its mem-
ber-states have dubbed it, is a small but potent power
bloc in northern Europe. Most of its military forces are
on Finland’s eastern border, just inside the Dead Zone,
in case of renewed Russian hostilities.
The various ethnic groups in the Balkans took
NATO’s involvement in the war in Poland as license for
renewed atrocities, each blaming the others for the
super flu, the Russian invasion, and anything else their
propaganda apparatuses could come up with. Without
centralized health care, Strain II ran rampant through
the region, and the combination of disease, ethnic
cleansing, and the occasional wayward army killed over
90% of the area’s inhabitants.
82
Most of the Russian government evacuated Moscow
when nuclear hostilities broke out, but the president
and his senior advisors remained in the Kremlin
for unknown reasons. All reliable intelligence states
that these individuals were vaporized by American
warheads, but recent months have seen hundreds of
reported “Vlad sightings,” events in which the former
president has taken on a messianic aspect. Regardless,
the Russian industrial base is so much radioactive slag,
and the only intact military formations are those in the
Far East.
North America
The United States, last superpower of the Cold War,
is a lost dream in fact if not in name. The disruption
caused by the nuclear strikes, followed by the disap-
pearance of most of the federal government, led state
governors to assume levels of control unseen since the
early days of the nation. At present, the United States is
a loose coalition of individual states with no federal
authority to speak of. Each state government attempts
to regulate interstate commerce and travel by its own
standards, enforcing these laws at its borders with state
police forces and National Guard troops. State public
works departments are heavily engaged in salvage and
cleanup in the cities and industrial facilities struck by
Russian nuclear warheads. Those regular military forces
remaining in the United States have thrown in their lots
with the states in which their bases are located, with the
exception of a few “rogue” units that have declared sup-
port for one of the several former senators presenting
themselves as legitimate presidential successors.
Mexico was largely untouched by the Last War, but
its densely populated cities and poor health care com-
bined to wreak havoc on its citizens when the super flu
struck. The Mexican federal government collapsed
shortly after Strain II’s emergence due to massive attri-
tion. Immigration northward has slowed to a trickle, as
popular opinion paints the entire United States as a
blasted wasteland and few travelers are willing to risk
the heavily fortified Texas border.
Canadian public health care allowed the country to
save more citizens from Strains I and II than any other
nation in the Western Hemisphere, and over 40% of the
country’s prewar population still survives. In addition,
Canada rode out the Last War with minimal damage
once it withdrew its peacekeeping forces from overseas
deployments. Fewer than 20 Russian warheads struck
the country, most of those targeting remote oil facilities
and NORAD radar installations. At present, the nation’s
focus is entirely on internal rebuilding, though agricul-
tural trade with the northern United States is expected
to pick up over the next two years. Canada may be in a
position to establish itself as one of the next superpow-
ers — but it has no real desire to do so at present.
 the last war
The Middle East
Following the House of Saud’s short-lived declaration
of a united Islamic caliphate and the subsequent destruc-
tion of Mecca and Riyadh, the Arabian Peninsula has
devolved into doctrinal warfare, with several dozen sects
of Islam tearing at each other’s throats. Most prewar
nations on the Peninsula no longer exist, nor does any
form government above the tribal or factional level.
Outside of Jordan and Iran, virtually all Middle Eastern
oil production facilities are masses of charred steel,
and few cities are inhabited by more than a handful
of salvage teams and refugees.
Israel has held itself together through sheer tenacity
and the willingness to survive at all costs. Its medical
establishment, which had prepared for a biological warfare
campaign against its citizens since the late
1960s, saved nearly 60% of its prewar
population — a figure unprecedented
even among industrialized nations.
Although its military position is now
stronger than it has been since the
country’s formation,
Israel
has no overt
expansionist desires at
present. Israeli strategists
fear that any claims made on addi-
tional territory might be the stimulus nec-
essary to unite the warring Muslim factions to the east.
Jordan and Syria, both relatively progressive Islamic
governments, also came through the Last War intact.
Syria’s military-dominated republican government
negotiated a treaty with Israel, which ceded all of
Lebanon to Syria in an uncontested takeover in
exchange for a percentage of Lebanon’s surplus fresh
water. Jordan’s constitutional monarchy survived the
Islamic schism through brutal suppression of any inter-
nal factions that threatened national stability, and
Jordan now stands as a buffer between Israel and the
rest of the Middle East.
83
With its prewar theocracy dead or hiding in
Azerbaijan, Iran is firmly in the hands of an interim
secular government that seeks to establish a parliamen-
tary democracy. The American, Australian, and British
contributions to the destruction of the Pasdaran (the pre-
vious government’s internal security force) are still recent
enough for the majority of Iranian citizens to tolerate
these guests, though the provisional government does
expect the allied forces to leave the country as soon as
they can muster the necessary sealift capacity and fuel.
These troops, as well as those in Afghanistan, have begun
to move toward the port of Bandar Abbas in preparation
for the voyage home, but the threat of their presence does
keep Iran’s borders secure for the moment.
Oceania
The Last War’s
effects on the Pacific
nations were com-
paratively lighter than
in any other area of the
planet. However, Strains I and II
did not spare the inhabitants of
Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, or the
various Pacific countries. Several island nations,
including French Polynesia, Tonga, and Vanuatu, were
almost completely depopulated, their surviving citizens
fleeing to Australia or Fiji.
Those Australians who planned to re-enact Mad Max
were sorely disappointed. Australia’s widely distributed
population weathered both super flu outbreaks with bet-
ter than average success, despite the early appearance of
Strain I in Sydney and Melbourne. Many small Outback
communities were wiped out to the last inhabitant, but
rapidly enacted public health edicts spared the major
cities a complete breakdown once the Australian gov-
ernment realized the potential scope of the disaster.
Australia, always largely self-sufficient, is one of the
closest nations to restoration of its prewar industrial
status, and its small merchant fleet is Japan’s primary
lifeline for food imports. The Australian military and
intelligence community is keeping a close eye on
China’s internal strife and has advised the government
to negotiate a trade treaty for Vietnamese crude oil. This
last is likely to occur, as Australia had sought to
 battlegrounds
increase its regional leadership role in the immediate
prewar years and now occupies an unsteady position of
strength in the Pacific.
New Zealand remains a minor mystery on the glob-
al stage. A week before the first Strain II outbreaks were
reported around the world, all radio and television
broadcasts from the country ceased, all New Zealand-
based Internet servers went down, and all other signals
disappeared within a 15-minute timeframe. Any ship or
aircraft that subsequently came within sight of New
Zealand’s shores vanished, some after reporting sight-
ings of odd pink cloud formations at high altitude over
the islands. This state of affairs continues to the present
day. Australia wants to launch a naval expedition to
investigate the status of its neighbor and ally, but con-
voy escort commitments make this difficult to arrange.
Central and South America
The Marxist revolutionary governments of Colombia
and Peru survived Strain II by virtue of the cell struc-
ture left over from their revolutionary days. In the lat-
ter days of the Last War, the surviving mid-level leaders
of the two groups settled their ideological differences
and merged, forming the United People’s Equatorial
Republic. The fledgling nation is a shambles, and its
leaders are eyeing neighboring territory acquisitively.
Cuba is the only Caribbean nation with any sem-
blance of central government remaining. The
Communist nation remained steadfast through Strains I
and II and the ensuing chaos thanks to a combination
of exceptionally charismatic leadership and what was
widely regarded as the world’s best public health care
system. Following the nuclear strikes upon the United
States, American forces and their dependents vacated
the Guantanamo Bay naval base, leaving behind a large
quantity of heavy equipment and combat aircraft lack-
ing transportation or fuel. This windfall has made Cuba
a major regional power, and refugees from other
Caribbean countries now seek Cuban shores rather than
those of Florida.
Panama closed the Canal to military vessels of all
world combatants when the ground war broke out in
Europe, adopting a strict neutral stance that infuriated
all parties. This decision saved Panama from Russian
ICBMs, which would otherwise have struck several
major locks to cripple shipping and naval traffic in the
Americas. Unfortunately, Panama’s fate may only have
been delayed. A constitutional amendment banned the
formation of a standing military in 1994, and armed
police will be insufficient to stop any attack by the
UPER.
Venezuela’s military deposed its civilian government
following Strain II, citing massive corruption and viola-
tion of the public trust. The country is currently ruled by
a triumvirate: the commander of the Venezuelan armed
84
forces, the former mayor of Caracas, and the president
of Petróleos de Venezuela, the nation’s only surviving
oil corporation. Venezuela recognizes its unique posi-
tion as a surviving regional oil producer and is scram-
bling to simultaneously increase production and built
up its naval capabilities to defend its resources. The fact
that this same buildup will allow Venezuela to establish
a regional monopoly on oil by taking over Pemex’s
facilities in the Gulf of Mexico is a benefit not lost upon
the triumvirate. Rumor has it that Venezuelan forces
include two aircraft carriers — a significant fraction of
the surviving ones in the world. This rumor is that much
more incredible because the country’s navy possessed
no vessels larger than destroyers before the Last War.
WE FEW
Space prevents a comprehensive listing of all the
major actors on the stage of the post-apocalyptic world.
Instead, the following material sketches the general
types of forces that are common to virtually every
region containing survivors.
National Military
In many areas, surviving military forces — whether
they’re local troops, allied reinforcements, or occupying
invaders — maintain authority through the simple expe-
dient of having the biggest guns and the most stable
bureaucracy. Militaries, more than any other type of
organization on the planet, had the skills, material
resources, and established procedures necessary to sur-
vive the Last War as intact groups despite the loss of
individual members. In addition, military medical corps
were relatively prepared to combat biological warfare,
resulting in lower sustained losses than the civilian pop-
ulations.
In the wake of the super flu, global conventional
combat, and nuclear exchanges, most professional sol-
diers have had enough of war. Few military units are
willing to engage in offensive operations without direct
orders from their civilian governments — and in many
cases, the governments that could give those orders are
gone. Instead, surviving military forces have taken one
of two routes with regard to their current locales. Troops
who are stationed in friendly areas, or who are still fol-
lowing orders to occupy foreign territory, have declared
martial law in the absence of a strong local government
and control as much of an area as they can reasonably
patrol. Units that find themselves in hostile or neutral
areas and have no orders to remain are engaged in mass
migrations toward home, intending to return to their
families and rebuild what may remain of their nations.
This is not to say that the world’s remaining military
forces are no longer engaged in any combat operations.
 the last war
No one is immune to the pressure of limited resources,
be they food, fuel, medicine, or less basic needs, and
soldiers — especially those already desensitized by com-
bat — are often better at taking what they need by force
than negotiating for it. Additionally, some national gov-
ernments are still both able and willing to issue orders
for continued hostilities.
Infantry Squad
In the absence of heavy industry and petroleum-
based fuels, most military forces have been reduced to
the lowest common denominator: infantry. Even former
armor crews and aviators often find themselves issued
rifles and boots, and placed in ground combat situations
for which they are barely trained at best. Now, as it has
not for over a hundred years, infantry dominates the
world’s battlefields again.
Missions: The missions of a squad of line infantry
are the same as they have been centuries. See the U.S.
Army chapter of the U.S. Militaries sourcebook, as well
as the other chapters of this book, for examinations of
the types of operations that infantry squads conduct.
The missions have not changed after the Last War —
only the objectives of those missions and the reasons
behind them.
Manpower: Through reassignment of personnel with
other specialties, most militaries have managed to keep
their infantry units up to strength, if not up to training
standards. If insufficient personnel are available to fill
ranks, former armor crews and aviators can find them-
selves issued rifles and boots and placed in ground com-
bat situations for which they are barely trained at best.
NATO-affiliated regular infantry units maintain a
standard formation of ten men: a squad leader com-
manding a medic and two fire teams, each composed of
two riflemen, a grenadier, and a machine gunner. Light
infantry units carry a bit less weight, scaling back to an
eight-man formation with six riflemen and two machine
gunners.
Those regular infantry units following former Soviet
bloc preferences have 12-man squads: three fire teams,
each with two riflemen, a machine gunner, and an RPG
gunner. Light infantry units have only nine men: two
fire teams each with a grenadier, a rifleman, and a
machine gunner, and a third replacing the machine
gunner with a light rocket (RPG) gunner.
The few surviving national militaries in Africa and
the Middle East prefer slightly different weapon mixes:
one four-man fire team with three riflemen and a
machine gunner, a second replacing the machine gun-
ner with a light rocket gunner, and a third replacing the
machine gunner with a 60mm mortar man. This mix
makes the squad slightly slower, but enables it to
respond to a wider variety of threats.
85
In most cases, one rifleman is also a signalman and
carries the squad’s long-range radio, if one is available.
Militaries that employ designated marksmen may
replace one rifleman per squad with a sharpshooter if
his skills are adequate.
Gear: At minimum, every member of an infantry
squad has an infantry basic load bundle, the standard-
issue weapon(s) appropriate to his assignment within
the squad, and a single unit of fire for each weapon.
Standard-issue weapons include an assault rifle for a
rifleman, an assault rifle with underslung grenade
launcher for a grenadier, a squad automatic weapon for
a machine gunner, and an assault rifle and rocket
launcher for a light rocket gunner. A “unit of fire” is the
amount of ammunition considered necessary for one
combat engagement: 200 to 300 rounds for an assault
rifle, 400 to 600 rounds for a machine gun, 5 rounds for
a grenade launcher or rocket launcher, and 10 rounds
for a mortar. Better-equipped forces also add infantry
assault bundles for each squads expecting intense com-
bat, or additional units of fire and infantry march bun-
dles for squads going on extended missions.
Most squad leaders will err on the side of excessive
firepower. Units whose official load does not include
anti-vehicular weaponry often scavenge rocket launch-
ers through unofficial channels, “just in case.” Likewise,
shotguns and pistols are common backup weapons for
units expecting close-quarters fighting, and no
infantryman will turn down extra grenades. Trained
medics have an infantry medic bundle if such supplies
are available. See the U.S. Militaries and World
Militaries sourcebooks for the above-mentioned infantry
bundles and lists of the specific standard-issue weapons
of major world combatants.
Vehicle: Although military forces usually have first
and best access to available fuel supplies, such resources
are too precious to expend on standard patrols. Squads
operating in areas where fuel is available in large quan-
tities still use their prewar vehicles: armored personnel
carriers, infantry fighting vehicles, armored cars,
Humvees, or at least a five-ton truck. Those with sparse
fuel resources have stepped down to using more fuel-
efficient civilian pickup trucks and SUVs, while those
with little or no fuel usually move on foot — or, in rare
cases, on horseback. Outside of the world’s surviving
oil-producing regions, airborne infantry is a thing of the
past.
Allies: Infantry units usually have more allied forces
than any other unit type described in this section.
Assuming the fuel, ammunition, and manpower are
available, an infantry unit can call on any military
resource from armored platoons to artillery batteries to
intelligence analysts.
 battlegrounds
Special Operations Team
Missions: Special operations teams are the military
Intelligence Agency
The world’s intelligence community was not as
units that still adhere most closely to their prewar mis-
resilient as its military forces, and the devastation of the
sion profiles. Every special operations unit in the world
Last War spared few headquarters or bureaucracies. Still,
found itself on the proverbial sharp end of the Last War,
agencies tend to select their field personnel for
and those operators who remain are among the best sur-
resourcefulness, and many station chiefs in out-of-the-
vivors in the world. Wise commanders who are fortu-
way cities are former field operatives rather than career
nate enough to have such men under their command
desk-drivers. In a world without global information net-
guard them closely, deploying them only against threats
works, intelligence can be as valuable a currency as
grave enough to justify losing the whole team through
gasoline or seeds, and surviving governments are des-
random chance. Special operations teams in the post-
perate for reliable reports on their neighbors’ status and
apocalyptic world can expect such assignments as gath-
activities — as well as for occasional direct action
ering intelligence on a heavily-defended enemy facility,
against any of those neighbors who prove too threaten-
scouting a route of advance through unknown territory,
ing. For those intelligence operatives who find them-
destroying or sabotaging a strategic resource that lies in
selves without a government or parent agency to which
enemy hands, kidnapping and interrogating individuals
to report, freelance use of their skills is often even more
with vital information, and infiltrating enemy defenses
lucrative than national loyalty.
to disrupt them for a conventional assault.
Manpower: As much as possible, given their avail- Operative Cell
able personnel, special operations units keep their mem-
Missions: Like military personnel, intelligence agents
bership to prewar personnel only, recruiting new blood
are likely to be tasked with the same kinds of missions
only when a vital specialty is completely unrepresented
that they enjoyed in the prewar era. See the Spycraft
within the team’s veterans. Few teams operate with
Espionage Handbook or any Spycraft supplement for
more than 12 members, with four to six men being the
ideas. Any national government able to look beyond its
de facto standard. Most teams include at least a medic,
own immediate survival is ravenous for reliable
a combat engineer or sapper, and an intelligence analyst
HUMINT on allies, threats, and possible resources, so an
and translator — in addition, of course, to the well-
operative cell may find itself asked to gather informa-
honed combat skills required of every member.
tion on such unfamiliar and non-traditional topics as
Gear: Special operations teams get whatever they
grain harvests or bridge reconstruction.
want — assuming, of course, that it’s available. Their
Manpower: Cells tend to be small affairs, ranging
gear starts with that available to infantry squads, but
from a lone (and lonely) agent to five or six loosely
can also include sniper rifles, suppressed submachine
affiliated operatives who come together when necessary.
guns, explosives, rare electronic surveillance gear, or
Most cells have no formally designated leader but defer
anything else the team can justify requisitioning for its
to their senior member for command decisions and any
current assignment. Most of the surviving satellite com-
member with military experience for combat leadership.
munications gear in the world is in the hands of opera-
Gear: Intelligence cells gear up most like normal
tors.
Spycraft agents: an esoteric mix of weapons and spe-
Vehicle: Most special operations teams eschew
cialized equipment for whatever challenges they expect
armored vehicles — their missions require speed, stealth,
to face. A cell usually has a central safe house or local
and mobility over firepower. If fuel is available,
headquarters, which can be expected to contain a long-
HMMWVs and civilian off-road vehicles are the trans-
range radio or SATCOM terminal, a surviving computer
portation of choice; if not, operators have first choice of
or two, and an armory with a few military-grade
any mounts available to their parent forces. Of course,
weapons for particularly heated negotiations.
any operator worthy of the name is capable of hiking
Vehicle: An operative cell uses whatever won’t
long distances with a punishing load, and the occasion-
attract attention in the area in which it’s operating. This
al long-range mission begins with a parachute jump
typically limits the cell to civilian transportation — alco-
from a transport aircraft.
hol-burning motor vehicles or muscle power. Those cells
Allies: As with infantry squads, special operations
that have salvaged or appropriated more advanced vehi-
teams can call on any military resources within reach.
cles keep them well hidden
This last clause is the limiting factor, though, as such
Allies: Most cells operate far from home, in territory
teams often operate too far from friendly forces for any
ranging from neutral and disinterested to actively hostile.
backup to make a difference.
Accordingly, the only allies upon whom an operative cell
can call with any reliability are those with whom its
members have established personal bonds of trust.

86
 the last war
Local Government equipment survived the EMP. Any officer, even in the
most formerly peaceful nations, now carries a sidearm
The influence of most national governments over the
and a melee weapon and wears light armor, and most
people who are nominally their citizens is greatly
supplement this with a shotgun, a submachine gun, or a
diminished in the post-Last War era. State and local
semi-automatic version of an assault rifle, depending on
governments are much more likely to have an impact on
local ammunition supplies.
the lives of citizens of any given area. Most areas con-
Vehicle: Emergency services have highest-priority
taining more than a few hundred people within a day’s
access to their communities’ fuel reserves, as mobility is
travel have established or rebuilt some form of govern-
essential for many of their duties. Some departments
ment, though it is likely to be much more streamlined
still use their prewar cruisers, while others have transi-
and pragmatic than its prewar counterpart. The general
tioned to off-road trucks to better handle the obstacles
agendas of local governments are, in order of priority:
common in ill-maintained communities or wilderness
the basic survival needs of their communities, including
areas. Police vehicles are almost always marked with
food, shelter, and medical care; protection from external
lights, sirens, or distinctive paint schemes, as traffic
(outlaws, neighboring hostile communities) and internal
enforcement is no longer a high-priority mission.
(criminals) threats; restoration of utilities and public
Allies: In areas where the police maintain their
works; and trade with non-hostile neighbors.
integrity, they often enjoy strong popular support from
Police Patrol the citizens they serve, while corrupt departments rarely
receive any help but that which comes grudgingly or
Missions: Police still serve their law enforcement
through coercion. In both cases, the local government’s
function, responding to reports of criminal activity and
bureaucracy is likely to provide logistical support, and
dealing with the perpetrators in whatever manner is
regional militaries may be willing to intercede in large
supported by local law and custom. In addition, they
crises.
serve as the first defense against outside threats, holding
the line until militia or military reinforcements can be Local Militia Squad
activated. Finally, they patrol the borders and major
Missions: Local militias assemble only when necessi-
travel routes of their jurisdictions, keeping an eye out
ty compels them to defend their communities. Some
for anyone or anything out of the ordinary.
individual members or small groups may conduct
In addition to the missions described above, police
“patrols” or “reconnaissance operations” when time per-
serving in larger areas of governance — states or
mits, but most militiamen are more concerned with their
provinces, usually — are often assigned border guard
day-to-day jobs.
duty. This involves manning checkpoints at state lines
Manpower: A militia squad consists of three to eight
and inspecting incoming traffic for contraband, known
irregular “troops.” If they’re lucky, their leader has some
fugitives, or travelers showing super flu symptoms.
military experience; if not, it’s the member with the
Manpower: In sparsely populated areas, a police
most charisma. At least some members of any given
patrol may consist of a lone lawman and his trusty
squad are seasoned hunters, though their fieldcraft may
mount (organic or mechanical). More commonly, how-
be compromised by less-adept comrades.
ever, patrols are comprised of two to four trained offi-
Gear: Militiamen carry a wide array of civilian and
cers, with the most senior member serving as comman-
military-surplus survival gear, ranging in quality from
der. In the event of large-scale problems, a patrol may
excellent to dubious depending on their prewar budgets
supplement itself with an equal number of deputies or
and postwar scavenging skills. While some communities
police auxiliaries — civilian volunteers who have
arm their militias with surplus military weapons, most
received minimal training and who are authorized to
militiamen make do with their civilian-market shotguns
perform law enforcement duties only while supervised
or hunting rifles. Body armor is almost unheard of.
by a sworn officer. Likewise, one or two paramedics may
Vehicle: A militia squad travels at the standards of
accompany officers responding to a situation involving
its parent community.
injuries or illness.
Allies: Militia groups usually rely on their fellow cit-
Gear: A police officer’s inventory always begins with
izens for both assistance and additional recruits. Past
the symbol of his authority: his badge. Other equipment
this, they usually work with friendly police forces or
is much the same as it was before the Last War: a uni-
militaries, though not always in a well-coordinated
form (less common in informal rural jurisdictions),
manner.
handcuffs, pepper spray, and a radio if the department’s

87
 battlegrounds
Raiding Party
Extremist Community Missions: As the name implies, the most common
In the Cold War era and subsequent prewar years,
mission for a raiding party is a raid on a community or
religious and political extremists — ranging from right-
convoy to acquire necessities or luxuries. Neo-barbar-
wing fundamentalists to anti-UN survivalists to IFO
ians often commit violent reprisals against any group
cultists — often drew together in small, isolated com-
that threatens them or inflicts severe casualties on them.
munities. There, they could espouse their beliefs without
Manpower: A raiding party consists of between
interference (real or imagined) from governments or
three and twenty loosely organized individuals led by a
majority groups. The super flu wiped out many of these
dangerous and charismatic commander. Most party
groups to the last believer, but a significant minority
members are adept at mayhem on an individual level,
survived intact due to this same isolation. These groups
but poorly disciplined and uncoordinated. Those who
(usually well-financed prior to the Last War) tend to be
have learned to follow orders and adhere to a plan are
strongly militant and can rely on fanatical, if not
an order of magnitude more dangerous.
always well-trained, defenders.
Gear: Neo-barbarians steal whatever isn’t nailed down,
Private Army Squad and are likely to be armed with anything short of tactical
weapons (they tend to avoid raiding military forces, whose
Missions: Most extremist groups are isolationist and
superior training and teamwork turn raiding parties into
rely on their private armies to defend them against any
dog food). Body armor is rare due to the discomfort of
outside aggression — or even outside contact. However,
wearing it, and working electronics are unheard of.
when self-reliance is impossible, these forces are called
Vehicle: Without ready supplies of fuel or spare
upon to conduct raids on nearby communities or
parts, few raiding parties permanently keep vehicles.
ambush travelers to procure the necessary resources.
They are more likely to steal what they need to carry off
Manpower: The structure of private armies depends on
their loot, then burn it once runs dry or breaks down.
the level of military experience represented in the group.
Allies: None to speak of. Multiple groups of neo-bar-
Some follow proper military chains of command, while
barians will occasionally unite against a particularly hard
others are irregular groups welded together by the per-
target, but these arrangements rarely last past the victo-
sonalities and fighting skills of low-level commanders.
ry party before disintegrating into gleeful fratricide.
Gear: Private army troops are armed with older-
model assault rifles, often acquired on the gray or black
market. Tactical weapons are rare, but clever improvisa-
tional use of civilian explosives can lead to unpleasant
surprises for an opponent. Most troops carry a minimum
IN THE SILENCE
A GC setting his campaign in the post-Last War era
of survival gear, as they rarely operate far from home.
faces some significant challenges, in terms of both game
Vehicle: Private armies are likely to have private
play and story. Agents operating after the end of the
stockpiles of fuel, though they’re reluctant to expend it
world have quite a bit more freedom of action than do
on routine operations. When it does mount an operation
those who answer to Control every week, and Spycraft
requiring transportation, a squad usually rides in high-
can’t cover every possible issue that may arise in such a
end civilian vehicles that may or may not be suitable for
situation. When in doubt, improvise, err on the side of
the mission at hand.
austerity, and don’t be afraid to say, “no, you can’t have
Allies: It is extremely rare for a private army to have
that, the world blew up.” Despite that, a few clear hard
friends or allies outside its own community, with the
guidelines exist for some of the more common issues
exception of like-minded extremists far enough away to
facing a post-Last War campaign.
not be competition.

Neo-Barbarians Isolation
In a year and a half, three-quarters of the world’s
Although laughable on the surface, survivors of the
population died. That figure has shown up before, and
Last War who have thrown off all external authority are
it bears repeating. If you’re reading this in a public
more common than many would wish. Some, such as
place, put the book down for a moment and take a look
former gangs, had no respect for government or civi-
around. Pick any four people you can see. Which one of
lization to begin with, while others are formerly law-
them would survive if this chapter’s events began
abiding members of society who were unhinged by the
today? To drive this point home to your players, ask
death of all they knew and loved. Most such groups
each of them to roll 1d4 when they sit down for their
claim self-sufficiency but are actually predatory, relying
first post-apocalyptic session. When they ask what
on force to procure the survival necessities that they do
you’re doing, answer, “if you rolled a one, you’d still be
not have the skills or the inclination to produce on their
alive in this world.”
own.

88
 the last war
Recommended Viewing
Post-apocalyptic settings have long been popular
for various modes of entertainment. Many of the fol-
lowing sources served as inspiration for the Last War,
and many of the optional rules in Chapter Six are
intended to allow an innovative GC to inflict them on
his players.
Films
Boy and His Dog, A (1975; dir. L.Q. Jones; with
Don Johnson, Jason Robards, and Susanne Benton):
Beloved cult adaptation of Harlan Ellison’s novella,
about a young scavenger in a post-apocalyptic world
who shares a telepathic link with his dog.
By Dawn’s Early Light (1990; dir. Jack Sholder;
with Powers Boothe, Rebecca De Mornay, and James
Earl Jones): Underrated direct-to-cable thriller con-
cerning the power struggle resulting from a limited
nuclear exchange.
The Day After (1983; dir. Nicholas Meyer; with Jason
Robards, JoBeth Williams, and Steve Guttenberg):
Regarded by many as the most effective depiction of
nuclear war ever made, this film focuses on the small
town of Lawrence, Kansas after the death of the world.
Dr. Strangelove (1964; dir. Stanley Kubrick; with
Peter Sellers, George C. Scott, and Sterling Hayden):
Perhaps the final word on nuclear war in all its hor-
rifying absurdity. Despite a blackly comic tone and
occasional slapstick humor, the scenario — in which
an unhinged American general triggers Armageddon
with an unauthorized attack on the Soviet Union —
remains chillingly plausible.
Fail-Safe (1964; dir. Sidney Lumet; with Henry
Fonda, Walter Matthau, and Dan O’Herlihy): Duller,
more straight-laced version of Strangelove, with
Fonda’s President trying to recall a nuclear attack
triggered by an electric malfunction.
Mad Max (1979; dir. George Miller; with Mel
Gibson, Joanne Samuel, and Hugh Keays-Byrne): In a
world teetering on the brink of nuclear war, the Main
Force Patrol holds the line against the civil disorder
sweeping Australia. The sequel films are set after the
collapse of civilization, but the original is perhaps the
most relevant here.
Miracle Mile (1988; dir. Steve De Jarnatt; with
Anthony Edwards, Mare Winningham, and Mykelti
Williamson): The last 24 hours before a nuclear war —
or is it just a sick joke? — as seen from the eyes of a
young man who picks up the god king of wrong num-
89
bers.
On the Beach (1959; dir. Stanley Kramer; with
Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, and Fred Astaire): Dated,
surprisingly bleak portrait of the survivors of a
nuclear attack, contemplating the end of life on Earth.
Postman, The (1997; dir. Kevin Costner; with
Costner, Olivia Williams, and Will Patton): Costner
delivers an overly-earnest, WAY too long adaptation
of David Brin’s post-apocalyptic novel.
Reign of Fire (2002; dir. Rob Bowman; with
Christian Bale, Matthew McConaughey, and Isabella
Scorupco): Reborn dragons ignite a global apocalypse
in this second-tier summer epic. Despite its fantasy
elements, it retains an excellent atmosphere and
a strong sense of how humans would survive
in terrain swept bare of all life.
Stand, The (1994; dir. Mick Garris; with Gary
Sinise, Molly Ringwald, and Jamie Sheridan): Garris
does a fair-to-middling job of translating Stephen
King’s canonical novel into a TV miniseries.
Thirteen Days (2000; dir. Roger Donaldson; with
Kevin Costner, Bruce Greenwood, and Stephen Culp):
A fictionalized account of the Cuban Missile Crisis,
notable mainly for the way it shows how small events
can lead to global catastrophe, and how geopolitical
entanglements can force good men into unspeakable
decisions.
Threads (1984; dir. Mick Jackson; with Karen
Meagher, David Brierly, and Rita May): Britain’s ver-
sion of The Day After, in some ways even more har-
rowing.
12 Monkeys (1995; dir. Terry Gilliam; with Bruce
Willis, Madeleine Stowe, and Brad Pitt): Gilliam’s
popular time-travel story posits a world destroyed by
plague, with numerous strong apocalyptic elements
upon which to draw.
28 Days Later (2002; dir. Danny Boyle; with
Cillian Murphy, Naomi Harris, and Christopher
Eccleston) : Though primarily considered a zombie
picture, it holds much to inspire a Last War campaign,
specifically its portrait of (disintegrating) military
authority, and some breathtaking shots of central
London transformed into a ghost town.
The War Game (1965; dir. Peter Watkins; with
Michael Aspel, Peter Graham, and Kathy Staff):
Not to be confused with the 1983 Matthew Broderick
movie, this unsettling pseudo-documentary chroni-
cles the effects of a nuclear war on the populace
of a British town.
 battlegrounds
Some of the strongest imagery in post-apocalyptic
fiction involves the emptiness of otherwise-familiar
places. The death toll wasn’t spread evenly across the
world. Some nations lost many more citizens than oth-
ers, and cities — teeming with humanity in our own
mental images of them — became mass graves for mil-
lions of inhabitants. At every dramatically appropriate
moment, play up the echoing silence of places that were
bustling with people only a year and a half ago. You
earn bonus points if you can work familiar places from
the agents’ own pasts into your story.
For agents who are accustomed to help being only a
favor check away, the absence of the Agency and
Control may be more of an isolating factor than a hun-
dred empty cities (yes, that means favor checks are
impractical in this setting — your players will have to
get over it). The initial euphoria of not being account-
able to any higher authority should quickly give way to
the realization that that same higher authority is never
going to get the agents out of trouble again. They are
alone in a way that few spies ever are. Military agents,
accustomed to operating within a rigidly-defined chain
of command with clear objectives, may feel even more
lost, despite having all of the skills necessary for sur-
vival after the plagues and the bombs. And speaking of
survival…
90
The Necessities of Survival
Agents aren’t normally worried about where their
next meal is coming from, what’s in their drinking
water, or where they’re going to sleep tonight. In a post-
apocalyptic environment, all of the comforts of civiliza-
tion that agents take for granted, from indoor plumbing
to taxis to satellite news reports, are gone. Suddenly,
they’re down to what they can carry on their backs,
every meal is another precious day of survival, and talk-
ing about the weather may be the most important con-
versation they have that day. Feel free to give those
encumbrance, starvation, and weather rules in the
Spycraft Espionage Handbook an occasional workout. In
addition, remember that Spycraft takes a lot of things
for granted that post-apocalyptic survivors can’t afford
to cavalierly wave off — things like fuel, spare batteries,
and antibiotics.
Keep your doomsaying to a dramatically appropriate
level, though. The agents are highly trained profession-
als (or should be), and incessant challenges of hunger
and rain without the occasional gunfight can lose their
impact quickly. Such factors are best used to nudge
recalcitrant players toward plots you’ve prepared
(“You’re down to your last MREs, but there’s a survivor
community nearby…”) or to complicate something that
seems to be going too easily (“You’re 28 lengths ahead
of your pursuers — but the flood has destroyed the
bridge!”).
Finally, spend an occasional breath or two describ-
ing the myriad discomforts of life without civ-
ilization. Agents who aren’t used to hik-
ing twenty miles a day to get from city
to city will soon rediscover the joys of
blisters, particularly if they insist on
wearing their gadget-laden wingtips
instead of comfortable standard-issue
combat boots. Dust is only a minor
annoyance or allergen until agents have
to clean it out of their gear at the end of
every day. Soap and toothpaste are fond
memories. With sufficient (but not exces-
sive) reminders, your agents will soon be
willing to pass up rewards like mint-con-
dition tactical weapons in favor of a hot
bath, a thick steak, and a real mattress
with clean sheets.
 the last war
Agents Without an Agency
Without outside supervision, agents may be at a loss
as to what to do, and some players can show a disturb-
ing tendency to descend into Grand Theft Auto-style
anarchy in such situations. The best way to forestall this
— aside from assembling a group of self-motivated and
cooperative players, of course, which we hope you
already have — is to put the agents in situations similar
to those they’d encounter on Agency-sponsored mis-
sions anyway and let the natural aggressiveness of
players drive the agents’ actions. The absence of the
Agency doesn’t mean that its values or goals are no
longer relevant, and you should reward agents who hold
to their values and fight for them. Perhaps their efforts
may draw the attention of the last surviving Control…
Of course, some agents may decide that the Agency
is a casualty of the Last War, becoming freelancers sell-
ing their talents to the highest bidders for food and
ammunition. There’s nothing innately wrong with this,
either — disenfranchised and abandoned warriors are
common and compelling characters in post-apocalyptic
fiction. However, all but the most callous of these well-
known heroes eventually adopt causes as their own,
even if it does take the tragic sacrifices of allies or inno-
cents (read: NPCs) to motivate them.
If you want to go with literary precedents, there are
three common tropes in post-apocalyptic stories:
• Only the Strong Survive. The rule of law is replaced by
vicious Darwinian conflict. In this world, agents must
rely on their combat capabilities above all else.
• The Meek Inherit the Earth. While the Strong are busy
shooting each other to bits over the last can of beer in
all of California, those who scream and run away live to
rule another day. In this world, agents must rely on wits,
stealth, and charm. In traditional Westerns, which
extend many of their characteristics to modern science
fiction, the corollary to this is that the Strong make
damn fine protectors of the Meek, but their restless feet
and itchy trigger fingers make them wholly unsuited
for life in the paradises they save. Keep movin’, cow-
boy…
• Everybody Dies. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse
spare no soul. In this world, it doesn’t matter what
agents rely on — except, perhaps, for the purpose of
dying well against impossible odds. This situation is not
recommended for most groups due to its profound lack
of fun — unless your players appreciate the bitter taste
of ashes.

Recommended reading
Roleplaying Games
Books
This chapter only scratches the surface of the possi-
Post-apocalyptic fiction ranges from the epic to the
bilities inherent in post-apocalyptic roleplaying. Three
egregiously bad. Some of the better options include:
of the strongest influences on this chapter are:
Andromeda Strain, The (Michael Crichton): One of
Deadlands: The Wasted West (Pinnacle Entertain-
Crichton’s earliest man-vs.-nature science fiction
ment Group): A post-holocaust horror/science fiction
works, this novel focuses on scientists rushing to con-
Western set 13 years after a magically-enhanced
tain and analyze an extraterrestrial virus before it can
nuclear war, this game’s occasional campiness is large-
wipe out all of humanity.
ly obscured by some of the most viscerally unpleasant
Boy and His Dog, A (Harlan Ellison): Ellison
antagonists to ever receive stat blocks.
is at the top of his game in this darkly whimsical
The Morrow Project (Timeline Ltd.): A precogni-
look at the end of the world and what happened
tive millionaire seeds the United States with bunkers
afterwards. This work is widely reputed to be the
filled with reconstruction teams in cryogenic hiberna-
inspiration for the Fallout series of PC and console
tion. Their mission is to rebuild the world after the
games.
predicted nuclear war. Still supported, with a fourth
Postman, The (David Brin): Better known as a
edition in the works.
Kevin Costner film, this is a one-generation-later look
Twilight: 2000 (GDW): The definitive post-WWIII
at the former United States after an unspecified glob-
military RPG and the admitted inspiration for this
al war.
chapter was introduced in the mid-1980s, when a
Stand, The (Stephen King): This is an epic tale of
land war in Eastern Europe seemed possible, if not
an apocalyptic battle between good and evil set
likely. The fall of the Soviet Union rendered it obso-
against the aftermath of a 99% fatal viral weapon
lete, but it still has a strong fan following. Original
outbreak. It’s a grimmer story than anything we
printings often show up on eBay, and Far Future
could publish in this book, and a merciless look at
Enterprises is re-releasing it in collected volumes. Its
how the survivors of such a catastrophe would
cousin, 2300 AD, is set in the starfaring future of the
react.
Twilight War and provides a history of the long-term
reconstruction that might occur after such a conflict.

91
 battlegrounds
Ultimately, the kind of story you tell is up to you, as Between the super flu and the nuclear blast, 80% of
it always is. A post-apocalyptic environment offers a the city’s population is now dead. Most of the remain-
unique combination of challenges, scenery, despair, and ing citizens have since left for outlying communities or
hope. The last piece of advice we offer you — and pos- distant families, leaving fewer than 5% of the prewar
sibly the most critical — is that the post-apocalyptic sto- inhabitants still in the area. The average survivor is a
ries traditionally considered the best and most inspiring 1st-level NPC with no combat capabilities to speak of.
aren’t about mere salvage and survival. They’re about There is no surviving city government, and no power
salvation, redemption, and continuation — not of the blocs have yet formed enough to establish a new one.
protagonists, but of humanity as a whole. Most survivors live in “families”— basically, small
groups who can get along with one another and have
complementary skills — in lightly-damaged buildings on
THEOperation
MISSION Dark Tower
the north and west sides of the city.
Those families with agricultural knowledge have
claimed the city parks as improvised farmland, and a
farmer’s market and bazaar occupies the bottom two
This mission is appropriate for a team of 3-5 agents
floors of a downtown parking garage. This area is the
levels 3, 8, 13, and 18.
only part of the city with any law enforcement to speak
Operation Dark Tower is intended as an introducto-
of, and is regulated by the city’s 14 remaining police
ry mission for the post-apocalyptic setting presented in
officers. The local economy is barter-based, with books
this chapter. It takes place at the end of the Last War’s
on technical subjects currently in high demand. No pub-
timeline (see page 75).
lic utilities have been restored yet, and fuel is limited to
The Setting that which can be siphoned from gas stations’ under-
ground tanks.
You may choose to set Operation Dark Tower in any
All in all, the city is an unremarkable combination
small- to mid-sized city in any area of the world —
of destruction and good fortune. What makes it impor-
wherever you want your agents to begin their odyssey
tant to the agents is the surviving field headquarters —
across a war-torn planet. The city itself plays only a
either of the Agency or of one of its rivals, depending
minor part in the mission, though your players will most
on which action option you choose — that is located in
likely want to linger on it for some time before getting
the downtown area.
down to business. The following details provide a
framework for further improvisation. The Tower
The City Before the Last War, the city was home to a minor
field headquarters for an intelligence agency. The exis-
The city was far enough from any front lines that the
tence of this facility was not public knowledge, and
various ground wars around the world touched it only
even within the agency’s bureaucracy it was largely
through nightly news broadcasts. It suffered some minor
unnoticed. Staff assigned to it treated it as a rubber-
damage during the civil disorder spawned by Strain II, but
stamp job, somewhere to park a desk for two years
local authorities managed to keep most of it under control.
before moving on to a better position, while agents
However, the heavy industrial areas on the eastern side of
availing themselves of its services saw it as an unim-
the city attracted a single 120-kiloton airburst during the
portant source of last-minute updates and equipment.
nuclear phase of the Last War. Damage to the downtown
Its location under the sub-basement of an innocuous
core, although extensive, was not as bad as it could have
office tower was unremarkable save for its lack of crea-
been, and prevailing winds carried the minimal fallout
ture comforts.
away from the city. Most buildings east of downtown are
It has now achieved prominence because it is the last
partially collapsed and/or burnt, and the east-facing glass
facility that that agency controls within a thousand miles.
of every building not in a blast shadow is shattered.
Most of the installation’s personnel fell victim to
The industrial area itself is the only place in the area
Strain II, and only one survived the nuclear attack.
where extensive residual radiation remains, thanks to
Formerly an assistant lab supervisor, Michael Seleckis
the large amount of irradiated steel in the vicinity —
has self-promoted to the de facto rank of station chief.
treat this as a DC 15 radiation save (see page 119),
In the absence of orders from a Control, Seleckis —
which agents must make every time they enter the area
a claustrophobe who was never comfortable with the
and at the end of every full six-hour period they spend
facility’s location — salvaged the essential data and gear
there. Any metal item scavenged from the area prompts
he needed to run a one-man intelligence collection center,
a DC 8 radiation save at the end of every six-hour peri-
moved it to the 12th floor of the tower, and activated the
od an agent is in contact with it. These hazards are
self-destruct thermite charges in the original facility.
obvious to anyone using a Geiger counter.

92
 the last war
Outside
From the outside, the tower is a nondescript exam-
ple of late-eighties industrial design. It presents a blank
face of mirrored glass to the world, save for the shat-
tered east side and a few panes on the ground and sec-
ond floors that have suffered casual vandalism. A clus-
ter of satellite communication dishes rises over the edge
of the roof, and small balconies protrude from the north
and south faces on every floor above the second. The
main entrance faces west, looking over a parking lot
that now stands empty save for a few dirty and inoper-
ative cars that haven’t moved since Strain II broke out.
To the south, a three-story parking garage with two sub-
levels serves both the tower and several nearby low-rise
office buildings on the same block.
Aside from two banks of double doors at the main
entrance, the other ways into the building are the fire
doors on the north and south walls and two roll-up
doors on the loading dock in the parking garage’s first
sub-level. The fire doors are of standard security con-
struction with no exterior hinges or handles — treat
them as steel doors with hardness 15, 70 wound points,
an Open Lock DC of 30, and a break DC of 30. The roll-
up dock doors are locked from the inside and have iden-
tical statistics, but a Spot check (DC 20) shows signs of
recent use — this is the route Seleckis uses when leav-
ing and entering the building.
Inside
The tower’s lobby is dominated by a massive —
and unused — security desk with seats for four guards
and banks of silent monitors. The rest of the ground
floor is taken up by conference rooms. Curving stair-
cases on either side of the lobby rise to the second
floor’s mezzanine area, which houses an abandoned
coffee shop. The elevators and fire stairs are in the same
respective places as they occupy on the map of the 12th
floor (see page 95). The fire stairs are unlocked. If the
agents force the elevator doors open (Hardness 10, 60
wound points, break DC 15), they can clearly see both
elevators stopped between the 7th and 8th floors.
The ground floor has been looted of anything useful.
On the second floor, mummified pastries crumble to
dust in the glass counter and the espresso machine is
missing. This floor has also been looted, but a Search
check (DC 15) reveals four vacuum-sealed one-pound
bags of Sumatran coffee in the back corner of a cabinet.
Unless the agents want to collect plastic ware or
decayed fruit, there’s nothing else of use here. Again,
the elevators and fire stairs are in the same respective
places as on the map.
The basement level contains the building’s
boiler/chiller system and maintenance shop. Most of the
tools here are already gone — looted following the chaos
of Strain II — but a Search check (DC 15) turns up
93
enough spares to piece together a complete mechanic’s
kit, as well as a decade-old swimsuit calendar.
Above the 3rd floor, all floors save for the 12th are
identical: abandoned office spaces for insurance firms,
brokerages, psychologists, and staffing agencies. On any
given floor, a search turns up normal office supplies,
furniture, and other equipment. Every computer has
been destroyed by EMP. Each floor’s break room has
been emptied of all foodstuffs. The third and fourth
floors show signs of looting, but the others are
untouched.
The roof is liberally covered with satellite dishes and
a microwave relay tower, none of which appear to have
been maintained since the nuke fell. The largest clear
area here is approximately 20 feet square — not enough
for even the smallest helicopter to land safely. A waist-
high concrete safety lip runs the entire circumference of
the roof.
The fire stairs are safe up to the 4th floor — Seleckis
didn’t want to establish any security arrangements that
would be immediately obvious or fatal to casual looters.
However, the following traps are in place in each stairwell:
• 5th floor: The stairwell door is barricaded with a pair
of cheap metal desks and a pile of other furniture that
also blocks the entire landing. Any agent attempting to
squeeze past or clamber over must succeed in a Balance
check (DC 20) to avoid dislodging anything. If the bar-
ricade is disturbed in any way, the entire precarious
mess comes crashing down the stairs, inflicting 3d6
damage on anyone in contact with it or on the flight of
stairs immediately below it (Reflex save (DC 14) to avoid
entirely). If an agent succeeds in a Mechanics check (DC
30) before the trap is triggered, he learns that the
arrangement is deliberately balanced to remain stable
until touched.
• 6th-7th floor landing: A desiccated corpse is sprawled
here, facedown, still clutching a crowbar. The body
appears to be that of a mid-thirties male and is dressed
in street clothes appropriate to the area. A successful
First Aid or Knowledge (Forensics) check (DC 15) indi-
cates that death took place between 4 and 6 months
ago, while critical success indicates that the body was
moved here postmortem. A canvas backpack lies on the
floor next to the body. The backpack contains two plas-
tic bottles of chemicals, each with a set of holes
punched into the side that’s currently up. If the agents
disturb the backpack without carefully examining it
first (Demolitions or Search check (DC 20)), these chem-
icals mix and explode: treat as an incendiary grenade
(Spycraft Espionage Handbook, page 121), but the
subsequent damage is acid rather than fire. If the blast
occurs, any evidence remaining suggests that the
explosion was accidental unless the examining agent
rolls a critical success.
 battlegrounds
• 9th floor: A CS grenade (Spycraft Espionage
Handbook, page 121) with a tripwire is duct-taped to
the railing. Spot DC 10, Demolitions DC 10 to defuse.
• 11th-12th floor landing: Two five-gallon buckets with
flammable liquid stickers are in plain view on the land-
ing, duct-taped together amid a spider web of trip-
wires, all of which run to a flash-bang grenade also
taped to the buckets. The grenade can be defused by
the simple expedient of cutting the wires. However, a
Spot check (DC 25) reveals that the agents may not
want to do that — several of the wires run into small
holes punched in the buckets rather than to the
grenade. When tension on the wires is released, or if the
agents open or move the buckets, or if the flash-bang
goes off, a booster charge under each bucket deto-
nates, kicking the buckets four feet in the air before the
second pair of charges explodes as a pair of bounding
fragmentation mines (Modern Arms Guide, page
119). A Demolitions check (DC 40) is required to com-
pletely defuse the entire trap.
The security measures in place in the elevator shaft
are much simpler — and potentially more lethal due to
the hazard of falling after triggering them. The follow-
ing traps are in place in both elevator shafts, attached
to the maintenance ladders:
• Above every odd-numbered floor, a fist-sized capacitor
from a car stereo system is wired to complete a circuit
when a climber comes in contact with two specific rungs,
at which point the capacitor discharges for 3d8 electrical
damage. An agent who triggers this trap may make
a Reflex save (DC 14) for half damage; he must then make
a second Reflex save (DC equal to the damage he took)
to avoid losing his grip on the ladder. Search DC 20
to find, Electronics DC 25 to defuse.
• Above every odd-numbered floor, one rung of the lad-
der has been replaced with a well-oiled handle attached
to a steel cable. If an agent puts his weight on the han-
dle, the cable trips a mechanical device that interrupts
the emergency brake of the elevator above him, whose
cables have been cut. The elevator immediately falls;
any agent who fails a Reflex save (DC 20) takes 1d8
damage for every floor the elevator has fallen to reach
him, then must make an immediate Strength check (DC
18) to avoid being swept off the ladder by the impact.
Special Note: At second, third, or fourth tier,
Seleckis’ feats and saboteur class abilities come into
play when agents try to notice or disable any of these
traps:
• Second tier: The error range of all Spot checks made to
notice Seleckis’ traps and explosives, as well as all
attempts to disarm them, is increased by 2.
94
• Third tier: The error range of all Spot checks made to
notice Seleckis’ traps and explosives, as well as all
attempts to disarm them, is increased by 5. Any ability,
feat, or effect that normally halves the damage rolled
for one of Seleckis’ explosives — including evasion —
may not be used to reduce damage from his explosives.
All of his explosives inflict an additional 2d6 damage.
• Fourth tier: The error range of all Spot checks made to
notice Seleckis’ traps, as well as all attempts to disarm
them, is increased by 10. Any ability, feat, or effect that
normally halves the damage rolled for one of Seleckis’
explosives — including evasion — may not be used to
reduce damage from his explosives. All of his explosives
inflict an additional 2d6 damage and have their threat
ranges increased by 2.
The Last Station
The 12th floor, once identical to the tower’s other
office floors, has been converted into a somewhat
defensible intelligence facility. The following key corre-
sponds to the map on page 95.
1. Empty offices: These rooms still contain their
original furniture and office supplies, and nothing
of interest. Seleckis rarely enters them save for an
occasional change of scenery, and a thin layer of dust
has collected on most surfaces.
2. Cubicle farm: When the building was in use, this
room was full of individual office cubicles. Seleckis has
dismantled these, creating a single large open area with
stacks of cubicle wall segments in the northwest corner.
The room also contains a rack of improvised weights
and a couch converted to a weight bench.
3. Wiring closet: The breaker boxes, network routers,
and telephone switching equipment for the entire
floor are located here. Seleckis has cannibalized some
of this equipment for spare electronic components, but
a determined effort — eight man-hours and an Electronics
skill check (DC 20) — would yield enough components
to repair 20 points of abuse to electronic devices.
4. Balcony: A four-foot-high safety railing runs
around the edge of the balcony. Five-gallon buckets
half-full of sand and soggy cigarette butts reveal that
these were the building’s smoking areas. The exterior
doors to the balconies are mirrored glass — Hardness 1,
1 wound point — and are not locked.
5. Bedroom: Seleckis uses this former office as his
bedroom. It contains a futon, three bookshelves full of
reference materials, and an improvised clothing rack, as
well as Seleckis’ personal effects. The windows are hung
with blackout curtains to allow Seleckis to read by can-
dlelight without allowing any light to escape to the out-
side.
 the last war
1 square = 5’

1 1 1 12

11

10 10

8 9 9

4 4

3 7

5
2

1 1

95
 battlegrounds
6. Break room: This room contains the usual office
kitchen equipment (refrigerator, coffee machines, water
cooler, microwaves), most of which is nonfunctional
without electricity. The cabinets contain 24 MREs and
two five-gallon cans of water, as well as several dozen
cans of soup and a few meals worth of fresh vegetables,
bread, and salted pork. A propane camp stove sits on the
counter along with a good supply of paper plates and
cups from the coffee shop downstairs. A two-gallon
solar shower is hung by the window. Like the bedroom
next door, this room’s windows are equipped with
blackout curtains for nighttime use.
7. Armory: Formerly, this was one of two HVAC
equipment rooms, but Seleckis disposed of the equip-
ment formerly housed here by tossing it down the north
elevator shaft. The room is now the station’s small
armory, containing whatever equipment that the agents
will receive when gearing up at the station (see The
Action below). Seleckis keeps his own personal weapons
and gear with him or in his bedroom.
8. Generator room: The other HVAC room, similarly
emptied, now houses a small diesel generator, whose
exhaust is routed into the building’s ventilation system,
and four 55-gallon drums of fuel. Two fire extinguish-
ers are bracketed to the wall outside the door. The gen-
erator is wired to power the wall outlets in the server
room (K) and SATCOM room (L) only.
9. Elevator shafts.
10. Stairwells.
11. Computer room: Once another cubicle farm, this
room now contains the centerpiece of the station: three
working desktop computers (power ratings +5, +3, and
+2) with frag switches. Each computer is covered by a
3-foot metal framework draped in what looks like
chicken wire. An Electronics or education check (DC 12)
reveals that these are Faraday cages, which shield all
electronic devices within them from EMP and TEMPEST.
12. SATCOM room: The original office furniture
is still in place in this room, which also contains
the station’s SATCOM terminal and attached encoding/
decoding machine. The 5’ square directly in front of the
southern window is occupied by the terminal’s satellite
dish, facing southeast. Three layers of plastic sheeting
are carefully hung in front of the broken eastern win-
dows to cultivate the building’s deserted image while
still shielding the contents of the room from observa-
tion. This arrangement is far from ideal, but this room
has the best view of the part of the sky where the nec-
essary communication satellite hangs in geosynchro-
nous orbit.
96
The Action — Option #1
Read the following aloud to begin.
It’s been five months since the nukes fell, and four
since your last static-choked radio contact with
Control: “Good luck, agents. You’re on your own.”
Since then, you’ve been wandering a devastated
world, searching for friendly forces.
Your search was in vain until three weeks ago, when
your last working radio plucked a scrap of an encrypt-
ed transmission on Agency frequencies from the
ionosphere. Just two words — “Dark Tower,” the
Agency code phrase for a field headquarters — and a
set of coordinates. That message has brought you
here, to a shattered city that may hold your last hope
of re-establishing contact with the Agency.
Gearing Up
This mission is the agents’ first experience in the post-
apocalyptic world. They were on an unrelated mission
when the world ended, and begin this mission with only
their personal budget items and any vehicles they can
acquire with custom ride GPs alone. Once they make con-
tact with Michael Seleckis, they may gear up as per the
optional long-term mission rules presented in Chapter Six.
Whatever items they select are what’s in Seleckis’ armory
(aside from his personal equipment, of course).
Events
When the agents arrive in the city, they have no idea
where the facility they seek might be located. Conducting
a building-to-building search would take months unless
they get lucky (a critical success on a Search check). Their
best option is to acquire information from the local citi-
zens that will lead them to Seleckis:
• A complex Gather Information check (DC 200, interval
1 hour) eventually turns up a description of a “crazy
guy who scavenges electronic equipment” who lives in
an otherwise-abandoned office complex.
• With a successful Gather Information or Search check (DC
15), agents browsing the common market find an elec-
tronics toolkit bearing Agency markings. Inquiries with
the appropriate vendors provide Seleckis’ description.
• If the agents speak to any local police officer, a disposi-
tion check with a Helpful or better result will eventually
lead the officer to tell the agents about the above-men-
tioned individual, who he suspects is ex-military — “no
reason, just a feeling I get — folks say he’s crazy but they
don’t really look at his eyes. He’s got that stare, y’know?”
 the last war
Unless the agents specifically take pains to conceal
their inquiries, Seleckis will hear about them within a
day. When he learns that someone’s looking for him,
he’ll trail the agents for a few hours to learn as much as
he can about them, then approach them in his “crazy
tech-geek hermit” guise. Once he’s as certain as he can
be that they are, in fact, Agency personnel, he’ll bring
them back to the tower and show them his “safe” route
up: using his climbing belt gadget to ascend to the
underside of one of the elevators, then swinging over to
the maintenance ladder above his traps and climbing
the rest of the way.
Upon reaching the field HQ, Seleckis will see to the
agents’ comfort, fixing them what may be the first well-
cooked meal they’ve had in months and tending to any
injuries they may have. If they ask about equipment,
he’ll grudgingly show them his small armory and allow
them to gear up.
While the agents are eating or gearing up, Seleckis
will fire up the generator and retire to the computer
room. Agents who check on his activities see him burn-
ing a set of DVD-ROMs — his weekly backups, if anyone
asks. Once he’s done, Seleckis returns to the agents and
sees to their comfort, giving them spare blankets and
allowing them to make their beds in the cubicle farm or
any empty office. He’s eager for news of the outside
world, but hasn’t had any contact with the Agency since
the nukes went off. Any agents who can give him a
challenge in poker will earn his lifelong friendship.
Unfortunately for the agents, the peaceful haven
they’ve found does not remain undisturbed. Shortly
before they arrived in the city, an enemy commando team
in a situation similar to their own located Seleckis’ facil-
ity (see Death Commandos, page 100). These commandos
are equally low on supplies and gear, but have a plan
to hit the tower from multiple directions. There is one
minion squad per agent, plus a number equal to the
mission’s tier for Seleckis. Two squads enter the building
from the ground floor, one taking each stairwell up,
while the rest use improvised hang gliders to soar from
a nearby skyscraper to the roof of the tower. Once the
roof teams are in place, an hour before dawn, the ground
teams start their way up.
When the assault begins, the agents are awakened by
a loud metallic crash — one of the commando teams has
tripped one of the 5th floor stairwell traps. They have
one minute (10 rounds) to prepare before the roof team
acts — a pair of satchel charges on ropes swings against
the windows of the cubicle farm and detonate, blowing
in the glass. The remaining attackers rappel down from
the roof, one squad per round, and enter the cubicle
farm, fanning out to kill everyone in the facility.
Seleckis, who they’ve already identified, is their prima-
ry target; the agents are just speed bumps. The com-
mandos are both fanatical and desperate, and will fight
97
to the last man. The two squads from the stairs show up
as reinforcements at a dramatically appropriate time.
In the exchange of lead that occurs, Seleckis makes
for the computer room to activate the frag switch on the
computers and is fatally wounded accomplishing this
task. He survives just long enough to deliver the fol-
lowing speech to the agents before expiring:
“Disks… under my futon. Was going to send them out
with you… pulled the data off the uplink before the
nukes hit. Couldn’t make contact with anyone to get
it out. Take it… to Control. Decrypt G-eight-eight-six.
Could be… key to saving…”
The contents of the DVD-ROMs are encrypted with a
power rating 12 block cipher (see the Faceman/Snoop
Class Guide, page 120) for which the agents do not
have the key. The GC is free to determine an appropri-
ately important piece of information that the disks con-
tain, though finding the encryption key should be a
major challenge spanning several future serials.
XP Rewards
Upon completion of this action scene, each agent
gains the following XP rewards.
• Killing one or more of the enemy characters*:
75/200/325/475 XP per agent.
• Killing all enemy characters*: 150/400/650/950 XP
per agent.
• Capturing one or more of the enemy characters*:
225/600/975/1,425 XP per agent.
• Capturing all enemy characters*: 300/800/1,300/
1,900 XP per agent.
• Securing the information on Seleckis’ computer:
300/800/1,300/1,900 XP per agent.
* Each agent earns only the highest of these rewards.
Option #2 — The Gunslingers
Read the following aloud to begin.
It’s been five months since the nukes fell, and four
since your last static-choked radio contact with
Control: “Good luck, agents. You’re on your own.”
Since then, you’ve been wandering a devastated
world, searching for friendly forces.
Your search so far has been in vain, but three weeks
ago, while passing through a small farming commu-
nity, you caught wind of a rumor: a team similar to
your own, an implied destination of a nearby city, and
the phrase “Dark Tower” — an enemy code for a field
headquarters. If you can’t find a friendly facility from
which to re-equip yourselves and establish contact
with Control, your next best option is to take what
you need from the hands of your fallen foes.
 battlegrounds
Gearing Up
This mission is the agents’ first experience in the
post-apocalyptic world. They were on an unrelated mis-
sion when the world ended, and begin this mission with
only their personal budget items and any vehicles they
can acquire with custom ride GPs alone. Once they take
over the enemy facility, they may gear up as per the
optional long-term mission rules presented in Chapter
Six. Whatever items they select are what’s in the tower’s
armory.
Events
Once the agents arrive in the city, their primary
objective is to locate the enemy facility. Any of the
courses of action listed under Option #1 will be equally
effective here. However, in this case, Seleckis will iden-
tify the agents as enemies and will not approach them.
The agents should have several chances to identify him,
however, and shadow him back to the tower.
Once the agents have located the enemy facility,
they are free to assault it in whatever manner they can
devise. Unless they pick a time at which Seleckis is out,
they will have to face him. In addition, regardless of
Seleckis’ presence, the tower is occupied by the enemy
strike team that the agents followed to the city — one
squad per agent (see Enemy Agents, page 102). The rest
of the mission should be a fairly straightforward com-
bat.
In the combat, Seleckis makes for the computer room
to activate the frag switch on the computers. He, or one
of the other enemy agents, survives the combat just
long enough to have a dying moment of forgiveness
and deliver the following speech to the agents before
expiring:
“Disks… under the futon. More important than you or
me… or the war. Pulled the data off the uplink before
the nukes hit. Couldn’t make contact with anyone to
get it out. Maybe… you’ll see through to doing the
right thing with it. Could be… key to saving…”
The contents of the DVD-ROMs are encrypted with a
power rating 12 block cipher (see the Faceman/Snoop
Class Guide, page 120) for which the agents do not
have the key. The GC is free to determine an appropri-
ately important piece of information that the disks con-
tain, though finding the encryption key should be a
major challenge spanning several future serials.
98
XP Rewards
Upon completion of this action scene, each agent
gains the following XP rewards.
• Killing one or more of the enemy characters*:
75/200/325/475 XP per agent.
• Killing all enemy characters*: 150/400/650/950 XP
per agent.
• Capturing one or more of the enemy characters*:
225/600/975/1,425 XP per agent.
• Capturing all enemy characters*: 300/800/1,300/
1,900 XP per agent.
• Securing the DVD-ROMs: 300/800/1,300/1,900 XP
per agent.
* Each agent earns only the highest of these rewards.
Statistics
Michael Seleckis
Formerly a military combat engineer, Seleckis retired
after a futile peacekeeping deployment in the Balkans.
The Agency immediately recruited him for its technical
division, where he excelled while somehow managing to
avoid any significant praise from his superiors. He hates
any sort of physical exertion, but will push himself to it
through sheer force of will because he recognizes its
necessity — especially in the current world situation.
Two hours before the nuke hit the city, Seleckis
tapped an enemy communications satellite’s transmis-
sions and downloaded everything he could get, includ-
ing a lengthy data file that resisted all attempts to
decrypt it. Cracking the file took him three months, but
once he succeeded, he realized that what he had could
mean life or death for a large part of the planet’s sur-
viving population. He’s been trying to re-establish con-
tact with the Agency ever since, but can’t get through
to anyone to whom he can give his information. He’s
considered abandoning his post and making the journey
to the site of the Agency’s regional headquarters, but he
knows his chances of moving solo are slim at best, and
has no guarantee that there’ll be anyone there to receive
his data anyway.
When dealing with outsiders, Seleckis uses an alter-
nate persona, that of a mildly unhinged (but mostly
harmless) electronics repairman who barters salvaged
equipment for the necessities of survival.
 the last war
Michael Seleckis (first tier — target average agent
level 3), 3rd-level snoop/2nd-level fixer (special NPC):
Department: Army Combat Engineer. CR 5. SZ M; v/wp
31/13; Init +4 (+1 Dex, +3 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 16
(+1 Dex, +5 class); Atk: fist/punch +3 (dmg 1d3+1 sub-
dual, error 1, threat 20), 5.7×28mm FN Five-seveN +3
(dmg 1d10+1 normal, error 1, threat 20, range 25 ft.,
qualities: AP, DS – 20 shots of FMJ ammunition w/
3 extra magazines); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square;
SA astute, evasion (no damage on save), flawless search,
intuition 1/session, jury-rig +2, procure; SQ None;
SV Fort +4, Ref +8, Will +5; Str 12, Dex 12, Con 13,
Int 18, Wis 16, Cha 10;
Skills: Bluff +6, Computers +12, Craft (Combat
Engineer) +14, Cryptography +12, Demolitions +14,
Disguise +4, Electronics +14 (threat 19–20), Gather
Information +6, Hide +7 (threat 19–20), Hobby
(Gambling) +5, Mechanics +14 (threat 19–20), Move
Silently +7 (threat 19–20), Open Lock +7, Profession
(Military) +7, Surveillance +11.
Feats: Armor Proficiency (Light), Explosives Basics,
Grease Monkey, Stealthy, Weapon Group Proficiency
(Hurled, Melee, Handgun, Rifle).
Gear: Weapons, EOD kit (superior tools), electronics kit,
laptop computer, mechanics kit, standard belt gadget,
deck of playing cards, poker chips.
Michael Seleckis (second tier — target average
agent level 8), 5th-level snoop/3rd-level fixer/2nd-
level saboteur (special NPC): Department: Army Combat
Engineer. CR 10. SZ M; v/wp 60/13; Init +6 (+1 Dex,
+5 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 20 (+1 Dex, +9 class); Atk:
fist/punch +6 (dmg 1d3+1 subdual, error 1, threat 20),
5.7×28mm FN P90 +7 (dmg 1d10+1 normal, accuracy
–1, error 1-2, threat 19–20, range 30 ft., qualities and
mods: AP, BP, DS, RG, SL, SS, laser sight – 50 shots of
FMJ ammunition w/ 3 extra magazines); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA anti-tampering, astute, back door,
demolition man (False Start), evasion (no damage on
save), flawless search, “If you see me running…,” intu-
ition 1/session, jury-rig +3, procure, sneak attack +1d6;
SQ None; SV Fort +4, Ref +12, Will +7; Str 12, Dex 13,
Con 13, Int 18, Wis 16, Cha 10;
Skills: Bluff +8, Bureaucracy +4 (threat 19–20),
Computers +14, Craft (Combat Engineer) +17,
Cryptography +14, Demolitions +22 (threat 19–20),
Disguise +6, Electronics +19 (threat 19–20), First Aid +9,
Gather Information +8, Hide +9 (threat 19–20), Hobby
(Gambling) +5, Mechanics +19 (threat 19–20), Move
Silently +9 (threat 19–20), Open Lock +9, Profession
(Military) +7, Search +10, Spot +7, Surveillance +18
(threat 19–20).
99
Feats: Armor Proficiency (Light), Explosives Basics,
False Start (modified: Demolitions only), Grease Monkey,
Police Training, Sidestep, Stealthy, Weapon Group
Proficiency (Hurled, Melee, Handgun, Rifle).
Gear: Weapons, EOD kit (superior tools), electronics
kit, laptop computer (+1 power rating), mechanics kit,
magnetic flask gadget, standard belt gadget, deck of
playing cards, poker chips.
Michael Seleckis (third tier — target average agent
level 13), 5th-level snoop/5th-level fixer/5th-level
saboteur (special NPC): Department: Army Combat
Engineer. CR 15. SZ M; v/wp 106/14; Init +7 (+1 Dex,
+6 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 21 (+1 Dex, +10 class); Atk:
fist/punch +7 (dmg 1d3+1 subdual, error 1, threat 20),
5.7×28mm FN P90 +8 (dmg 1d10+1 normal, accuracy
–1, error 1–2, threat 19–20, range 30 ft., qualities and
mods: AP, BP, DS, RG, SL, SS, laser sight — 50 shots of
FMJ ammunition w/ 3 extra magazines); fragmentation
grenade +7 (dmg 2d10 normal, error 1–4, threat –,
range 15 ft., blast 10 ft. – 3 grenades); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA anti-tampering, astute, back door,
chain reaction, demolition man (False Start, Mastery,
improvise), evasion (no damage on save), flawless
search, “If you see me running…,” intuition 1/session,
jury-rig +3, like a whisper (Advanced), procure, sneak
attack +2d6, uncanny dodge (Dex bonus to Defense);
SQ None; SV Fort +6, Ref +14, Will +7; Str 12, Dex 13,
Con 14, Int 18, Wis 16, Cha 10;
Skills: Bluff +10, Bureaucracy +4 (threat 19–20),
Computers +16, Craft (Combat Engineer) +23, Craft
(cooking) +6, Cryptography +16, Demolitions +28
(threat 19–20), Disguise +8, Electronics +24 (threat
19–20), First Aid +9, Gather Information +8, Hide +12
(threat 18–20), Hobby (Gambling) +8, Listen +7 (threat
19–20), Mechanics +24 (threat 19–20), Move Silently
+12 (threat 18–20), Open Lock +16, Profession
(Military) +7, Search +16 (threat 19–20), Spot +11
(threat 19–20), Surveillance +23 (threat 19–20).
Feats: Advanced Skill Mastery (Stealthy), Alertness, Armor
Proficiency (Light), Explosives Basics, Explosives Mastery,
False Start (modified: Demolitions only), Grease Monkey,
Police Training, Quick Draw, Sidestep, Stealthy, Weapon
Group Proficiency (Hurled, Melee, Handgun, Rifle).
Gear: Weapons, EOD kit (superior tools), electronics
kit, laptop computer (+2 power rating), mechanics kit,
explosive pen gadget, magnetic flask gadget, standard
belt gadget, deck of playing cards, poker chips.
 battlegrounds
Michael Seleckis (fourth tier — target average agent
level 18), 5th-level snoop/5th-level fixer/10th-level
saboteur (special NPC): Department: Army Combat
Engineer. CR 20. SZ M; v/wp 143/15; Init +11 (+2 Dex,
+9 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 26 (+2 Dex, +14 class); Atk:
fist/punch +11 (dmg 1d3+1 subdual, error 1, threat 20),
5.7×28mm FN Five-seveN +12 (dmg 1d10+1 normal,
error 1, threat 20, range 25 ft., qualities: AP, DS – 20
shots of FMJ ammunition w/ 3 extra magazines), 23mm
Gurza KS-23 +14 (dmg 5d6, recoil 25, error 1–2, threat
18–20, range 40 ft., qualities: AD, AK, TD, SG – 3 shots
of slug ammunition w/ 17 extra slugs), fragmentation
grenade +12 (dmg 2d10 normal, error 1–4, threat –,
range 15 ft., blast 10 ft. – 3 grenades); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA anti-tampering, astute, back door,
blowout, chain reaction, cookbook, demolition man
(False Start, Mastery, improvise, Supremacy, Quick Use),
evasion (no damage on save), flawless search, “If you
see me running…,” intuition 1/session, jury-rig +3, like
a whisper (Advanced, Grand), procure, rock steady,
sneak attack +2d6, “Try to keep up!,” uncanny dodge
(Dex bonus to Defense); SQ None; SV Fort +8, Ref +18,
Will +9; Str 12, Dex 14, Con 15, Int 18, Wis 16, Cha 10;
Skills: Appraise +9, Bluff +10, Bureaucracy +5 (threat
18–20), Computers +16, Craft (Combat Engineer) +33,
Craft (cooking) +6, Cryptography +16, Demolitions +36
(threat 18–20), Disguise +12, Electronics +29 (threat
19–20), First Aid +9, Gather Information +8, Hide +16
(threat 17-20), Hobby (Gambling) +8, Listen +11 (threat
19–20), Mechanics +29 (threat 19–20), Move Silently
+16 (threat 17-20), Open Lock +20, Profession
(Military) +7, Search +20 (threat 19–20), Spot +15
(threat 19–20), Surveillance +24 (threat 18–20).
Feats: Advanced Skill Mastery (Police Training,
Stealthy), Alertness, Armor Proficiency (Light),
Explosives Basics, Explosives Mastery, Explosives
Supremacy, False Start (modified: Demolitions only),
Grand Skill Mastery (Stealthy), Grease Monkey, Police
Training, Quick Draw, Quick Use (Demolitions), Sidestep,
Stealthy, Weapon Group Proficiency (Hurled, Melee,
Handgun, Rifle).
Gear: Weapons, EOD kit (superior tools), electronics
kit, laptop computer (+3 power rating), mechanics kit,
explosive pen gadget, magnetic flask gadget, standard
belt gadget, X-ray lenses gadget, deck of playing cards,
poker chips.
100
Death Commandos
In the absence of orders from their Control, these
highly-trained covert operatives have chosen to seize
the first enemy facility they can locate in the hopes that
it will yield the means to re-establish contact with their
Agency. They know that this assault is their best — and
maybe last — option, and will fight to the last man
rather than surrender or retreat.
Death Commandos (first-tier — target average
agent level 3), 1st-level shocktrooper/1st-level shadow
warrior (minions, squads of 4 — 29 MP). CR 1. SZ M;
v/wp 17/15; Init +4 (+2 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30 ft.;
Def 13 (+2 Dex, +1 class); Atk: fist/punch +3 (dmg
1d6+2 normal, error 1, threat 20), 9mmP H&K MP5SD
+3, (dmg 1d10+1 normal, accuracy –1, error 1–2, threat
20, range 30 ft., qualities and mods: CS, DP, SS, IN
muzzle brake, IN silencer – 30 shots of subsonic
ammunition w/ 4 extra magazines); Face 1 square;
Reach 1 square; SA None; SQ None; SV Fort +3, Ref +4,
Will +4; Str 14, Dex 14, Con 15, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
Skills: Balance +3, Climb +3, Demolitions +2, Driver +3,
Hide +3, Intimidate +3, Jump +4, Listen +2, Move
Silently +3, Open Lock +3, Sport (skydiving) +3,
Spot +2, Surveillance +2, Survival +2, Tumble +3.
Feats: Martial Arts, Traceless, Weapon Focus (sub-
machine gun).
Gear: Weapons, modern-day ninja bundle, improvised
hang glider.
Death Commandos (second-tier — target average
agent level 8), 2nd-level shocktrooper/2nd-level shadow
warrior (minions, squads of 4 — 35 MP). CR 3. SZ M;
v/wp 29/15; Init +4 (+2 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 15
(+2 Dex, +3 class); Atk: fist/punch +5 (dmg 1d6+2
normal, error 1, threat 20), knife +5 (dmg 1d6+2
normal, error 1, threat 20), .45 ACP Ingram MAC-10 +5
(dmg 1d12 normal, accuracy –2, error 1-2, threat 19–20,
range 30 ft., qualities and mods: TD, laser sight, silencer
– 30 shots of FMJ ammunition w/ 3 extra magazines);
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA heavily armed
(+20 BP); SQ None; SV Fort +4, Ref +5, Will +6;
Str 14, Dex 14, Con 15, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
Skills: Balance +4, Climb +3, Demolitions +2, Driver +3,
Hide +4, Intimidate +3, Jump +4, Listen +2, Move
Silently +4, Open Lock +3, Sport (skydiving) +3, Spot +3,
Surveillance +2, Survival +2, Tumble +3.
Feats: Martial Arts, Traceless, Weapon Focus (sub-
machine gun).
Gear: Weapons, entry team bundle, night-vision
goggles, improvised hang glider.
 the last war
Death Commandos (third-tier — target average
agent level 13), 3rd-level shocktrooper/4th-level
shadow warrior (minions, squads of 4 — 46 MP). CR 6.
SZ M; v/wp 48/15; Init +6 (+2 Dex, +4 class); Spd 30
ft.; Def 16 (+2 Dex, +4 class); Atk: fist/punch +8 (dmg
1d6+2 normal, error 1, threat 20), knife +8 (dmg 1d6+2
normal, error 1, threat 20), .45 ACP H&K UMP-45A2 +9
(dmg 1d12 normal, accuracy –1, error 1-2, threat 19–20,
range 30 ft., qualities and mods: CS, DP, SS, TD, laser
sight, silencer – 30 rounds of FMJ ammunition w/ 3
extra magazines); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA
heavily armed (+20 BP), sneak attack +1d6; SQ None;
SV Fort +5, Ref +7, Will +6; Str 14, Dex 14, Con 15,
Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
Skills: Balance +5, Climb +4, Demolitions +3, Driver +4,
Hide +8 (threat 19–20), Intimidate +4, Jump +6, Listen +3,
Move Silently +8 (threat 19–20), Open Lock +4, Sport
(skydiving) +4, Spot +4, Surveillance +3, Survival +3,
Tumble +4.
Feats: Martial Arts, Stealthy, Traceless, Weapon Focus
(submachine gun).
Gear: Weapons, entry team bundle, night-vision gog-
gles, improvised hang glider.
101
Death Commandos (fourth-tier — target average
agent level 18), 3rd-level shocktrooper/6th-level
shadow warrior (minions, squads of 4 — 50 MP). CR 8.
SZ M; v/wp 57/15; Init +8 (+2 Dex, +6 class); Spd 30
ft.; Def 18 (+2 Dex, +6 class); Atk: fist/punch +9 (dmg
1d6+2 normal, error 1, threat 20), knife +9 (dmg 1d6+2
normal, error 1, threat 20), 9x18mm Improved RSA
Bizon-2 +10 (dmg 1d12 normal, accuracy –1, error 1,
threat 19–20, range 40 ft., qualities and mods: CS, DT,
RG, SS, laser sight – 66 rounds of FMJ ammunition w/ 2
extra magazines); fragmentation grenade +9 (dmg 2d10
normal, error 1-4, threat -, range 15 ft., blast 10 ft. – 1
grenade); Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA evasion
(no damage on save), heavily armed (+20 BP), sneak
attack +1d6; SQ None; SV Fort +6, Ref +8, Will +7;
Str 14, Dex 14, Con 15, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
Skills: Balance +6, Climb +5, Demolitions +3, Driver +4,
Hide +10 (threat 19–20), Intimidate +4, Jump +7, Listen
+4, Move Silently +10 (threat 19–20), Open Lock +5,
Sport (skydiving) +4, Spot +5, Surveillance +4, Survival
+3, Tumble +5.
Feats: Martial Arts, Stealthy, Traceless, Weapon Focus
(submachine gun).
Gear: Weapons, entry team bundle, night-vision gog-
gles, improvised hang glider.
 battlegrounds
Enemy Agents Enemy Agents (third-tier — target average agent
These hostile operatives were on their last legs before level 13), 3rd-level operative/4th-level mercenary
they reached their field headquarters. Now, given time (minions, squads of 4 — 54 MP). CR 6. SZ M; v/wp
to rest and recuperate, they pose a grave threat to any- 51/14; Init +7 (+3 Dex, +4 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 17
one attempting to take that facility from them. (+3 Dex, +4 class); Atk: fist/punch +8 (dmg 1d3+2
subdual, error 1, threat 20), knife +8 (dmg 1d6+2
Enemy Agents (first-tier — target average agent
normal, error 1, threat 20), 4.6×30mm H&K MP-7 +11
level 3), 1st-level operative/1st-level mercenary
(dmg 2d4+1 normal, error 1-2, threat 20, range 30 ft.,
(minions, squads of 4 — 31 MP). CR 1. SZ M; v/wp
qualities and mods: AP, CP, CS, DT, SS, laser sight – 40
18/14; Init +4 (+3 Dex, +1 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 15
rounds of FMJ ammunition w/ 3 extra magazines);
(+3 Dex, +2 class); Atk: fist/punch +3 (dmg 1d3+2
Face 1 square; Reach 1 square; SA damage reduction
subdual, error 1, threat 20), stiletto +3 (dmg 1d6+2
1/-, department training (D-2), heavily armed (+10 BP);
normal plus poison effects, error 1-2, threat 20 – 3
SQ None; SV Fort +9, Ref +5, Will +5; Str 14, Dex 16,
doses of paralytic poison on blade), garotte +3 (dmg
Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
special, error 1-2, threat -), 9x18mm Makarov PM +6
Skills: Bluff +2, Climb +4, Demolitions +6, Diplomacy +2,
(damage 2d4 normal, error 1, threat 20, range 15 ft.,
Driver +7, First Aid +3, Hide +7 (threat 19–20), Listen +3,
qualities and mods: laser sight, silencer – 8 rounds of
Move Silently +8 (threat 19–20), Search +3, Sense
FMJ ammunition 4/ 5 extra magazines); Face 1 square;
Motive +3, Spot +7, Surveillance +3, Survival +3,
Reach 1 square; SA department training (D-2), heavily
Tumble +5.
armed (+10 BP); SQ None; SV Fort +6, Ref +4, Will +3;
Feats: Lay Down Fire, Point-Blank Shot, Sidestep,
Str 14, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
Stealthy.
Skills: Bluff +1, Climb +3, Demolitions +3, Diplomacy +1,
Gear: Weapons, trail bundle.
Driver +5, First Aid +2, Hide +4, Listen +2, Move
Silently +4, Search +2, Sense Motive +2, Spot +4, Enemy Agents (fourth-tier – target average agent
Surveillance +2, Survival +2, Tumble +4. level 18), 5th-level operative/4th-level mercenary
Feats: Sidestep. (minions, squads of 4 – 65 MP). CR 8. SZ M; v/wp
Gear: Weapons, night-vision goggles, wetworks bundle. 62/14; Init +8 (+3 Dex, +5 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 18
(+3 Dex, +5 class); Atk: fist/punch +9 (dmg 1d3+2
Enemy Agents (second-tier — target average agent
subdual, error 1, threat 20), knife +9 (dmg 1d6+2
level 8), 2nd-level operative/2nd-level mercenary
normal, error 1, threat 20), .12 gauge Mossberg Model
(minions, squads of 4 — 39 MP). CR 3. SZ M; v/wp
500A +10 (dmg 2d12, error 1-2, threat 19–20, range 30
30/14; Init +5 (+3 Dex, +2 class); Spd 30 ft.; Def 15
ft., qualities and mods: DP, TD – 8 rounds of 12 gauge
(+3 Dex, +2 class); Atk: fist/punch +5 (dmg 1d3+2
slug ammunition w/ 12 extra slugs); Face 1 square;
subdual, error 1, threat 20), stiletto +5 (dmg 1d6+2
Reach 1 square; SA damage reduction 1/-, department
normal plus poison effects, error 1-2, threat 20 — 3
training (D-2), heavily armed (+10 BP), sneak attack
doses of paralytic poison on blade), garotte +5 (dmg
+1d6; SQ None; SV Fort +12, Ref +7, Will +6; Str 14,
special, error 1-2, threat -), 9x18mm Makarov PM +8
Dex 16, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
(damage 2d4 normal, error 1, threat 20, range 15 ft.,
Skills: Bluff +3, Climb +5, Demolitions +8, Diplomacy +2,
qualities and mods: laser sight, silencer – 8 rounds of
Driver +8, First Aid +3, Hide +8 (threat 19–20), Listen +3,
FMJ ammunition w/ 5 extra magazines); Face 1 square;
Move Silently +10 (threat 19–20), Search +34 Sense
Reach 1 square; SA department training (D-2), heavily
Motive +3, Spot +9, Surveillance +4, Survival +3,
armed (+10 BP); SQ None; SV Fort +9, Ref +5, Will +5;
Tumble +6.
Str 14, Dex 16, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 10;
Feats: Lay Down Fire, Point-Blank Shot, Precise Shot,
Skills: Bluff +1, Climb +3, Demolitions +4, Diplomacy +1,
Sidestep, Stealthy.
Driver +5, First Aid +2, Hide +6 (threat 19–20), Listen +2,
Gear: Weapons, trail bundle.
Move Silently +7 (threat 19–20), Search +2, Sense
Motive +2, Spot +4, Surveillance +2, Survival +2,
Tumble +4.
Feats: Point-Blank Shot, Sidestep, Stealthy.
Gear: Weapons, night-vision goggles, smoke grenade,
wetworks bundle.

102
 “Nothing except a battle lost can be
half so melancholy as a battle won.”
— Arthur Wellesley, Duke of Wellington

new rules
6
 battlegrounds
Many of the following optional rules deal with long- Each agent may spend no more than 1⁄2 his personal
term missions — missions lasting more than two or three budget to requisition munitions and consumables
sessions of play, or more than a week of game time. By (rounded up). Further, the full (non-discounted) BP cost
default assumption, games applying the following rules of any munitions or consumables in requisitioned bun-
assume that the agents are out of touch with the Agency dles counts toward this limit.
or any other higher authority for the duration of the
mission (for example, Chapter 5’s post-apocalyptic set- Mission Budget
ting assumes that the Agency is severely weakened, Each agent gains his standard mission budget, as if
completely destroyed, or otherwise unable to provide embarking upon a Code: Black mission. Additionally,
any assistance to the agents once play begins). In all each agent gains a number of bundles, weapons, muni-
cases, the GC must exercise common sense and discre- tions, and consumables based on the long-term mis-
tion when deciding whether favor checks, training pro- sion’s expected duration, and whether the team is mili-
grams, and other Agency-provided mission resources tary or non-military, as follows.
are available before or during each long-term mission.
Military Team
Long Range Patrol (1–3 weeks): Each agent gains
LGONG T ERM
EARING U P
1 infantry basic load bundle (see the U.S. Militaries
Sourcebook, page 106). Further, he gains 2 × the standard
amount when requisitioning munitions or consumables
(e.g. if he requisitions and pays for 2 fragmentation
The war has just begun — or, worse, the world has
grenades, he gains 4 fragmentation grenades).
just ended. Your agents must select the supplies neces-
Tactical Operation (1–3 months): Each agent gains
sary to keep them alive over months or even years.
1 infantry basic load bundle, well as his choice of either
Somehow, personal budgets and mission budget bonus-
1 infantry assault bundle or 1 infantry march bundle
es seem woefully inadequate…
(see the U.S. Militaries Sourcebook, pages 106 and 107,
Spycraft’s budget point system is one of its key tools
respectively). Further, he gains 3 × the standard amount
for maintaining game balance, but it’s designed specif-
when requisitioning munitions and consumables.
ically for short-term, episodic missions, not situations
Strategic Deployment (4–6 months): Each agent
where agents are in the field for weeks — or the rest of
gains 1 infantry basic load bundle, as well as his choice
their lives — without further support. In such situations,
of either 1 infantry assault bundle or 1 infantry march
the GC should consider using the following optional
bundle (see the U.S. Militaries Sourcebook, pages 106
rules to ensure that agents begin play with everything
and 107, respectively). Further, he gains his choice of any
they might need during such a long-term campaign.
1 military bundle (see the sidebar on page 105). Also,
Special Note For All: In the following rules, “muni-
he gains 3 × the standard amount when requisitioning
tions” refers to the following types of gear: firearm
munitions and consumables. Finally, for every 4 agents
ammunition, tactical weapon ammunition, hurled pro-
on the team, the entire team — not each agent — gains
jectiles (including grenades), hurled weapon ammuni-
1 tactical weapon with a BP cost equal to or less than the
tion, explosives, and poisons. “Consumables” refers to
largest personal budget of any team member.
all other single-use items of standard-issue gear, includ-
War and Beyond (7+ months): Each agent gains
ing (but not limited to) batteries, medical supplies, and
1 infantry basic load bundle, as well as his choice of any
food.
2 military bundles (see the sidebar on page 105).
Special Note for GCs: Yes, the following rules pro-
Further, he gains 3 × the standard amount when
duce a massive amount of gear per agent. Yes, the team
requisitioning munitions and 5 × the standard amount
might use this gear to completely overpower its first
when requisitioning consumables. Finally, for every
several challenges. As the GC however, you are com-
2 agents on the team, the entire team — not each agent
pletely within your rights to keep raising the stakes, and
— gains 1 tactical weapon with a BP cost equal to or less
to deny the agents additional gear to balance the team’s
than the largest personal budget of any team member.
initial equipment gain.
Non-Military Team
Personal Budget Business Trip (1–3 weeks): Each agent gains 25
Each agent gains his standard personal budget,
bonus BPs that he may only spend to requisition bun-
which represents the items he can’t live without — the
dles. Further, he gains 2 × the standard amount when
gear he finds utterly essential to his work. Players
requisitioning consumables.
should select these items carefully, as they’re the only
things for which replacement is easy during a long-term
mission.

104
 New rules
Summer Vacation with Guns (1–3 months): Each
agent gains 50 bonus BPs that he may only spend to
M EDICAL
requisition bundles. Further, he gains 3 × the standard
amount when requisitioning consumables.
TREATMENT
Globetrotting Mayhem (4–6 months): Each agent
gains 75 bonus BPs that he may only spend to requisi-
tion bundles. Further, he gains 2 × the standard amount
when requisitioning munitions and 2 × the standard
amount when requisitioning consumables.
World Tour of Duty (7+ months): Each agent gains
75 bonus BPs that he may only spend to requisition
bundles. Further, he gains 3 × the standard amount
when requisitioning munitions and 5 × the standard
amount when requisitioning consumables. Finally, the
agent gains the Signature Gear feat at no cost, and may
retroactively designate any 1 item requisitioned with his
personal budget to benefit from this feat.
Special NPCs on
Long Term Missions
Special NPCs attached to the team gear up for long-
term missions as if the planned mission’s duration is 1
category lower (e.g. special NPCs attached to a non-mil-
itary team going on a summer vacation with guns gear
up as if going on a business trip).
Field Expenses
Each agent gains field expenses equal to his stan-
dard field expenses × the number of months the mission
is expected to last (to a maximum of 6 × his standard
field expenses).
Gadget Points
Each agent gains his standard gadget points, as if
embarking upon a Code: Black mission. Additionally,
when an agent requisitions a gadget with a limited
number of uses, he gains 2 × the standard number of
uses (or 2 × the standard number of gadgets if the gad-
get is disposable).
Leveling Up During
a Long Term Mission
When an agent gains a level during a long-term mis-
sion, he does not recalculate his personal budget, nor
does he gain additional mission budget or gadget
points. Instead, he gains a number of bonus scavenging
checks equal to the number of budget points he would
typically add to his personal budget at his new level.
The agent may use these bonus scavenging checks at
any time he may typically spend time or an action die
to perform a scavenging check (for information about
scavenging checks, see page 110).
Example: An agent gains a level in the soldier class.
Instead of gaining 2 budget points, he gains 2 bonus
scavenging checks.
105
The default Spycraft rules assume inhumanly rapid
healing times for even the sickliest agents. Even with no
medical care at all, an agent with average Constitution
can return from the very gates of death in less than 3
weeks. This is both cinematic and convenient, but a tri-
fle unrealistic. The following rules provide more detailed
and gritty rules for serious injuries and subsequent
recovery.
Special Note: While all of the rules presented in this
chapter are optional, the following material is a partic-
ular departure from Spycraft’s core genre conventions.
GCs should only apply these rules with the consent of
all players, as this material offers a very real chance of
significant long-term consequences for anyone entering
combat.
Bleeding and Squealing
The basic premise of Spycraft’s damage system is
that vitality is an ephemeral mixture of “endurance,
luck, and experience.” These points represent an agent’s
instinctive ability to turn aside at the last instant and
avoid taking an assault rifle burst in the chest, or his
capacity to sustain a forced march over rough terrain.
Accordingly, medical treatment for lost vitality points is
as much a matter of reassurance and sympathy as it is
one of bandages and stitches. When an agent receives
treatment for vitality damage, he’s being patched up,
wiped off, and put back on his feet; there’s no invasive
surgical procedure involved. Bruises, paper cuts, con-
Military Bundles
Many Spycraft bundles are not wholly suitable for
military deployment. The following bundles are rec-
ommended for use by military teams, and may be
selected as bonus “military bundles” in appropriate
long-term missions (see page 104).
Spycraft Espionage Handbook: Bundle C.
Modern Arms Guide: All bundles.
Soldier/Wheelman Class Guide: Arctic operations
bundle, bush bundle, EOD bundle, pilot bundle.
Fixer/Pointman Class Guide: Forward reconnais-
sance bundle, HAZMAT bundle.
U.S. Militaries: All bundles.
World Militaries: All bundles.
1960s: Military advisor bundle.
Stargate SG-1 Rulebook and Supplements: All duty
and weapon bundles. Non-military agents gearing up
for a long-term mission may requisition duty bundles
for 25 BP each, or weapon bundles for 35 BP each.
 battlegrounds
crete scrapes, and hangnails are about as serious as
vitality damage gets in terms of blood and gore. While
the actual physical damage to the agent’s body may not
heal overnight, the impairment he suffers from it quick-
ly becomes irrelevant. Even with these more severe
rules, the healing rate for lost vitality points remains
unchanged — an agent heals 1 vitality point per hour
per agent level, or double this when under successful
long-term care, or tripled with hospital care.
Wounds, on the other hand, are direct physical trau-
mas that occur when the agent’s luck runs out (or an
opponent’s luck is particularly good). When an agent
sustains even a few points of wound damage, he suffers
an injury that requires a trip to the emergency room for
any average civilian. This damage may include broken
bones, torn tendons, lacerations, deep punctures, rup-
tured organs, and arterial bleeding. Few such injuries
heal in a matter of days; most take weeks or months,
and many require surgery to facilitate full recovery.
Wound point damage and the temporary or permanent
effects that can accompany it are the focus of the fol-
lowing rules.

Table 6.1: Critical Injuries

Margin
of Failure Injury/Effects* Recovery
1 Broken Bone: –2 with all Str- and Dex-based checks. Healing
2 Internal Bleeding: –4 with all Con-based checks. Healing
3 Broken Leg: Base speed is reduced to 1/2 standard (rounded down), agent cannot run, Healing
–4 with all checks requiring full leg mobility.
4 Mild Scarring: –1 Cha (permanent). Healing
5 Broken Arm: –4 with all checks requiring full arm mobility, Healing
50% chance that the broken limb is the agent’s dominant arm**.
6 Concussion: –4 with all Int-, Wis-, and Cha- based checks. Healing
7 Punctured Lung: –4 with all Con-based checks, agent becomes fatigued Surgery
whenever his vitality drops below 1/2 standard (rounded down).
8 Severed Tendon: Base speed becomes 10 ft., agent cannot run, Surgery
–4 with all checks requiring full leg mobility.
9 Punctured Stomach/Intestine: –1 Con (permanent), required food is doubled Surgery
10 Severed Finger: –2 with all checks requiring hand. Surgery
50% chance that the finger is severed from the agent’s dominant hand**.
11 Severe Scarring: –(1d4+1) Cha (permanent). Therapy
12 Punctured Spleen/Kidney/Liver: –(1d4+1) Con (permanent), Surgery
–8 with all Fort saves made against disease and poison.
13 Lost Foot: Base speed reduced by 10 ft. (permanent), –4 with all checks requiring full leg mobility. Prosthesis
14 Lost Ear: –8 with all Listen checks with 1 lost ear. Surgery
Deafened and automatically fail all Listen checks with 2 lost ears.
15 Lost Hand: 50% chance that the agent’s dominant hand is lost**. Prosthesis
16 Lost Leg: Base speed is reduced to 1/2 standard (rounded down), agent cannot Prosthesis
move faster than 30 ft. per round, –10 with all checks requiring both legs.
17 Lost Eye: –10 with all Search and Spot checks, –6 with all crash, maneuver, and obstacle checks, Surgery
–6 with all ranged attacks unless using a scope or other sighting system with 1 lost eye. Blinded,
automatically fail all skill checks that require sight, and make all attacks as if the target possesses
total concealment with 2 lost eyes.
18 Lost Arm: 50% chance that the agent’s dominant arm is lost**. Prosthesis
19 Nervous System Damage: Roll 1d4, then roll that many dice. With each even result, the agent Therapy
suffers –1 Str (permanent), and with each odd result, the agent suffers –1 Dex (permanent).
20+ Brain Damage: Roll 1d4, then roll that many dice. Therapy
With each even result, the agent suffers –1 Int (permanent),
and with each odd result, the agent suffers –1 Wis (permanent).
* All effects from multiple injuries are cumulative, though the agent may only suffer certain injuries a limited number of
times, per the GC’s discretion and common sense (an agent may only lose 2 arms or 10 fingers, for instance).
** Agents with the Ambidexterity feat ignore all rolls to check for arm/hand dominance.

106
 New rules
Gadget Prostheses These rules assume that the agent rests in a relative-
ly clean setting, such as a residential dwelling or base
Gadget-grade prosthetic limbs that grant the
camp. If he spends the majority of his time in an unsan-
recipient 100% of his pre-injury capacity are beyond
itary environment — such as a prison camp or jungle —
the scope of modern medicine, and classified as
the base DC for his weekly Fortitude saves rises to 20.
super-science. In a campaign where such technology
On the other hand, during each week the agent receives
is available, an agent suffering an appropriate injury
successful long-term medical care, his base DC falls to
may opt for a prosthetic replacement indistinguish-
10 (though the agent receives no other benefit from
able from his original equipment. In this case, the
long-term medical care — not even the benefit described
agent regains full functionality but finds his gadget
in the Spycraft Espionage Handbook). In a hospital set-
point allotment permanently reduced by 2.
ting, his base DC falls to 10 (though the agent receives
In most cases, the Agency refuses to equip an
no other benefit from long-term medical care — not
agent with any obvious gadget replacement limb.
even the benefit described in the
Such a device constitutes a massive breach of securi-
Spycraft Espionage Handbook),
ty, as it can reveal the existence of super-science.
and the agent may also make
Fortitude saves once every 3
days rather than once per
Taking a Hit week.
Whenever an agent suffers an attack that inflicts
wound damage greater than his Constitution modifier,
he must make a Fortitude save (DC 10 + the amount of
damage suffered). With failure, the agent also suffers a
critical injury, as determined by the difference between
his Constitution modifier and the damage suffered, and
as shown on Table 6.1: Critical Injuries (see page 106).
Example: An agent with a Constitution modifier of 4
loses 6 wounds during an attack. He suffers a concussion.
Example 2: An agent with a Constitution modifier of
–3 loses 6 wounds during an attack. He suffers a punc-
tured stomach or intestine.

The Road to Recovery

Recovering from life-threatening injuries is no easy
matter, especially for a victim who finds himself with-
out proper medical care. An agent with less than 1
wound point may only heal — or worsen, if his body
isn’t up to fighting off infection and pulling itself
back together.
At the end of each week during which an agent
possesses less than 0 wound points, he must make
a Fortitude save (DC 15 + the difference between 0 and
his current wound point total). With success, the agent
heals 1 wound point. With failure, the agent loses 1
additional wound point as his injuries overwhelm his
body. Additionally, while an agent possesses less than 0
wound points, he suffers a penalty with all Fortitude
saves to resist disease and poison equal to the difference
between 0 and his current wound point total.
An agent possessing 0 or more wound points has an
easier time of it. At the end of each week, he must make
a Fortitude save (DC 15). With success, the agent heals
1 wound point. With failure, nothing happens. An agent
possessing 0 or more wound points suffers no addition-
al save penalties.

107
 battlegrounds
Reconstruction
G EAR A BUSE AND
An agent who suffers a critical injury may require
additional assistance to set things right, as shown in
MAINTENANCE
the Recovery column of Table 6.1: Critical Injuries
(see page 106).
With the standard single-mission format, agents
Healing: The agent’s body naturally heals this critical
needn’t worry about the effects of extended use upon
injury in time. The critical injury and all of its effects are
their gear. Such operations usually occur over a matter
lost when the agent’s wound points return to maximum.
of days, at the end of which all surviving gear goes back
Prosthesis: The agent must be fitted with an artificial
to the Agency’s stockpile. For agents on long-term mis-
limb that provides at least partial function before he may
sions, however, those in the field for weeks or months at
offset any of the penalties inflicted by this injury. This
a time — or after the end of the world — this luxury may
process cannot begin until the agent’s wound points
become a distant memory. These agents must make do
return to 1 or higher. Assuming the agent has access to the
with gear that’s often a single bad firefight away from
proper facilities, a prosthetic leg or foot costs 4 BP or
literally falling apart in their hands.
$750, while a prosthetic arm or hand costs 8 BP or $1,500.
Special Note: These optional rules frequently refer to
Once prosthetic fitting begins, the agent must make a
repair checks. This general term is used to denote a skill
complex Dexterity check with an interval of 1 week and a
check with whatever skill is most appropriate to repair-
DC of 100. With success, the agent fully adjusts to his
ing a specific item. For example, Craft (Gunsmithing) is
prosthesis, and the penalties inflicted by the missing limb
used to repair a firearm, while Mechanics is used to
are reduced to 1⁄2 standard (rounded up). If the agent suf-
repair a motorcycle. If an agent possesses a feat or class
fers a second identical injury, however, the agent loses the
ability that grants a bonus with improvised repairs, he
prosthesis and may never gain another.
may choose to apply its benefits to any appropriate
Surgery: Invasive or reconstructive surgery is neces-
repair check — though his error range for that check is
sary to correct this injury. This process requires a complex
increased by 1 to reflect the fact that he’s applying a
Profession (Doctor) skill check with an interval of 1 hour
temporary solution to a permanent problem.
and a DC equal to 20 × the number of wound points the
agent possesses below 0 (min. 100). The agent’s Abuse
Constitution modifier is applied to each of the surgeon’s
During a long-term mission, every gear item gains
Profession (Doctor) skill checks. Further, the agent may
an additional trait: abuse. This is a measure of the mate-
spend his own action dice to increase the surgeon’s check
rial fatigue and general wear and tear the item accumu-
results. He may not affect the procedure in any other way,
lates over its service life.
however, as he is (hopefully) unconscious for it. If the
An item may gain abuse as follows.
complex skill check is successful, the injury is healed
once the agent’s wound points return to maximum. If the • Each time an agent suffers an error when using, repairing,
surgeon suffers 2 consecutive critical failures, the proce- or modifying an item, the GC may spend 2 or more action
dure fails and the injury becomes permanent. dice to apply a number of points of abuse equal to the
Therapy: Long-term psychological and/or medical number of action dice spent divided by 2 (rounded down).
care is required to heal this injury. This process cannot This action die cost is increased to 3 per point of abuse if
begin until the agent’s wound points return to 1 or the item possesses the dependable (DP) quality. If the GC
higher. Once therapy begins, the character providing wishes to activate the error as a critical success, he must
care selects 1 damaged ability and makes a complex spend additional action dice to do so.
skill Profession (Psychologist) check with an interval of
• Each time an item suffers enough damage to enter
1 week and a DC equal to 10 × the agent’s original score
a new damage threshold, it gains 1 point of abuse.
in the target ability. The agent may spend his own
This replaces the standard effect of damage thresholds.
action dice to increase the psychologist’s check results,
For more information about damage thresholds, see
but may not affect the procedure in any other way, as
the Modern Arms Guide, pages 23–25.
he must leave himself in another’s hands for the process
to work. If the complex skill check is successful, the An item’s error range is increased by the current
agent regains 1 lost point in the ability. If the psychol- number of abuse points it possesses. If an item’s error
ogist suffers 2 consecutive critical failures, the proce- range ever rises to 1–11 or greater, it is immediately
dure fails and the agent suffers 1 additional point of destroyed and is may only be used for cannibalization
damage with the target ability. (see page 109).

108
 New rules
Undoing Abuse
Proper care can go a long way toward repairing an
abused item. At any time, an agent with the proper tools
may make a repair check (DC 20). This check requires a
number of minutes equal to the item’s BP cost for any
simple or mechanical item, or a number of minutes
equal to 5 × the item’s BP cost for any electronic item.
With success, the item loses 1 point of abuse (to a min-
imum of 1 point of abuse). Only a critical success with
a repair check can remove the last point of abuse pos-
sessed by any item (it’s hard to make things “as good as
new”).
If an item is damaged (i.e. possesses fewer than max-
imum wound points), this damage must be repaired
before any of its abuse points may be removed. This
requires a complex repair check (DC 15 × the number of
wound points the item has lost) and takes 15 minutes
per repair check (for a simple or mechanical item), or 1
hour (for an electronic item).
Preventive Maintenance
Agents who keep their gear in good condition are
much less likely to experience catastrophic mechanical
failures at inopportune moments. An agent may per-
form preventive maintenance on any item with a repair
check (DC 15). This check takes 30 minutes, +15 minutes
per size category the item is above Small. With success,
the item gains the dependable (DP) quality until imme-
diately after the next error suffered with it. With a crit-
ical success, this effect extends to the next 2 errors.
Multiple applications of preventive maintenance do not
stack, nor do the effects of the Clean and Polished feat
(see the Fixer/Pointman Class Guide, page 45).
Special Note: For a preventative maintenance repair
check only, the agent may use any Hobby, Knowledge,
Profession, or Sport skill focus directly relevant to the
target item. For example, Profession (Military) may be
used to maintain an assault rifle, while Sport
(Waterskiing) may be used to maintain a motorboat. The
GC is the final authority on the applicability of any skill
focus to any gear item.
in any other item of the same type (or any other weapon
or vehicle of the same model) with 30 minutes and
a successful repair check (DC 15, +2 per point of abuse
possessed by the recipient item). Each successful instal-
lation reduces the recipient item’s abuse rating by 1,
to a minimum of 0.
Unlike standard repair checks (see Undoing Abuse,
in the previous column), cannibalization may reduce
an item’s abuse points to 0 with a standard success
(i.e. without a critical success).
Example: Sergeant Hammonds has an Uzi with 6
abuse points. He decides to dismantle it for spare parts. He
succeeds with a Craft (Gunsmithing) check, then rolls 2d8
for a result of 11, salvaging 5 (11–6) spare parts from it.
Several days later, Sergeant Hammonds acquires 2
more Uzis, with 6 and 2 abuse points, respectively. Over
the course of several hours, he succeeds with several Craft
(Gunsmithing) rolls, installing 3 of his salvaged parts into
the first Uzi and 2 into the second one. This reduces the
first Uzi’s abuse value to 3, and reduces the second Uzi’s
abuse value to 0 (making it perform like new).
Vehicular Abuse
Vehicles are a bit larger and more complex than most
items an agent will abuse during a long-term mission.
Accordingly, vehicles accrue abuse points a bit different-
ly — or more accurately, each of a vehicle’s critical hit
locations accrues abuse points differently, as follows.
Engine: A vehicle’s engine gains 1 point of abuse
each time the vehicle suffers an engine critical.
Additionally, each time an agent suffers an error with a
maneuver check, the GC may spend 2 action dice to
inflict a point of abuse upon the vehicle’s engine.
Engine abuse points increase the error ranges of all
maneuver checks made with the vehicle.
Steering: A vehicle’s steering gains 1 point of abuse
each time the vehicle suffers a steering critical.
Additionally, whenever an agent suffers an error with
an obstacle or crash check, the GC may spend 2 action
Armor Degradation

Cannibalization Unlike most gear, body armor doesn’t usually see

active use. Rather, its role is passive, so it accrues
Maintenance personnel across the world routinely
abuse in a slightly different manner. At the end of
cannibalize gear to repair other gear, taking parts from
each scene during which an agent is hit with 1 or more
a seriously broken item to help fix an identical but less-
attacks that penetrate his body armor (e.g. an attack
damaged item. Agents can use this technique to dis-
whose damage exceeds the damage reduction of the
mantle an item for spare parts, using those parts to
agent’s armor), the armor accrues 1 point of abuse.
reduce the abuse value of identical items.
The damage reduction of an agent’s armor is
To cannibalize an item, an agent must spend 1 hour
reduced by 1⁄2 the number of abuse points it possess-
and makes a successful repair check (DC 15). This breaks
es (rounded down). Further, its armor check penalty
the item down into its component parts and determines
is reduced by the same amount. If the damage reduc-
which parts are fit for re-use. Thereafter, the agent gains
tion of an agent’s armor is reduced to 0 or below, it
a number of parts equal to 2d8 – the item’s abuse value
is destroyed.
(minimum 0). Each of these parts may then be installed

109
 battlegrounds
Table 6.2: Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
Vehicle is… Repair DC/Time Maintenance DC/Time
…Small 10/15 minutes 5/5 minutes
…Medium 15/1 hour 10/30 minutes
…Large 15/2 hours 12/1 hour
…Huge 20/4 hours 15/2 hours
…Gargantuan 25/8 hours 20/4 hours
…Colossal 35/24 hours 25/12 hours
…a surface water vehicle +5/×10 +5/×10
…a submersible water vehicle +10/×20 +10/×20
…a fixed-wing aircraft +5/×3 +5/×3
…a rotary-wing aircraft +10/×5 +10/×5
…an armored or heavy +5/×2 +5/×2
…exotic (possesses the EXO quality) +5/×2 +5/×2
…maintenance friendly (possesses the MTF quality) –5/×0.5 –5/×0.5

dice to inflict a point of abuse upon the vehicle’s steer-
ing. Steering abuse points increase the error ranges of
all obstacle and crash checks made with the vehicle.
Tires: Each of a vehicle’s tires gains abuse points
independently. A vehicle’s tire gains 2 points of abuse
each time it is burst and 1 point of abuse whenever it
suffers 1 or more points of damage from a maneuver.
Tire abuse points inflict no additional effects, but a tire
with 5 or more points of abuse may never be repaired.
Weapon: The “weapon” critical hit location repre-
sents all of a vehicle’s mounted subsystems (communi-
cations gear, sensors, etc.), not just its weapons, and
each subsystem is tracked separately. Each time any
subsystem suffers a critical hit, it also gains 1 point of
abuse. Additionally, whenever an agent suffers an error
when using a vehicle subsystem, the GC may spend 2
action dice to inflict 1 point of abuse upon the subsys-
tem. When a subsystem possesses 1 or more points of
abuse, the error ranges of all appropriate skill checks
made using the subsystem, or with the assistance of the
subsystem, are increased by 1. For example, when a
thermal sight possesses 2 points of abuse, an agent’s
error ranges with Spot checks with the item are
increased by 2.
Window: A vehicle’s windows never suffer abuse, as
this critical hit location only exists to facilitate hits
upon the vehicle’s occupants.
Rules for repairing vehicle damage are presented on
page 193 of the Spycraft Espionage Handbook. The DCs
and times required to repair vehicle abuse and maintain
a vehicle are determined by the vehicle’s size and type,
as shown on Table 6.2: Vehicle Repair and Maintenance
(see above).
Gadget Abuse
Super-science doesn’t take well to long-term deploy-
ment. All gadgets sustain abuse like standard-issue gear,
with the following exceptions and clarifications.
• Each time an agent suffers an error when using, repair-
ing, or modifying a gadget, the GC may spend 1 or more
action dice to apply a number of points of abuse equal
to the number of action dice spent. This action die cost
is increased to 2 per point of abuse if the gadget or its
housing possesses the dependable (DP) quality. If the
GC wishes to activate the error as a critical success, he
must spend additional action dice to do so.
• When a gadget is repaired or maintained using the rules
in this chapter, it is assumed to possess a BP cost equal
to 5 × its GP cost.
• Each repair check DC applied to a gadget is increased by
10, or by 20 if the gadget is considered super-science.
SCAVENGING
Agents on a long-term mission don’t have access to
the Agency’s vast arsenals. They must acquire addition-
al gear in play, either by taking it from those who no
longer need it or by digging it up in the field (oftentimes
literally).
Scavenging may occur during a serial or during the
downtime in-between, as follows.
Special Note: These optional rules frequently refer to
scavenging checks. A scavenging check is either a
Search check (if the agents are located in an urban area),
or a Survival check (if the agents are located in the
wilderness). A terrain-based modifier is applied to each
scavenging check, as shown on Table 6.3: Scavenging
Modifiers by Terrain (see page 112).

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 New rules
In-Mission Scavenging Between any two consecutive serials, an agent team
may make 1 scavenging check as described under In-
During each mission, an agent team may make 1
Mission Scavenging (see the previous column), except
scavenging check. Individual agents may cooperate to
that their check result is multiplied by 5 per full day
make this check, but no team may make multiple scav-
spent scavenging.
enging checks while operating in the same area.
Alternately, between any two consecutive serials, a
This scavenging check takes 2 hours, and yields a
single agent may make 1 scavenging check to rebuild
total BP value in gear items equal to the check result.
his personal gear inventory. This scavenging check
Typically, the GC chooses all items found with a suc-
requires 1 full day (8 hours), and has a DC equal to 1⁄2
cessful scavenging check, based on the terrain in which
the BP in the agent’s personal gear allotment (rounded
the check is made. Except for true gadgets, the GC may
down). With success, any of the agent’s personal gear
include 1 or more items with a GP cost among the items
items that have been completely destroyed or lost are
found, at a cost of 10 BP per 1 GP of gadget cost. True
replaced with identical items, each possessing 1d10–6
gadgets may never be found through scavenging. Each
abuse points. Further, each of the agent’s personal gear
item found possesses 1d10–4 abuse points (minimum 0).
items that possesses 1 or more abuse points loses 1
Alternately, at a cost of 1 action die, an agent team
abuse point.
may look for one specific non-gadget item. The team
Finally, between any two consecutive serials, an
spends 4 hours and makes a scavenging check as
agent team may make 1 scavenging check to look for a
described above, with a DC equal to the item’s BP value,
working vehicle. This scavenging check requires 1 full
or 10 × its GP cost). With success, the team finds the
day (8 hours). Unless the team suffers an error, the team
desired item, which possesses a number of abuse points
finds a vehicle whose GP cost is equal to or lower than
equal to 1d10 – the result of the action die spent to ini-
the check result × 5. If any of the team’s agents possess
tiate the scavenging check.
the custom ride class ability and do not currently pos-
Special Note: In a post-apocalyptic setting, an item’s
sess a custom ride, the GP cost of the vehicle found may
starting number of abuse points is increased by 1 per
be increased by the custom ride bonus of any agent
full year since the collapse of civilization.
choosing it as his custom ride. Typically, the GC choos-
Downtime Scavenging es the vehicle found with a successful
scavenging check, based on the ter-
Agents canvassing their surroundings between oper-
rain in which the check is made.
ations have considerably more leisure time to devote to
Each critical hit location of each
the task. In addition to looking for standard-issue gear,
vehicle found possesses 1d10–4
agents may scavenge for specific items to rebuild their
abuse points (minimum 0).
personal budgets, and may attempt to salvage vehicles.

Procurement in the Wasteland

The standard function of the fixer’s procure class
ability is sharply curtailed in a setting where the
agents possess no channels through which to requi-
sition gear. In a game using the rules from this chap-
ter, an agent possessing the procure ability gains a
competence bonus with all scavenging checks equal
to 1⁄4 his agent level (rounded down). Additionally, the
GC must spend 1 additional action die to activate
each error the agent suffers with a scavenging check.
These benefits do not apply to foraging attempts
unless the agent possesses the terrain ‘training’ feat
appropriate to the local terrain.

111
 battlegrounds
Table 6.3: Scavenging Table 6.4: Foraging
Modifiers by Terrain Modifiers by Terrain
Terrain Scavenging Terrain Scavenging
Check Modifier Check Modifier
Aquatic –10 Aquatic +2
Arctic –8 Arctic –6
Desert –6 Desert –4
Forest +0 Forest +0
Jungle –4 Jungle +4
Mountain –2 Mountain –2
Plains +2 Plains +0
Swamp –4 Swamp +2
Urban, abandoned +6 Urban, abandoned +6
Urban, destroyed +4 Urban, destroyed +10
Urban, inhabited +2 Urban, inhabited *
Agency/military base, abandoned +10 Agency/military base, abandoned +4
Agency/military base, destroyed +8 Agency/military base, destroyed +8
Agency/military base, in use +6 Agency/military base, in use *
* No foraging possible (the agents must acquire food
Foraging from the inhabitants)
During each mission, an agent team may make 1
scavenging check to find food. This scavenging check
requires 2 hours, and generates a number of man-days’ Fuel
worth of food equal to the check result divided by 5
(rounded up). Fuel is a consideration about which Spycraft
Between any two consecutive serials, an agent team agents rarely need to worry. In a post-apocalyptic
may make 1 scavenging check to find food. For every setting or other situation where resources are limited,
full day spent foraging, this scavenging check generates however, the GC is encouraged to use the following
a number of man-days’ worth of food equal to the check guidelines to determine a vehicle’s fuel capacity and
result divided by 2 (rounded up). the difficulty of scavenging fuel.
In both cases, the check result is modified as shown A ground vehicle or watercraft possesses suffi-
on Table 6.4: Foraging Modifiers by Terrain (see above). cient fuel for 5 hours of highway or waterway travel
Further, with a critical failure when making any scav- (with each hour of off-road travel counting as 2
enging check to find food, the team locates and mistak- hours of highway travel). Finding enough gasoline or
enly consumes a poisonous plant, spoiled groceries, or a diesel fuel for 1 hour of highway travel requires a
supply of diseased meat that operates like a lethal poi- successful scavenging check (DC 12, +3 per vehicle
son or E coli, as appropriate (see Table 6.6: Diseases and size category above Medium). Obviously, this is
Poisons on page 116 for details). implausible with any very large ship, which can
In the wilderness, food found with a scavenging remain at sea for weeks without refueling, but any
check is almost always wild (e.g. nuts, berries, edible agent team that possesses such a vehicle is likely to
mushrooms, etc.). Further, the agent team may choose to only have to refuel once or twice during any season,
hunt for wild game. This consumes 2d10 shots each and then as the center-point of a vital encounter.
from one weapon of each agent’s choice, but generates A fixed-wing aircraft possesses sufficient fuel for
an additional number of man-days’ worth of food equal 10 hours of flight, while a helicopter possesses suffi-
to the twice the maximum damage of any single cient fuel for 4 hours of flight (with any combat or
weapon used in the hunt. chase scene counting as 1 hour of flight, regardless
In an urban area, it’s usually pre-packaged food of how long it actually takes, and what vehicles are
(which may be a bit stale in a post-apocalyptic setting, used). Further, each hour of flight through high
especially if civilization collapsed long ago). Further, winds or worse weather counts as 2 hours of flight.
when an agent team forages in an urban area or base, Finding enough aviation fuel for 1 hour of flight
the GC should roll 1d6: with a result of 1 in an urban requires a successful scavenging check (DC 20, +5 per
area or 1–4 in a military base, the team finds MREs vehicle size category above Medium).
rather than wild or civilian pre-packaged food (see the
U.S. Militaries Sourcebook, page 109).

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 New rules
W EAPONS
OF M ASS
DESTRUCTION
The ultimate horrors of modern warfare, weapons of
mass destruction (WMDs) are every professional sol-
dier’s worst nightmare. The following rules describe the
effects of WMDs, and the techniques agents may use to
protect themselves from these effects.
WMD Types
Weapons of mass destruction take many forms,
as follows.
Biological: A biological WMD spreads a deadly dis-
ease across a large area — possibly with a low-power
explosive, aerosol or aerial dispersal, or by contaminat-
ing a water supply. Contagious diseases are hard to pre-
dict, but may be introduced into a target area with only
one infected individual or animal. Non-infectious bio-
weapons dissipate quickly, while infectious strains often
last for some time, but tend to die out once all hosts are
infected and killed. For a list of possible disease types,
consult Table 6.6: Diseases and Poisons (see page 116).
Chemical: A chemical weapon may be distributed
using the same means as a non-infectious bio-weapon
(see the previous entry). WMD-grade chemicals are
highly resilient, however, and therefore more easily and
widely scattered with explosives (artillery shells, for
example). Most chemical weapons inflict minimal prop-
erty damage and disperse quickly once employed, mak-
ing them desirable for attacks on areas the attacker
wishes to seize after the strike. Some chemicals persist
for several hours to several days on exposed surfaces,
however, making them just as effective as area-denial
weapons. WMD-grade chemical payloads are considered
poisons — for possible chemical weapon types, consult
Table 6.6: Diseases and Poisons (see page 116).
Energetic: No nation in the world is known to pos-
sess this theoretical WMD type, which can include exot-
ic forms of radiation, plasma fields, and strikes with
extremely high-powered lasers and other “beam
weapons.” The common characteristic of every energetic
WMD is total devastation within a central area, beyond
which the weapon has little or no impact. This theory of
crisply targeted destruction makes energetic weapon
development appealing to militaries with ecological
concerns, as well as those who wish to demonstrate pre-
cisely applied violence. Two energetic WMDs are pre-
sented in this chapter. The first is an anti-matter weapon
capable of unleashing titanic energy in an extremely
confined space, but also releasing hard radiation over a
wider area, while the second is a plasma sublimation
113
weapon, which converts everything within a limited
area to hot energized vapor that quickly dissipates. For
details, consult Table 6.5: Weapons of Mass Destruction
(see page 116).
Neutron: An offshoot of the nuclear bomb, a neu-
tron weapon theoretically releases minimal kinetic
force, inflicting only minor property damage. Instead, it
generates a massive burst of lethal neutron radiation
which is lethal to living creatures but harmless to most
structures, and which dissipates quickly after the initial
blast. In a campaign featuring super-science, this WMD
type also includes gadget devices with similar effects,
often using other types of radiation (e.g. microwaves).
For a list of neutron weapons, consult Table 6.5:
Weapons of Mass Destruction (see page 116).
Nuclear: The great specters of the twentieth century,
nuclear weapons set the standard for massive, wide-
scale destruction. Within any nuclear blast, the central
region — or “ground zero” — is utterly annihilated, while
concentric rings of territory outside this region experi-
ence major property damage, followed by fires, then
severe radiation poisoning, and finally fallout (a surviv-
able condition of radioactive contamination caused by
the fall of contaminated particles blown into the atmos-
phere by the explosion). The massive property destruc-
tion and environmental impact of nuclear weapons
have made them unpopular with most governments, but
ideal as an implement of terror. For a list of nuclear
weapons, consult Table 6.5: Weapons of Mass
Destruction (see page 116).
Radiological (“Dirty Bombs”): These devices use con-
ventional explosives to scatter radioactive substances
over large areas. While not as far-reaching or as fatal as
some other WMD types, their relative simplicity and
slow, painful death dealing makes them an instant con-
cern for counter-terrorism forces worldwide. For a list of
radiological weapons, consult Table 6.5: Weapons of
Mass Destruction (see page 116).
WMD Effects
The single defining characteristic of any WMD is its
area of effect. Each of these weapons destroys lives,
property, or both across a wide area. Each WMD
possesses up to 3 destruction increments, applying
one or more WMD effects to characters and/or scenery
within each destruction increment as shown on Table
6.5: Weapons of Mass Destruction (see page 114).
Example: A nuclear blast applies the devastation
WMD effect at ground zero (i.e. within the center
destruction increment), the concussion and fires WMD
effects within the second destruction increment, and the
fallout WMD effect within the third destruction incre-
ment.
 battlegrounds
Annihilation: Within each affected destruction incre-
ment, the weapon generates extremely high-energy
activity, converting conventional matter into high-tem-
perature plasma, which quickly dissipates. Absolutely
everything within the area is vaporized; no one and
nothing is allowed a save. Nothing remains within the
area to salvage or examine (though the extreme absence
of residue may tip off knowledgeable examiners as to
the cause of the destruction). This effect frequently
carves holes in buildings or the ground.
Concussion: Within each affected destruction incre-
ment, the weapon expels a massive wave of explosive
force. At ground zero, each character and object suffers
12d12 normal blast damage. In the second destruction
increment, this damage is reduced to 10d10, and within
the third destruction increment, it is reduced to 8d8.
Contact: Within each affected destruction incre-
ment, the weapon distributes a standard payload of bio-
logical or chemical material. Each character within the
area need only make 1 save to resist the payload, as

Table 6.5: Weapons of Mass Destruction

WMD First Increment Second Increment Third Increment
Biological
Airburst Saturation (800 ft.) Exposure (2 miles) Contact (25 miles)
Crop dusting Saturation (1 mile) Exposure (5 miles) Contact (50 miles)
Infectious carrier
Unknowing Exposure (1 mile) Contact (10 miles) None
Unwilling Exposure (5 miles) Contact (50 miles) None
Point source Saturation (100 ft.) Exposure (500 ft.) Contact (1 mile)
Infected water supply* Exposure (10 miles) Contact (20 miles) None
Chemical
Airburst, fluid/solid Saturation (1,000 ft.) Exposure (4 miles) Contact (6 miles)
Airburst, gaseous Saturation (5,000 ft.) Exposure (5 miles) Contact (10 miles)
Crop dusting Saturation (1 mile) Exposure (8 miles) Contact (12 miles)
Point source Saturation (100 ft.) Exposure (1,000 ft.) Contact (2,000 ft.)
Infected water supply* Exposure (10 miles) Contact (15 miles) None
Energetic
Anti-matter, micro-burst Annihilation (50 ft.) Devastation (1 mile) Hard Radiation (3 miles)
Anti-matter, low-yield Annihilation (200 ft.) Devastation (4 miles) Hard Radiation (12 miles)
Anti-matter, high-yield Annihilation (400 ft.) Devastation (10 miles) Hard Radiation (25 miles)
Plasma, micro-burst Annihilation (50 ft.) Fires (75 ft.) None
Plasma, low-yield Annihilation (500 ft.) Fires (600 ft.) None
Plasma, high-yield Annihilation (1 mile) Fires (6,000 ft.) None
Neutron
Gadget, micro-burst Hard Radiation (500 ft.) None None
Gadget, low-yield Hard Radiation (1 mile) None None
Gadget, high-yield Hard Radiation (5 miles) None None
Nuclear, micro-burst Concussion, Fires (80 ft.) Hard Radiation (2,000 ft.) None
Nuclear, low-yield Concussion, Fires (500 ft.) Hard Radiation (3 miles) None
Nuclear, high-yield Concussion, Fires (1,500 ft.) Hard Radiation (10 miles) None
Nuclear
Pocket Devastation (500 ft.) Concussion, Fires (2,000 ft.) Fallout (3,000 ft.)
Tactical Devastation (2,500 ft.) Concussion, Fires (2 miles) Fallout (4 miles)
Strategic Devastation (3 miles) Concussion, Fires (10 miles) Fallout (30 miles)
Theater Devastation (9 miles) Concussion, Fires (25 miles) Fallout (100 miles)
Radiological
Micro-burst Concussion (75 ft.) Fallout (800 ft.) None
Low-yield Concussion (200 ft.) Fallout (2,500 ft.) None
High-yield Concussion (500 ft.) Fallout (1.5 miles) None
* Within the first destruction increment, characters are only affected if they drink from the local water supply. Within the
second destruction increment, however, contamination is person-to-person, and therefore everyone in the area is affected.

114
 New rules
shown on Table 6.6: Diseases and Poisons (see page
116). Most chemical and non-infectious biological
materials dissipate within 1 day at this level of contam-
ination; infectious diseases present a low-level threat
until the disease runs its course (e.g. all victims recover
or perish).
Devastation: Within each affected destruction incre-
ment, the weapon creates extreme temperatures and
violent concussion. Absolutely every living creature in
the area is killed; none are allowed a save. In general, 4
out of every 5 buildings are destroyed. Items possessing
a hardness of 10 or higher may leave behind recogniz-
able — but not functional — remains. Items possessing
a hardness of 25 or higher may remain intact or
repairable, at the GC’s discretion.
Exposure: Within each affected destruction incre-
ment, the weapon delivers a significant amount of dis-
ease or poison. At ground zero, each character must
make 1 save to resist the payload per hour of exposure,
as shown on Table 6.6: Diseases and Poisons (see page
116). Within the second destruction increment, each
character must make 1 save per 12 hours of exposure,
and gains a +4 circumstance bonus with each save.
Finally, within the third destruction increment, each
character must make 1 save per full day (24 hours) of
exposure, and gains a +10 circumstance bonus with
each save.
115
Once infected with a disease, a character suffers a –2
circumstance penalty with subsequent saves to resist its
effects so long as he remains in any destruction incre-
ment applying the exposure effect. A character may
only be targeted by each of a poison’s effects once, no
matter how long he remains in the same exposed area.
Less powerful diseases tend to linger for prolonged
periods, as more hosts live to transmit them. If the WMD
carries a disease, its exposure effect dissipates enough to
become a contact effect after a number of days equal to
the maximum numerical onset time for its payload’s
primary phase (e.g. 20 days for measles or 3 days for
lassa fever). This base duration assumes civil authorities
respond to the crisis; otherwise, the effect can last from
twice as long to indefinitely, per the GC’s discretion.
If the WMD carries a poison, its exposure effect dis-
sipates enough to become a contact effect after 12
hours.
Fallout: Within each affected destruction increment,
the weapon distributes a dangerous amount of radia-
tion. Each character within the area suffers the standard
effects of radiation (see page 119). This effect lingers for
5d100 years, or until the area is thoroughly cleansed
(e.g. removing the top several inches of everything and
chemically scrubbing what’s found beneath).
 battlegrounds
Table 6.6: Diseases and Poisons
–––––––––––– Primary Phase –––––––––––– –––––––––––– Secondary Phase
––––––––––––
Disease CR Onset Time Save Damage/Effect Onset Time Save Damage/Effect BP Cost*
Infection, minor 1 1d2 days Fort (DC 12) 1 Con 1d2 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con N/A
E coli 1 2d6 days Fort (DC 12) 1 Con 1d6 days Fort (DC 14) 1d2 Con N/A
Cold 2 1d6 days Fort (DC 12) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con N/A
Chickenpox** 2 1d4 days Fort (DC 16) 1 Cha 1d10 days Fort (DC 16) 1 Cha N/A
Infection, moderate 3 1d4 days Fort (DC 12) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1d4 Con N/A
Influenza (flu) 3 1d6 days Fort (DC 13) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 15) 1d2 Con N/A
Pneumonia 4 1d6 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 16) 1d3 Con N/A
Dengue fever 4 2d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 16) 1d4 Con N/A
Measles 5 2d10 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con, 1 Cha 2d10 days Fort (DC 16) 1d2 Con, 1d2 Cha N/A
Infection, severe 5 1d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Con N/A
Black fever 5 2d4 days Fort (DC 13) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 15) 1d3 Con, 1d2 Cha† N/A
Typhus fever 6 2d10 days Fort (DC 13) 1 Con, 1 Str 1d10 days Fort (DC 15) 1d4 Con, 1d4 Str N/A
Malariau 6 1d6 days Fort (DC 12) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1d3 Con† N/A
Flesh-eating virus 6 1d6 days Fort (DC 13) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 15) 1d2 Con, 1d2 Str†† N/A
(necrotizing faciitis)
Tetanus (lockjaw) 7 1d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con, 1 Str 1d4 days Fort (DC 16) 1d4 Con†, 1d4 Str N/A
Hanta virus 7 1d6 weeks Fort (DC 15) 1 Con, 1 Str 1d10 days Fort (DC 17) 1d4 Con, 1d4 Str N/A
Marburg hemorrhagic fever 7 2d6 days Fort (DC 16) 1 Con 1d6 days Fort (DC 18) 1d4 Con, 1d4 Str N/A
Yellow fever 8 2d4 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con, 1 Dex 1d4 days Fort (DC 16) 1d2 Con††, 1d2 Dex†† N/A
Severe Acute Respiratory 8 1d6 days Fort (DC 15) 1 Con 1d4 days Fort (DC 17) 1d6 Con† N/A
Syndrome (SARS)
Leprosy 8 2d4 years Fort (DC 14) 1 Dex 2d4 years Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Dex, 1d6 Cha† N/A
Encephalitis/Meningitis 9 1d6 days Fort (DC 14) 1 Con 1d6 days Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Int†, 1d6 Wis† N/A
Anthrax 9 1d6 days Fort (DC 16) 1 Con, 1 Str 1d4 days Fort (DC 18) 1d8 Con, 1d8 Str N/A
Tuberculosis 10 1d8 days Fort (DC 13) 1 Str 1d6 days Fort (DC 15) 1d2 Con††, 1d4 Str†† N/A
Lupus 10 2d4 years Fort (DC 14) 1 Str, 1 Cha 2d4 years Fort (DC 16) 1d4 Con†, 1d6 Str, 1 Cha N/A
Smallpox 10 2d6 days Fort (DC 18) 1 Con, 1 Cha 1d6 days Fort (DC 20) 1d6 Con, 1d6 Cha N/A
Dementia 11 4d6 months Fort (DC 14) 1 Int, 1 Cha 2d6 months Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Int††, 1d4 Cha†† N/A
Lassa fever 11 1d3 weeks Fort (DC 12) 1 Str 2d4 days Fort (DC 20) 2d6 Con N/A
Cancer 12 1d6+1 months Fort (DC 18) 1 Con 1d10+2 weeks Fort (DC 22) 1d12 Con, 1d8 Str N/A
Bubonic plague 18 2d4 days Fort (DC 24) 1 Con, 1 Str 2d6 days Fort (DC 26) 2d6 Con††, 2d6 Str N/A
Ebola 24 2d10 days Fort (DC 30) 1 Con, 1 Str, 1 Dex 1d10 days Fort (DC 32) 2d6 Con††, 2d6 Str†, N/A
2d6 Dex

* The actual cost of all diseases and poisons is “Restricted”.

** Once a character contracts this disease, he may never contract it again.
† One-half of this ability damage is permanent (rounded down).
†† All of this ability damage is permanent.
u Malaria is incredibly difficult to stave off permanently. Even after a character recovers from the disease, there’s a non-cumulative 50% chance that he
contracts it again each time he suffers 1 or more points of Con damage thereafter. Only after avoiding the infection 3 times in a row is the character
completely cured.
uu Both onset times for this poison are 1d4 rounds +a number of rounds determined as follows.
Basic truth serum: The target character’s Con score × 1⁄2 (rounded down).
Improved truth serum: The target character’s Con score × 1⁄3 (rounded down).

116
 New rules
Table 6.6: Diseases and Poisons (Cont.)
––––––––––– Primary Phase ––––––––––– ––––––––––– Secondary Phase –––––––––––
Contagient CR Onset Time Save Damage/Effect Onset Time Save Damage/Effect BP Cost*
Basic Poisons
Blister agent 8 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d2 Dex, 1d2 Con 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d3 Dex. 1d3 Con 5/use
Dementia poison 6 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d4 Int 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d6 Int 3/use
Knockout poison 8 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) Stunned 1d4 rounds 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) Unconscious 1d6 rounds 5/use
Lethal poison 6 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d4 Con 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d6 Con 3/use
Nerve poison 6 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d4 Dex 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d6 Dex 3/use
Paralytic poison 8 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) Staggered 1d4 rounds 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) Paralyzed 1d6 rounds 5/use
Paranoia poison 6 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d4 Cha 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d6 Cha 3/use
Truth serum 6 Specialu u Fort (DC 12) 1d4 Wis Specialu u Fort (DC 12) 1d6 Wis 5/use
Weakening poison 6 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d4 Str 2d6 rounds Fort (DC 12) 1d6 Str 3/use

Improved Poisons
Blister agent, improved 14 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d3 Dex, 1d3 Con 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d4 Dex, 1d4 Con 10/use
Dementia poison 12 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Int 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d8 Int 8/use
Knockout poison 14 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) Stunned 1d6 rounds 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) Unconscious 1d8 rounds 10/use
Lethal poison 12 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Con 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d8 Con 8/use
Nerve poison 12 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Dex 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d8 Dex 8/use
Paralytic poison 14 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) Staggered 1d6 rounds 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) Paralyzed 1d8 rounds 10/use
Paranoia poison 12 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Cha 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d8 Cha 8/use
Truth serum 12 Specialu u Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Wis Specialu u Fort (DC 16) 1d8 Wis 10/use
Weakening poison 12 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d6 Str 1d6 rounds Fort (DC 16) 1d8 Str 8/use

Advanced Poisons
Blister agent, advanced 20 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d4 Dex, 1d4 Con 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d4+1 Dex, 1d4+1 Con 15/use
Dementia poison 18 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d8 Int 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d10 Int 13/use
Knockout poison 20 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) Stunned 1d8 rounds 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) Unconscious 1d10 rounds 15/use
Lethal poison 18 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d8 Con 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d10 Con 13/use
Nerve poison 18 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d8 Dex 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d10 Dex 13/use
Paralytic poison 20 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) Staggered 1d8 rounds 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) Paralyzed 1d10 rounds 15/use
Paranoia poison 18 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d8 Cha 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d10 Cha 13/use
Truth serum 18 Specialu u Fort (DC 20) 1d8 Wis Specialu u Fort (DC 20) 1d10 Wis 15/use
Weakening poison 18 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d8 Str 1d4 rounds Fort (DC 20) 1d10 Str 13/use

* The actual cost of all diseases and poisons is “Restricted”.

** Once a character contracts this disease, he may never contract it again.
† One-half of this ability damage is permanent (rounded down).
†† All of this ability damage is permanent.
u Malaria is incredibly difficult to stave off permanently. Even after a character recovers from the disease, there’s a non-cumulative 50% chance that he
contracts it again each time he suffers 1 or more points of Con damage thereafter. Only after avoiding the infection 3 times in a row is the character
completely cured.
uu Both onset times for this poison are 1d4 rounds +a number of rounds determined as follows.
Basic truth serum: The target character’s Con score × 1⁄2 (rounded down).
Improved truth serum: The target character’s Con score × 1⁄3 (rounded down).
Advanced truth serum: The target character’s Con score × 1⁄4 (rounded down)

117
 battlegrounds
Fires: Within each affected destruction increment,
objects may burst into flame or catch on fire, as appro-
priate. The GC rolls 1d10 for each character and item in
the area. At ground zero, each flammable object catch-
es fire with a result of 8 or less and each non-flamma-
ble object catches fire with a result of 4 or less. Within
the second destruction increment, each flammable
object catches fire with a result of 4 or less and each
non-flammable object catches fire with a result of 2 or
less. Within the third destruction increment, each flam-
mable object catches fire with a result of 2 or less and
each non-flammable object catches fire with a result of
1 or less. This fire spreads as standard, but the effects of
the weapon do not persist.
Hard Radiation: Within each affected destruction
increment, the area is bombarded with a potentially
fatal quantity of radiation. Each character within the
area suffers the standard effects of radiation (see page
119). This effect does not linger.
Saturation: Within each affected destruction incre-
ment, there is no hope of avoiding prolonged contact
with the weapon’s payload. Unless a character is pro-
118
tected within a self-contained environment (e.g. wear-
ing an NBC suit, benefiting from MOPP Level 4, or in
a vehicle possessing the life support (LSP) quality),
he automatically fails all saves made to resist the
payload’s effects. At ground zero, each character fails
this save once per 10 minutes of exposure. Within the
second destruction increment, each character fails this
save once per hour of exposure, and within the third
destruction increment, each character fails this save
once per 4 hours of exposure. Finally, the onset time
for the secondary effect is reduced to 1⁄2 standard
(rounded up).
Less powerful diseases tend to linger for prolonged
periods, as more hosts live to transmit them. If the WMD
carries a disease, its exposure effect dissipates enough to
become an exposure effect after a number of days equal
to the maximum numerical onset time for its payload’s
primary phase (e.g. 20 days for measles or 3 days for
lassa fever). This base duration assumes civil authorities
respond to the crisis; otherwise, the effect can last from
twice as long to indefinitely, per the GC’s discretion.
If the WMD carries a poison, its exposure effect dis-
sipates enough to become a contact effect after 12 hours.
 New rules
Radiation
Of the many hazards encountered when WMDs are a
factor, radiation is one of the most feared. Undetectable
without specialized instruments, its effects on the
human body are painful, potentially fatal, and often
irreversible even with advanced medical technology.
Each time an agent is exposed to a radiation hazard,
he must make a Fort save against a DC as shown on
Table 6.7: Radiation Save DCs (see page 120). With suc-
cess, the agent suffers no ill effects. With failure, how-
ever, the agent suffers a radiation effect determined by
the difference between the DC and his check result, as
shown on Table 6.8: Radiation Sickness (see page 120).
Minor Radiation Sickness: Within 4d6 hours, the
character experiences nausea, weakness, fatigue and
vomiting. He suffers 1d6 points of temporary Con dam-
age and 1 point of temporary damage to each other
ability. After another 12 hours, and for every 12 full
hours thereafter, the character may make a Fort save
(DC 10). With success, his symptoms pass and he starts
to recover lost ability points as standard.
Deadly Environments
Modern militaries train all new recruits in chem-
ical, biological, and nuclear warfare protection,
including the proper use of appropriate protective
gear, but the mental effects of roaming through a
deadly environment cannot be easily dissuaded.
When properly protected and located within any
deadly environment — including any area targeted
by an exposure, fallout, or saturation WMD effect —
an agent suffers the following effects.
• Each skill use takes 50% longer than standard
(rounded down).
• The error ranges of each skill check and attack
roll is increased by 2.
• The agent may not take 10 or 20 with any
check, even if he possesses a special ability that
allows him to do so under stress. This effect is
negated by any ability that specifically permits
use in deadly environments.
When out of combat, an agent may spend and roll
1 action die to ignore these effects for a number of
minutes equal to the action die’s result. When in
combat, this duration is reduced to a number of
rounds equal to the action die’s result.
An agent who lacks the proper protective gear
does not suffer these effects — but the deadly envi-
ronment may have its way with him in short order.
119
Major Radiation Sickness: Within 1d4+2 hours, the
character experiences minor radiation sickness (see the
previous entry). After another 3d6 days, the character —
who has likely recovered from the symptoms of the minor
radiation sickness — suffers a relapse, experiencing the
effects of minor radiation sickness as well as diarrhea, hair
loss, 2d6 points of temporary Con damage, and 1d6 points
of temporary damage to each other ability. After another
24 hours, and for every 24 hours thereafter, the character
may make a Fort save (DC 15). With success, his symp-
toms pass and he starts to recover lost ability points as
standard.
Critical Radiation Sickness: Within 1d3 hours, the
character experiences minor radiation sickness (see the
previous entry). After another 1d8 days, the character
experiences internal bleeding, 3d6 points of temporary
Con damage, and 1d6 points of temporary damage to
each other ability. Additionally, he automatically fails
all Fort saves made to resist the effects of poison or dis-
ease (though he may still save to recover from the
effects of radiation). After another 24 hours, and for
every 24 hours thereafter, the character may make a
Fort save (DC 20). With 3 successes, his symptoms pass
and he starts to recover lost ability points as standard.
With each failure, however, he suffers 1 additional point
of temporary Con damage.
Terminal Radiation Sickness: Within 1 hour, the
character experiences critical radiation sickness (see the
previous entry). No number of successful saves prevents
his painful and messy demise — he suffers 1 additional
point of permanent Con damage every 2d12 hours until
he dies. Only super-science (gadget) medical technology
can prevent or reverse this damage, and only at the GC’s
discretion.
Instantly Fatal Radiation Sickness: The character
immediately becomes stunned and remains so until
death. He suffers 1 point of permanent Con damage
each minute and may not make any saves to resist this
damage.
Cumulative Radiation Effects
Recurring exposure to hazardous radiation can
reduce the body’s ability to resist future exposure. Each
time a character experiences major or critical radiation
sickness, he suffers a permanent, cumulative –1 penalty
with all Fort saves made to resist the effects of radiation.
Treating Radiation Damage
Anti-radiation drugs can somewhat alleviate the
symptoms of radiation exposure. At the end of each 24-
hour period during which a character is administered
these drugs, the attending physician may make a First
 battlegrounds
Aid or Profession (Doctor) skill check (DC 16). With
success, the character gains a +5 circumstance bonus
with all Fort saves made to resist the effect of radiation
during the following 24 hours. Unfortunately, these
NEW VEHICLES
The following real-world vehicles saw service in the
drugs cause nauseating side-effects, inflicting a –2 conflicts described in Chapters 1–4. Their statistics were
penalty with all attack rolls, skill checks, and Will saves constructed using the rules presented in the Spycraft
the patient makes while under treatment, and during the Vehicle Guide (see the Soldier/Wheelman Class Guide,
72 hours following his last dose. Chapter 4), but take into account each specific vehicle’s
actual performance capabilities, resulting in some val-
Table 6.7: Radiation Save DCs ues — particularly speed — that differ from those of the
Source of Radiation DC base vehicle types.
Medical and environmental sources Some of the following vehicles may be configured
Medical x-ray 3 with different ordnance, depending upon their mission
Severe sunburn 2 profile. In such an event, the vehicle’s permanently
mounted ordnance is listed as the top Ordnance option
Nuclear reactor containment breach on Table 6.9: New Vehicles (see page 123). All optional
Catastrophic failure 60 loads are described beneath this fixed weapons set,
Man-sized hole 45 along with a GP cost that must be paid in addition to
Hand-sized hole 30 the vehicle’s base cost.
Catastrophic failure 15 For additional detail about the vehicle statistics pre-
Substances sented here and how to use them, see the U.S. Militaries
Weapons-grade plutonium 50 Sourcebook, page 112.
Nuclear reactor waste 40
Unprocessed uranium ore 10 Air Vehicles
A-1 Skyraider Ground Attack Fighter: First developed
WMD Effects
in WWII as the XBT2D-1, this single-engine propeller-
Fallout (ground zero) 40
driven ground attack aircraft saw service with the U.S.
Fallout (second destruction increment) 30
Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force over Korea and
Fallout (third destruction increment) 20
Vietnam. Troops on the ground preferred Skyraiders to
Fallout 1–4 weeks after blast –5
virtually any other close air support due to their combi-
Fallout 1–6 months after blast –10
nation of accuracy and resilience — jets often moved too
Fallout 7–12 months after blast –20
fast to hit enemy troop concentrations and helicopter
Fallout 1+ years after blast –30
gunships were too vulnerable to ground fire, but these
Hard Radiation (ground zero) None*
“Spads” could slow down enough to spot their targets
Hard Radiation (second destruction increment) 80
while absorbing rifle fire. Skyraiders were also an essen-
Hard Radiation (third destruction increment) 40
tial part of American CSAR (Combat Search and Rescue)
Radiological device (“dirty bomb”) ×2
operations in Vietnam, and Cold War-era Skyraider units
* This level of radiation exposure is automatically fatal. were some of the last propeller-driven aircraft to carry
American nuclear weapons.
Table 6.8: Radiation Sickness Services: Chad (1976–1984), Cambodia (1965+),
Difference Radiation Sickness France (1960–1975), South Vietnam (1963–1975),
Up to 10 Minor Thailand, U.K. Royal Navy (1956–1962), U.S. Navy and
11–20 Major Marine Corps (1946–1968), U.S. Air Force (1964–1973).
21–30 Critical In the modern era, all remaining Skyraiders are in
31–40 Terminal museums or privately owned and unarmed.
41+ Instantly Fatal Occupancy: 1 crew (pilots) or 2 crew (pilot, navigator).
Length: 40 ft. Wingspan: 50 ft. Weight: 12 tons

120
 New rules
DC-3 Transport: This vehicle appeared during the
wartime explosion of commercial aviation, and is
known to aviation enthusiasts as the “Dakota,” the
“Gooney Bird,” and the “Dak.” It is one of the most
iconic aircraft ever built. Its parent company, Douglas,
produced over 10,000 of this venerable twin-engine
propeller-driven transport between 1935 and 1947, and
roughly 1,000 remain in service today thanks to the air-
craft’s legendary reliability and ease of maintenance.
The DC-3 has been used for virtually every purpose that
conceivable for a 64 ft.-long aluminum tube with
wings. In American military service, it was designated
the C-47, and became the most widely utilized transport
aircraft of World War II. Many variants saw military use,
ranging from CIA-operated electronic surveillance
planes to AC-47 “Puff the Magic Dragon” gunships.
121
Special Mechanics: The DC-3 possesses the DP
(dependable) gear quality, which isn’t typically available
to vehicles. The GC must spend 1 additional action die
to inflict any mechanical failure upon the vehicle.
Services: U.S. Army Air Force and U.S. Air Force
(1940–1975), as well as virtually every other non-
Warsaw Pact nation’s air force (1940s–1980s). In the
modern era, most remaining DC-3s are in museums or
privately owned, but a few may be found in the mili-
taries of various nations, including Bolivia, the
Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras,
Thailand, and South Africa.
Occupancy: 2 crew (2 pilots), 30 passengers (1 cabin).
Length: 64 ft. Wingspan: 95 ft. Weight: 17 tons
AC-47
Special Mechanics: The AC-47 possesses the DP
(dependable) gear quality, which isn’t typically available
to vehicles. The GC must spend 1 additional action die
to inflict any mechanical failure upon the vehicle.
Services: U.S. Air Force (1964–1975), Colombia
(1998–present), El Salvador (1984–present), Honduras
(1986–present). Other DC-3s in national fleets or private
hands may have been modified to this configuration as
well.
Occupancy: 7 (2 pilots, navigator, flight engineer,
loadmaster, gunner, loader, observer).
Length: 64 ft. Wingspan: 95 ft. Weight: 17 tons
 battlegrounds
Ground Vehicles
BRDM-2 Armored Car: This 4×4 light armored
car was used by the Soviet Union (and later Russia),
as well as numerous client states, as the foundation for
a family of light combat and combat support vehicles.
The base model — which moved the engine to the rear
of the vehicle and added armament — entered service in
the mid-1960s, replacing its predecessor and becoming
the mainstay of Soviet armored reconnaissance units.
Notable combat variants on this vehicle’s basic chassis
include two missile carriers (one anti-tank, one SAM),
as well as a command vehicle used extensively
by artillery and mechanized infantry units, and an NBC
reconnaissance vehicle.
Services: Russia (and previously, the Soviet Union),
as well as more than 45 Soviet-friendly nations.
Occupancy: 4 crew (commander, driver, gunner, nav-
igator).
Length: 19 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 8 tons
BRDM-2 ATGM Carrier
Services: Russia (and previously, the Soviet Union),
as well as more than 45 Soviet-friendly nations.
Occupancy: 3 crew (commander, driver, gunner).
Length: 19 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 8 tons
BRDM-2RKH NBC Reconnaissance Vehicle
Services: Russia (and previously, the Soviet Union),
as well as more than 45 Soviet-friendly nations.
Occupancy: 4 crew (commander, driver, gunner, nav-
igator).
Length: 19 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 8 tons
BRDM-2U Command Vehicle
Services: Russia (and previously, the Soviet Union),
as well as more than 45 Soviet-friendly nations.
Occupancy: 5 crew (commander, driver, 3 C3I opera-
tors).
Length: 19 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 8 tons
SA-9 GASKIN SAM Carrier
Services: Russia (and previously, the Soviet Union),
as well as more than 45 Soviet-friendly nations.
Occupancy: 3 crew (commander, driver, gunner).
122
Length: 19 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 8 tons
M113 Armored Personnel Carrier: This iconic light
armored personnel carrier entered American service
in the late 1950s and is still in inventory today. In its
basic configuration, it’s little more than a lightly
armored box with treads and a diesel engine, but the
chassis has spawned over 40 variants, ranging from
command post vehicles to guided missile carriers.
Services: U.S. Army, more than 50 U.S.-friendly
nations (including Vietnam).
Occupancy: 2 crew (commander, driver), 11 passen-
gers (1 cabin).
Length: 16 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 15 tons
M106 Mortar Carrier
Services: U.S. Army, Australia, Belgium, Canada,
Denmark, Egypt, Germany, Ethiopia, Greece, Israel,
Italy, Lebanon, Netherlands, New Zealand, Peru,
Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland,
Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey.
Occupancy: 6 crew (commander, driver, gunner, 3
loaders).
Length: 16 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 15 tons
M113 ACAV (Armored Cavalry Assault Vehicle)
Services: U.S. Army. Individual units in other
nations may also have modified some M113 APCs to
this configuration.
Occupancy: 6 crew (commander, driver, 2 gunners, 2
loaders).
Length: 16 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 15 tons
M132 “Zippo” Self-Propelled Flamethrower
Services: U.S. Army (Vietnam era only).
Occupancy: 2 crew (driver, gunner).
Length: 16 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 15 tons
M163 VADS (Vulcan Air Defense System)
Services: U.S. Army, Israel, Morocco.
Occupancy: 4 crew (commander, driver, gunner, loader).
Length: 16 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 15 tons
M577 Command Post Carrier
Services: U.S. Army, Australia, Canada, Egypt,
Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Netherlands, New
Zealand, Norway, Spain.
Occupancy: 2 crew (commander, driver), 6 passengers
(1 cabin).
 New rules
Length: 16 ft. Width: 9 ft. Weight: 15 tons
ZSU-57-2 Air Defense Vehicle: Introduced in 1952,
the ZSU-57-2 is a Soviet-built self-propelled anti-air-
craft vehicle based on the T-54 tank’s chassis. It carries
a pair of 57mm guns in a large, boxy, open-topped tur-
ret. Unlike modern designs, the ZSU-57-2 has no elec-
tronic sighting aids — gunners must aim visually. The
vehicle’s combat history has seen it used for convoy
protection as well as for fixed position defense.
Services: The Soviet Union (and China, who copied
the design) exported the ZSU-57-2 to dozens of Warsaw
Pact client states and other Communist allies, including
North Vietnam. In the modern era, the vehicle is no
longer in Russian use, but many Third World nations
that received Soviet arms exports still use it in lieu
of modern designs.
Occupancy: 6 crew (commander, driver, 2 gunners,
2 loaders).

Table 6.9: New Vehicles

Vehicle Name GP SZ Occ. Hnd Speed MPH Def WP Hrd Qualities, Mods, Gear, and Gadgets
Air Vehicles
AC-47 Transport Plane 12 H 7/0 +4 1,750 ft. 175/230 10 100 7 DP< EOP, FPH, LVQ, MTF, autopilot
Ordnance: 3 × 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (gunner, left side).
A-1 Skyraider Ground 20 H 1 or 2/0 +6 2,400 ft. 240/325 17 130 9 AHV, CMF (sky), FPH, MTF, autopilot
Attack Fighter
Ordnance: 4 × 20mm (23mm) vehicular machinegun (pilot).
Ordnance (Bombing, +5 GP): 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (pilot), 500-lb iron bomb rack with HE bombs (pilot),
8 extra HE iron bombs.
Ordnance (Close Air Support, +21 GP): 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (pilot), localized cluster bomb rack with fragmentation
bombs (pilot), 5 extra fragmentation localized bombs, 500-lb iron bomb rack with incendiary bombs (pilot), 70mm rocket
launcher with 19 HE rockets (pilot), 19 extra HE rockets.
Ordnance (Nuclear, GC fiat only): Strategic nuclear bomb (see page 114).
Ordnance (Search and Rescue, +15 GP): 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (pilot), localized cluster bomb rack with fragmentation
bombs (pilot), 3 extra fragmentation localized bombs, 70mm rocket launcher with 19 HE rockets (pilot), 19 extra HE rockets.
D-3 Transport Plane 8 H 2/30 +4 1,750 ft. 175/230 10 100 7 DP< EOP, FPH, LVQ, MTF, autopilot
Ordnance: None.
Ground Vehicles
BRDM-2 Armored Car 16 L 4/0 –4 300 ft. (L) 30/60 (L) 5 200 10 CMF (any one), LSP (1), ORD,
30 ft. (W) 3/6 (W) thermal sights, turret
Ordnance: 14.5mm vehicular machinegun (gunner, turret), 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (gunner, turret).
BRDM-2 ATGM Carrier Car 18 L 3/0 –4 300 ft. (L) 30/60 (L) 5 200 10 CMF (any one), LSP (1), ORD,
30 ft. (W) 3/6 (W) thermal sights
Ordnance: Standard wire-guided missile launcher with HEAT missiles (gunner, front), 12 extra HEAT missiles.
BRDM-2RKH 15 L 4/0 –4 300 ft. (L) 30/60 (L) 5 200 10 CMF (any one), LSP (3), ORD,
Reconnaissance Vehicle 30 ft. (W) 3/6 (W) chemical sniffer, geiger counter,
flag dropper (for marking hazardous
areas), thermal sights,
Ordnance: 2 × 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (gunner).
BRDM-2U Command Vehicle 14 L 5/0 –4 300 ft. (L) 30/60 (L) 5 200 10 CMF (any one), LSP (3), ORD,
30 ft. (W) 3/6 (W) tactical C3I suite, thermal sights
Ordnance: 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (commander — must expose self to fire, one-half cover).
SA-9 GASKIN SAM Carrier Car 16 L 3/0 –4 300 ft. (L) 30/60 (L) 5 200 10 CMF (any one), LSP (1), ORD,
30 ft. (W) 3/6 (W) thermal sights
Ordnance: Standard IR-guided missile launcher with fragmentation missiles (gunner, top), 4 extra fragmentation missiles.

* The helmsman and radar operator each possess total cover, while the gunner possesses one-half cover.
** This weapon operates like a 70mm rocker launcher.

123
 battlegrounds
Length: 20 ft. Width: 11 ft. Weight: 31 tons
had minimal cooking and sanitary facilities, fuel and
Water Vehicles crew endurance restricted swift boat mission lengths to
36 hours or less. The typical PCF missions included
Patrol Craft, Fast (PCF) patrolling rivers and coastlines for enemy troop and
equipment movements and providing fire support and
Colloquially known as “swift boats,” PCFs were the
transport for SEAL teams and special operations units.
U.S. Navy’s solution to the demands of counterinsur-
Services: U.S. Navy, Philippines, South Vietnam,
gency duties in Vietnam. Swift boat crews were part of
Thailand, Cambodia, Brazil, and Zaire starting in 1965.
the “brown-water Navy,” operating primarily on the
No PCFs remain in U.S. service, and few, if any, remain
river rather than the open sea. The design of the PCFs
in service with other nations.
was derived from that of water taxis produced by
Occupancy: 6 crew (commander, helmsman, 2 gun-
Sewart Seacraft of Louisiana. Though they technically
ners, radio operator, engineer), 6 passengers (1 cabin).

Table 6.9: New Vehicles (Cont.)

Vehicle Name GP SZ Occ. Hnd Speed MPH Def WP Hrd Qualities, Mods, Gear, and Gadgets
M113 Armored Personnel Carrier 8 L 2/11 –7 200 ft. (L) 20/40 (L) 2 240 10 CMF (any one), MTF, TRK
20 ft. (W) 2/4 (L)
Ordnance: 12.7mm vehicular machinegun (commander — must expose self to fire, one-half cover).
M106 Mortar Carrier 14 L 6/0 –7 200 ft. (L) 20/40 (L) 2 240 10 CMF (any one), MTF, TRK
20 ft. (W) 2/4 (W)
Ordnance: 12.7mm vehicular machinegun (commander — must expose self to fire, one-half cover),
107mm mortar (may only be fired when vehicle is stationary).
M113 Armored Cavalry 10 L 6/0 –7 200 ft. (L) 20/40 (L) 2 240 10 CMF (any one), MTF, TRK
Assault Vehicle 20 ft. (W) 2/4 (W)
Ordnance: 12.7mm vehicular machinegun (commander — must expose self to fire, one-half cover),
2 × 7.62mm vehicular machineguns (one per gunner — must expose self to fire, three-quarters cover).
M132 Self-Propelled 11 L 2/0 –7 200 ft. (L) 20/40 (L) 2 240 10 CMF (any one), MTF, TRK, turret
Flamethrower 20 ft. (W) 2/4 (W)
Ordnance: Light flamethrower (gunner, turret), 7.62mm vehicular machinegun (gunner, turret).
M163 Vulcan Air 13 L 4/0 –7 200 ft. (L) 20/40 (L) 2 240 10 CMF (any one), MTF, TRK,
Defense System 20 ft. (W) 2/4 (W) thermal sights, turret
Ordnance: 20mm (23mm) vehicular machinegun (gunner, turret).
M577 Command Post Carrier 9 L 2/6 –7 200 ft. (L) 20/40 (L) 2 240 10 CMF (any one), MTF, TRK,
20 ft. (W) 2/4 (W) office gear/radios for 6 HQ personnel
Ordnance: 12.7mm vehicular machinegun (commander — must expose self to fire, one-half cover).
ZSU-57-2 Air Defense Vehicle 18 H 6/0 –9 150 ft. 15/30 2 160 10 CMF (desert or forest), OPT (75%), TRK
Ordnance: 2 × 57mm (60mm) cannon.
Water Vehicles
Patrol Craft, Fast 22 L 6/6 +4 180 ft. 18/36 11 160 6 CMF (jungle), OPT (25%)*, turret
Ordnance: 2 x 12.7mm vehicular machineguns (gunner, turret), 12.7mm vehicular machinegun
(gunner, rear deck — cannot fire forward), 82mm mortar** (gunner, rear deck — cannot fire forward),
passengers may fire personal weapons through cabin windows.

* The helmsman and radar operator each possess total cover, while the gunner possesses one-half cover.
** This weapon operates like a 70mm rocker launcher.

124
 New rules
Length: 50 ft. Beam: 14 ft. Displacement: 24 tons After the current hazard is determined, but before its
results are applied, the team leader may attempt to use
his expertise to help the team evade it. During combat,
MASS COMBAT
The Spycraft game system does not attempt to place
this costs 1 half action and either 1 action die or 1 use
of the tactics class ability; outside combat, it costs either
1 action die or 1 use of the tactics class ability. During
the players in the commanders’ chairs of major military combat, this action is taken at the start of the round, but
conflicts — such endeavors are left to the many fine tac- doesn’t affect the leader’s initiative count or his remain-
tical board games on the market. Instead, the following ing actions in any way. The leader makes a Profession
rules allow the GC to portray such battles as scenery, (Military) or Knowledge (Military History) check and
backdrops against which the agents’ squad-level may adjust the battlefield hazard result by up to a num-
encounters occur. ber equal to his result divided by 10 (rounded up).
The degree to which any battlefield environment
Example: While traversing the war-torn streets of an
affects an agent team during each round of a standard
unidentified Balkan city, Major Murray’s team stumbles
combat depends upon three factors: the competence of
upon a battle between a company of NATO peacekeep-
the agent team’s leader, the intensity of the battle, and
ers and the irregular forces of a local warlord. The GC
sheer dumb luck. The following rules simulate the
rolls 2d10 for a result of 13. He applies a +4 modifier for
chaotic circumstances for which no team can fully
the scene being a company-scale action, another +3 for
account, and should take place in addition to any
urban terrain, and –1 for Major Murray’s tactics class
threats the team already faces. Unless the GC determines
ability (he’s a 6th-level pointman). Thus, the first
otherwise, all effects generated by this system are ran-
round’s hazard result is 19, and as the team enters the
dom factors on the field of battle, not attacks directed at
battlefield and encounters its first enemy squad, it also
the team.
runs afoul of many innocent, stampeding civilians.
Mass Combat Basics Not wishing to lead his men into a potential acci-
dental atrocity, Major Murray surrenders 1 half action
At the start of each combat scene that takes place
during the first combat round to try to guide the team
during a major backdrop battle, the team must designate
around the refugees. His Profession (Military) check
1 agent as its leader. In a military team, the most likely
result is 12, allowing him to adjust the hazard result by
candidate for this position is the highest-ranking mili-
up to +2 or –2. Trusting in his team’s fast reflexes — and
tary agent, but the ultimate decision is left to the agents.
knowing that they need transportation — he raises the
At the start of each round during a mass combat
result to a 21 and hopes that the out-of-control truck he
scene, and for each minute of travel through a battle-
sees careening down the street instead of the civilians
field, the GC rolls 2d10, applies all applicable modifiers
isn’t going to take out one of his teammates before it
shown on Table 6.10: Battlefield Hazard Modifiers (see
comes to a stop.
page 127), and then consults Table 6.11: Battlefield
Hazards (see page 127). The GC may not spend action

125
 battlegrounds
Battlefield Hazards
“Auto-Rotate!”: A transport helicopter is shot down
near the agents, crashing 100 ft. away at the end of the
current round. The GC rolls a die: with an even result,
the aircrew possess starting dispositions toward the
agents of neutral; if it’s odd, they’re enemies, possessing
starting dispositions toward the agents of hostile. The
pilot and copilot are each 3rd-level wingmen (see The
1960s Decade Book, page 201), each possessing 1 ser-
vice pistol appropriate to his nationality and 1 pilot
bundle (see the Soldier/Wheelman Class Guide, page
28). Each of the 2 door gunners is a 3rd-level infantry-
man (see the U.S. Militaries Sourcebook, page 93), pos-
sessing 1 7.62mm vehicular machinegun, 1 door gunner
vest, and 1 pilot bundle.
Civilian Stampede: Civilians have no business on a
battlefield, but all too often they wind up there anyway.
A group of 4d6 civilians runs through the team’s posi-
tion in a blind panic. Each civilian is a 1st-level stan-
dard NPC possessing 10 wounds, 5 vitality points, no
useful skills, and no useful gear. The GC determines the
civilians’ starting dispositions toward the agents, and
they are assumed to have already failed a morale check,
suffering a retreat result (see the Modern Arms Guide,
page 13).
Drive-By: An enemy Humvee, gun truck, or equiva-
lent vehicle roars through the agents’ location at high
speed, its occupants randomly spraying lead at the
team. The team suffers a single strafe attack with a
12.7mm vehicular machinegun. The shooter possesses a
total +4 ranged attack bonus, including modifiers for
firing from a moving vehicle.
“Eject! Eject! Eject!”: A close air support fighter is
shot down over the agents’ heads, crashing 2d10×10 ft.
away from the agents. The vehicle explodes, inflicting
10d10 blast damage with a 20-ft. blast increment. The
pilot and copilot each eject, coming down 1d100 ft.
away from the team at the end of the current round. The
GC rolls a die: with an even result, the aircrew possess
starting dispositions toward the agents of neutral; if it’s
odd, they’re enemies, possessing starting dispositions
toward the agents of hostile. Each character is a 4th-
level wingman (see The 1960s Decade Book, page 201),
possessing 1 service pistol appropriate to his nationali-
ty and 1 pilot bundle (see the Soldier/Wheelman Class
Guide, page 28).
“Incoming!”: The agents are on the receiving end of
a single wayward grenade, mortar shell, artillery shell,
or bomb, as determined by the Table 6.11 result. The GC
randomly selects 1 team member as the target of a
missed attack with the weapon. The attack lands 2d4×10
126
ft. away in a direction determined using the standard
grenade-like weapon deviation rules (see the Spycraft
Espionage Handbook, page 173). For weapon statistics
for each Table 6.11 result, see the Soldier/Wheelman
Class Guide, pages 102–103.
Minefield: Each time an agent moves 25 ft. or more
during the current round, the GC rolls 1d6. With a result
of 6, the agent may stumble upon and set off a toe-pop-
per mine (see the Modern Arms Guide, page 132). The
agent may make a Reflex save (DC 14) to notice and
avoid the mine.
Random Fire: A distant enemy rifle team briefly
glimpses the agents and takes potshots at them as tar-
gets of opportunity. Each agent is targeted by a single
wide burst attack with a total ranged attack bonus of –5
(including range penalties), an error range of 1–2, and a
threat range of 20. The rifle team’s weapons inflict 3d6
normal damage.
“Sniper!”: An enemy sniper makes a single attack at
a randomly selected agent. The sniper is located at a
range of 4d4×100 ft. and has aimed and braced prior to
making the attack. He possesses a total ranged attack
bonus of +15 (including all modifiers from feats and
actions, but not including range penalties). The sniper’s
rifle possesses a 200-ft. range increment, an error range
of 1, a threat range of 18–20, a 4× day/night scope, and
inflicts 2d10 normal damage. The sniper’s initiative
bonus is +7. Agents who act before the sniper may only
target him if they make a successful Spot check opposed
by his Hide bonus of +16. A single successful attack
against the sniper’s Defense of 21 drives him back under
total cover, preventing subsequent attacks, however.
Special Effects: A nearby explosion lights up the
sky. Until the end of the current round, the area 4d6×10
ft. surrounding the agent team gains daylight condi-
tions, regardless of weather or time of day.
Unfortunately, any night-vision gear the agents use is
overloaded by the flash and cannot be used until the
end of the current round.
Speed Bumps: An out-of-control truck or armored
vehicle with a dead driver at the wheel careens through
the agent team’s position. Each agent must make a
Reflex save (DC 14) or suffer 6d6 normal damage in the
collision. At his initiative count, the agent team’s leader
may spend 2 action dice to cause the vehicle to stop
upright 1d10×10 ft. from the team’s current location.
Stormy Weather: Few battles take place on a pretty
day. The GC rolls a die: with an even result, the battle-
field is drenched by rain (or any current rain worsens,
inflicting an additional –4 penalty with Search and Spot
checks); if it’s odd, the battlefield is swept by strong
 New rules
winds (or any current wind is worsened by 1 grade). For Table 6.11: Battlefield
more information about weather conditions, see the Hazards
Spycraft Espionage Handbook, page 232. Roll Hazard
Tactical Air: An enemy aircraft targets the agents — Up to 10 None
or a friendly aircraft misidentifies them as enemies. 11–12 Special effects
Either way, the agent team is targeted by a single attack. 13–14 Stormy weather
If the agents are in vehicles, their most combat-capable 15–17 Random fire
vehicle is the target and the attack comes from a stan- 18 “Incoming!” (fragmentation grenade)
dard IR-guided missile with a HEAT warhead. If they’re 19 Civilian stampede
on foot, the centermost agent is the target and the 20 Unexploded ordnance (60mm cannon/mortar shell)
attack comes from a 70mm rocket launcher with a frag- 21 Speed bumps
mentation warhead. The attacking pilot possesses a total 22 “Auto-rotate!”
ranged attack bonus of –4 (including range and move- 23 “Incoming!” (60mm cannon/mortar shell)
ment penalties), as well as an initiative bonus of +8. For 24 “Sniper!”
these weapons’ statistics, see the Soldier/Wheelman 25 Unexploded ordnance (105mm cannon/mortar shell)
Class Guide, pages 102–103. 26 Drive-by
Unexploded Ordnance: Each time an agent moves 25 27 Minefield
ft. or more during the current round, the GC rolls 1d6. 28 “Incoming!” (105mm cannon/mortar shell)
With a result of 6, the agent may stumble upon and set 29 “Eject! Eject! Eject!”
off on a bomb or artillery shell, as determined by the 30 Tactical air
Table 6.11 result. The agent may make a Reflex save (DC 31 “Incoming!” (2,000-lb. iron bomb)
16) to notice and avoid the ordnance. If the item 32+ Very bad day
remains unexploded after it’s found, the agents may dis-
arm and salvage it with a successful Demolitions check
(DC 16). This check’s error range is increased by 2.
Very Bad Day: Someone — it doesn’t really matter
who — detonates a tactical nuclear warhead near the
agents’ battlefield (see page 114 for details about this
WMD). The agents are located in the second destruction
increment. On the plus side, so is just about everyone
they’re fighting. This result ends most battles.

Table 6.10: Battlefield

Hazard Modifiers
Condition Modifier
Battle Conditions
Civilian-scale gunfight (e.g. police vs. criminals) -2
Irregular small-unit action (e.g. skirmishing
militia groups) +0
Small-unit action (e.g. platoon vs. platoon) +2
Company-scale action (e.g. Mogadishu, 1993) +4
Regimental action (e.g. El Alamein, 1942) +6
Full-scale theatre battle (e.g. Normandy, 1944) +8
Urban terrain +3
Nuclear war +6
Team Leader
Possesses the accurate class ability –2
Possesses the tactics class ability –1
Possesses the lucky or trailblazer class ability –1
Possesses the terrain ‘training’ feat corresponding
to the local terrain –2

127
 battlegrounds
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