"The Dawn of Conflict and Resilience: The UEF’s Struggle for Survival and Expansion" Diplomatic Efforts and Communication Challenges (2068)The year 2068 was a crucial time for the United Earth Federation (UEF), especially in its efforts to establish relations with alien species. The Federation’s diplomatic mission to the
Sagittaron System continued in earnest, though it faced significant communication barriers. The transmissions received from
Sagittaron were complex and difficult to interpret, presenting a formidable challenge for UEF linguists. Despite their best efforts, the alien language remained largely indecipherable.
By October 6, the diplomatic ship had spent nearly 12 months in space, trying to decode the transmissions. Unfortunately, progress had been minimal. The ship was overdue for a major overhaul, so it returned to Earth for essential maintenance and crew shore leave, leaving the Sagittaron Mission in a state of suspended progress. Though the Federation still held hope for eventual success, the inability to understand the aliens in
Sagittaron marked a setback in the Federation’s diplomatic efforts.
Terraforming and Industrial ChallengesBack in
Sol, the terraforming of Mars continued its slow but steady advancement. Two additional terraforming units were deployed early in the year, focused on warming the planet to improve habitability. By mid-2068, progress was visible on Mars. However, despite the advances in the terraforming process, Mars still faced significant hurdles in its industrial development. The planet's mining infrastructure was lacking, and while terraforming efforts were making Mars more livable, its industrial base could not yet support the growing demands of human expansion. The Federation worked to improve the efficiency of existing systems, but self-sufficiency was still far from reach.
Meanwhile, the moons of Thengo III, Little Rose and Lucille, continued to see rapid development. Little Rose was now capable of supporting 15 million people and Lucille could support 18 million. These moons provided a more immediate solution for human settlement, alleviating some of the pressure on Mars and offering better prospects for colonization.
However, even with these promising developments in the
Thengo System, the challenge of scaling up infrastructure to support human expansion across both Mars and the moons remained a daunting task. The Federation’s plans for future colonization were still constrained by the lack of industrial capacity on Mars.
Technological and Military AdvancementsIn early 2068, the Federation made a notable leap in missile technology. On January 19, new warheads were introduced, designed to significantly enhance destructive power. These warheads were more effective at breaching enemy point-defense systems, offering the Federation greater offensive capabilities at the cost of a slightly reduced range. This improvement was part of a broader effort to refine the Federation’s combat readiness and ensure more effective strikes in engagements.
By April 13, the Federation turned its focus toward enhancing infantry capabilities. Research was initiated into genetic improvements that would make soldiers more adaptable to extreme environments. This research aimed to provide infantry with greater resilience in harsh conditions such as high-pressure or extreme-temperature environments, ensuring they would be better equipped for hostile planets and deep-space missions.
The same year also saw the completion of the first
Red Class Destroyers on October 10. These three destroyers were built to serve as the backbone of the fleet, enhancing the Federation's defensive capabilities. With their advanced design and cutting-edge technology, the Reds were ready to secure the Federation’s expanding territories.
The Scorpia System DiscoveryIn October, the UEF’s exploration efforts led to the discovery of the
Scorpia System through a stabilized jump point. The system contained a terrestrial planet with an atmosphere rich in oxygen—too much for humans but possibly suitable for alien life forms. Its moon, nearly the size of Earth, shared similar oxygen levels, making it an intriguing prospect for future exploration and potential colonization efforts.
While the initial survey revealed no signs of intelligent life, the planet and its moon’s habitability raised questions about the system's past and whether it could have hosted life in some form. This discovery marked a significant step in humanity’s expansion, offering a glimpse of the challenges and opportunities that lay beyond known space.
Infrastructural Developments and Civilian ExpansionWith civilian infrastructure expanding rapidly, 2068 saw the opening of a second civilian shipping line, Schut Logistics, which helped improve resource distribution across human colonies. The UEF’s own freighter yard’s capacity grew to 200,000 tons, but the ongoing demands of military production—specifically for the
Anaconda II-class ships and
Red Class Destroyers—strained the Federation’s resource pool. Gallicite, a crucial resource for ship construction, was in short supply, and Venus' mining operations could not yet provide enough.
Tensions Build and the First Military Clash (2069)The year 2069 began with notable progress in the UEF's naval capabilities. On January 18, the completion of several
Anaconda II-class ships and advancements in turret tracking systems set the stage for the Federation's future battles. These upgrades were slated to be implemented on the newly designed
Jaffa-class battlecruisers, reflecting the UEF’s commitment to cutting-edge military readiness.
In June, the
Beta Class Diplomatic Ship arrived in the
Canceron system to investigate potential alien activity. However, despite earlier reports, no transmissions were detected. This lack of contact left the UEF perplexed but resolute, prompting Beta to move to the recently discovered
Scorpia System by early August.
On August 18, the first alien transmissions in
Scorpia were intercepted. Unlike the enigmatic signals encountered in
Sagittaron, these transmissions carried a sense of urgency and hostility that was difficult to ignore. As Beta continued its survey, tensions escalated until September 3, when the unthinkable happened—Beta was ambushed by unidentified alien vessels. The sudden and unprovoked attack forced the ship into a desperate retreat, utilizing the stabilized jump points to evade destruction.
Despite sustaining damage, the Beta crew managed in-situ repairs that allowed the ship to limp back to friendly territory. This encounter marked a turning point for the Federation. The Scorpia incident shattered any illusions of universal peace, solidifying the UEF's resolve to respond with strength. Plans for a retaliatory strike were set in motion, with the Federation determined to demonstrate that such aggression would not go unanswered.
Technological Breakthroughs: Fusion Drives and Laser Weaponry (2069)The Scorpia attack highlighted the urgent need for rapid technological advancement. On November 9, a major milestone was achieved with the development of Magnetic Confinement Fusion Drives. These revolutionary engines enhanced the fleet's speed and range, granting the UEF a critical edge in both exploration and military engagement.
Later that month, on November 21, another breakthrough followed with the completion of 15cm laser weaponry. These advanced lasers promised a significant upgrade in offensive capabilities, offering precision and power that the Federation hoped would turn the tide in future conflicts. With ultraviolet lasers on the horizon and the
Jaffa-class battlecruiser nearing readiness, the UEF was poised to emerge from the Scorpia setback stronger and more determined than ever.
Unwelcome Visitors in Sol: February 2070Early in 2070, the UEF encountered an unexpected incursion within the
Sol system. Sensors detected an alien presence—a massive 120,000-ton vessel, likely commercial in nature, accompanied by a smaller military craft. The UEF moved swiftly to engage, intercepting and destroying the larger vessel before it could reach any strategic locations. The ship's design suggested it could have been a colony planter, though its true purpose remains unknown.
However, the operation revealed a troubling vulnerability. While the larger ship was neutralized, the smaller military craft evaded detection, disappearing into the depths of space. This incident exposed the Federation's insufficient sensor technology, sparking urgent discussions about enhancing detection capabilities to safeguard humanity's home system.
The encounter served as a stark reminder that humanity's dominion over Sol was not unchallenged, and vigilance would be essential in the years to come. The UEF currently has no idea where this new alien species could have originated from.
Mars Expansion and Strategic Developments (2070)By 2070, Mars was rapidly becoming a cornerstone of humanity’s expansion. Terraforming efforts continued to progress, gradually transforming the planet into a viable environment for large-scale habitation. The growing population presented challenges, but tensions eased when a small fleet of frigates was stationed in orbit, providing a reassuring military presence. This move stabilized the situation, allowing the Federation to focus on strengthening Mars’ role as a vital resource hub for the UEF.
Meanwhile, relations with the alien species in the Scorpia system remained uncertain. In early 2070, the
Beta Class Diplomatic Ship, under the command of Captain Irina Popov, was redeployed to the system for a renewed diplomatic mission. Despite initial communication attempts, the alien response remained distant and non-confrontational, suggesting a tenuous truce. This relative calm gave the UEF a brief window to prepare for future interactions, whether peaceful or hostile.
The Escalation: The Battle of Scorpia (December 25, 2070)By late 2070, tensions with the Scorpia aliens reached their breaking point. On December 25th, the UEF fleet engaged in a full-scale confrontation with the hostile aliens in what would become the largest military engagement in Federation history. Despite initial successes, the Federation fleet faced overwhelming odds. Heroic actions by the
Alexandria-class Light-Cruiser UEF Ceres saw it unleash a devastating missile barrage, severely damaging enemy forces. However, the UEF paid a heavy price: two
Gemini-class Carriers and two
Alexandria Cruisers were lost, along with numerous fighter squadrons.
Amidst the chaos, the
Red-class Destroyers distinguished themselves with remarkable valor. Employing their advanced weaponry and agility, they brought the fight directly to the enemy, downing six alien ships in a fierce exchange of fire. Their actions were instrumental in covering the retreat of the surviving UEF vessels, ensuring the Federation could regroup and recover from the heavy losses.
The Battle of Scorpia marked a turning point for humanity. Though costly, the encounter demonstrated the Federation's resilience and the effectiveness of its newer ship designs under fire. The lessons learned from the engagement solidified the UEF's resolve to strengthen its military, knowing that the survival of humanity might depend on its ability to confront alien threats head-on.
Recovery and Strategic Adjustments (2071-72)Feb 2071: Recognition and ReflectionThe UEF fleet’s return in February 2071 brought both solemn reflection and well-earned celebrations. Medals were bestowed on the crews who fought valiantly in the
Battle of Scorpia, with special recognition given to Captain Ricky Cockram. His leadership and heroism were legendary, credited with the destruction of four enemy vessels—equaling over 40,000 tons of military might—during the Scorpia campaign. Cockram’s exceptional skill in maneuvering his
Red-class Destroyer Advance under intense enemy fire earned him not only accolades but also a place in Federation history.
Resource Challenges and Strategic RealignmentsDespite the heroic efforts of the fleet, resource shortages in 2071 created challenges. Corundium and gallicite bottlenecks slowed shipbuilding, forcing the reallocation of automated mines from Io to Venus. These shortages also delayed the completion of the upgraded Jaffa-class battlecruisers and Alexandria-class cruisers, reinforcing the need for new colonies like Querion to secure vital minerals.
Technological Advancements and Doctrinal Changes
As technological breakthroughs continued, including the development of ultraviolet lasers and 20cm railguns, the UEF reevaluated its carrier doctrine. The underperformance of fighters during the Battle of Scorpia led to the decision to halt carrier production until fighter armaments could achieve longer range and greater lethality.
Jan 2072: The January RaidThe
January Raid proved to be another showcase of Captain Cockram's skill and leadership. Commanding the
UEF Advance, he led a task force of three
Red-class Destroyers, each armed with railguns, in a high-stakes operation against a second wave of Mirage Coalition ships. Their superior speed and maneuverability allowed the Red-class ships to close in on their enemies, despite the opposition's superior firepower.
The critical moment of the battle came when the
Alexandria-class Cruiser Abdiel, which had been escorting the Reds, unleashed a devastating missile strike on the enemy fleet. The missiles disabled several enemy reactors, rendering their powerful laser weapons inactive and giving the Reds the opening they needed. With their railguns, the
Red-class Destroyers were able to perforate the hulls of the weakened enemy ships, destroying five in total. Cockram himself personally targeted and destroyed several ships, proving the effectiveness of his leadership under fire. His decision to disengage at the optimal moment, once the missile stockpile was depleted, ensured minimal damage to his fleet. This highlighted the importance of logistical planning and efficient resource use during extended engagements.
Captain Cockram's heroism and effectiveness in the
January Raid solidified his place in Federation lore. By the end of the campaign, Cockram was credited with the destruction of 10 enemy vessels—equating to over 100,000 tons of military might. His actions earned him numerous awards, including the Raider Class V for eliminating over 100,000 tons of commercial shipping and the Wolf Class IV, III, II, and I for destroying similar amounts of military hulls.
Soon after, a ballad emerged in Cockram’s honor, capturing both the mythos of his exploits and the incredible effort behind the Red-class destroyers’ construction. One verse immortalized the challenges of engineering and the sheer grit required to achieve victory:
When the *Ceres* call broke through the din,
How I wish I was on Earth again!
Through Scorpia’s void, to our final stand,
We fought like hell with a rail in hand.Diplomatic and Cultural Developments: March 2072In March 2072, the Mirage Coalition opened a communication channel with the United Earth Federation (UEF), marking a pivotal moment in interstellar diplomacy. After years of conflict, both sides sought common ground in the face of mutual threats, opening the door for trade, cultural exchange, and a fragile ceasefire. While some feared the truce was merely a delay of inevitable conflict, others hoped it could lead to lasting peace and reshape the political landscape. Negotiators worked tirelessly to bridge differences, sharing knowledge in key areas like technology, medicine, and resource management.
Simultaneously, humanity's expansion into the stars gained momentum, beginning with the colonization of Querion II, later renamed Sagan Prime in honor of the famed astronomer. Although the planet's harsh conditions—primarily its high ammonia content—required extensive terraforming efforts, its proximity and potential for long-term habitability made it an ideal candidate for human settlement. Terraforming teams worked tirelessly to strip the atmosphere of harmful gases, making Sagan increasingly viable for colonization.
The stabilization of its jump point played a pivotal role, enabling quicker and more efficient travel to the system. Sagan’s colonization, while challenging, became a symbol of humanity’s resilience and growing presence in the galaxy. The diplomatic truce with the Mirage Coalition and the Federation's growing influence inspired hope for the future. Many believed that diplomacy, cooperation, and shared knowledge could steer humanity toward lasting peace.
Looking Forward: End of 2072By the end of 2072, the United Earth Federation (UEF) had entered a pivotal phase, balancing military growth, resource management, and diplomacy. The victories of Captain Ricky Cockram and his
Red-class Destroyers became symbols of unity and Federation strength, inspiring citizens across Earth and the colonies. These triumphs, alongside contributions from
Alexandria-class and
Anaconda-class vessels, reinforced humanity’s resolve to face its challenges together.
Sagan's terraforming efforts and asteroid mining bolstered the Federation’s resource supply, though rapid expansion strained logistics. Ensuring the needs of Earth and its colonies were met became a critical priority, with success relying on foresight and adaptive infrastructure. Meanwhile, the fragile truce with the Mirage Coalition held, offering hope for a stable coexistence as the Federation grew into a rising interstellar power.
With advances in jump drive technology and an expanding fleet, humanity stood poised to explore uncharted space beyond the Sagan system. While the frontier promised opportunity, it also carried unknown risks. The Federation’s unity, innovation, and resilience would be tested as it prepared to meet these challenges.
The triumphs of 2072 reaffirmed humanity’s belief in its ability to overcome adversity. Emboldened by the bravery of figures like Captain Cockram, the Federation carried forward a shared vision of progress and survival in the vast expanse of space.
Our current UEF Battle Fleet after all the action:
3x Alexandrias 3x Reds 6x Anacondas
Alexandria class Light Cruiser 18,000 tons 517 Crew 2,745.9 BP TCS 360 TH 2,160 EM 0
6000 km/s JR 3-50 Armour 5-61 Shields 0-0 HTK 99 Sensors 12/12/0/0 DCR 15-8 PPV 64
Maint Life 3.48 Years MSP 2,980 AFR 173% IFR 2.4% 1YR 376 5YR 5,645 Max Repair 540 MSP
Magazine 664 / 0
Captain Control Rating 1 BRG
Intended Deployment Time: 6 months Morale Check Required
MK I Cruiser Jump Drive Max Ship Size 18000 tons Distance 50k km Squadron Size 3
MK I Alexandria Engine (2) Power 2160.0 Fuel Use 51.96% Signature 1080.00 Explosion 15%
Fuel Capacity 2,737,000 Litres Range 52.7 billion km (101 days at full power)
Size 8.00 Missile Launcher (8) Missile Size: 8.00 Rate of Fire 45
MK I Cruiser MFC (1) Range 42.2m km Resolution 120
Wasp Anti-Ship Missile MKIII (83) Speed: 22,525 km/s End: 29.6m Range: 39.9m km WH: 18.802 Size: 8.0000 TH: 75/45/22
MK I Cruiser ASS (1) GPS 4320 Range 40.9m km Resolution 120
Thermal Sensor 27.4m km (1) Sensitivity 12 Detect Sig Strength 1000: 27.4m km
EM sensor 27.4m km (1) Sensitivity 12 Detect Sig Strength 1000: 27.4m km
Missile to hit chances are vs targets moving at 3000 km/s, 5000 km/s and 10,000 km/s
This design is classed as a Military Vessel for maintenance purposes
This design is classed as a Warship for auto-assignment purposes
Red class Destroyer 8,000 tons 258 Crew 1,326.2 BP TCS 160 TH 974 EM 0
6090 km/s Armour 6-35 Shields 0-0 HTK 49 Sensors 0/0/0/0 DCR 7-8 PPV 25
Maint Life 4.33 Years MSP 725 AFR 73% IFR 1.0% 1YR 62 5YR 934 Max Repair 243.6 MSP
Captain Control Rating 1 BRG
Intended Deployment Time: 12 months Morale Check Required
MK I Red Engine (2) Power 974.4 Fuel Use 69.88% Signature 487.20 Explosion 14%
Fuel Capacity 1,513,000 Litres Range 48.7 billion km (92 days at full power)
12cm Railgun 80kkm ROF10 (5x4) Range 80,000km TS: 6,090 km/s Power 6-3 RM 40,000 km ROF 10
MK I Particle BFC (5) Max Range: 96,000 km TS: 8,000 km/s ECCM-0 90 79 69 58 48 38 27 17 6 0
MK II Destroyer Reactor (1) Total Power Output 15.1 Exp 10%
MK I Frigate 50T (1) GPS 2 Range 1.5m km MCR 136.2k km Resolution 1
This design is classed as a Military Vessel for maintenance purposes
This design is classed as a Warship for auto-assignment purposes
Anaconda II class Destroyer 12,000 tons 305 Crew 1,897.1 BP TCS 240 TH 1,440 EM 0
6000 km/s JR 3-50 Armour 3-46 Shields 0-0 HTK 64 Sensors 12/12/0/0 DCR 8-6 PPV 16
Maint Life 2.55 Years MSP 1,290 AFR 144% IFR 2.0% 1YR 278 5YR 4,167 Max Repair 360 MSP
Magazine 616 / 0
Captain Control Rating 1 BRG
Intended Deployment Time: 6 months Morale Check Required
MK II Anaconda Jump Drive Max Ship Size 12000 tons Distance 50k km Squadron Size 3
MK II Anaconda Engine (2) Power 1440.0 Fuel Use 36.83% Signature 720.00 Explosion 12%
Fuel Capacity 1,320,000 Litres Range 53.8 billion km (103 days at full power)
Size 1 Missile Launcher (16) Missile Size: 1 Rate of Fire 15
MK II AMM MFC (1) Range 21.4m km Resolution 1
Sparrow AMM MKIII (616) Speed: 55,200 km/s End: 0.7m Range: 2.5m km WH: 0.8 Size: 1.00 TH: 184/110/55
MK I Missile Finder ASS (1) GPS 240 Range 21.4m km MCR 1.9m km Resolution 1
Thermal Sensor 27.4m km (1) Sensitivity 12 Detect Sig Strength 1000: 27.4m km
EM sensor 27.4m km (1) Sensitivity 12 Detect Sig Strength 1000: 27.4m km
Missile to hit chances are vs targets moving at 3000 km/s, 5000 km/s and 10,000 km/s
This design is classed as a Military Vessel for maintenance purposes
This design is classed as a Warship for auto-assignment purposes
These ships will soon be refit to their upgraded classes with the next engine tech and boast 7500 km/s with 50b km of range.
Here's a sneak peak at the Jaffa II which will go into production in June 2073. It will need a jump tender that can keep up but I'm happy with how it turned out.
Jaffa II class Battlecruiser 36,000 tons 963 Crew 6,792 BP TCS 720 TH 5,400 EM 3,120
7500 km/s Armour 15-97 Shields 104-433 HTK 169 Sensors 1/1/0/0 DCR 18-5 PPV 156
Maint Life 1.68 Years MSP 4,122 AFR 576% IFR 8.0% 1YR 1,740 5YR 26,100 Max Repair 900 MSP
Troop Capacity 500 tons Boarding Capable
Captain Control Rating 2 BRG AUX
Intended Deployment Time: 6 months Morale Check Required
MK I Battlecruiser Engine (3) Power 5400.0 Fuel Use 45.00% Signature 1800.00 Explosion 15%
Fuel Capacity 4,740,500 Litres Range 52.7 billion km (81 days at full power)
MK I Battlecruiser Shields (4) Recharge Time 433 seconds (0.2 per second)
MK II Battlecruiser Laser (20) Range 192,000km TS: 7,500 km/s Power 6-4 RM 40,000 km ROF 10
MK III Battlecruiser Railgun (8x4) Range 160,000km TS: 7,500 km/s Power 12-4 RM 40,000 km ROF 15
MK II Battlecruiser Laser BFC (1) Max Range: 192,000 km TS: 6,000 km/s ECCM-0 95 90 84 79 74 69 64 58 53 48
MK I Battlecruiser Rail BFC (1) Max Range: 168,000 km TS: 6,000 km/s ECCM-0 94 88 82 76 70 64 58 52 46 40
MK II Battlecruiser Reactor (3) Total Power Output 113.9 Exp 10%
MK I Carrier ASS 74.6m km (1) GPS 14400 Range 74.7m km Resolution 120
MK I Frigate 50T (1) GPS 2 Range 1.5m km MCR 136.2k km Resolution 1
MK I Commerical EM Sensor (1) Sensitivity 1.2 Detect Sig Strength 1000: 8.7m km
MK I Commerical Thermal Sensor (1) Sensitivity 1.2 Detect Sig Strength 1000: 8.7m km
This design is classed as a Military Vessel for maintenance purposes
This design is classed as a Warship for auto-assignment purposes
Flag for Thengo
Map of Little Rose
Map of Lucille
The full shanty the Red-class Destroyers sing constantly post January Raid
The Red Destroyer’s Call
*Inspired by Barrett’s Privateers*
Verse 1
Oh, the year was twenty-sixty-eight,
How I wish I was on Earth once more!
A call went out for a ship so keen,
The Red Destroyer—the fleet’s machine.
Refrain
Void take them all!
I was told we’d guard the fleet and never fall.
We’d fire our rails, shed no tears,
Now I’m a hardened soul in the outer spheres,
The Red Destroyer’s pride endures.
Verse 2
Captain Cockram cried the line,
"How I wish I was on Earth with mine!"
For twenty brave souls, a crew so bold,
Who'd man the Red, in fire and cold.
Refrain
Verse 3
On Tragedy Day, we set our flight,
How I wish I was on Earth tonight!
Through alien skies, where missiles flared,
We’d hold the line; no risk was spared.
Refrain
Verse 4
When the Ceres call broke through the din,
How I wish I was on Earth again!
Through Scorpia’s void, to our final stand,
We fought like hell with a rail in hand.
Refrain
Verse 5
The Red shook hard as the rails sang,
How I wish I was on Earth again!
The fleet moved fast, but the battle stayed,
And the Red held firm in the missile’s shade.
Refrain
Verse 6
Now here I sit, in my thirty-third year,
How I wish I was on Earth, my dear!
Through trials and fire, the Red endures,
A shield for the fleet, forever sure.
Refrain
Thank you all for reading and liking this story, you encourage me to keep going. <3