Tajaran Military Structures

Ground Forces on Adhomai

Ever since the second revolution began, as well as historically, most of the fighting and military might on Adhomai has been land-based due to most of the planet's water being frozen over or littered with icebergs. Each of the factions relies heavily on infantry for their ability to traverse the rugged terrain of the planet's surface. Beasts of burden and pull carts still see widespread use across the planet in logistical roles to haul the masses of supplies required to keep the various armies operational since reliable automobiles are highly expensive and common ones require frequent maintenance. Most of the soldiers use weapons that would be considered highly outdated by their counterparts of other species because of their simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance. This also makes Tajaran surplus manufactured weapons popular for export to a wide variety of frontier nations for private ownership and cost-effective reliability in military service.

Republican Army (People's Republic of Adhomai)

Also known as the "Grand People's Army."

The hierarchy of the Republican Army and the organization of their ground forces during the Second Revolution.

Commander in Chief

The Commander in Chief of the Republican Army is an office held by the President of the People's Republic of Adhomai (Currently President Njadrasanukii Hadii). The Commander in Chief is responsible for the grand strategy of the military. He appoints all ministers in the Ministry of Defense to carry out his policies.

Ministry of Defense

The Ministry of Defense houses the Ministers in charge of each branch of military service as well as their adjutants. They define the military districts under order from the Commander in Chief, as well as appoint staff to manage them. It is the duty of the ministers to translate the policies of the Commander in Chief into functional war plans and operational strategies.

Military Districts

Military Districts are administrative districts based on geography. Each military district is named after each continent on Adhomai, a relic of the interwar period when the People's Republic owned the entire planet uncontested. Appointees to the districts administrate the recruitment, supply, and organization of all troops within their theater of war, as well as designate the fronts of conflicts. Each military district also houses a theater commander who manages all of the fronts under them.

Fronts

Fronts are areas of operations designated by military districts where field armies are deployed. They exist along large geographical sections of each continent and are each lead by a frontal commander. The system of combining a shifting geographical area with a command leads to a high degree of inflexibility in the Republican high command, which struggles to redraw the changing jurisdictions frequently. More often than not, the frontal commanders find themselves "in command" of areas behind enemy lines following opposition offensives. This leads to situations such as sending messengers with various notices and garrison units to villages they do not own, only to have them inevitably intercepted and engaged by opposing front-line units. Many army group commanders have begun to falsely report carrying out certain orders in order to prevent needless damage to their units.

Field Armies

A scout posing next to a Ha'rron MK.IV light tank in a Republican motor pool.

There are currently 133 field armies (or armies for short) in the Republican Army. Most field armies are combined arms armies, which utilize artillery, tank, and mechanized vehicle divisions to provide support to infantry divisions. However, there are a handful of concentrated tank armies that are used for spearheading massive offensives. Unlike other contemporary armies in 2458, the Republican Army lacks the ability to have corps-level formations. The mass defection in the Adhomai Liberation Army's attempted coup d'etat of the Republic leads to a gutting of the Army's officers. Instead, clusters of divisional formations are grouped together into armies and sent to battle in these inflexible clumps. These circumstances have led many to view the Republican Army as an inexorable horde that fights all its battles by numbers and attrition, however, officials of the People's Republic are quick to write this off as humans projecting their history onto Tajaran politics. They insist that the People's Republic is filled with capable officers and professional soldiers.

Divisions and Brigades

Each field army in the Republican Army is comprised of three divisions, which in turn are each comprised of three brigades. A plurality of divisions is motostrelki, motor rifles, which are motorized infantry units modeled and named after human analogs. This reliance on motor vehicles to transport troops around the battlefield leaves the Republican Army at a stark disadvantage in mountainous and polar regions, where their vehicles break down or are impeded. As a result, many divisions rely heavily on the actions of the Republic's special forces to screen for ambushes and sabotage defenses. The Republic is also renowned for its heavy artillery divisions, which begin every operation by softening targets with massive barrages. While these barrages were highly effective in the early days of the civil war, most opposition positions are now arranged in spread-out formations with moderate entrenchment to minimize the effects of the artillery. Now, they primarily serve to alert their enemies of an impending attack.

The S'rand'marr Coalition

Formed by the People’s Republic of Adhomai in 2461, the S'rand'marr Coalition was a diverse multi-army group used to defend the heartland of the Republic and to assist in aid operations within PRA territory. Using NanoTrasen loans and diplomatic prowess, the Party was able to gather troops from Xanu Prime and the Republic of Biesel, peacekeepers from the Nralakk Federation, and invest in Ringspire and Kataphract mercenaries. Several freelancer groups were also involved through their contributions were minimal to the war effort. While glamorized in the media back home and in the PRA, these soldiers became a favorite target for ALA cells. Sharpshooters, bombers, gunmen, all of these radicals were eager to kill those who they saw as alien invaders. Morale plummeted among coalition troops as casualties stacked and attempts failed to push the fronts of Ras'nrr. After just two months of fighting, the coalition began to break down as they demanded better pay from the Republic or as governments frustrated by the slow grind of the war threatened to withdraw their soldiers. Only the Nralakk Federation remained fully dedicated to their aid missions by this time. After NanoTrasen’s announcement that the situation on Adhomai had grown unprofitable, President Hadii agreed to begin the peace talks that led to the armistice. While the Coalition failed to defeat mount a counter-offensive against the Liberation Army, they were successful in defending the People's Republic core territories. The coalition’s remaining members departed Adhomai shortly after peace came, with some taking the chance to at least party in Crevus before withdrawing.

Zbrojny

Seeking to replicate the success of the Liberation Army guerrillas, the Zbrojny is a partisan force created after the Armistice. The Zbrojny is made up of loyal Hadiist volunteers from the civilian population. Trained by the People's Strategic Intelligence Service in guerilla tactics, they are meant to act behind enemy lines in occupied territory. Unlike all branches of the Grand People's Army, the Partisans are under the direct control of the secret service. Due to the lack of any ongoing conflict on Adhomai, their real effectiveness is unknown; however, some suspect that the Zbrojny is nothing but a ploy by the PSIS to create their own army.

Adhomai Liberation Army

Supreme Commander

The Adhomai Liberation Army, from the decentralized confederacy of juntas, to the loose collection of regular army units, to the widespread guerrilla units and deep-cover infiltration, all look up to Supreme Commander Halkiikijr Nated'Hakhan for direction and leadership. Although the Liberation Army has an underlying anti-foreign influence ideology, it still very much remains a cult of personality focused on fulfilling Nated's claim to the rule of the planet. Many pundits have been quick to point out his legendary status among his supporters, and the fervent fanatical dedication many of his soldiers demonstrate. He is the rock which the military structure relies upon for direction, but he primarily reserves his command to his formal army units, intervening only when he feels it is necessary to the many-headed hydra of the Liberation Army's command structure.

Juntas

Juntas is a human term applied to the many military-owned regions across Adhomai which are under the overarching Adhomai Liberation Army. Each time a city is conquered, the commanding officer of the forces at the time of the conquest takes ownership of the land and settles it as a military governor. Many of them also assign their staff officers to administrative roles to form a cabinet and take on the title of Rrhaza-Akhran, war-ruler. All of them swear allegiance to Supreme Commander Nated'Hakhan, and perform work similar to Republican military districts to supply, organize, and conscript troops to send to the frontlines. Occasionally, Rrhaza-Akhran skirmishes with each other over territory along the borders of their juntas. Observers and propaganda organs of the People's Republic and the New Kingdom speculate that the Liberation Army will degenerate into bickering warlords should anything happen to Supreme Commander Nated. Many war-rulers appoint their most loyal generals to lead the Mrrazhakulii besieging cities, with the understanding that they become the war-rulers of the newly captured cities.

Mrrazhakulii (Liberators)

A Mrrazhakul (Liberator) is the formation of many Kazarrhaldiya Tajara under a general who leads on behalf of a Rrhaza-Akhran. Their name derives from the idea that they are the patron liberator of a city from the tyranny of its old government and serves as a claim to become the ruler of the coming Junta which governs it. Due to the highly decentralized nature of Adhomai Liberation Army command, a benefit they enjoy due to the highly capable officer corps which defected in the early days of the war, these formations are typically very loose and serve primarily as a line of communication between the battlefield commanders to coordinate through. The general in command of these formations often simply command a handful of Kazarrhaldiye Tajara, leaving their subordinates with the flexibility which the Adhomai Liberation Army is famous for.

Kazarrhaldiye Tajara (Swords of the Tajara)

The Kazarrhaldiye Tajara (Swords of the Tajara or Swords for short) are largely autonomous collections of soldiers under a single leader. Many of them are infantry units supported by artillery, similar to the Republican Army, but there is also a wide variety of mechanized, armored, and even niche aviation units that are primarily used in the equatorial regions. The loose command structure on the formation level often leads to friendly fire incidents between sword units, as well as a lack of coordination in offenses or defenses. Each commander must maintain a high level of situation awareness, or else they may fail to contribute properly to a battle. Before conscripted or recruited soldiers can serve in the swords, they first are placed in a rigorous four-month training regimen where they learn from experienced veterans and are hardened under live-fire exercises. As a result, reinforcements from the Liberation Army's basic training camps perform better on average than Republican conscripts or Imperial levies.

Cells and Guerrilla Units

Although the formal army units of the Adhomai Liberation Army are some of the best-trained units on Adhomai, they make up a minority of their military forces compared to the "terror cells" and guerrilla units which were once spread out across the planet's surface. Though they are far rarer in New Kingdom lands, many villages across the People's Republic joined Supreme Commander Nated's rebellion by uprising on their own. These rebel groups were largely able to settle themselves in the mountains surrounding the periphery of the flatter lands of Republican territory, occasionally descending to raid caravans and villages in much the same way the rebels of the first revolution did. Their sabotage behind enemy lines undermines opposition infrastructure, defenses, communication, and logistics. All public officials in lower offices of the People's Republic and the New Kingdom travel with contingents of bodyguards in response to a massive wave of assassinations from rebel attacks. The reasons for Tajara becoming rebels are numerous, but all of them are infused with heavy indoctrination to breed fanatical loyalty to the legendary Supreme Commander, despite the majority of these units never coming into contact with Halkiikijr Nated'Hakhan or Liberation Army command. This recruiting process extends also to children, whom these rebel cells have no qualms about placing in combat or using to carry out acts of terror in enemy population centers. There is speculation however that these units are the diplomatic downfall of the Adhomai Liberation Army, as their dogmatic anti-xeno extremism and widespread recruitment among refugee populations in foreign nations draw the ire and contempt of greater powers.

Imperial Adhomian Army (New Kingdom of Adhomai)

The command and unit structure of the Imperial Adhomian Army. Every formation and unit has a patron noble in command, analogous to a regimental system.

Field-Marshal

The current Field-Marshal of the New Kingdom of Adhomai is Field-Marshal Vyakelas Klyuchevsky, who was appointed by Queen Shumaila Azunja of the New Kingdom of Adhomai. The position is held by appointment from the Queen, who is also able to take the position for herself if she so chooses. The Field-Marshal has supreme authority over the Imperial Adhomian Army, managing all theaters of operation and giving orders to the Mrraka'te'almalik (Will of King) nobles and their retinues. Unlike the Adhomai Liberation Army or the Republican Army, the Imperial Army is highly centralized and relies heavily on the orders of the Field-Marshal to coordinate with other units.

Mrraka'te'almalik (The Will of the King)

The Imperial Army has three Mrraka'te'almalika (Wills of the King or Wills for short) lording over its forces. Each Will serves a role similar to a theater commander, controlling all the Jabrut Almumalik under their control. The positions are always formally held by grand dukes, however, they often appoint commanders to rule in their stead if they are unable to fill the role with all orders signed as "By the Will of the King."

Jabrut Almumalik (The Kingdom's Might)

The Jabrut Almumalikii (The Kingdom's Mights or Mights for short) are command positions of groups of Alyad'almalikii. The posts are held by princes, dukes, and sometimes notably powerful counts under the three grand dukes. These commanders serve to manage the formations of Alyad'almalikii, as well as to relay the orders of their Mrraka'te'almalik and to manage their supply lines. Their careful and meticulous planning is integral to maintaining the army's organization, and their sub-commanders rely on the orders passed down to them to continue operation. As with the previous higher positions, the more prominent nobles often appoint specialists to carry out their duties if they believe themselves incapable, however, lower nobles are often part of a service gentry and are therefore unable to delegate away their positions.

Alyad'almalik (Hand of the King)

Alyad'almalikii (Hands of the King or Hands for short) are all of the minor nobles and service gentry who command formations of Alam'ardii which are typically similar to field armies. Unlike most armies, these are primarily infantry-based units as the New Kingdom lacks the production capacity to have widespread motorized and mechanized units. A handful of Alyad'almalikii are armored units with outdated and prototypical interwar tanks which are usually held in reserve behind the front lines and used as cavalry to attack enemy flanks or respond to opposing armored assaults.

Alam'ard (Blood of the People)

New Kingdom poster announcing the offensive of 2460.

The Alam'ardii (Bloods of the People, or Bloods for short) are large units of soldiers drafted, equipped, and paid by the crown. In the early days of the New Kingdom's secession, the Alam'ardii were professional soldiers only. Large groups of old M'sai who had served the nobles in the first revolution and their sons, tired of the extremist ideologies and longing for the old ways, flocked to the cause of King Azunja. As Njarir in hiding began resettling into the New Kingdom, many were assigned lands and given commands of these old Alam'ardii based on the capabilities they demonstrated, creating the foundation for the entire structure of the Imperial Army and landed nobility. As manpower issues began to strain the New Kingdom with the continuing war, King Azunja and parliament were forced to instate conscription, obligating every household to contribute an adult Tajara to the war effort. In a compromise to the poor strata and to address the issue of an insufficient officer corps, the government formalized and cemented the service gentry "so that all of the Kingdom is together in this struggle." The Bloods are almost all infantry, utilizing primarily defensive tactics with dug-in positions, fortifications, and trenches. The Imperial Army has also found utility in keeping cavalry Alam'ardii which can gallop through snow and either position dragoons or charge into enemy flanks. There are few artillery Alam'ardii, and all are positioned along defensive lines where incoming armored attacks are suspected. Most of the Imperial Army's artillery consists of outdated direct fire cannons which are re-appropriated for anti-armor uses.

Naval Forces on Adhomai

Although the military focus of the various factions is ground-based, there is still a heavy reliance on naval power for trade between regions, the transportation of military supplies, and the movement of troops between continents. Similar to human sailors, the various seamen are highly superstitious and obsessive about centuries-old naval traditions. While naval might is evidently not the determining factor in winning the on-going war, it remains an important aid to many military endeavors.

Republican Navy (People's Republic of Adhomai)

Planetary

The Republican Navy is the penultimate aquatic naval force on Adhomai's surface, surpassed only by the Royal Navy. The Republican Navy primarily serves to transfer divisions of soldiers between the three continents, as well as protect civilian trade ships and conduct anti-piracy operations against the Adhomai Liberation Army's pirate flotillas. The aquatic arm of the Republican Navy also boasts a superb sub-nautical division with hunting packs of submarines prowling the waters in search of undefended ships. Although they have the benefit of being able to travel beneath the ice sheets, they are of no use in those regions unless they catch a surface ship traversing thin ice. Their only comparable naval opponent, the Royal Navy, frequently denies them the satisfaction of naval victory with their superior ASW capabilities, as well as submarine hunting packs of their own. A later addition to the Republican Navy was their own decoy vessels. Reusing designs from the Royal Navy, the small squadrons of these ships produced by the last years of the war were instrumental in ending ALA piracy.

Following the mass defection of Republican Navy officers and their vessels in 2450, a series of reforms were enacted by the surviving loyalist Hura'zhi Mira'zkui and President Hadii. The rank of Grand Admiral was given solely to President Hadii with Mira’zkui now serving as the Secretary of the Navy. Following that was the establishment of the naval commissars. Feared and despised by the crew, these commissars ensure utmost loyalty to the Party and to the commanding officers of the navy. Steep penalties such as forced labor and even death exist for those who display disloyal attitudes or actions. Given the stress on blind loyalty in the naval academies coupled with an influx of new and ill-trained naval officers, much of the lower command of the Republican Navy were often too afraid during the war to deviate from their orders. This inflexibility contributed to the Royal Navy outmaneuvering them in combat.

Besides their intense loyalty, Republican sailors are also known for being the least superstitious of the Tajaran navies. Most of those who do practice old traditions or Minharrzka worship normally keep it a hidden secret. Commissars believe that encouraging old traditions only leads to disloyal attitudes. Recruitment numbers for the navy have gradually been falling since 2458. Most experts cite the low pay, harsh conditions, and lack of morale among the outgunned and paranoid crews as the reasons why.

Space

The People's Republic of Adhomai enjoys having the largest space navy of all the factions on Adhomai. Initially, they relied on contracting outside protection from NanoTrasen and the Sol Alliance in order to defend their orbit from raiders. However, the Orbital Navy has striven to become independent. With the help of contracted engineers, access to higher education abroad at Tau Ceti, and training from Sol Alliance naval advisers, the People's Republic has been able to commission and crew its own ships. The Orbital Navy primarily conducts counter-piracy operations in conjunction with fending off raiders. Their fleet in orbit is centered around the battleship PRS (People's Republic Ship) Hadii and other notable ships include the PRS Njarir and PRS Vostok. More information on the Orbital Navy can be found here.

Adhomai Liberation Navy (Democratic People’s Republic of Adhomai)

Planetary

The Adhomai Liberation Navy is the weakest naval power among the three factions, consisting only of ramshackle pirate flotillas that assail unguarded coastal settlements and attack unprotected convoys. In the early days of the war, they were marginally more formidable, with a handful of destroyers and cruisers defecting in the initial waves. Since then, most of their ships have either fallen into disrepair, been destroyed, or defected to the Royal Navy. Their tactics are primarily effective against the Republican Navy on a tactical level, as many of their craft are too small for the Republic's sonar to detect and are able to approach and attack convoys. On the strategic level, they are of limited use and fail to bring any significant impact for the Liberation Army's war efforts.

The introduction of decoy vessels to the Republican Navy brought an end to many of these pirate flotillas. With their tactics countered and retaining the highest casualty rates of any army during the Second Revolution, the naval hordes of the ALN were non-existent by the war’s end. What few captains remained by 2460 eventually dissolved into the civilian population to hide away from possible reprisals, with their crew following suit. For a few years the only thing somewhat passing for a navy was a few rusting torpedo boats and destroyers abandoned in Crevus’ docks. In 2464 Supreme Commander Nated mandated the rebuilding of the navy. Destroyers and light cruisers are being made in mind for the ALN to serve the same purpose it had during the Second Revolution, harassing enemy supply lines.

In spite of the high death rates, the flotillas never lacked recruits. Many of the destitute of Adhomai would sign onto crews and be packed into vessels by their captains, intending to use the high numbers to easily scuttle vessels. While most died, those who managed to survive raids on merchant ships came back to their hamlets and slums much richer, spread stories of how they gained their wealth, and allowed the cycle to begin again. Naval superstitions were rife among these sailors in the hopes to grant them the luck to survive engagements and avoid attacks from their better-equipped counterparts. Rumors persist that many captains threw captured enemy crews into the waters as sacrifices for Minharrzka, with some surely spread by the ALA to strike fear into the hearts of the enemy’s sailors. The efforts of rebuilding of the ALN has brought back some captains into the fold but general recruitment remains low due to the lack of promised plunder.

Space

After the taking of Gakal’zaal the Al’mariists present on the planet used the Free Gakal’zaal Station to create the People’s Volunteer Spacer Militia in 2463. The DPRA’s creation of their space force has begun a long and arduous process of attempting to create an effective space navy without outside assistance. It presently tries to handle the pirate presence around Gakal’zaal. More information on the Spacer Militia can be found here.

The Royal Navy (New Kingdom of Adhomai)

Two Royal Navy sailors.

The New Kingdom of Adhomai's Royal Navy is the strongest aquatic navy on the surface of Adhomai. In 2450 when the New Kingdom of Adhomai seceded from the People's Republic of Adhomai, many of the Republic's naval officers defected along with their ships and crew citing the gutting and suppression of venerable naval traditions by the Republican command as detrimental to their esprit de corps. In reality, however, sailors on Adhomai have a long history of loyalty to their old noble rulers, and most of the naval officers were pardoned loyalists from the first revolution out of the People's Republic's desperate need for naval personnel in the aftermath of the war. Despite the powerful navy and accompanying merchant marine, these traits often fail to bring the Kingdom military successes on land as they can only provide fire support in regions where water is not frozen over, or only slightly frozen over. The immense experience, training, and capability of their naval officers allow them to operate in waters that are impassable to the other navies due to their abilities to chart the thickness of the ice sheets and navigate around icebergs and obstacles. The Royal Navy consists primarily of surface ships, however, their expertise with decoy vessels to lure PRA submarines into ambushes makes up for this issue. Many PRA submarine squads often attacked supposed merchant vessels only to be surprised by magnetic mines and counter-squads of the NKA’s own submarines. Adhomai Liberation Army pirate flotillas avoid convoys under the protection of the Royal Navy, understanding that it can only spell their doom. Their domination of the waters enables them to deploy and supply expeditionary forces on continents outside of their primary lands.

Owing to its focus on upholding long-standing naval traditions, the Royal Navy is full of those who follow superstition, from the widespread to those specific to a single vessel. These greatly assist with crew morale and cohesion, allowing crewmen and marines to have a strong sense of comradery. Officers and seamen alike hold true to superstitions, and idols of Minharrzka can be found on nearly every ship of the Royal Navy. The navy’s recruits are mostly from coastal towns and city dwellers who are already experienced with working on boats. Many of these men were drawn to the navy with a strong sense of dedication to the cause of the New Kingdom and the magnetic personality of Grand Admiral Mahtra Dynhaas.

Air Forces on Adhomai

Due to the blizzards and freezing temperatures typical of Adhomai, the air force has a rather limited role in the Tajaran military. Aircraft are usually used for rapid deployment of troops and recon missions. However, during warm seasons and in the equatorial regions, planes can see action in aerial combat, bombings, and ground support assignments. Tajaran aircraft are designed in a manner similar to autogyros and gyrodynes, possessing wings and rotor blades. They are made from resistant alloys, similar to the ones used in the Orbital Fleet ship, that allow them to withstand harsh conditions. These planes are able to match the speed of modern crafts and shuttles on orbit, due to their jet engines. Tajaran aircraft are commonly armed with autocannons and laser weaponry.

People's Air Force (People's Republic of Adhomai)

Of all of the factions, the Republican Army has the largest aviation units. The People’s Air Force is used mainly for the deployment of troops and reconnaissance. Large gyrodynes, accompanied by autogyro fighters, carry soldiers and Republican Guards during missions. However, air combat and ground support operations are not unheard of when the conditions are favorable. Alongside regular carrier ships, the People’s Republic makes use of submarine aircraft carriers. Cloaking planes are a technology currently in development; some prototypes were used for gathering intelligence during the last periods of the war. Currently, the People’s Air Force is taking part in the conflict at Hro'zamal.

Pilots in the PAF are well-trained with their programs even using limited VR. While not featured heavily in propaganda many pilots consider themselves unsung heroes of the war effort. A trait that usually results in them being considered pompous by troops on the ground and in the sea. Due to the Republic embracing mass aerial bombardment tactics, pilots who evacuated from their aircrafts and landed in ALA or NKA held lands did not survive long.

Liberation Army Air Brigades (Adhomai Liberation Army)

The Adhomai Liberation Army possesses a small number of aviation units, composed of defected pilots from the People's Air Force. These units are attached to the armies led by junta commanders. The Air Brigades are commonly deployed in nighttime bombing missions, favoring stealth. Air combat is avoided at all costs unless there is a clear advantage. The Air Brigades also enabled the dropping of asymmetric warfare manuals and firearms for liberator cells deep within enemy territory. Due to their unwillingness in engaging with enemy planes, the Liberation Army makes extensive use of anti-aircraft guns.

Anti-aircraft gunners, especially skilled ones, became more famous than the Air Brigade pilots during the war. They were featured more in propaganda depicting anti-aircraft weaponry as the arm of justice against what the ALA deemed as Republican terror-bombing. Many gunwagons also featured anti-aircraft gunnery on them to be used against ground and air targets alike.

Royal Flying Corps (New Kingdom of Adhomai)

Most autogyros in the Royal Flying Corps are attached to the Royal Navy, operating from their aircraft-carrying ships. The remaining planes are assigned to complement the anti-air defenses in the Kingdom’s fortifications. Helium air balloons are used to gather intelligence in the field; the crew of these aerostats is equipped with spyglasses and parachutes. Incendiary balloons, carrying bombs or incendiary grenades, are also used by the Imperial Army.

The higher degree of separation between perpetrator and the carnage they caused made pilots see aerial combat as a form of dueling. Many customize their autogyros with decals proclaiming their ancestry, slogans supporting the royal crown, and markings depicting how many planes or targets they destroyed. Post-war nobility were allowed to keep their autogyros for personal use at flight clubs. The vast majority of pilots in the Royal Flying Corps were either Njarir’akhran or M’sai.

Special Forces

Warfare on the surface of Adhomai is highly mobile with constantly shifting front lines and grinding engagements between exhausted armies. The special forces of each claimant to the planet's government are the oil that keeps the war machines turning. Their varying approaches and exotic tactics are essential for the war plans of their commanders, and the saving grace of their regular army unit counterparts.

People's Republic of Adhomai

Ha'narr Corps (Mountain Ghost Corps)

Originally formed in 2421 during the first revolution, the Ha'narr Corps served as a reconnaissance, scouting, and special operations unit for the rebellion. As the predecessor of the Republican Army began to coalesce into organized units, the Ha'narr Corps was officially given its name and designated its own branch of the military outside of the regular army command structure. Although it was disbanded at the end of the first revolution, it was reformed at the dawn of the second revolution as the inflexibility of the Republican Army proved to be a vital weakness that these units corrected for. The training regime for Ha'narri is typically anywhere in between one to three months, with recruits trained in basic survival and reconnaissance skills emphasizing self-dependence within the frozen wilderness of Adhomai. They are typically deployed for around one-year rotations before being returned home, however extenuating circumstances often change this. Small detachments of Ha'narri are typically attached to large infantry units - typically 6-22 for each field army - and report to their own command structure. Ha'narri typically operates separately of infantry and spend the bulk of their time outside of base camps and fortifications. As a scouting unit, Ha'narri travels lightly on equipment, carrying primarily the essentials for survival and only a token amount of ammunition. Many detachments also make use of snow skis in order to travel quickly in mountainous regions. Specially designed lever-action rifles are considered standard-issue, with modifications in place designed to prevent freezing or jamming within the more sensitive components. More experienced Ha'narri make use of small, balanced bladed weapons and silenced sidearms, however, their equipment is considered highly situational based on the assignment. They are well-known for their iconic thick light-colored cloaks which they wear while traversing the vast countrysides for warmth, as well as camouflage. Due to being a dedicated scouting unit with occasional sabotage work, most Ha'narri soldiers are average shots and primarily use their weapons to skirmish enemies they encounter only long enough for them to flee and regroup before resuming operations.

The Republican Guard

Following the end of the first revolution, many veterans especially of the Ha'narr Corps had become hardened warriors with exceptional abilities. Seeking to mate the heavily refined combat effectiveness of shock troop units which formed among front-line infantry with the survival skills and mobility of the Ha'narrii, the Republican Guard was formed by absorbing all of these units as a hard-hitting highly mobile airborne special forces unit in 2435. They primarily draw recruits from promising and outstanding members of the Ha'narr Corps, as well as shock infantry divisions, not at all, unlike their original founding members. Their iconic light blue berets inspire awe and admiration on the battlefield among their teammates and fear among their enemies. The Republican Guard primarily deploys by airdropping from high altitude aircraft in special thick cold-resistant pressurized soft suits, and unlike the Ha'narr, carry a considerable amount of equipment for combat operations. Unlike most troops on Adhomai, they prefer assault rifles which they primarily import from human space to ensure reliability and quality. There is still a widespread rejection of laser-based weaponry for the unreliability, the high visibility it grants to its enemies when beams travel through snow, and the difficulties of carrying and insulating spare power cells into the field. Most special operations begin with a detachment of mountain ghosts performing reconnaissance of a target and sabotage of anti-air radar capabilities, which then leads to a full Republican Guard airdrop to eliminate targets behind enemy lines before ex-filtrating via routes scouted and provided to them by the Corps. These units also see the deployment of the first prototypical Tajaran mechatronics, using in some cases experimental military rig suits and in others fully mechanized air-deployed walkers. However, these aspects of the Republican Guard's arsenal frequently fail them in the field due to their prototypical nature and the harsh environments they often deploy into.

Republican war poster announcing the establishment of the Tesla Brigade.

Tesla Brigade

Formed in 2461, the Tesla Brigade is an experimental force composed of augmented veterans. Created after the intense casualties of the Das'nrra campaign and the severe loss of Republican Guard units. Additional funding and focus were placed on a previously shelved proposal for heavily armed shock and high technology assault troopers. A special unit designated to withstand the numerical disadvantages and prolonged engagements special forces of the Republic often face. Many of the injured and disabled republican veterans were chosen to be outfitted with cutting-edge Tajaran prosthesis, which includes an advanced "Tesla Spine" which generates large amounts of electrical energy to power their prosthetic limbs - and more. These soldiers are equipped with hardsuits wielding energy weapons, which are powered by the spine in order to provide mechanically assisted movement as well as to shoot arcs of lightning which can fry enemy combatants and even destroy armored vehicles. The Tesla Brigade was deployed with success during the final stages of the Second Tajaran Civil war.

Party Commissars

Party Commissars are high-ranking members of the Party of the Free Tajara under the Leadership of Hadii attached to army units, who ensure that soldiers and their commanders follow the principles of Hadiism. Their duties are not only limited to enforcing the republican ideals among the troops and reporting possible subversive elements, they are expected to display bravery in combat and lead by example. Courage and loyalty to the Party are essentials for anyone to be considered for this prestigious position. The political officers are outside of the regular chain of command, only answering to the Party authorities. Nal'tor Model Pistols are issued to all commissars. They are known for their peaked caps bearing the symbol of the People’s Republic of Adhomai.

The first working design of the Division, the P'kus-3 "Egg" model.

Division Experimental Exosuit

Envisioned in 2461 by Zhuldyz Hadii and the Hadii Institute of Orbital Research, Division EE (Experimental Exosuits) was conceived as a way to introduce the concept of exosuit based warfare to Adhomai. Much to the chagrin of its research team, this division’s prototypes were not unveiled until 2463’s Victory Day parade. The war’s demand had led to their designs remaining unbuilt in the Second Revolution, only to begin trials in the following peace. Presently the division wields some varied mechs. Due to being unable to test them in a conventional theatre, Zhuldyz allows her researchers to produce any design they believe may work to be tested in field drills. The division retains two main mech designs: The multi-purpose and light P’kus-3 “Egg” and the artillery-focused medium Trid’irra crawler. Division EE is yet to prove itself in any conflict, given its recent introduction, and a debate remains in the various branches of the Republic’s armed forces if exosuits are worth focusing on over tank development. Models of the P’kus-3 and Trid’irra crawler have already been rolled out to the Kosmostrelki, who find great success using them in conflicts against raiders.

Adhomai Liberation Army

Hro'rammhad Tank Corps

Lead by the famously merciful Commander Kahan Hro'rammhad, the Hro'rammhad Tank Corps has the distinction of being the most powerful and accomplished armored unit in the history of Adhomai. These elite Armored Kazarrhaldiye Tajara are used primarily in offensive operations to break through opposing lines and encircle their positions. The typical Hro'rammhad Tank Corps Kazarrhaldiya Tajara consists of a tank brigade with approximately 300 main battle tanks, an artillery brigade to provide support and soften enemy defenses, and a mechanized infantry brigade. The primary tank used by the Adhomai Liberation Army and the People's Republic of Adhomai alike is the Mata'ke Rafama II Main Battle Tank, a large tank utilizing a 79.16mm cannon along with cast homogeneous steel sloped armor of about 6.858cm in the front, 4.11cm at the sides, and 3.07cm at the back. The tanks have exceptionally wide tracks which allow them to more easily tread across snowy terrains. Veterans of the Hro'rammhad Tank Corps are known for their golden pins depicting the sun-god S'rendarr which they wear on their uniforms.

Hotak's Commandos

Hotak's Commandos are named after Commander Kyff Hotak and are renowned for their expertise in stealth operations. Unlike other formal military units in the Adhomai Liberation Army, these commandos often dress irregularly in order to aid in their infiltration duties. Hotak's Commandos primarily serve as intelligence, meeting with rebel cells to gather observations and reports on enemy troop movements, weaknesses, and plans. Following the relaying of information back to ALA command units, they often do their best to act on information in the field, typically using local resistance units to aid in carrying out operations. One particularly feared unit of Hotak's Commandos are soldiers who infiltrate opposition units with the proper uniforms and equipment in order to kill everyone when their guards are down. These roles involve a large degree of studying on the parts of the infiltrators in order to memorize the proper mannerisms, unit structures, and party ideology of the units they target in order to act perfectly as a natural among them. A common rumor in circulation claims that they scalp their victims.

Das’nrra Marksmen

Selected among the best marksmen in the Kazarrhaldiye Tajara, these soldiers are renowned and feared for their deadly aim. acting under the secret orders of the Adhomai Liberation Army, they are commonly used for assassination missions against important elements. However, they can be deployed during regular warfare, offering suppressive fire and surveillance. They earned their name after the victory against the People’s Republic in Das’nrra in 2460. The snipers played an important role in eliminating the Republican Guard deployed during the battle. In addition to marksmanship, the Das’nrra Marksmen are trained in camouflage, infiltration, and survival. Racially, they are almost entirely white-furred M'sai.

Experimental Compound Trooper in full gear.

Combat Miners

Combat Miners are infantry specialized in demolition, digging, and tunnel warfare; many of them are Zhan-Kazan prospectors, who are known for their ancient mining traditions. They are usually tasked with creating shortcuts through defenses, either by excavating tunnels bypassing the fortifications or by making use of explosives charges to collapse any structure. It is expected for them to be the first ones to engage the enemy after breaching any position, this can result in chaotic and bloody close-quarter encounters. Every combat miner is given a mattock, which also serves as a melee weapon. Dynamite is commonly used as an improvised grenade by these bold soldiers.

Experimental Compound Troopers

Experimental Compound Troopers, colloquially known as "Chemical Troopers", are units specialized in chemical warfare. Originated among the ranks of the Liberation Army that were not picky about what methods they used to combat its enemies, this division underwent expansion during the Adhomian Cold War. Protected by full-body protective suits and robust gas masks, these soldiers are designated to assault fortified positions with gas attacks to flush out defenders. Besides the use of gas weapons, they are armed with Acid Throwers; a muzzle-like mechanism connected to a tank strapped on the user’s back. The main substance used in this weapon is an acidic mixture known as "Vodryanic", a deadly compound capable of dissolving unprotected organic tissue if exposed to high concentrations. The gas created by the chemical reaction also presents choking properties. Due to the obvious limitations in regards to the mobility and range of their weaponry, Experimental Compound Troopers require support during combat to successfully engage targets with the Acid Thrower.

New Kingdom of Adhomai

A Royal Grenadier in his equipment combat armor, resting.

Imperial Dragoons

The Imperial Dragoons of the New Kingdom of Adhomai are a type of Alam'ard that most Alyad'almalik contains at least one of. The units claim to have roots that stretch back centuries to when military tacticians began recognizing the value of light infantry units that could ride around enemy flanks to deploy. Beginning with muzzle-loaded carbines and riding atop Zhsramii, these dragoons changed the face of warfare on Adhomai as they first began to roll out. The original Tajaran word for these units was lost with the passage of time along with most pre-war knowledge, and so, reluctantly, with the reformation of these units following the secession of the New Kingdom, a human cognate was used to describe them. Modern Dragoons still ride Zhsramii into battle, but now utilize semi-automatic carbine rifles. During battles, they are used to reinforce weak points along their allied line, as well as to take advantage of gaps in the enemy lines. Their Zhsramii saddles come with carbine holsters where the Dragoons can keep their rifles while they gallop around the battlefield. This also enables them to draw their sabers and perform cavalry charges on routing enemies as well as ambush unsuspecting patrols. Their uniforms are iconic for their bright white colors with golden buttons with varying colors of sashes depending on their specific unit. Tall black Nav'twir fur hats are synonymous with the Dragoons and are sought-after souvenirs by foreigners for their comfort as well as style. Racially, they are almost entirely M'sai so that they can endure the bitter winds and travel more quickly.

Royal Grenadiers

The Royal Grenadiers of the New Kingdom of Adhomai is another form of Alam'ard which is famous for being composed of primarily large muscular Zhan-Kazan Tajara. They claim to have ties to history as being infantrymen at the front strong enough to throw cumbersome early Tajaran grenades into enemy lines. In the modern context, they are typically used as shock troops along the front line to strike fear into the hearts of the opposition. They are renowned for their savage melee combat, and their bayonet charges often rout their enemies. However, their bayonets are not what distinguishes them from the armaments of their regular line infantry counterparts, but rather their plated metal armor, metal claw attachments, and firebomb grenades. These items make them formidable fighters in urban combat situations where they excel in close-quarters combat. In field warfare, on the other hand, their slow movements leave them highly vulnerable to skirmishers and light infantry. Their grenade satchels are usually highly decorative thick leather bags, typically with their Alam'ard's insignia on the clasp. Many take their satchels home with them when they leave the service.

Ras'nrr Expeditionary Force Marines

The Ras'nrr Expeditionary Force Marines are composed of twenty-two Alam'arda specialized in supporting land operations through amphibious assaults. This force was initially created with the purpose of conquering territory at Ras'nrr, but with the failure of the campaign, they were repurposed into their own fighting unit. They have been deployed with success by the New Kingdom during the war, making good use of the Fleet mobility to encircle enemies and capture positions. Boarding operations and protection of ships are also part of the duties of a royal marine. Mrraka'te'almalik Marrmeladov is the noble responsible for commanding these troops. The royal marines are equipped with bolt action rifles, hand cannons, shotguns, and bayonets.

New Kingdom Auxiliary Forces

The New Kingdom's military forces are segregated based on its soldier's origins. These units are forced to serve in their separated regiments and can not integrate the main command structure.

Rock Nomad Light Cavalry

Rock Nomads, under the command of Mrraka'te'almalik Rustam Harmaliik, are used as light cavalry by the royal army. Their main tactics include hit-and-run tactics and raiding enemy supply lines, always avoiding direct confrontation. They ride into battle on their Zhsramii, firing short rifles or revolvers before retreating. The Rhazar'Hrujmagh brings their family wagons to the battlefield, as their vehicles provide extra supplies and cover when needed. Since they lack the discipline and traditional training of a regular Alam'ard, looting and unordered retreats are common problems among them.

Amohdan Swordsmen

Amohdan swordsmen are traditional M'sai warriors from the island of Amohda, brought to Harr’masir after the New Kingdom retreated from that front. Unlike other Alam’ard, they favor melee assaults above ranged engagements. Due to their ancestral traditions, these Tajara usually seek glory in combat. They bring their ancestral armor and blades to the battlefield, but most of them also carry firearms. While they are not effective in the field against regular infantry, they excel in close-quarter engagements during ambushes and trench warfare.

Zarr’jiri Troops

Zarr’jiri are a group of M’sai hailing from the Zarr’jirah mountains of Harr’masir. With a long tradition of serving the old nobility, these iron-nerved fighters came to fight on King Azunja’s behalf during the Second Revolution. They served as forward scouts for the Imperial Army and RMI, providing both with crucial information, while also carrying out daring night raids. Zarr’jiri were well-known for simply using whatever equipment they would steal during these attacks. On the battlefield the Zarr’jiri identified each other with blue headbands or sashes.

Military Traditions and Daily Life

People's Republic of Adhomai ​

Because of Nated's coup and President Hadii's paranoia, most of the early Republican Army traditions were replaced by political indoctrination. Soldiers are taught to obey and worship the Party above everything else; recruits are taught that they are the guardians of the revolution and must do their best to fight for the Republic. While this education created a military loyal to the civil government, its effect on the morale of the troops is considered questionable. Thanks to the presence of Party Commissars, hazing has become uncommon.

The Hadiist salute is done by raising the right hand at the chest height with the palm facing towards the saluter while perking the ears forward.

The daily life of a Hadiist soldier is marked by strict discipline and a rigid routine. Recruits must wake up at a set time to sing the national anthem before heading to their duties. Every assignment is usually preceded by political ceremonies praising the Party and President Hadii. Insubordination is harshly punished by the military courts. Despite this stern routine, Republican soldiers are also entitled to their own leisure time. Once a week, servicemen are allowed to spend a day watching holovideos, enjoy their facility's recreation centers, play cards games with their comrades, and visit the nearest city to enjoy its attractions.

Adhomai Liberation Army ​

Owing to its structure and origins, the Liberation Army has a rich array of military traditions. Every battalion has its song, symbols, and rituals; many of these customs are based on their regional identities. While this creates a strong sense of camaraderie among the members of the same unit, it can lead to rivalries and infighting between the forces of the ALA. Hazing is still commonly practiced.

The Al'mariist salute is done by raising the right hand at the chest height, turning the hand to the chest, and then closing it into a fist while perking the ears forward.

The daily life of an Al'mariist soldier mostly depends on who is he serving under: fanatical warlords impose strict routines and exhausting training sessions, while most reasonable commanders enforce only the necessary drills. Liberation Army Tajara wake up early for training, followed by performing any kind of duty that their junta requires; this can range from repairing roads to law enforcement. Military forces in civilian areas are merely left to patrol the borders or guard their bases. During the weekend and at night, soldiers are free to have their leisure time. Outside of enjoying whatever their installations might offer, they usually head to the cities or villages to mingle with the population.

New Kingdom of Adhomai ​

The early Imperial Army inherited most of its traditions from the pre-revolution forces until the draft. With the new surge of conscripts, a clear division between the nobles and commoners in the military emerged. The nobility is infamous for its internal rivalities and glory-hound tendencies; officers frequently engage in risky operations to gain fame and the attention of their superiors. Subject to the whims of their superiors, a strong sense of camaraderie exists between the commoners; they stand together to survive whatever the enemy and their officers throw at them.

The day of a New Kingdom's soldiers starts with them being awake at dawn to perform basic maintenance of their bases. After their installations are in order, training exercises are performed until the afternoon, when their superiors either dismiss the Tajara or assign them other tasks. Outside of patrolling and guarding bases, conscripts are frequently tasked with doing personal tasks for their superiors; many noble cottages were built by conscripts. Thanks to the frugal nature of the Royalist military installations, servicemen are left with little options on how to spend their leisure time; most just head to the nearest pub.

The Royalist salute is done by raising the right hand to the head while using only the index and middle finger, bending the other fingers at the knuckles, with the palm facing towards the signer with the ears folding backward.

Notable Decorations and Medals

Because of the cultural impact of the civil wars in the Tajara species, medals are treated with the utmost respect by society. Veterans commonly wear their decorations to formal occasions. Falsifying or selling a medal is a crime in all Tajaran nations.

People's Republic of Adhomai Medals

• Hero of the People's Republic Medal: the highest distinction in the People's Republic of Adhomai, awarded for great service or heroic act while in duty to the nation. It can be bestowed to civilian and military recipients. Unlike all other rewards, this medal is given by President Hadii personally.

• President Hadii Medal for Courage: a medal awarded to the soldiers and PSIS agents who performed acts of bravery during the war, security operations, or during military duties. While this medal has no benefit attached to it, being granted one is a matter of pride to Hadiist troops.

• Messa's Virtue Medal: a posthumous award bestowed to Tajara who lost their lives while serving the People's Republic. This medal, alongside a lifetime pension, is usually handed to the family of the recipient.

• Medal for the Evacuation of Das'nrra: a medal given to anyone who participated in the evacuation of the Republican Army from Das'nrra in 2460. The civilian crewmembers of the ships repossessed for the operation were also granted this award.

• Medal for the Defense of the Homeland: awarded to those who fought alongside the S'rand'marr Coalition in 2461. This was the last medal issued concerning the Second Revolution. It is one of the few Hadiist service awards to be bestowed to non-Tajara; a few select members of the Tau Ceti and Nralakk Federation forces were given this award.

Adhomai Liberation Army Medals

• Adhomai Hero of the Liberation Medal: the highest decoration given to any Al'mariist citizen for their service to the Democratic People's Republic. Only the President and the Supreme Commander are allowed to bestow this medal.

• Al'mariist Medal for Bravery: an award bestowed to Liberation Army fighters for acts of courage during their service. Since Junta commanders are allowed to issue this medal, the pieces have a varying degree of quality - ranging from scrap metal to silver - and artwork.

• Al'mariist Martyr Medal: an award granted to those who perished or were gravely wounded while fighting for the Liberation Army. This medal was also infamously awarded to terrorists from the liberation cells.

• Medal for the Liberation of Das'nrra: awarded to the Liberation Army soldiers who fought to expel the People's Republic army from the continent of Das'nrra. Because of the presence of the entire Republican Guard during the battle, this medal is considered a symbol of bravery.

• Medal for the Liberation of Gakal'zaal: the first medal to be created after the Second Revolution; it was awarded to the Tajara who took part in the liberation of Gakal'zaal. It was also granted to civilians who actively sabotaged the Unathi war effort.

New Kingdom of Adhomai Medals

• Order of the Victorious Sun: the highest order in the New Kingdom, granted for exceptional service to the Royalist cause or for leading the military to victory. A non-hereditary title of nobility is also bestowed to the recipient if they are not already part of the nobility.

• Order of Mata'ke: an order bestowed to soldiers and officers for acts of bravery while in the service of the Crown. The awards given to commoners are known to be less adorned than the ones awarded to nobles. This order does not grant a title of nobility.

• Order of the Blue Heart: a decoration awarded to those killed while serving the Kingdom's military. Due to issues with keeping up with the production shortly after the start of the war, this medal is now only given to higher-ranked members of the military.

• Medal for the Defense of the Kingdom: a medal awarded to those who participated in the defense of Northern Harr'masir during the Hadiist offensive of 2458. Thanks to the presence of the volunteer forces, this was one of the few Royalist campaign medals to be given to non-Tajara.

• Medal for the Harr'masir Offensive: an award bestowed to the military personnel who took part in the final offensive to liberate Harr'masir from Hadiist occupation in 2461. This medal is the only service award to be granted to the Rock Nomads by the New Kingdom.