Dark Times in the South Seas

[Taelyn]

Dark Times in the South Seas

Difficulty: Normal
Aggression: Furious
Scenario: 1936

This is my first AAR, so let's see how it goes. Nothing here is historically accurate of course, so don't expect that. The goal is to make Australia a right-wing autocratic empire.


Chapter I (1936-1937)

Jan 1, on the golf course.

Isaacs: Ah, there you are Joseph. Wanted to talk to you for a bit. Got a few ideas to run by you.
Lyons: Of course.
Isaacs: *swings and hits the ball* Have you been following the events in Europe for the past few years?
Lyons: The general course of things, and the various policies of the British government, yes.
Isaacs: But have you followed the rise to power of Germany and Italy? You see the future there, do you not? The age of soft government and petty bickering is over. It is indeed the time for strong men once more.
Lyons: Errr...
Isaacs: I have orders here for you to distribute. The pathetically weak garrisons are to be disbanded at once. Contact Ford and tell them I want new production facilities, and tell De Havilland that we'll need some of these new aircraft carriers that are the terrors of the sea. Got that?
Lyons: Well, umm...
Isaacs: Good, and I want to see some economic growth along the east coast. Let's work out some tax incentives and so forth. Ruling an empire will take a much greater capacity.
Lyons: Empire, sir?
Isaacs: That's right. Oh, yes, I have some constitutional changes to work out as well. *swings again* Great day for golf, isn't it?
Lyons: *looks stunned*

March 30, in Isaacs office.

Parkhill: Sir?
Isaacs: Yes, do come in.
Parkhill: I have the reports you wanted on the state of our, err, war efforts.
Isaacs: And?
Parkhill: Ford Motors has built the industrial advances you requested. We have secured funding from America to fund them.
Isaacs: America? Hmm...perhaps they will be useful after all.
Parkhill: Also, the British and French governments have sent along some new designs they've been working on.
Isaacs: Did they? Well, quite a bonus. Very good, you know Richard Williams?
Parkhill: Of course, sir.
Isaacs: Tell him to work out some new air force plans, we'll need them if we're to assault Japan itself.
Parkhill: Japan?
Isaacs: Oh, err...nevermind that. Off you go.

April 23, in a hallway.

Lyons: Sir.
Isaacs: What? What is it, I'm late for dinner as is.
Lyons: About those constitutional changes you wanted. It seems it has caused quite a scandal in the parliament.
Isaacs: Hmm...Are they speaking of armed rebellion?
Lyons: What? Umm...no, sir, they simply...
Isaacs: Its no concern then, ignore them.

June 20, in the locker room.

Pearce: Got a minute there, sir?
Isaacs: Sure George, was about to take a bit of a swim.
Pearce: We just got word that Italy's taken over all of Ethiopia.
Isaacs: Ah, just as I thought, a new age of Empires is rising. Best not to be left out of it.
Pearce: Right sir, and speaking of that, I've heard that de Havilland has completed a new model of those air carriers you wanted.
Isaacs: Excellent. I knew our hardy folk wouldn't let me down. Set de Havilland to working on a newer model, I'm still not happy with the final design.
Pearce: Yes, sir, have a good swim.

August 13, in Isaacs office.

Lyons: Sir?
Isaacs: Ah, yes, come in Lyons. I hear there's quite an uproar in the parliament today.
Lyons: Yes, the opposition is attacking our policies, saying they are un-Australian and...
Isaacs: Non-sense. Non-australian, what a daft notion. Look here, how serious is it?
Lyons: Some of our social conservatives are joining them.
Isaacs: Alright, well. Here's what we do, I'm taking over the title Governor General of Australia. Parliament will meet according to my wishes. Tell Lavarack to kick those bums out of our building, we'll find something useful to do with it. Perhaps waste disposal or sewage treatment.
Lyons: But...
Isaacs: Hurry on then, no sense in dwadling.
Lyons: Umm..Also, about Spain...
Isaacs: Spain?
Lyons: Yes, it appears a fascist revolution has started a civil war.
Isaacs: I see. Well, I have no doubt the fascists will triumph. Republican Spain is weak, and ruled by weak men.
Lyons: Oh, and...we got a new set of designs from England and France.
Isaacs: Excellent, send them along. Thank goodness they pay no attention whatsoever to us.
Lyons: And Williams has nearly completed those air doctrines you wanted?
Isaacs: Send them along to the air force and...let me see. Oh yes, tell Ford Motors we need some new agricultural techniques. Ruling an empire requires a healthy, and larger, population.
Lyons: Umm...yes, sir.

Oct 10, in the dining room.

McLachlan: Thank you for the invitation, sir.
Isaacs: Of course, what is it you wanted to speak of.
McLachlan: First off, we have secured new designs from our "allies". They apparently still do not suspect our goals.
Isaacs: I figured as much.
McLachlan: Also, the air carrier designs you wanted are finished, but our research indicates they remain inferior to Japans, and we lack the industry to outproduce Japan.
Isaacs: The Japanese are no match for Australian wit. Tell de Havilland to keep working on it. Not too bright, is he?
McLachlan: In his defense, sir, at the start of this year, our most advance aircraft carrier was a canoe filled with paper airplanes.
Isaacs: True. My predecessors were quite inept.
McLachlan: And unambitious. Also of note, Canadian and South African officials have been contacting members of your government. I believe they have suspicions of our plans.
Isaacs: Hmm. Keep an eye on it, they could prove most dangerous. Now, have you seen the latest cricket scores?

Nov 18, on an army base.

Isaacs: John, this army is a disgrace. Obsolete equipment, understaffed. Absolutely disasterous.
Lavarack: Sir, without any additional funding...
Isaacs: A poor excuse, poor excuse indeed.
Lavarack: Well, a number of recent advances may improve the situation.
Isaacs: Indeed?
Lavarack: England sent a number of new designs for weapons that could greatly strengthen and advance our forces. Additionally, Ford has completed a new set of agricultural techniques that could free up men for the forces.
Isaacs: Ah, and...hold on.
Patterson: *running up* Sir, I've just received word, the New Zealand and Canadian diplomats have managed to convince our administration to relax the restrictions on newspapers that were implemented a few months ago.
Isaacs; Can't we reverse it?
Patterson: The lever won't budge....I mean, no, it would be too risky for us.
Isaacs: Well, let them talk all they want to, its not as if they can do anything to stop us. Lavarack, next inspection I expect improvements.

Jan 1, 1937, in Isaacs office.

Isaacs: Ah, Lyons, you're looking even paler than usual.
Lyons: Yes, sir. I have a number of reports for you.
Isaacs: You're going to get an ulcer worrying like that. Continue.
Lyons: The industrial incentives you proposed have worked, and a number of new manufacturing sites are completed along the east coast. Also, deHavilland has completed yet another carrier design.
Isaacs: Yes, I've seen the schematics. He's getting quite good at it. Look, tell Bostock that we need some new air policies for carrier-based planes. Rather useless without the right technique.
Lyons: Yes, sir. Also, South African diplomats are continuing to interfere with our government.
Isaacs: Alright, that does it. They want interference. We will, from here out, be more invertentionist. I've had enough of their obnoxious behavior.
Lyons: Yes, sir...that's all.
Isaacs: You may go then.

 

[unmerged(12435)]

Looks promising

As a teaser..what are your long-term goals? Probably territorial expansion..but where?

 

[MaximusII]

Japan I would guess

 

[Taelyn]

Goals

The goal is an empire. I haven't decided which route to take yet. I can either take on Japan, China, and Siam or I can turn on the allies and take on the Dutch, British, French, and New Zealanders. I'm not sure which yet, advice is appreciated. I'll probably play through the next year this weekend.

 

[invertigo2004]

The goal is an empire. I haven't decided which route to take yet. I can either take on Japan, China, and Siam or I can turn on the allies and take on the Dutch, British, French, and New Zealanders. I'm not sure which yet, advice is appreciated. I'll probably play through the next year this weekend.

Either way you'll end up butting heads with the Japanese, as you'd both target the Dutch East Indies. I think the most interesting option is to take on the Allies, maybe even bide your time until the Japanes attack them so you can use their strength to your advantage. It should be relatively easy to secure the southwest Pacific, at least for awhile.

 

[unmerged(12435)]

I guess your main concern will be shortage of manpower if go on such conquest. Well,the more challenging it will be

Going after Japan directly does not look as such good idea - too big navy,too big army,quite good techs. Let them bleed in China.

Allies are even worse - i guess you can take almost not defended Indonesia anf Malaysia, but core provinces will stay intact and the expect a storm. As you will have no manpower from islands and the resources there would not allow any massive industry. So Allies should be the last.

At first, China (yeah,you will be like jackal..attacking the dying ). You from south, Japan from the north. This should give you some stronger base and then its time for Japan.
Allied colonies..at the time you will be ready.

PS. eventually..the invasion to California?

 

[Taelyn]

Next chapter

I hope to add the next chapter soon, but the forums have been very flaky for me, so I haven't had a chance yet. Stay tuned for the first Australian expeditionary action.

 

[Taelyn]

1937

Jan 1 (later in the day), 1937, the lunch room.

Isaacs: John, pull up a seat, got a few changes of plans.
Lavarack: *sits* Yes, sir, as discussed, I need...
Isaacs: Calm down there, I'm approving a small requisition for new arms and recruitment, you'll be able to start the changes, albeit at lower budget I hope.
Lavarack: But...
Isaacs: Yes, there's a reason. I want all of our current forces, including naval and airforce redeployed to the area around Darwin. Its our best launching pad for the future.
Lavarack: And the future is?
Isaacs: We will wait and see what opportunity presents itself. Enjoy yourself in Darwin, its a very nice spot to visit.


March 12, at a cricket game.

Isaacs: Disgraceful. This team is aweful.
Parkhill: Sir, I have some news.
Isaacs: Oh? Hello there, Robert, pull up a seat. Lousy game, but its a nice day for it at least.
Parkhill: Yes, sir. I've received reports indicating that the agricultural techniques you asked for have been completed and delivered to our office.
Isaacs: Nice work then, I suppose we better move on. Can't let the lazy bums sit idle after all. Tell ford that the machinary they designed earlier is still insufficient. We need something far more advanced.
Parkhill: As you request.
Isaacs: Run, run! *sighs* Nope, our team can't get a break.

June 1, in Darwin

McLachlan: Sir, even with the numerous improvements and best efforts of Lavarack, our reports indicate that our forces, naval and ground, will be far insufficient if you plan to continue with your plans for Japan.
Isaacs: But these boys are Australians! The fighting spirit and national pride will see them through the day.
McLachlan: If I can point out, sir, that was the general view in the Great War, and was shown to be quite incorrect. Having more and better weaponry tends to outfight our high morale.
Isaacs: Well then, do you have ANY good news?
McLachlan: Of course, sir. Bostock finished the bombing techniques you needed, and Ford has delivered the improved machinery you asked for. I hear its quite modern.
Isaacs: Excellent, well what should we pursue next?
McLachlan: I believe we will need some more advanced, and more long range naval ships to protect the carrier fleet you invision. Toward that end, I suggest we se what Vickers-Armstrong can come up with. They have a good deal of experience in this sort of thing. Plus, we have some plans from the British that may help.
Isaacs: Good, good.
McLachlan: And our current artillery, while we have a great deal of it, is extremely obsolete, it may be wise to develop some modern artillery as it is one of our strengths at the moment.
Isaacs: A good idea. Ah, and while you're here, what can you tell me of these Canadian diplomats I've heard rumors of?
McLachlan: The Canadians and New Zealanders continue to feel its proper to interfere in our domestic affairs. They have started an independent news service which is quite critical of your government.
Isaacs: Can we shut them down?
McLachlan: It would be unwise.
Isaacs: Well, at least tell our state press to run a few articles about the impropriety of some New zealand and Canadian officials.
McLachlan: What improprieties?
Isaacs: I'm sure you can come up with something.
McLachlan: Of course.
Isaacs: By the way, have you seen the designs for the new carrier we started construction on?
McLachlan: Yes, its quite a beauty, though I predict the infantry you requested will be of more use for us.


July 1st, in Isaacs office.

Isaacs: Very good, I've summoned you all here because things of great importance to our nation have begun. As you are aware, one week ago, the Japanese army declared war on, and began an invasion of Nationalist China. China is a corrupt, weakened state and vulnerable at this moment. Ragnar Colvin, did you send our fleet north?
Colvin: Yes, sir, but I must protest, our troops are totally unprotected on those unescorted transports!
Isaacs: We will strike with speed and stealth, those will be our protection. Very well, in a few hours I will publicly announce our declaration of war on China. John Lavarack, our troops are ready?
Lavarack: The divisions have been reinforced, but some equipment is outdated, I wish...
Isaacs: There's no time, events move us forward ahead of schedule.
Lyons: But, sir! The public will be irate, they'll throw us from office? They have no ill will towards the Chinese!
Isaacs: Leave that to me. They will. They will...

August 12th, on the 1st destroyer fleet.

McLachlan: Sir, I must repeat my objections. This obsolete, ancient fleet is not sufficient to guard our homeland. Look over there, the entire flag pole has rusted away, and that gun over there is actually a catapult.
Isaacs: The British navy will defend us sufficiently, besides, from what I hear we need all our troops at the front.
McLachlan: A gamble. You received my report that the Japanese have declared war on the communists as well? They are now at war with all of China.
Isaacs: It is of no importance, the Japanese will not dare attack the heavy fortifications in the west.
McLachlan: Well, as you requested, our troops landed in Hainan on July 1st. Since then they have pushed north, although progress is slow. Helping us are British troops based in French indochina.
Isaacs: Excellent, perhaps the British will be useful allies after all.
McLachlan: There was one...um...major mishap, however, sir.
Isaacs: Yes?
McLachlan: It seems there was some miscommunication and our merchant marine fleet is far too small to support our operations in China. Our troops are scavaging to try to feed themselves and keep their equipment running.
Isaacs: WHAT?!?!
McLachlan: Indeed, sir. Lavarack went through the roof and has ordered the construction of 3 sets of merchant ships to keep his forces supplied. They should be done by early next year.
Isaacs: Next year! That's far too long.
McLachlan: But, it is the best we can manage without jepordizing other projects. Until then, the fleet we have can keep reasonably good supply.
Isaacs: I do not like this. What an idiotic mistake.
McLachlan: Also of note, sir, the new toasters that you sent out to every Australian have greatly reduced internal strife. Brilliant plan.
Isaacs: How could anyone hate toast?
McLachlan: Indeed, I also have to report that the new artillery and cruiser designs have been completed. The new cruisers look very nice, they should be sufficient for our fleet.
Isaacs: Excellent. Send whatever of the new artillery you can to Lavarack. In the meantime, tell Ford to start working on some new machinery. It seems even the modern set they sent last time is insufficient. And get the Challom Tank Works to start on the newest generation of computers.
McLachlan: You want a tank construction facility to build computers?
Isaacs: Well, they aren't building any tanks, might as well have them do something useful.


1 Jan, 1938, in Isaacs living room.

Lavarack: Happy New Year, sir.
Isaacs: I hope so. This year will be the beginning of the Australian Empire!
Lavarack: Indeed, sir. I'm happy to report that the supply problems have been sorted out, I have requested a few additional merchant ships to cover future needs. Also, after a number of fiascoes, our troops have finally captured Guangzhou, the industrial center of southern China.
Isaacs: Excellent! What about our allies?
Lavarack. The French, backed by the British, have conquered the coastal areas both East and West of us, and are moving into central China. The Japanese have overrun all of northern China.
Isaacs: Good, what are our prospects for further conquests?
LavaracK: Not good, sir. There appears to be little of industrial interest within the range of our troops, and conquering further territory would only further strain our industry.
Isaacs: Then hold tight for now, we will begin seeking out other, better options soon!