Gulf Strike - Final Turns 26,27,28,29, and 30

The "Soviet-Persian War" continues using the Gulf Strike rules.

We have reached the final turns of the scenario. Turn 30 is the last turn, when we will count the number of cities captured by the Soviets and determine the margin of victory.
The Soviets currently have 10 cities captured. The US is building a supply network in southern Iran. Can they reach the Iranian cities in time to help defend?

Most of the air missions and ground assaults have been reduced due to decreasing supply for both sides.

Turn 26 - US/Iran still have the initiative

On Land: The last few Iranian infantry brigades move toward Esfahan. The Soviets assault the city of Kashan and capture it. This is the 11th city for the Soviets. This qualifies them for a 'marginal victory'.
At Sea: The US LHA carrier with a compliment of AV-8 Harrier aircraft, moves northwest to the Iranian port city of Abadan.
In the Air: Harriers launch air strikes against Soviet targets approaching Ahraz, but are ineffective. A-10s strike against Soviets outside Esfahan. Backfire bombers launch anti-ship missiles at the LHA and sink it. Soviets gain enough hits on the US/Iran forces to regain the initiative.

Turn 27 - Soviets regain the initiative but not much happens this turn.

On Land: The Soviets make a bold march toward the unprotected city of Ahraz. Iranian supply routes are starting to weaken.

Turn 28 - Soviets still have the initiative.

In the Air: US launches air strikes at the Soviets around Esfahan, but poor dice rolls result in no damage.
On Land: Iranian brigade protecting Esfahan is destroyed. Iranian militia rush toward Ahraz in hopes of saving the city.

Turn 29 and 30 - Soviets still have the initiative.

On Land: Ahraz is captured by the Soviets. This is their 12th city. The defenses in and around Hamadan hold the city but it is unlikely they will hold it after turn 30. Joe and I decided to end the game without doing an unnecessary turn 30.

SOVIET VICTORY!
At this point, the US/Iran coalition concedes victory to the Soviets. 11 cities and a successful blockade of the Persian Gulf with mines gives the Soviets a marginal victory. 14 cities were needed to reach the next level, a 'substantial victory'.

I have posted a video on YouTube in which Joe and I give our recap of the game. We offer some ideas of what we could have done differently, and other thoughts.

Comments

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