Difference between revisions of "Taurian Defense Force"

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The '''Taurian Defense Force''' (or '''TDF''') is the military of the [[Taurian Concordat]].  The TDF is the largest, best trained, best motivated and best equipped known military in the Periphery or Deep Periphery (excluding the [[Clans]]).  However, the TDF still pales in comparison with Successor State militaries, especially with that of the neighboring [[Federated Suns]].  Indeed, Taurian history has put the Concord in a state of high alert (almost a state of paranoia).  The Taurians anticipate further depredations by the Federated Suns; if not prepared, the Taurians expect the forced annexation of the Concord begun in the [[Reunification War]] to be completed.
+
The '''Taurian Defense Force''' (or '''TDF''') is the military of the [[Taurian Concordat]].  The TDF has traditionally been known for being the largest, best trained, best motivated and best equipped military in the [[Periphery]] or [[Deep Periphery]] (excluding the [[Clans]]).  However, the TDF still pales in comparison with [[Successor State]] militaries, especially with that of the neighboring [[Federated Suns]].  Indeed, a history of aggression (both real and imagined) by House Davion has put the Concordat on a state of high alert for much of its existence, lest the forced annexation of the Concordat begun in the [[Reunification War]] were to be completed.
  
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==Overview==
+
==Structure==
 +
The actions of the TDF are ultimately controlled by the '''[[Protector of the Realm]]''', who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and is given the rank of Senior Marshal.  If the Protector lacks in military expertise however, the Protector may delegate another individual to serve as Senior Marshal.  In times of conflict, the Protector can invoke emergency powers which grants them greater authority to prosecute the war effort.<ref name=TP74>''The Periphery'', p. 74</ref><ref name=FMP54>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 54</ref><ref name=HMPS113>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 113</ref>  In the years leading up to and during the Reunification War, the Protector would appoint a Marshal to serve as the TDF Chief of Staff, who oversaw day-to-day operations and managed the TDF strategic planning committee.  There were also three deputy Marshals who were in overall command of the Concordat Army, Concordat Navy and the planetary defense forces respectively.<ref name=HRU44>''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 44</ref>
  
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The arrangement of the Taurian Defense Force is reminiscent to that of the Napoleonic armies, with a 31st century twist.  Ground TDF commands are divided into corps, and spread to garrison as much territory as possible. The other branches of service are deployed as needed.  This includes the naval elements, which are attached to a particular corps and deployed as demi-squadrons (or half fleets).
+
The work of carrying out the Concordat's military policies falls to the '''Ministry of Defense''', which serves as an advisory board to the Protector and provides civilian control over the Taurian Defense Force.  Staffed with both civilian and military specialists, the department oversees everything from recruitment, to weapons research and development, to matériel acquisition.<ref name=TP71>''The Periphery'', p. 71</ref><ref name=HMPS105>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 105</ref> Up through the years of the Succession Wars, the Ministry of Defense's primary mission was to maintain a constant vigil in the event of an invasion by outside powers.<ref name=TP71/> After the Concordat's entry into the [[Trinity Alliance]], however, its focus shifted towards using [[Capellan Confederation|Capellan]] assistance to revamp the armed forces (in exchange for [[Capellan-St. Ives War|fighting Liao's wars]]) and prosecuting the [[History of the Taurian Concordat#The Pleiades Campaign|defensive invasion of the Pleiades Cluster]].<ref name=HMPS105/>
  
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The Concord also has an extensive amount of special forces and paramilitary units.  These include [[Concord Constabulary]] (internal security and intelligence), the Taurian [[Special Asteroid and Support Force]] (a permanent, potent garrison left in the Hyades Cluster asteroid fields), and the [[Colonial Marshall|Colonial Marshalls]] (frontier peace-keepers).
+
The Taurian Defense Force is divided into the following combat and support branches:
  
−
Though formidable, the TDF is not a Successor State army - the great reduction of Taurian territory (and population and industry) following the [[Reunification War]] has pulled most of the fangs of the Taurian Defense Force. The TDF is large by Periphery standards, but because of the large size of the Concord and distances between settlements, the TDF is spread thin. Where once the TDF had more war materiel and personnel, losses incurred during the Reunification War have (in part) prevented re-mustering of the TDF.
+
'''Concordat Army''' - The Army consists of line [[BattleMech]], [[Combat Vehicle|armor]] and [[infantry]] regiments, as well as [[Mercenary]] units on long-term contract.<ref name=TP76>''The Periphery'', p. 76</ref><ref name=HMPS114>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 114</ref>  When necessary the Army is supplemented by the [[Concordat Constabulary]] as well as other irregular forces.<ref name=HMPS112>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 112</ref>
  
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Strategically, the Concordat cannot afford to conduct a defensive strategy similar to that used during the Reunification War.  During the Reunification War, The Concordat concentrated its defense on important worlds and leave others undefended.  After the Reunification War, nearly all of the remaining border worlds of the Taurian Concordat are vital to the Concordat's survival.  In the event of another Inner Sphere invasion, the TDF will be forced to withdraw again into the Hyades Cluster, or counterattack.  In the case of a counterattack, the already-weakened military industrial complex of the Taurian Concordat may not be able to cope.  Further, because the Taurian border worlds are of such high importance, the TDF maintains many static border deployments; a counterattack would not be possible without lowering the defenses of another, vital world.
+
<span id="Concordat Navy">'''Concordat Navy'''</span> - The Navy consists of the TDF's [[DropShip|DropShips]] and [[JumpShip|JumpShips]] (and when available, [[WarShip]]s) when assigned to a Corps.  These assets are divided into fleets, with each fleet divided into two demi-squadrons.  Naval personnel are typically long-term volunteers, with officers generally serving four to seven years.  In case of invasion, the Navy is the first line of defense for the Concordat.<ref name=TP76/><ref name=HMPS114/>
  
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==Command Structure==
+
'''Aerospace Arm''' - The Aerospace Arm is composed of the TDF's [[aerospace fighter]] force and maintains a large number of longtime volunteers.  Despite this low turnover, the Aerospace Arm has long been considered the weakest of the three combat branches, due to a lack of equipment and trained personnel.  During the [[thirty-first century]], the TDF sought out [[Outworlds Alliance]] advisers to help modernize the Aerospace Arm, which resulted in a gradual increase in competence and equipment.<ref name=TP76/><ref name=HMPS114/>
  
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Actions of the TDF are ultimately controlled by the [[Protector of the Realm]], who is the chief Taurian policy maker for both internal and external military and political affairs.  If the Protector lacks in military expertise, the Protector may delegate a Marshall.  The Taurian government maintains checks and balances, and as such, the Protector's policies are subject to advisor committees and judicial review.  In times of war, the Protector is allowed emergency powers which temporarily render the Protector's orders as absolute.
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'''Medical Division''' - The Medical Division provides medical attention to soldiers wounded in the field, with an emphasis on swift recovery and rehabilitation and the deployment of emergency medical technicians and surgical units at a moment's notice.  In [[3025]] the care the Medical Division provided was on par with their Inner Sphere counterparts.<ref name=TP76/> Thanks to the [[Magistracy of Canopus]] providing aid through the Trinity Alliance, by [[3067]] the average Taurian soldier was receiving significantly better care than was available in the Inner Sphere.<ref name=HMPS114/>
  
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In times of peace, the Protector is unofficially obliged to seek the advice of the Privy Council.  The Privy Council was formed from the heads of the leading families of the original Calderon expedition.  Council members come from all walks of life, and may attain this office by exceptional deeds, service, or political appointment by the Protector.  The Privy Council maintains expertise in many different fields, and convene monthly to make recommendations.  The Protector is NOT obligated to act upon these recommendations.
+
'''Transport and Service Division''' - The Transport and Services Division is responsible for transportation and recovery/repairs of men and matériel to battle areas.  All military DropShips and JumpShips are under the control of the Transport and Service Division, unless otherwise deployed with another division or corps.<ref name=TP76/><ref name=HMPS114/>
  
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The Protector's policies are enacted by a second "advisory" committee, the Ministry of Defense, which only handles matters of defense.  The Ministry of Defense is staffed by civilians and military personnel, and acts as quartermaster, recruiter, and directs weapons research.  The primary responsibility of the Ministry of Defense is devising and (when required) enacting contingency plans, in the event of another Inner Sphere invasion.
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'''Administrative Corps''' - The arm of the '''Ministry of Defense''', the Administrative Corps is responsible for all administrative matters, including pay, recordkeeping, promotion, and mercenary contracts.<ref name=TP76/><ref name=HMPS114/>
  
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==Organization==
+
'''Propaganda Division''' - The Propaganda Division is tasked with disseminating information to maintain high morale within the TDF and counteracting negative rumors spread by instigators.<ref name=TP76/>  Funding increases starting in [[3062]] have allowed the Propaganda Division to provide informative updates on Protector Shraplen's new government policies and spread the good news about the TDF's victories in the Pleiades Campaign.<ref name=HMPS114/>
 +
 
 +
==Doctrine==
 +
One of the defining characteristics of the Taurian Defense Force is its fierce pride and fanatical devotion to defending the Concordat against outside aggression by any means the enemy makes necessary.  Having never been signatory to the [[Ares Conventions]], no quarter will be asked or expected by the TDF, and no "dirty trick" is above use in the defense of the homeland.  This includes even the deliberate targeting of enemy JumpShips operating as part of an invasion force.<ref name=FMP51>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 51</ref><ref name=HMPS112/>
 +
 
 +
Strategically, during the Succession Wars era the Concordat could not afford to conduct a defensive campaign similar to that used during the Reunification War, where it concentrated around protecting important worlds and was able to trade space for time.  With its shrunken size after the Reunification War, nearly all of the remaining border worlds of the Taurian Concordat are vital to the Concordat's survival, requiring the static deployment of its military forces as far forward as possible and leaving little strategic reserves.<ref name=TP823>''The Periphery'', pp. 82–83</ref>  In the event of another Inner Sphere invasion, the TDF Navy would deploy to engage the enemy as far forward as possible (and sacrifice themselves if necessary) to blunt any advance on the [[Hyades Cluster]].  Ground forces not part of a permanent garrison would operate as Special Task Groups to conduct a variety of missions, launching local counterattacks or raiding deep behind enemy lines to disrupt lines of communication.<ref name=TP76/><ref name=HMPS114/>  Eventually though the TDF would either be forced to withdraw again into the Hyades Cluster, surrendering many of its key industrial centers, or launch a desperate counterattack, with which its weakened military industrial complex may not be able to cope.<ref name=TP823>''The Periphery'', pp. 82–83</ref>
 +
 
 +
Tactically, the TDF was unable to practice true [[combined-arms]] warfare in the modern sense during the Succession Wars era, as the few 'Mech and aerospace fighter assets it possessed were thinly spread and deployed on a rotating basis.  Conventional forces were able to work seamlessly together, giving the TDF a significant advantage, but any cooperation between them and any 'Mech or ASF assets locally available was often of an ad hoc nature.<ref name=FMP51/>  At the same time, many 'Mech regiments did have conventional forces permanently attached, providing them with needed support.<ref name=FMP54/>
  
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===Hierarchy===
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The Taurian Defense Force operates on a variation of the [[Inner Sphere military structure|standard Inner Sphere model]] (see below table).  'Mech regiments are slightly larger than typical and will include a command lance.  Conventional units not attached to a corps were permanently assigned to garrison a world.  Armor regiments do not use a separate command unit, instead the regimental commander operates among the line units so as to improve their own survivability.  Since infantry regiments rarely rotate offworld, many of their individual battalions train in a specialization, though anti-'Mech training is a given for all battalion-level units and higher.  Additionally, each infantry regiment will also include a dedicated platoon of commandos trained in demolition, infiltration and other special warfare techniques.<ref name=HMPS114/><ref name=FMP52>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 52</ref>
  
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{| class="wikitable"
+
{|class="wikitable" style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
−
|-  
+
|-
−
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | Rank
+
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" |
 
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | Infantry
 
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | Infantry
 
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | Armor
 
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | Armor
−
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | AeroSpace
 
 
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | BattleMech
 
! scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | BattleMech
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="5" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Enlisted Personel''' (XO indicates non-commissioned executive officer)
+
|Maniple
 +
|5 troopers
 +
|2 vehicles
 +
|*
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Recruit||soldier||||||
+
|Squad
 +
|2 Maniples (10)
 +
|*
 +
|*
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Corporal||1 maniple (5 soldiers) or 1 junior specialist||1 vehicle||||
+
|Lance/Platoon
 +
|3 Squads (30)
 +
|3 Maniples (6)
 +
|4 'Mechs
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Section Leader||1 squad (2 maniples) or 1 senior specialist||1 maniple (2 vehicles)||||
+
|Company
 +
|3 Platoons (90)
 +
|3 Lances (18)
 +
|3 Lances (12)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Force Sergeant||1 platoon (25-30 soldiers)||1 lance (3 maniples)||1 AeroSpace Fighter||
+
|Battalion
 +
|3 Companies (270)
 +
|3 Companies (54)
 +
|4 Companies (48)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Lance Sergeant||1 command platoon (XO)||1 company (3 lances) (XO)||1 air lance (2 AeroSpace Fighters)||
+
|Regiment
 +
|3 Battalions (810+)
 +
|3 Battalions (162)
 +
|3 Battalions plus Command Lance (148)
 +
|}
 +
{|class="wikitable" style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 +
!scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" |
 +
!scope="col" width="150" style="background: #dedede;" | Aerospace fighter
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Battalion Cheif-Sergeant or Air Sergeant||1 battalion (XO)||1 battalion (3 companies) (XO)||1 flight (2 air lances)||
+
|Air Lance
 +
|2 Fighters
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="5" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Officers''' (XO indicates executive officer)
+
|Flight
 +
|2 Air Lances (4)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cornet or Ensign||1 company||1 company||1 wing (2 flights)||1 BattleMech
+
|Wing
 +
|2 Flights (8)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Subaltern or Air Master, Junior Grade||1 battalion||1 battalion||2 wings||1 company (12 BattleMechs)
+
|Air Division
−
|-
+
|2-3 Wings (16-24)
−
| Brigadier or Air Master, Senior Grade||1 regiment (XO)||1 regiment (XO)||1 division (3 wings)||1 battalion (4 companies)
 
−
|-
 
−
| Colonel or Space Master||1 regiment||1 regiment||1 ship||1 regiment
 
−
|-
 
−
| Comptroller or Commodore||multi-world force commander||multi-world force commander||demi-squadron (varies)||1 regiment plus support
 
−
|-
 
−
| Marshal||1 corps||1 corps||1 corps||1 corps
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
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===Branches===
+
==Organization==
 +
The arrangement of the Taurian Defense Force is reminiscent to that of the Napoleonic armies with a thirty-first century twist.  BattleMech regiments are organized into operational Corps, each under the command of a Marshal, with naval elements directly attached and answering to the corps commanders.<ref name=TP74/><ref name=HMPS112/>  Each corps also includes a command company with a mix of 'Mechs and armor, the latter used for scouting purposes.<ref name=HMPS114/><ref name=FMP52/>  It is the corps which provide the TDF with offensive capability and they serve the last line of defense in the event of an invasion of the Concordat.<ref name=HRU44/>  Concordat Army units not part of a corps, typically conventional regiments, are permanently assigned to garrison specific worlds.  Each world has at least a battalion of armor, with more important ones protected by one or more regiments, and many boast extensive fortifications.<ref name=HRU44/><ref name=HMPS114/><ref name=FMP52/>
  
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; '''Concord Army:'''
+
Supporting the regular line units are a variety of support formations and special forces.  During the Reunification War, the [[Taurian Volunteer Guard]]s played an important role in defending the Concordat, although they were wiped out in the conflict.<ref>''Historical: Reunification War'', pp. 44, 146</ref>  The [[Special Asteroid Support Force]] is an elite all-volunteer group dedicated to defending the [[Hyades Cluster]] from all invaders.  The [[Concordat Constabulary]], an internal security force during peacetime, can also be called on to fight off invasions. Lastly there are a variety of paramilitary groups - including planetary militias, corporate security forces and [[Nobility#Taurian Concordat|noble family regiments]] - which can be mobilized in an emergency.<ref name=HMPS112/><ref name=TP80>''The Periphery'', p. 80</ref>
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: The Concord Army consists of twelve [[BattleMech]] regiments (30 battalions). Nine are line units, and three are mercenary regiments with long-term contracts. [[Oriente]]d toward lances of light-to-medium [[BattleMech]]s, Taurian units are similar in composition to their counterparts in the [[Successor States]]. Units are routinely trained as Special Task Groups. In the first days of an invasion, battalions not engaged with enemy forces would be earmarked for special STG strike missions, as local counterattack teams or as deep-space raiders directed at vulnerable communication and supply points. The flexibility of this military response remains to be seen, especially as more and more Taurian units are being committed to permanent garrisons each year.
 
  
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; '''Concord Navy:'''
+
===Deployment Status===
−
: The Concord Navy currently consists of 117 [[DropShip]]s and [[JumpShips]] divided into four fleets, each fleet being assigned to a corps front commander. Taurian naval personnel are typically long-term volunteers, with officers serving from about four to seven years. In time of war, the Navy is expected to serve as the first line of defense against any aggressor. In a departure from [[Reunification War]] doctrine, all four fleet components, including that of the [[Taurian Guard Corps]], are expected to engage the enemy as far forward as possible, sacrificing themselves to blunt the enemy's invasion as far from the [[Hyades Cluster]] as possible. Few vessels would be retained to defend the Taurian home worlds.
+
In the five years between the formation of the [[Star League]] and the start of the Reunification War in [[2575]], the TDF doubled in size, making it the largest military in the Periphery and the equal to many of the Great Houses.  The Concordat Navy was larger than any other, bar the [[Terran Hegemony]], with 127 [[WarShips]], thousands of [[JumpShips]], and [[DropShips]], and many squadrons of aerospace fighters.  The Concordat Army consisted of 33 BattleMech [[regiments]], organized into the six corps, with nearly three times as many frontline armored regiments, seven aerospace fighter regiments, and numerous infantry regiments.<ref name=HRU44/><ref>''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 65</ref><ref name=HRU67>''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 67</ref>  The Taurian Nobility themselves were able to personally finance the creation of over two dozen more regiments during the war as well.<ref name=TP80>''The Periphery'', p. 80</ref>  By the end of the conflict however the TDF was a shadow of its former shelf, with just 13 'Mech regiments and nine surviving WarShips.<ref name=HRU44/>
  
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; '''[[AeroSpace]] Arm:'''
+
By [[2750]] the TDF was in a similar state, its size limited and closely monitored by the Star League, with a strength of just 13 regiments and 15 WarShips.  When the Concordat joined with [[Stefan Amaris]] and the other Periphery powers to throw off the League's oppression, they were able to massively expand their forces in secret, until by [[2765]] they were well equipped with 21 [[Division]]s (consisting of 78 conventional regiments and 115 'Mech regiments) and 31 WarShips. However, while consisting of troops provided by and flagged as part of the TDF, many of these new units were essentially independent, operating as part of Amaris' "Secret Army."  Most were destroyed in the [[New Vandenberg Uprising]], and with the Succession Wars cutting off any further support from the Inner Sphere much of the survivors withered away.<ref>''Historical: Liberation of Terra Volume 1'', p. 50: "Territorial State Troop Strength"</ref>
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: Though staffed, like its naval counterpart, with long-term professionals, the [[AeroSpace]] Arm remains the weakest of three principal military branches. A general lack of equipment and experience against modern combat tactics leaves this organization at a distinct disadvantage against its [[Inner Sphere]] counterparts. As a result, the [[AeroSpace]] Arm concentrates on ground-support roles. In recent years, the Concord has brought in advisers from the [[Outworlds Alliance]] to help modernize the arm, though it may be years before the Taurians are on par with their potential opponents.
 
  
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; '''Medical Division:'''
+
By [[3025]] the TDF consisted of twelve 'Mech regiments (or 30 battalions), three of them mercenaries on long-term contract, organized into six Corps, while the Navy consisted of 117 JumpShips and DropShips divided into four fleets<ref name=TP76/> (secretly the Navy also consisted of a lone surviving WarShip, the ''[[Vandenberg (Individual Vincent-class WarShip)|Vandenberg]]'', although it was nonoperational).  By [[3050]] it had increased slightly to 14 'Mech regiments, three of which were mercenary commands.<ref>''20 Year Update'', pp. 77–78</ref>  In [[3064]] the TDF had a 'Mech strength of 17 regiments and two battalions, though it technically numbered 12 'Mech regiments due to the oversized nature of their units,<ref>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 143</ref><ref name=FMP52>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 52</ref> however this was further reduced to 9 'Mech regiments in [[3067]] due to losses in the Pleiades Campaign and the formation of the breakaway [[Calderon Protectorate]].<ref name=HMPS114/>
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: The Medical Division is concerned with the recovery and rehabilitation of wounded personnel in the field. At present, the medical service available to the average Concord soldier is comparable to that of the [[Inner Sphere]]. Emphasis is placed on the quick retrieval of wounded personnel close to the forward edge of battle, and the division is fully capable of deploying emergency medical and surgical support stations via support craft at a moment's notice.
 
  
−
; '''Transport and Service Division:'''
+
==== Active Corps ====
−
: The Transport and Services Division is responsible for the transportation of men and material to battle areas. In addition, it can provide recovery and repair of battle-damaged craft and machines, as well as transport reserves capable of maintaining the integrity of units in the field. Except for those vessels directly assigned to specific regiments, military [[DropShip]]s and [[JumpShips]] are under the control of this division.
 
  
−
; '''Administrative Corps:'''
+
These corps are active as of [[3079]]. <ref>''Field Report: Periphery'', p. 12</ref>
−
: The Administrative Corps is responsible for all matters pertaining to personnel and administrative functions in the armed forces, including disbursement of funds, recordkeeping, promotion review boards, and the acquisition and management of mercenary units.
 
  
−
; '''Propaganda Division:'''
+
;Taurian Guards Corps
−
: With the task of maintaining good morale within the armed services, the Propaganda Division is an independent arm of government that disseminates information regarding the positive aspects of Concord life and discounts rumors instigated by enemy agents.
+
{{main|Taurian Guards Corps}}
 +
{{:Taurian Guards Corps}}
  
−
===Special Forces===
+
;I Corps
 +
{{main|I Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
 +
{{:I Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
  
−
The following summarizes the three wings of TDF Special Forces: the [[Concord Constabulary]], the Taurian ASF, and the Noble Family Regiments.
+
;III Corps
 +
{{main|III Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
 +
{{:III Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
  
−
; '''Concord Costabulary:'''
+
;V Corps
−
: The [[Concord Constabulary]] is a dual-function local defense force, charged with intelligence-gathering and internal security operations. It is also a source of conventionally armed troops in time of war, when each Taurian planetary system reverts to martial law under the control of the Constabulary. The military potential of the Constabulary is two to six battalions of conventional troops (600 men each) available for active duty on each Taurian world.
+
{{main|V Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
 +
{{:V Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
  
−
In addition, the Constabulary retains the services of a special Engineer Company (125 men) on each planet outside the [[Hyades Cluster]]. These individuals are charged with maintaining planetary defenses and fortifications. All Constabulary units also maintain at least one company of armor in the capital of each inhabited world.
+
==== Inactive Corps ====
  
−
; '''Taurian SASF:'''
+
These are former corps, no longer active in the Taurian Defense Force.
−
: The [[Taurian Special Asteroid Support Force]] is a body of five thousand soldiers and naval personnel trained on Zero-g defense platforms throughout the [[Hyades Cluster]] asteroid belt, from which they can attack invading forces. As the survival potential of forces in combat is low, the Taurian SASF is a voluntary force of individuals motivated by the highest degree of patriotism.
 
  
−
; '''Noble Family Regiments:'''
+
;II Corps
−
: In the event of war, the Taurian aristocracy is expected to raise and equip local defense regiments at their own expense. The number and quality of these "Home Guards" cannot be estimated at this time, but their strength in the [[Reunification War]] suggests the possibility of from one to two dozen such units, ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 conventional troops.
+
{{main|II Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
 +
{{:II Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
  
−
==Units of the Taurian Defense Force==
+
;IV Corps
 +
{{main|IV Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
 +
{{:IV Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
  
−
BattleMech Units within the TDF are divided into 6 separate Corps, each of which "coordinates" with more conventional assets.  Below is a brief list of Taurian assets, listed by command structure, not by unit formation (c. [[3063]]):
+
;VI Corps
 +
{{main|VI Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
 +
{{:VI Corps (Taurian Concordat)}}
  
−
===Line Units===
+
;Taurian Volunteer Guard
 +
{{main|Taurian Volunteer Guard}}
  
−
====Taurian Guard====
+
==Military Academies==
 +
All citizens of the Taurian Concordat are required to serve for four years in the TDF - two of those on active duty - but not all service must be of a military nature.  Those who don't intend to pursue a military career are assigned to a provisional training battalion, with one battalion for each of a planet's geographical districts or cantons.  These conscripts will receive some rudimentary combat training but will otherwise be asked to perform civilian-oriented tasks.  Those who wish to join the military proper will instead receive an eighteen-week basic training course before moving on to a field unit.<ref>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 53</ref><ref name=HMPS112/>
  
−
BattleMech
+
Alone of the major Periphery states, the Concordat has maintained large military academies for most of its history.<ref>''The Periphery'', p. 82</ref>  Every Taurian world can boast at least one military academy, though most are dedicated to training conventional forces and their support units.  For more advanced training, the Concordat maintains three for each of its main branches, the Army, Navy and Aerospace Arm.  Each can handle about 500 or more cadets at a time, mostly Taurian nationals but around ten percent will be foreign students.  Education is free for citizens of the Concordat but admission still depends on passing the physical and mental standards; a suitable "endowment" can improve an applicant's chances, and such legal bribery is seen as necessary to maintain the schools' effectiveness.<ref name=FMP55>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 55</ref><ref name=HMPS117>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', pp. 116–117</ref>
−
* [[Taurian Guard]]
 
−
* [[Taurian Velites]]
 
−
* [[Concordat Commandos]]
 
  
−
AeroSpace
+
The curriculum is similar at all three schools.  Emphasis is placed on basic training, giving students a strong aptitude for military history and allowing some electives, after which students are allowed to specialize in any offered field based on test results.  Exceptional students may be offered special training or Officer Candidate School (though [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] are guaranteed a commission anyways).  In general the Taurian schools are less stressful than their Capellan counterparts, of which some were opened to qualified Taurian candidates after the Trinity Alliance was formed.  The primary reason was found to be that greater personal investment was required in order to succeed compared to Taurian schools, with the tradeoff being that there was a far greater burnout rate.  Still, once the option became available, many jumped at the opportunity since such foreign education was seen providing an edge to getting a promotion.<ref name=FMP55/>
−
* [[4th Taurian Air Division]]
 
  
−
Armor
+
;Taurian École Militaire
−
* [[3rd Taurian Armor Guard]]
 
−
* [[15th Armored Cavalry]]
 
  
−
Infantry
+
The Taurian [[École Militaire]], located on [[Taurus]], specializes in training for ground-based units, including MechWarriors.
−
* [[121st Cluster Infantry]]
 
−
* [[3rd Battlesuit Recon]]
 
  
−
====I Corps====
+
;Taurian Naval Institute
  
−
BattleMech
+
The Taurian Naval Institute, located on [[New Vandenberg]], specializes in training for larger aerospace vessels.  With support from the [[Outworlds Alliance]], the Taurian Naval Institute has appreciably improved in the thirty-first century.
−
* [[Concordat Jaegers]]
 
−
* [[Red Chasseurs]]
 
  
−
AeroSpace
+
;Concordat Aerospace Flight School
−
* [[2nd Velites Air Division]]
 
−
* [[21st Corps Air Division]]
 
  
−
Armor
+
The Concordat Aerospace Flight School, located on [[Samantha]], focuses on aerospace flight instruction and is the poorest of the training academies.  While often a result of insufficient funding in general provided to the Aerospace Arm, some of this lackluster performance is based on the Taurian cadets themselves - specifically, the Concordat simply is not supplying enough talented candidates for whatever reason, with up to forty percent of the student body foreign-born.  Instruction at the Concordat Aerospace Flight School has improved since the Outworlds Alliance has offered assistance.
−
* [[27th Armored Reconnaissance]]
 
  
−
Infantry
+
==Uniforms==
−
* [[35th Cluster Support Force]]
+
The TDF authorizes three different types of uniforms.  The '''Standard''' uniform of the Concordat military prior to [[3060]] was a red tunic with silver (NCOs) or gold buttons (officers), black trousers, and black lapels.  Soldiers wore an oversized beret or forage caps which was colored to match their branch: dark green for infantry, light green for armor, brown for BattleMech, sky blue for navy, and light grey for support.  Afterwards, the tunic was changed to either red (ground forces) or navy blue (aerospace) with the field cap colored to match the tunic, though officers, MechWarriors and special forces were allowed to wear a black beret.  Enlisted personnel wear industrial safety shoes, while officers wear calf-high boots with their trousers tucked in (female personnel may wear high heels at social functions).  Rank insignia are worn on the lapel, but awards are not allowed.<ref name=TP74/><ref name=FMP53>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 53</ref><ref name=HMPS116>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', pp. 115–116</ref>
−
 
 
−
====II Corps====
 
−
 
 
−
BattleMech
 
−
* [[Hyades Light Infantry]]
 
−
* [[Concordat Cuirassiers]]
 
−
 
 
−
AeroSpace
 
−
* [[2nd Corps Air Division]]
 
−
 
 
−
Infantry
 
−
* [[Hyades Support Guard]]
 
−
 
 
−
====III Corps====
 
−
 
 
−
BattleMech
 
−
* [[Pleiades Hussars]]
 
−
* [[Taurian Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
AeroSpace
 
−
* [[Pleiades 7th Air Division]]
 
−
 
 
−
Armor
 
−
* [[47th Jansen's Armored Brigade]]
 
−
* [[1st Taurian Armored Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
Infantry
 
−
* [[12th Pleiades Infantry]]
 
−
* [[75th Light Guard]]
 
−
 
 
−
====IV Corps====
 
−
 
 
−
BattleMech
 
−
* [[Pleiades Lancers]]
 
−
* [[2nd Taurian Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
AeroSpace
 
−
* [[33rd Air Defense]]
 
−
 
 
−
Armor
 
−
* [[13th Light Cavalry]]
 
−
* [[2nd Taurian Armored Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
====V Corps====
 
−
 
 
−
BattleMech
 
−
* [[3rd Taurian Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
Armor
 
−
* [[3rd Taurian Armored Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
Infantry
 
−
* [[3rd Taurian Foot Lancers]]
 
−
 
 
−
====VI Corps====
 
−
 
 
−
BattleMech
 
−
* [[1st Taurian Pride]]
 
−
* [[2nd Taurian Pride]]
 
−
 
 
−
AeroSpace
 
−
* [[1st Pride Defense Division]]
 
−
* [[2nd Pride Defense Division]]
 
−
 
 
−
Armor
 
−
* [[7th Gaul Armored Regiment]]
 
−
 
 
−
Infantry
 
−
* [[New Colony Guard]]
 
−
* [[Calderon's Commandos]]
 
−
 
 
−
===Affiliated Mercenaries===
 
−
 
 
−
Given below is a list of mercenary commands in service to the Taurian Concordat as of [[3058]]:
 
−
 
 
−
'''I Corps''' - [[Gordon's Armored Cavalry]]
 
−
 
 
−
'''II Corps''' - [[Longwood's Bluecoats]]
 
−
 
 
−
'''III Corps''' - [[Bannockburn's Bandits]]
 
−
 
 
−
'''IV Corps''' - [[Hell's Black Aces]], 2nd Wing
 
−
 
 
−
'''V Corps'''- [[Vandelay's Valkyries]], the [[Lone Star Regiment]]
 
−
 
 
−
'''VI Corps''' - [[Prey's Divisionals]], the [[The Clean Kill]], [[Protector's Pride]]
 
−
 
 
−
===Independent (Planetary Militias)===
 
−
 
 
−
Each world and colony also maintains a standing army of infantry and armor, with armor assets totaling ''at least'' 1 battalion, but climbing to more than 1 regiment on very important worlds.
 
  
−
===In Memoriam===
+
The TDF '''Dress''' uniform is a very practical modification of the standard uniform, properly cleaned and pressed.  The dress uniform adds a sash for displaying awards, a gold for officers and a (slightly thinner) silver one for enlisted personnel.  Prior to 3060 both were allowed to wear white gloves, though afterwards enlisted personnel could wear only white leggings.  After 3060 all soldiers were allowed black berets as part of their dress uniform or wear their standard forage caps.  Concordat Marshals further wear gold aigrettes to denote their rank.<ref name=TP74/><ref name=FMP53/><ref name=HMPS116/>
  
−
* [[Calderon Red Hand]]
+
The standard TDF '''Field''' uniform is a dull-red or burgundy camouflage battledress with the rank insignia on the lapels.  The standard coloration is good for most environments, though when needed the coloration and design can be tailored for the local climate and terrain.  Personal battle gear, whether [[neurohelmet]]s, flight suits or [[cooling vest]]s, varies depending on local available resources, but typically are either of Davion or Liao design, with coloration designed to match branch (red for ground, blue for aerospace).  After the Trinity Alliance, many units began to standardize to updated Liao design.<ref name=TP74/><ref name=FMP53/><ref name=HMPS116/>
−
* [[Concordat Velites]]
 
  
−
==Military Academies==
+
A fourth category, the '''Utility''' uniform (also known as "Undress Blues" or "Military Undress"), are not regulated by the TDF.  Anything presentable can be worn, from dungarees to overalls, so this attire is dependent upon local supply.<ref name=FMP53/><ref name=HMPS116/>
  
−
Alone of all the [[Periphery]] states, the Taurian Concordat maintains large military training academies. At present, there is one academy for each major combat branch: the Army, Navy, and [[AeroSpace]] Arms. The army training academy is the Taurian Ecole Militaire, located on [[Taurus]]. The [[Taurian Naval Institute]] and the [[Concord AeroSpace Flight School]] are located on [[New Vandenburg]] and [[Samantha]], respectively. Each has well-developed training programs for both NCOs and officers and can accommodate upward of five hundred personnel.
+
<gallery>
−
 
+
File:Taurian Concordat Colonel.jpg|Colonel
−
==Uniforms==
+
File:Peritcofficier.png|Marshal
−
 
+
File:Peritcmechwarrior.png|MechWarrior
−
The traditional dress uniform of the Concord military is a red tunic with silver buttons (gold for officers), black trousers, and black lapels. Distinctions between branches are denoted by the colors of oversized berets or field caps: dark green for infantry light green for armor, brown for [[BattleMech]], sky blue for navy, and light gray for all support services. In the field, troops wear a standard dull-red or burgundy fatigue uniform with rank insignia on their uniform lapels. Designs for personal gear such as neurohelmets and flight gear have been borrowed from [[Liao]] and [[Davion]] models, with slight modifications from unit to unit.
+
</gallery>
−
 
 
−
Dress uniforms within the TDF correspond to standard uniform styles, with silver sashes and white gloves for all enlisted ranks and gold sashes and white gloves for officers. Marshals of the Concord are further denoted by gold lanyards on both shoulders.
 
  
 
==Ranks==
 
==Ranks==
 +
There are six tiers within both Officer and Enlisted ranks.  The title of each rank pays homage to those of eighteenth-nineteenth century Great Britain and France.<ref name=TP74>''The Periphery'', p. 74</ref><ref name=HMPS>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 112</ref>
  
−
Their are six tiers within both Officer and Enlisted ranks.  The title of each rank pays homage to those of 18th-19th century Great Britain and France.
+
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
−
 
+
|-
−
===Enlisted Ranks===
+
! scope="col" style="background: #dedede;" | Rank
−
 
+
! scope="col" style="background: #dedede;" | Insignia
−
* '''Recruit''' - All Concord citizens are required at age 18 to begin a four-year tour in the TDF. Most recruits serve with the Infantry, on planetary militias ("provisional training battaliions") specific to geographical districts distinct to each planet (these districts are called "cantons").  Recruits receive 18 weeks of basic training before being deployed.  Provisional training battalions rarely do more than "litter patrol".
+
! scope="col" style="background: #dedede;" | Role
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Corporal''' - Corporals lead infantry maniples, or serve as tank commanders. Among other services, Corporals are junior positions with specialist training.
+
| colspan="5" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Enlisted Personnel'''
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Section Leader''' - Section Leaders are squad leaders. In Taurian armor units, Section Leaders command a maniple.  Among other services, Section Leaders are senior specialists.
+
| [[Recruit#Taurian Defense Force|Recruit]]||[[Image:TaurianConcordat-Recruit.png|40x40px|center|link=Recruit#Taurian_Defense_Force|Alt=Single silver ring of a recruit.]]||Infantry trooper
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Force Sergeant''' - A Force Sergeant commands a platoon, or a lance of armored vehicles.  Within the AeroSpace Arm, Force Sergeants are junior [[AeroSpace Pilot|AeroSpace Pilots]].
+
| [[Corporal#Taurian Defense Force|Corporal]]||[[Image:TaurianConcordat-Corporal.png|40x40px|center|link=Corporal#Taurian_Defense_Force|Alt=Silver ring with red center.]]||Infantry maniple commander;<br/> Tank commander;<br/> Junior specialist
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Lance Sergeant''' - A Lance Sergeant commands the retinue platoon of a Cornet, or commnads a company of armored vehicles under a Subaltern. In the [[AeroSpace]] Arm, Lance Sergeants command an air lance.
+
| [[Corporal#Taurian Defense Force|Section Leader]]||[[Image:TaurianConcordat-SectionLeader.png|45x45px|center|link=Corporal#Taurian Defense Force|Alt=Section leader insignia.]]||Infantry squad commander;<br/> Tank maniple commander;<br/> Senior specialist
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Battalion Chief-Sergeant/Air Chief''' - Battalion Chief-Sergeants are the highest non-commissioned officers within battalions.  Air Chiefs, the equivalent rank used within the [[AeroSpace]] Arm, command a flight.
+
| [[Force Sergeant]]||[[Image:TaurianConcordat-ForceSergeant.png|45x45px|center|link=Force Sergeant|Alt=Force Sergeant insignia.]]||Platoon commander;<br/> Tank lance commander;<br/> Aerospace fighter pilot
−
 
+
|-
−
===Officer Ranks===
+
| [[Lance Sergeant]]||[[Image:TaurianConcordat-LanceSergeant.png|45x45px|center|link=Lance Sergeant|Alt=Lance Sergeant insignia.]]||Assistant company commander;<br/> MechWarrior-in-training;<br/>Air Lance Commander
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Cornet/Ensigns''' - Cornets serve as company commanders (using Lance Sergeants to execute orders).  Ensigns also serve as assistant department heads on AeroSpace vessels or wing commanders (using Air Chiefs to execute orders). In BattleMech units, all MechWarriors are officers, and therefore Cornets.  Lance command falls to a senior Cornet within the unit.
+
| [[Battalion Chief-Sergeant]]|| rowspan="2" | [[Image:TaurianConcordat-BattalionChiefSergeant.png|45x45px|center|link=Battalion Chief Sergeant|Alt=Battalion Chief Sergeant insignia.]]||Senior battalion NCO;<br/>MechWarrior
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Subaltern/Air Master, Junior Grade''' - Subalterns are battalion commanders among Taurian ground forces, or BattleMech company commanders.  Among AeroSpace forces, Air Masters, Junior Grade act as assistant commanders of air divisions (consisting of two wings).
+
|[[Air Chief]]||Flight Commander
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Brigadier/Air Master, Senior Grade''' - Brigadiers are regimental executive officers for ground units, or battalion commanders for BattleMech units. Air Masters, Senior Grade command an aerospace division consisting of 3 wings.
+
| colspan="5" style="background: #efefef;" | '''Officers''' (XO indicates executive officer, CO commanding officer)
−
 
+
|-
−
* '''Colonel/Space Master''' - Colonels are senior regimental commanders.  Space Masters act as ship captains aboard Taurian naval vessels. All officers of this rank wear a full moon on each lapel.
+
| [[Cornet]]|| rowspan="2" | [[Image:TaurianConcordat-Cornet.png|40x40px|center|link=Cornet|Alt=Cornet rank insignia.]]||Company CO;<br/>MechWarrior;<br/>'Mech Lance CO (post-[[3065]])
 +
|-
 +
|[[Lieutenant#Taurian Defense Force|Ensign]]||Wing CO;<br/>Ship assistant department head
 +
|-
 +
| [[Subaltern]]|| rowspan="2" | [[Image:TaurianConcordat-Sublatern.png|40x40px|center|link=Subaltern|Alt=Subaltern rank insignia.]]||Battalion CO;<br/>'Mech Company CO
 +
|-
 +
|[[Air Master, JG|Air Master, Junior Grade]]||Air Division XO;<br/>Ship department head
 +
|-
 +
| [[Brigadier]]|| rowspan="2" | [[Image:TaurianConcordat-Brigadier.png|45x45px|center|link=Brigadier|Alt=Brigadier rank insignia.]]||Regiment XO;<br/> 'Mech Battalion CO
 +
|-
 +
|[[Air Master, SG|Air Master, Senior Grade]]||Air Division CO
 +
|-
 +
| [[Colonel#Taurian Defense Force|Colonel]]|| rowspan="2" | [[Image:TaurianConcordat-Colonel.png|45x45px|center|link=Colonel#Taurian Defense Force|Alt=TDF Colonel rank insignia.]]||Regiment CO
 +
|-
 +
|[[Space Master]]||Ship Captain
 +
|-
 +
| [[Comptroller]]|| rowspan="2" | [[Image:TaurianConcordat-Comptroller.png|45x45px|center|link=Comptroller|Alt=Comptroller rank insignia.]]||Multiworld force commander;<br/>'Mech combined-arms CO
 +
|-
 +
|[[Commodore#Taurian Defense Force|Commodore]]||Demisquadron Commander
 +
|-
 +
| [[Marshal (rank)]]||[[Image:TaurianConcordat-Marshal.png|45x45px|center|link=Marshal_(rank)#Taurian_Defense_Force|Alt=TDF Marshal's rank insignia.]]||Corps commander
 +
|}
  
−
* '''Comptroller/Commodore''' - Commodores command demi-squadrons, a collection of naval vessels assembled to accomplish a mission.  Comptrollers command sections of a corps, and integrate regimental command with support.
+
==References==
 +
<references />
  
−
* '''Marshal''' - each corps is commanded by a Marshall.  The commanding officer of the [[Taurian Guard]] is also a marshal, the Senior Marshal, a rank generally held by the [[Protector of the Realm]].
+
==Bibliography==
 +
* ''[[20 Year Update]]''
 +
* ''[[Field Manual: Periphery]]''
 +
* ''[[Field Report: Periphery]]''
 +
* ''[[Historical: Liberation of Terra Volume 1]]''
 +
* ''[[Historical: Reunification War]]''
 +
* ''[[The Periphery (sourcebook)|The Periphery]]''
 +
* ''[[The Periphery, 2nd Edition (sourcebook)|The Periphery, 2nd Edition]]''
  
−
==Sources==
 
  
−
* [[The Periphery (sourcebook)]]
+
[[Category:Military Organizations]]
−
* [[The Periphery, 2nd Edition (sourcebook)]]
 
−
* [[Field Manual: Periphery]]
 

Latest revision as of 13:57, 20 February 2024

The Taurian Defense Force (or TDF) is the military of the Taurian Concordat. The TDF has traditionally been known for being the largest, best trained, best motivated and best equipped military in the Periphery or Deep Periphery (excluding the Clans). However, the TDF still pales in comparison with Successor State militaries, especially with that of the neighboring Federated Suns. Indeed, a history of aggression (both real and imagined) by House Davion has put the Concordat on a state of high alert for much of its existence, lest the forced annexation of the Concordat begun in the Reunification War were to be completed.

Structure[edit]

The actions of the TDF are ultimately controlled by the Protector of the Realm, who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces and is given the rank of Senior Marshal. If the Protector lacks in military expertise however, the Protector may delegate another individual to serve as Senior Marshal. In times of conflict, the Protector can invoke emergency powers which grants them greater authority to prosecute the war effort.[1][2][3] In the years leading up to and during the Reunification War, the Protector would appoint a Marshal to serve as the TDF Chief of Staff, who oversaw day-to-day operations and managed the TDF strategic planning committee. There were also three deputy Marshals who were in overall command of the Concordat Army, Concordat Navy and the planetary defense forces respectively.[4]

The work of carrying out the Concordat's military policies falls to the Ministry of Defense, which serves as an advisory board to the Protector and provides civilian control over the Taurian Defense Force. Staffed with both civilian and military specialists, the department oversees everything from recruitment, to weapons research and development, to matériel acquisition.[5][6] Up through the years of the Succession Wars, the Ministry of Defense's primary mission was to maintain a constant vigil in the event of an invasion by outside powers.[5] After the Concordat's entry into the Trinity Alliance, however, its focus shifted towards using Capellan assistance to revamp the armed forces (in exchange for fighting Liao's wars) and prosecuting the defensive invasion of the Pleiades Cluster.[6]

The Taurian Defense Force is divided into the following combat and support branches:

Concordat Army - The Army consists of line BattleMech, armor and infantry regiments, as well as Mercenary units on long-term contract.[7][8] When necessary the Army is supplemented by the Concordat Constabulary as well as other irregular forces.[9]

Concordat Navy - The Navy consists of the TDF's DropShips and JumpShips (and when available, WarShips) when assigned to a Corps. These assets are divided into fleets, with each fleet divided into two demi-squadrons. Naval personnel are typically long-term volunteers, with officers generally serving four to seven years. In case of invasion, the Navy is the first line of defense for the Concordat.[7][8]

Aerospace Arm - The Aerospace Arm is composed of the TDF's aerospace fighter force and maintains a large number of longtime volunteers. Despite this low turnover, the Aerospace Arm has long been considered the weakest of the three combat branches, due to a lack of equipment and trained personnel. During the thirty-first century, the TDF sought out Outworlds Alliance advisers to help modernize the Aerospace Arm, which resulted in a gradual increase in competence and equipment.[7][8]

Medical Division - The Medical Division provides medical attention to soldiers wounded in the field, with an emphasis on swift recovery and rehabilitation and the deployment of emergency medical technicians and surgical units at a moment's notice. In 3025 the care the Medical Division provided was on par with their Inner Sphere counterparts.[7] Thanks to the Magistracy of Canopus providing aid through the Trinity Alliance, by 3067 the average Taurian soldier was receiving significantly better care than was available in the Inner Sphere.[8]

Transport and Service Division - The Transport and Services Division is responsible for transportation and recovery/repairs of men and matériel to battle areas. All military DropShips and JumpShips are under the control of the Transport and Service Division, unless otherwise deployed with another division or corps.[7][8]

Administrative Corps - The arm of the Ministry of Defense, the Administrative Corps is responsible for all administrative matters, including pay, recordkeeping, promotion, and mercenary contracts.[7][8]

Propaganda Division - The Propaganda Division is tasked with disseminating information to maintain high morale within the TDF and counteracting negative rumors spread by instigators.[7] Funding increases starting in 3062 have allowed the Propaganda Division to provide informative updates on Protector Shraplen's new government policies and spread the good news about the TDF's victories in the Pleiades Campaign.[8]

Doctrine[edit]

One of the defining characteristics of the Taurian Defense Force is its fierce pride and fanatical devotion to defending the Concordat against outside aggression by any means the enemy makes necessary. Having never been signatory to the Ares Conventions, no quarter will be asked or expected by the TDF, and no "dirty trick" is above use in the defense of the homeland. This includes even the deliberate targeting of enemy JumpShips operating as part of an invasion force.[10][9]

Strategically, during the Succession Wars era the Concordat could not afford to conduct a defensive campaign similar to that used during the Reunification War, where it concentrated around protecting important worlds and was able to trade space for time. With its shrunken size after the Reunification War, nearly all of the remaining border worlds of the Taurian Concordat are vital to the Concordat's survival, requiring the static deployment of its military forces as far forward as possible and leaving little strategic reserves.[11] In the event of another Inner Sphere invasion, the TDF Navy would deploy to engage the enemy as far forward as possible (and sacrifice themselves if necessary) to blunt any advance on the Hyades Cluster. Ground forces not part of a permanent garrison would operate as Special Task Groups to conduct a variety of missions, launching local counterattacks or raiding deep behind enemy lines to disrupt lines of communication.[7][8] Eventually though the TDF would either be forced to withdraw again into the Hyades Cluster, surrendering many of its key industrial centers, or launch a desperate counterattack, with which its weakened military industrial complex may not be able to cope.[11]

Tactically, the TDF was unable to practice true combined-arms warfare in the modern sense during the Succession Wars era, as the few 'Mech and aerospace fighter assets it possessed were thinly spread and deployed on a rotating basis. Conventional forces were able to work seamlessly together, giving the TDF a significant advantage, but any cooperation between them and any 'Mech or ASF assets locally available was often of an ad hoc nature.[10] At the same time, many 'Mech regiments did have conventional forces permanently attached, providing them with needed support.[2]

The Taurian Defense Force operates on a variation of the standard Inner Sphere model (see below table). 'Mech regiments are slightly larger than typical and will include a command lance. Conventional units not attached to a corps were permanently assigned to garrison a world. Armor regiments do not use a separate command unit, instead the regimental commander operates among the line units so as to improve their own survivability. Since infantry regiments rarely rotate offworld, many of their individual battalions train in a specialization, though anti-'Mech training is a given for all battalion-level units and higher. Additionally, each infantry regiment will also include a dedicated platoon of commandos trained in demolition, infiltration and other special warfare techniques.[8][12]

Infantry Armor BattleMech
Maniple 5 troopers 2 vehicles *
Squad 2 Maniples (10) * *
Lance/Platoon 3 Squads (30) 3 Maniples (6) 4 'Mechs
Company 3 Platoons (90) 3 Lances (18) 3 Lances (12)
Battalion 3 Companies (270) 3 Companies (54) 4 Companies (48)
Regiment 3 Battalions (810+) 3 Battalions (162) 3 Battalions plus Command Lance (148)
Aerospace fighter
Air Lance 2 Fighters
Flight 2 Air Lances (4)
Wing 2 Flights (8)
Air Division 2-3 Wings (16-24)

Organization[edit]

The arrangement of the Taurian Defense Force is reminiscent to that of the Napoleonic armies with a thirty-first century twist. BattleMech regiments are organized into operational Corps, each under the command of a Marshal, with naval elements directly attached and answering to the corps commanders.[1][9] Each corps also includes a command company with a mix of 'Mechs and armor, the latter used for scouting purposes.[8][12] It is the corps which provide the TDF with offensive capability and they serve the last line of defense in the event of an invasion of the Concordat.[4] Concordat Army units not part of a corps, typically conventional regiments, are permanently assigned to garrison specific worlds. Each world has at least a battalion of armor, with more important ones protected by one or more regiments, and many boast extensive fortifications.[4][8][12]

Supporting the regular line units are a variety of support formations and special forces. During the Reunification War, the Taurian Volunteer Guards played an important role in defending the Concordat, although they were wiped out in the conflict.[13] The Special Asteroid Support Force is an elite all-volunteer group dedicated to defending the Hyades Cluster from all invaders. The Concordat Constabulary, an internal security force during peacetime, can also be called on to fight off invasions. Lastly there are a variety of paramilitary groups - including planetary militias, corporate security forces and noble family regiments - which can be mobilized in an emergency.[9][14]

Deployment Status[edit]

In the five years between the formation of the Star League and the start of the Reunification War in 2575, the TDF doubled in size, making it the largest military in the Periphery and the equal to many of the Great Houses. The Concordat Navy was larger than any other, bar the Terran Hegemony, with 127 WarShips, thousands of JumpShips, and DropShips, and many squadrons of aerospace fighters. The Concordat Army consisted of 33 BattleMech regiments, organized into the six corps, with nearly three times as many frontline armored regiments, seven aerospace fighter regiments, and numerous infantry regiments.[4][15][16] The Taurian Nobility themselves were able to personally finance the creation of over two dozen more regiments during the war as well.[14] By the end of the conflict however the TDF was a shadow of its former shelf, with just 13 'Mech regiments and nine surviving WarShips.[4]

By 2750 the TDF was in a similar state, its size limited and closely monitored by the Star League, with a strength of just 13 regiments and 15 WarShips. When the Concordat joined with Stefan Amaris and the other Periphery powers to throw off the League's oppression, they were able to massively expand their forces in secret, until by 2765 they were well equipped with 21 Divisions (consisting of 78 conventional regiments and 115 'Mech regiments) and 31 WarShips. However, while consisting of troops provided by and flagged as part of the TDF, many of these new units were essentially independent, operating as part of Amaris' "Secret Army." Most were destroyed in the New Vandenberg Uprising, and with the Succession Wars cutting off any further support from the Inner Sphere much of the survivors withered away.[17]

By 3025 the TDF consisted of twelve 'Mech regiments (or 30 battalions), three of them mercenaries on long-term contract, organized into six Corps, while the Navy consisted of 117 JumpShips and DropShips divided into four fleets[7] (secretly the Navy also consisted of a lone surviving WarShip, the Vandenberg, although it was nonoperational). By 3050 it had increased slightly to 14 'Mech regiments, three of which were mercenary commands.[18] In 3064 the TDF had a 'Mech strength of 17 regiments and two battalions, though it technically numbered 12 'Mech regiments due to the oversized nature of their units,[19][12] however this was further reduced to 9 'Mech regiments in 3067 due to losses in the Pleiades Campaign and the formation of the breakaway Calderon Protectorate.[8]

Active Corps[edit]

These corps are active as of 3079. [20]

Taurian Guards Corps
Main article: Taurian Guards Corps

Always considered the showcase corps of the Taurian Defense Force, the Taurian Guards Corps were the primary defenders of the Hyades Cluster.[21]


I Corps
Main article: I Corps (Taurian Concordat)

I Corps was a Taurian Defense Force Brigade sized Military Formation originally assigned to the defense of the Taurian Concordat's border with the Capellan Confederation and later assigned to New Vandenberg. The brigade consists of three regiments of various sizes.[22]

The Taurian Defense Force expanded I Corps duties to cover the new settlements created by the formation of the New Colony Region and later to fulfill the Taurian responsibilities to the Trinity Alliance.


III Corps
Main article: III Corps (Taurian Concordat)

The Taurian Defense Force's III Corps is primarily assigned to defend the approaches to the Hyades Cluster from both the Federated Suns and Capellan Confederation.


V Corps
Main article: V Corps (Taurian Concordat)

Originally a Corps to which the Taurian Defense Force assigned mercenary units, V Corps is primarily assigned to defender the Taurian Concordat's northern borders against activity from Pirates Haven and the Calderon Protectorate.


Inactive Corps[edit]

These are former corps, no longer active in the Taurian Defense Force.

II Corps
Main article: II Corps (Taurian Concordat)

The II Corps was a military brigade command consisting of multiple-regiment forces used to defend Taurian Concordat.

Due to the Taurian Concordat's long-standing hatred of House Davion, the defenders of the Federated Suns/Concordat border, the II Corps is among the most steadfast and celebrated of units within the TDF.


IV Corps
Main article: IV Corps (Taurian Concordat)

Formed in reaction to the creation of the Federated Commonwealth, the Taurian Defense Force's the IV Corps was intended to bolster the defense of the Taurian Concordat's borders with the Inner Sphere.


VI Corps
Main article: VI Corps (Taurian Concordat)

Originally the newest Corps of the Taurian Defense Force, the VI Corps was initially designated a 'catch-all' formation, dividing its forces between colonial outposts and border duty. This changed after the ascension of Grover Shraplen to the Protectorship, with VI Corps staging a rebellion and becoming the defense force of the breakaway Calderon Protectorate.


Taurian Volunteer Guard
Main article: Taurian Volunteer Guard

Military Academies[edit]

All citizens of the Taurian Concordat are required to serve for four years in the TDF - two of those on active duty - but not all service must be of a military nature. Those who don't intend to pursue a military career are assigned to a provisional training battalion, with one battalion for each of a planet's geographical districts or cantons. These conscripts will receive some rudimentary combat training but will otherwise be asked to perform civilian-oriented tasks. Those who wish to join the military proper will instead receive an eighteen-week basic training course before moving on to a field unit.[23][9]

Alone of the major Periphery states, the Concordat has maintained large military academies for most of its history.[24] Every Taurian world can boast at least one military academy, though most are dedicated to training conventional forces and their support units. For more advanced training, the Concordat maintains three for each of its main branches, the Army, Navy and Aerospace Arm. Each can handle about 500 or more cadets at a time, mostly Taurian nationals but around ten percent will be foreign students. Education is free for citizens of the Concordat but admission still depends on passing the physical and mental standards; a suitable "endowment" can improve an applicant's chances, and such legal bribery is seen as necessary to maintain the schools' effectiveness.[25][26]

The curriculum is similar at all three schools. Emphasis is placed on basic training, giving students a strong aptitude for military history and allowing some electives, after which students are allowed to specialize in any offered field based on test results. Exceptional students may be offered special training or Officer Candidate School (though MechWarriors are guaranteed a commission anyways). In general the Taurian schools are less stressful than their Capellan counterparts, of which some were opened to qualified Taurian candidates after the Trinity Alliance was formed. The primary reason was found to be that greater personal investment was required in order to succeed compared to Taurian schools, with the tradeoff being that there was a far greater burnout rate. Still, once the option became available, many jumped at the opportunity since such foreign education was seen providing an edge to getting a promotion.[25]

Taurian École Militaire

The Taurian École Militaire, located on Taurus, specializes in training for ground-based units, including MechWarriors.

Taurian Naval Institute

The Taurian Naval Institute, located on New Vandenberg, specializes in training for larger aerospace vessels. With support from the Outworlds Alliance, the Taurian Naval Institute has appreciably improved in the thirty-first century.

Concordat Aerospace Flight School

The Concordat Aerospace Flight School, located on Samantha, focuses on aerospace flight instruction and is the poorest of the training academies. While often a result of insufficient funding in general provided to the Aerospace Arm, some of this lackluster performance is based on the Taurian cadets themselves - specifically, the Concordat simply is not supplying enough talented candidates for whatever reason, with up to forty percent of the student body foreign-born. Instruction at the Concordat Aerospace Flight School has improved since the Outworlds Alliance has offered assistance.

Uniforms[edit]

The TDF authorizes three different types of uniforms. The Standard uniform of the Concordat military prior to 3060 was a red tunic with silver (NCOs) or gold buttons (officers), black trousers, and black lapels. Soldiers wore an oversized beret or forage caps which was colored to match their branch: dark green for infantry, light green for armor, brown for BattleMech, sky blue for navy, and light grey for support. Afterwards, the tunic was changed to either red (ground forces) or navy blue (aerospace) with the field cap colored to match the tunic, though officers, MechWarriors and special forces were allowed to wear a black beret. Enlisted personnel wear industrial safety shoes, while officers wear calf-high boots with their trousers tucked in (female personnel may wear high heels at social functions). Rank insignia are worn on the lapel, but awards are not allowed.[1][27][28]

The TDF Dress uniform is a very practical modification of the standard uniform, properly cleaned and pressed. The dress uniform adds a sash for displaying awards, a gold for officers and a (slightly thinner) silver one for enlisted personnel. Prior to 3060 both were allowed to wear white gloves, though afterwards enlisted personnel could wear only white leggings. After 3060 all soldiers were allowed black berets as part of their dress uniform or wear their standard forage caps. Concordat Marshals further wear gold aigrettes to denote their rank.[1][27][28]

The standard TDF Field uniform is a dull-red or burgundy camouflage battledress with the rank insignia on the lapels. The standard coloration is good for most environments, though when needed the coloration and design can be tailored for the local climate and terrain. Personal battle gear, whether neurohelmets, flight suits or cooling vests, varies depending on local available resources, but typically are either of Davion or Liao design, with coloration designed to match branch (red for ground, blue for aerospace). After the Trinity Alliance, many units began to standardize to updated Liao design.[1][27][28]

A fourth category, the Utility uniform (also known as "Undress Blues" or "Military Undress"), are not regulated by the TDF. Anything presentable can be worn, from dungarees to overalls, so this attire is dependent upon local supply.[27][28]

  • Colonel

  • Marshal

  • MechWarrior

Ranks[edit]

There are six tiers within both Officer and Enlisted ranks. The title of each rank pays homage to those of eighteenth-nineteenth century Great Britain and France.[1][29]

Rank Insignia Role
Enlisted Personnel
Recruit
Alt=Single silver ring of a recruit.
 Infantry trooper
Corporal
Alt=Silver ring with red center.
 Infantry maniple commander;
Tank commander;
Junior specialist
Section Leader
Alt=Section leader insignia.
 Infantry squad commander;
Tank maniple commander;
Senior specialist
Force Sergeant
Alt=Force Sergeant insignia.
 Platoon commander;
Tank lance commander;
Aerospace fighter pilot
Lance Sergeant
Alt=Lance Sergeant insignia.
 Assistant company commander;
MechWarrior-in-training;
Air Lance Commander
Battalion Chief-Sergeant
Alt=Battalion Chief Sergeant insignia.
 Senior battalion NCO;
MechWarrior
Air Chief Flight Commander
Officers (XO indicates executive officer, CO commanding officer)
Cornet
Alt=Cornet rank insignia.
 Company CO;
MechWarrior;
'Mech Lance CO (post-3065)
Ensign Wing CO;
Ship assistant department head
Subaltern
Alt=Subaltern rank insignia.
 Battalion CO;
'Mech Company CO
Air Master, Junior Grade Air Division XO;
Ship department head
Brigadier
Alt=Brigadier rank insignia.
 Regiment XO;
'Mech Battalion CO
Air Master, Senior Grade Air Division CO
Colonel
Alt=TDF Colonel rank insignia.
 Regiment CO
Space Master Ship Captain
Comptroller
Alt=Comptroller rank insignia.
 Multiworld force commander;
'Mech combined-arms CO
Commodore Demisquadron Commander
Marshal (rank)
Alt=TDF Marshal's rank insignia.
 Corps commander

References[edit]

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 The Periphery, p. 74
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 54
  3. ↑ Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 113
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 Historical: Reunification War, p. 44
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 The Periphery, p. 71
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 105
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 7.6 7.7 7.8 The Periphery, p. 76
  8. ↑ 8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 114
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 112
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 51
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 The Periphery, pp. 82–83
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 52
  13. ↑ Historical: Reunification War, pp. 44, 146
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 The Periphery, p. 80
  15. ↑ Historical: Reunification War, p. 65
  16. ↑ Historical: Reunification War, p. 67
  17. ↑ Historical: Liberation of Terra Volume 1, p. 50: "Territorial State Troop Strength"
  18. ↑ 20 Year Update, pp. 77–78
  19. ↑ Field Manual: Periphery, p. 143
  20. ↑ Field Report: Periphery, p. 12
  21. ↑ The Periphery, pp. 77, 81
  22. ↑ The Periphery, pp. 77, 81
  23. ↑ Field Manual: Periphery, p. 53
  24. ↑ The Periphery, p. 82
  25. ↑ 25.0 25.1 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 55
  26. ↑ Handbook: Major Periphery States, pp. 116–117
  27. ↑ 27.0 27.1 27.2 27.3 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 53
  28. ↑ 28.0 28.1 28.2 28.3 Handbook: Major Periphery States, pp. 115–116
  29. ↑ Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 112

Bibliography[edit]

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