Wip Wednesday- African militia

 African Militia WIP

I watched Mister Bob about a week ago so it got me excited again to build some more bits for the Congo, so off upstairs to find my plastics stash and I found quite a few pieces suitable for militia to paint. Hopefully get them finished by the weekend, highlights to go. 

Terrain Tuesday - Ohh la Vache

 Ohh la Vache 

Some cows for my modern and ww2 wargaming terrain filler. Based on the Normand cream cow that makes up the majority of soft rind cheeses in the Camembert and Brie valleys around us. 

Royal Moroccan Air Force - 1956 -1980

Royal Moroccan Air Force  - 1956 -1973

Summer is almost done and I finally get a few weeks off to complete models and do some airbrushing after one of the busiest Wargame holiday and b&b breakfast holidays .

I often do some resorting this time of year and come across partly complete projects in boxes. One of these was a F5A that I commenced earlier in the year during mad March, I was waiting on transfers to complete the model for my Royal Moroccan Air Force collection, these arrived this week.

The Moroccan Air Force was formed in 1956, its first aircraft were six ex French Morane-Saulniers MS 500 and three Max Holste MH1521 Broussard transport aircraft. In 1961, the Royal Morrocan Airforce gained the Royal title prefix. Its first purchases were twelve Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17 fighters, two Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15UTI trainers and two Ilyushin Il-28 bombers from the Soviet Union. Eight Fouga Magister training aircraft were also purchased from France. In 1962, 10 Douglas C-47 Skytrain and six Fairchild C-119G transport aircraft were purchased along with 12 North American T-6 Texans were used for pilot training, eight T-6Gs and 56 SNJ-4s had been delivered by France, but most of the airframes were in a very poor condition, and written off soon after their delivery for spare parts. 15 Harvard MkIV were also delivered in 1962 from ex Canadian stock. Several DO-28 SkyServant reconnaissance and light transport/liaison aircraft were also purchased from Germany

A political rift with the Soviet Union during the Sand War with Angola and this pushed Morocco to seek a new ally in the United States.  latter six Northrop F-5 combat aircraft (4 single-seat F-5A and 2 two-seat F-5B) and another 20 F-5A and four F-5B in 1966. 

At that time, the helicopter fleet was composed of six Aerospatiale Alouette IIs and four Bell 47s.
Starting in 1968, Morocco acquired 60 Bell AB205, 25 Bell AB206, two Bell AB212, and nine Bell CH-47C helicopters from Italy. Deliveries lasted until 1977.

The next modernization of the Moroccan Air Force took place just before the Sahara conflict. The first 25 Mirage F1CH fighters were purchased in 1975, together with 38 Aerospatiale Puma helicopters. Six C-130Hs were bought in 1973, and deliveries started in 1974. Modernization of Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter with improved technology and the purchase of 24 Alpha Jet E would later be undertaken by the RMAF. 16 F-5Es and 4 F-5Fs were acquired in October 1979.  Morocco purchased four single-seat Northrop F-5s and two two-seat bombers from the United States. This deal was followed by another to purchase 20 F-5 attack aircraft and four F-5 bombers. Together with the F-5E/Fs, the FRA decided to buy a total of 24 OV-10As from the United States Marine Corps. However, only the first six aircraft were delivered. They were mostly used in a maritime patrol role and for reconnaissance due to their ineffic iency in combat.A total of 30 Mirage F1CHs were received in December 1979. Additionally, 20 Mirage F1EHs (including six equipped with in-flight refuelling probes) were delivered between December 1979 and July 1982. in 1982, a Boeing 707-138B was fitted with Beech hose units at the wingtips for refueling. Two Lockheed KC-130Hs were also delivered, and all of the F-5Es were modified with aerial refueling probes. four refueling aircraft were purchased, including three B-707s and one C-130

Sand War

The RMAF participated in the Moroccan-Algerian border conflict in 1963 known as Sand War. Its Fairchild C-119s and Douglas C-47swere used to resupply troops, North American T-6s for reconnaissance, and Morane-Saulnier Alcyons for ground attack. MiG-17s were only used sporadically, mostly due to their short range.

Yom Kippur War

I cannot confirm completely that the air force fought in any combat sorties, however reports of fourteen Mig 17 and twelve Moroccan Air Force Northrop F-5A joined the Egyptian 69 Squadron at Tanta on 19 October 1973. In January 1974 two F-5As armed with AIM-9Bs and 20mm cannons intercepted a pair of Israeli Air Force Mirage IIICJs on a reconnaissance mission. The Israelis turned away once the F-5As were detected, dragging both RMAF fighters behind them. Concerned about a possible ambush by Israeli F-4E Phantom IIs, the Egyptian Air Force ground control ordered both Moroccan fighters to return, replacing them with two EAF MiG-21MFs. The air force continued to fly missions over the Nile delta after the ceasefire.

Western Sahara War

At the beginning of the Western Sahara War, Fouga Magisters (based at Laayoune) and North American T-6 Texans (based at Dakhla) were used for ground support. Later on, the F-5s went into action, to strike POLISARIO targets.

In 1980, construction of the Sahara defensive walls began, consisting of several types of obstacles for infantry and armoured vehicles, such as mine fields and barbed wire. Radars and other electronic sensors were used to detect infiltration attempts, all backed by Quick Intervention Units (Détachements d'Intervention Rapide) able to move to and quickly reinforce attacked outposts along the wall.  It was also decided to use Aérospatiale SA 342 Gazelle helicopters with HOT missiles to engage the POLISARIO armoured vehicles and technicals from outside the range of light anti-aircraft guns. Apart from the ground radars of the Wall, two C-130 Hercules equipped with SLARs were also used for the detection of enemy units. However, the first portion of the wall, completed in 1982, protected only the area considered as “useful” for Morocco's political and economic interests, that is, the capital Laayoune, the religious center Smara, and the phosphate fields of Bou Craa.

After the loss of nine F-5As during combat operations against the POLISARIO, 16 F-5Es and 4 F-5Fs were acquired in October 1979. The main problem that faced Moroccan fighter-bombers in Western Sahara was their insufficient range over the vast battlefield of the Sahara desert.

In December 1977, the Royal Moroccan Air Force started receiving its first Mirage F1CHs. Even though the Mirage F1CH was designed as an interceptor, it was used almost exclusively for ground attack in the war against the POLISARIO. The last of a total of 30 Mirage F1CHs were received in December 1979. Additionally, 20 Mirage F1EHs (including six equipped with in-flight refuelling probes) were delivered between December 1979 and July 1982.

With the outbreak of the Sand War, the Soviet Union betrayed an ally it could have had—Morocco—by supporting Algeria, given its socialist approach. Instead of balancing its relations with both countries, Morocco shifted its focus to a new ally: the United States.



As for transport units, 10 of the famous Douglas C-47s, 18 Fairchild C-119Gs, and six C-130 Hercules were acquired . Due to the conflicts in the Sahara, Morocco saw a need for helicopters, and therefore purchased 24 Augusta-Bell AB205A helicopters. For training, the needs were covered by 60 T-6 ​​Texans. The subsequent development of the air force was through the acquisition of Mirage F1 attack aircraft. Given the importance of the air force and the difficult period it went through and its reliance on aviation, more pilots needed to be trained. Therefore, T-34 Mentor trainer aircraft were acquired, along with the purchase of Puma helicopters and an unspecified number of C-130s to replace their aging counterparts.
Morocco needed aircraft to monitor its long coastline, and after studying the matter, a deal was concluded with the United States to purchase six OV-10 Bronco reconnaissance and attack aircraft.

With the outbreak of hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario Front, Morocco needed light armor-piercing helicopters. This was accomplished by purchasing an unspecified number of Hughes 500MDs, equipped with TOW missiles, which destroyed several T-55/54 tanks and BMP armored vehicles.
To track enemy units, Morocco purchased C-130 aircraft equipped with the SLAR system to track enemy units. It also gifted the Shah of Iran two RF5 reconnaissance aircraft, followed by a significant deal for 20 new F-5 Tiger II aircraft.

Battle of Hill 64

 A rapid fire reloaded game on the table last week, based on Operation Charnwood the remainders of the 16th Luftwaffe division tried to hold up the advance of 3rd infantry division. The 16th had massive losses to the pregame bombardment with two battalions down 50% as per history. The British artillery during the assault dominated the losses in the first two turns. The sug and Marder did manage to make some kills before being destroyed, Only that the Luftwaffe troops were dug in the kept passing morale checks and needed to be winkled out of the buildings. A narrow win to the English with a tank getting off the edge of table in the last turn. 

Counterattack Saint-Mere-Eglise

A few photos from recent learning game of the counterattack at Saint-Mere-l’eglise. The German assault failed due failed activation rolls, both supporting stugs were destroyed, one by a 57mm and one bazooka. 

A few more games of Chain of Command 2 to grasp the new rules fully. 

French WW2 painting guide

1940 French Painting guide Uniform and Equipment 

I have a few pieces laying around on my painting desk that have been there for some time. One of those are some Battlefield Blitz artillery crew and Simons Soldiers 1940 French command sets. It has been some time since I painted French so I decided to have a look around and see what the latest ideas were …. Sadly some poor YouTube guides as most of them in light khaki, most obviously have never seen a French 1935 ww2 uniform in the flesh as they are way to light, so last night I sat down and decided to put together a good match list from my paint collection, mostly Vallejo but some AK interactive paint options also.

The French were going through a modernization program when the war commenced so some pieces of webbing, cartridge pouches and weapons were very different and of ww1 pattern. However not a lot of difference at 20mm scale really except the webbing.   I will name the pieces of uniform in French and English, plus post some pictures for explanation. 

One of the best references for French 1940 uniform is these two books, a must for any wargamer! 

1940 Le Soldat Francais by Oliver Bellec, published by Histoire collections vol 2

Officers Kepi 

1931 Kepi infantry - blue body, black visor, red top, gold lace and Hungarian knot on top. 

1931 Kepi Chasseur a pied et Alpins - blue body, black visor, red top, silver lace and Hungarian knot on top.

1931 Kepi FFL - blue body, black visor, red top, gold lace rim, red inner lacing and Hungarian knot on top.

1931 Kepi Algerian tirailleurs   - light blue body, black visor, red top, gold lace and Hungarian knot on top.

1931 Kepi artillery - blue body and top, black leather visor, gold lace and Hungarian knot 

1931 Kepi engineer - black body, top and leather visor, red lace and Hungarian knot 

1931 Kepi Cuirassiers -  black body, top and leather visor, silver lace and Hungarian knot 

1931 Kepi Dragoons, DLM - dark blue body, black visor, red top, silver lace and Hungarian knot on top.

1931 Kepi hussars, chasseurs - light blue body, black visor, red top, silver lace and Hungarian knot on top.

Kepi chasseur d’affrique - light blue body, black visor, red top, silver lace and Hungarian knot on top.

Kepi gendarmerie -  black body, blue top and leather visor, silver lace and Hungarian knot 

Kepi train -  blue body, red top and leather visor, silver lace and Hungarian knot 

Kepi general officer 

Helmet

Vallejo 70.894  Russian Green

Vallejo 70.897 Bronze Green

Vallejo 70.888 olive grey 

Motorcycle Helmet, the helmet has a black pad on the front, googles have a tan, black or khaki trim around the glass.

Vallejo 70.894  Russian Green

Vallejo 70.897 Bronze Green

Vallejo 70.888 olive grey 

Beret 

Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

 

Senegalese chapeau  

Often painted as red, but this was the parade chapeau, the field one is very light khaki sand

Vallejo 70. Red

Vallejo 70. Iraqi sand 

Collar tabs and numbers 

Infantry Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Cavalry Vallejo 70.973 US field drab 

Artillery Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Engineers vallejo  black 

Colonial troops Vallejo 70. Yellow anchor 

Jacket infantrie

AK 11436 uniform light canvas tone (pre 1935) 

Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab 

AK 11427 green uniform base

 Garde de Paris territorial infantrie (24th regiment ) fought in ww1 uniform 

Vallejo 70.906 pale blue

AK 11162 French uniform light

AK 11439 French grey blue 

Cadets de Saumur, green uniform but blue collar tab tips on jacket and greatcoat and NCO rank insignia

Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

Trousers

Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

DLM, DCR  trousers 

AK 11422 ochre khaki 

Officers trousers

Vallejo 70.822 German camo beige 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

Great coat  

In the majority the coat was khaki green, however some WW1 light blue were issued to reservists and the mobile reserve wore dark blue 

Vallejo 70.887 brown Violet 

Vallejo 70.880 Khaki grey 

 DLM, DCR, Group mobile reserve leather jacket for motorised troops 

AK 11111 dark brown leather

Vallejo leather brown  

Puttees 

The ww1 version is light blue or very brown and was often worn by officers, the later issue is green grey. 

Vallejo 70.880 khaki grey

Vallejo 70.879 Green brown

Webbing

leather pouches, webbing straps, straps on shovel, straps and edging of bread bag and small pack. 

Vallejo 70.846 mahogany brown 

AK 11110 leather brown

Vallejo 70. Red leather 

Vallejo 70.984 flat brown 

Water bottle canteen 

Vallejo 70.887 brown violet 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

Backpack 

light green, beige through to dark green, leather shoulder straps, leather edges and straps around blanket roll

Vallejo 70.824 German camo orange ochre

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

Bread bag  

Vallejo 70.821 German camo beige 

Vallejo 70.894 Russian green  

Ammo bag 

Vallejo 70.894  Russian Green

Vallejo 70.897 Bronze Green

Vallejo 70.888 olive grey 

Canteen 

metal lid, or black or silver with khaki cloth cover, the ww1 canteen could also be blue. 

Vallejo 70.924 Russian uniform 

Vallejo 70.973 US field drab

Boots  

In the majority brown, however cavalry officers and  motorised troops had black also. 

Vallejo 70.872 chocolate brown 

AK 11120 leather brown

Vallejo 70.984 flat brown  

Vallejo 70 leather brown 

Gaiters 

Vallejo 70. Black 

Vallejo 70. Tan  

Puttees

Vallejo 70.894  Russian Green

Vallejo 70.897 Bronze Green

Vallejo 70.888 olive grey 

Equipment 

Ammo Boxes, Tripods, 

Vallejo 70.

Vallejo 70.

Vallejo 70.

 Rifle sling 

In the majority leather brown, although canvas was issued for machine pistols 

Vallejo 70. Red leather 

Vallejo 70. Mahogany brown 

Vallejo 70.888 olive grey 

 Wood rifles, tool handles

Vallejo 70. Mahogany brown 

Vallejo 70. Beige brown 

Vallejo 70. Red leather 

Reference Sources 

Le soldat Français, Olivier Bellec vol 1 and 2 

Officer uniforms https://tenue31.fr/french-officer-museum/

The French Army 1939–45 (1 & 2) By Ian Sumner, Francois Vauvillier
French Army 1940 by André Jouineau

Mig 15 UTI Midget -Wip Wednesday

 A quick hobby boss Mig15 UTI midget build over the weekend in between battlefield tours. A very basic kit and simple rapid build kit. I completed the build on Sunday. I am planning a stationary build that I can use for a special forces raid. Hoping for paint job on Thursday or Friday as I need to complete another Mig 21 in the same camo!

Cheers

Matt

MiG 17 PF WIP

  MiG 17 PF WIP

As the summer sales are on at the moment I have gone a little crazy and pickup a number of kits for my collection from early war ww2 through to current. With that I continue my MIG obsession at the moment, another MIG15 and two MiG 17s purchased as commenced. Simple Plastyk builds, one will join my Egyptians and Iraqis.