Previous Chapter: Super Sky Fortress 1
Hath Airbase, Southern Mu
Hath Airbase was an airbase located in the southern regions of Mu. Japan has deployed its Self Defense Force to the country but since they couldn’t afford to cover every single region of another country, they weren’t present in bases such as Hath which were situated far from the capital.
BEEP BEEP BEEP
A bizarre electronic-esque sound rang out across the airbase. Pilots swiftly ran towards their trusted, beloved aircraft. A woman’s voice echoed throughout the base issuing a repeated broadcast which heightened tensions.
“Alert! Alert! The Gra Valkas Imperial Army is heading straight for this base! 212 enemy aircraft have been spotted 203km away! All aircraft are to head out and intercept them! I repeat…”
The pilots jumped into their planes as the parked Marin fighters immediately began to roar to life. One by one, the fighters accelerated and took off from the runway and flew into the clear, blue sky.
“We’re counting on you! Give ‘em hell!”
At the air control center, base commander Yellow looked at the fighters flying away. Each fighter gallantly filled the gaps in an ushering formation which looked graceful and awe-inspiring as they flew to meet their enemies.
Mu’s brand new search radar, using technologies described in textbooks imported from Japan, managed to detect enemy aircraft from more than 200km away. Although they were expecting it, the operators were still surprised at how useful it was proving to be.
“We will be measuring their altitude now.”
They illuminated the enemy aircraft with radar that measures altitude. Through this, they could manage to replicate the function of much more modern 3D radar. The radar equipment slowly turned to face the direction of the enemy. Since Mu’s radar is rudimentary, any modern radar operator would likely feel frustrated at how slow the machine is. Japan’s modern phased array radar, which can instantaneously measure all directions by changing the phasing of radio waves, was still a technology that was far into the future.
“Commencing altitude measurement… Huh?!”
A brief silence…
“What’s wrong?!”
“Speed and altitude calculations have been completed! They’re at… 14,000m and are travelling at… more than 700km/h!!!”
“Are you sure?! What the hell??? Are they speed demons or what?!”
The numbers were far above the Marin’s service and maximum ceiling and their speed wasn’t any different. No interceptor they could field could reach that altitude. Moreover, their anti-aircraft guns don’t even reach that high.
“What now?!”
In the face of this overwhelming disparity in capabilities and hopelessness, base commander Yellow could only imagine the sight of the base being one-sidedly destroyed. Unable to steer clear of the impending doom, the personnel of Hath airbase panicked and rushed to mount whatever they could to soften the damage. However, the imperial formation, like a tiger ignoring an ant in search of bigger prey, simply passed over the base.
・・・
Super Heavy Bombing Unit, Special Annihilation Division, Gra Valkas Empire
At the request of the commanders of the Gra Valkas Imperial Navy’s Combined Fleet, the Super Heavy Bombing Unit was on its way to carry out its bombing run on Japan. In the command craft at the helm of a massive formation of over 200 bombers was Arley Tolliger.
“Mu fighters have been going around in circles right below us. They’re showing no signs of being able to catch up to us.”
A subordinate proudly reports in.
“Naturally.”
Their objective is Japan and only Japan. Mu, while exposed to their attack, wasn’t in their sight. Disappointed and showing a lack of interest, Arley Tolliger sighed. For their current plan, they are to keep the Guti Maun’s true capabilities top secret. So that their performance won’t be known by outsiders, they’re taking the replenishment routes usually taken by Imperial Army Air Corps aircraft. In reality, the Guti Maun, with its immense cruising range, could take a far more straightforward route. If they were actually serious, they would have probably even taken on some extra weight just to show off.
The Guti Maun was fundamentally different in capabilities from the other aircraft that the Gra Valkas Empire had manufactured up to this point. It was even said that the minister in charge of finance took one look at its development costs and refused to look at it moving forward. However, when its development finished, many in the military looked at it as some miracle aircraft.
The empire really outdid itself with this one.
I don’t really get why they came up with such a high-performance aircraft.
Coming out of development, many people were marveled while equally many people questioned its existence. Since it wasn’t developed by Karslein, the manufacturer of previous aircraft designs, its design philosophy was also different.
Measuring 46m long and 63m at its widest with 6 engines that whip out a total of 60,000 horsepower, the Guti Maun could fly at a maximum of 780km/h and boasts a service ceiling of 15,000m. Its bulletproof plating is thick for an aircraft and with a cruising range of over 19,400km, it could excellently project its power far from imperial borders. While it earned the nickname Sky Fortress, it was a monster that was truly capable of much more than the name.
How the hell did the empire manage to come up with something that outperformed its own standard aircraft?
Not even the members of the Super Heavy Bombing Unit knew how it came into being or why it even exists. Mystery has always surrounded this plane.
Looking at the ground from such high altitudes, the clouds seem to be pasted onto the surface of this world.
“Sir, Bomber 18’s engine 4 is experiencing problems and is beginning to lose output.”
“Hmm. It shouldn’t be a problem but have them return to Love Airbase in Leifor just in case. There mustn’t be any impediments to this operation.”
“Yes, sir!”
The Super Heavy Bombing Unit, save for 1 bomber which experienced troubles, continued its excursion east.
・・・
Inside Bomber 18
“Sir! We’ve received orders to return to Leifor!”
“Alright. We could continue on with no problem with 5 engines but… yeah, it can’t be helped.”
“It’s our latest heavy bomber. We can’t let the native mechanics know what it’s capable of. We will be flying over Mu alone but since they can’t catch up to us, I guess our safety is guaranteed.”
Bomber 18 sets course for Leifor’s Love Airbase.
・・・
Advanced Technologies Test Site, Mu
On this day, Myrus, who has witnessed Japanese technology firsthand, was visiting the Advanced Technologies Test Site.
“Technical officer Myrus, allow me to show you this: a ground-based ECM.”
The commander of the Advanced Technologies Test Site proudly explains to Myrus. Right in front of Myrus’s eyes were several massive, long antennas connected by cables to a downgraded PC imported from Japan.
“This computer, while considered ‘ancient’ in Japan, is still extremely high performance in comparison to those used in the Gra Valkas Empire. I have a feeling this will be extremely useful.”
“Ah, heck. Looks like we’re still leagues away from miniaturizing this for use in aircraft…”
“Indeed. With the current level of tech disclosure with Japan, it will be hard for us alone to miniaturize this to be able to mount on any aircraft. Still, if we could establish this ground-based ECM on every airbase and naval base, it would provide us an exemplary boost in combat capacity. We could even jam Gra Valkas Empire communications with this.”
“Hmph. How splendid!”
Currently, Mu isn’t even next to Japan in terms of tech. Still, tech was something that could be built up and developed.
“Let’s catch up to them someday!”
Myrus unconsciously lets out his feelings.
“Technical officer Myrus, allow me to show you our progress on the aforementioned aircraft.”
A delighted smile appears on the commander’s face. Myrus, who was looking forward to this moment, naturally smiled as well. This was his sole reason for coming to the Advanced Technologies Test Site. He simply wanted to see what has become of their new class of aircraft. The hangar’s doors open.
“W-woah!!! Even its frame is done!!!”
With its wings mounted at the back and the horizontal stabilizers mounted in front, the peculiar-looking fighter painted in green glistened in the light coming from the opened hangar entrance. The experimental fighter of the Imperial Japanese Army from more than 70 years ago was made real from acquired design prints and remodeled. Since much of it had been made from reused modern Japanese parts, the strength of individual parts was much better than what the Imperial Japanese Army had back then and the fighter’s weight was much lighter than what was originally designed.
“We’re really gonna name it that, huh?”
“Of course. In honor of Japan, which gave its design, I want to name her the Shinden Kai1! Wait, since it’s a prototype, that would make it the X Shinden Kai, right? Ah, one more thing… What became of its engine… Oh?”
Moving to the back of the aircraft, Myrus spots an afterburner built into the airframe.
“Huh? This engine…”
Hearing that a jet engine will be substituted in place of the T4 engine for research purposes, Myrus was surprised at the presence of an afterburner.
“It’s an experimental jet engine known as the XF3-400 which was a prototype devised by Japan around 25 years ago.”
“Huh? Isn’t this counted by their tech outflow act? How did we get our hands on this?”
“There are many people who are as eager as you are to transplant Japanese tech to Mu. There’s even some forces in Japan who are equally eager to help Mu, saying that it’s simply in the national interest. We currently only have two of these planes. If the engine breaks down, it’s beyond our tech level to repair it. What we have is simply too different to the parts we made it out of. Still, everyone is currently figuring out if we have some ways to reproduce the parts or alternatively import those parts individually. In the end, this experimental fighter has an extremely high engine output.”
“Excellent. Can it fly?”
“We’ve already done numerous flight tests using it. However, its cruise range is simply too short. Since it uses an afterburner, it burns through its fuel almost immediately. It seems like it would only be useful in operations which only require short operational spans like capital defense. By readying the aircraft for hit-and-run operations, we can expect significant results even against the Gra Valkas Empire. If it’s just capital or base defense, it would be really useful. As for the engine, in the event we can’t manufacture its parts, then we have no choice but to import another one. It would be nice if we can import another one. Since that’s no longer my field of expertise, I would only have to hope that the diplomats and parliament members do their best.”
He continues.
“As for its armament, there are four 30mm autocannons mounted on the nose. With such destructive firepower, it should be able to bring down any aircraft it faces. We are currently considering a reformed version mounted with a single high-caliber cannon. Since Pal Chimera aerial battleship countermeasures are within the scope of this consideration, we are aiming for this fighter to be able to participate in a fight against the ancient sorcerous empire for when it comes back. In the event we mount a high-caliber cannon on it, we would now be faced with the problem of handling the strength of its recoil. While it’s currently in study, it’s currently being considered if the high-caliber cannon in question could be a tank gun.”
“That’s great…”
“Right now, its 30mm autocannons are stocked and ready to be deployed in combat at once. We have planned a test flight shortly so I invite you to please watch it.”
“Naturally! I can’t wait!”
While Myrus was excited, the fighter emerged onto the runway. A high-pitched shrill from its jet engine was heard as the Shinden Kai started its warm up. Clad in green paint and its horizontal stabilizers mounted in front, the Shinden Kai resembled the floating ships of the heavens of the Holy Mirishial Empire in its design which forgoed a propeller. To everyone who was watching, they’ve grown accustomed to their biplane designed aircraft. After witnessing the fighter which aligned itself to the runway, all they saw was a mass of advanced tech.
“It seems to be done warming up. Now, we will be showing routine take off proc-”
“E-Excuse me!!!”
A young officer cuts into their chatter.
“What is it?!”
The commander, who was in the middle of explaining to Myrus, let out a subtly angered tone.
“One enemy plane is heading straight for our base!!! We think it’s the same massive enemy plane that passed over Hath Airbase!!!”
Myrus and the commander looked at each other. The officer continues.
“The enemy plane is approaching us at 600km/h at altitudes of over 15,000m! Our Marin fighters cannot catch up to it!”
“There’s only one… right?”
“Yes, sir!”
“Sir Myrus, it seems that this test flight will now double as the fighter’s combat debut. Please be my guest and take a look.”
The commander was brimming with confidence as a smile appeared on his face.
“Of course! I am looking forward to seeing the experimental Shinden Kai fight!”
・・・
Myrus and the commander moved to the base’s control room.
“Turn on the ECM!!!”
A rudimentary-looking ECM started to function. Its massive antennas turned towards where the enemy was.
“It’s on!!!”
Meanwhile, the experimental Shinden Kai was preparing to take off from the runway. It’s peculiar form overruled Mu common sense up to this point. If anything, its form even seemed to have moved in the opposite direction. A fundamentally different engine sound, that of a high-pitched shrill, dominated over the vicinity.
“Control tower to X1, you are cleared for take off.”
Uweeeeeeeeeee!!!
From the back of the Shinden Kai, the afterburner spitted out a jet of flame. Taking advantage of its immense initial power to weight ratio, it accelerated in a heartbeat and released itself from the ground. After achieving a certain speed, it surpassed every single Mu aircraft up to that point as it swiftly climbed and disappeared into the sky.
“9000m… 10,000m… 11,000m…”
A woman officer manning the radar nonchalantly reads out the altitude reading of the experimental fighter.
“Amazing!!! It climbs so fast!!!”
It was like looking at a Japanese fighter. Far surpassing Mu’s other planes, the Shinden Kai continued to transcendentally climb. Myrus, seeing his beloved country achieve such a high-performance fighter, albeit experimental, was moved to tears.
“This is X1. I have visual confirmation on the enemy aircraft. Commencing attack.”
The experimental Shinden Kai commenced its attack on the Gra Valkas Empire’s super heavy bomber, the Guti Maun.
・・・
Inside Bomber 18
“Is the radio still not fixed?”
“Nope. We still can’t contact the base. There’s no signs it will get better either.”
Although they were at an altitude where the enemy’s blade couldn’t reach them, it still didn’t feel good experiencing radio troubles in the skies above enemy territory. Something bad is going to happen.
“Be wary of enemy attacks, just in case!”
“Yes, sir!”
Den Taruk, who was sitting in the machine gun turret on the underbelly of the Guti Maun, looked at the lands of Mu below him. It was quite a clear day since many of the clouds were stuck close to the ground. In the skies way above the troposphere, he feels the empire’s pride penetrate way into the stratosphere.
“Oh?!”
For a moment, he sees something like a dot right below him.
“No shit?! Another plane at this altitude?!”
In a single moment, Den Taruk’s doubts were turned to certainty. The aircraft which had seemed like a dot suddenly closed the distance, revealing its unfamiliar airframe design.
“E-enemy attack!!!”
Den Taruk took control of the machine gun and tried to aim for the enemy plane.
“What the-?! It’s so… fast!!!”
As soon as he brought his sights on the enemy, it started opening fire. The enemy plane which had rapidly approached them out of nowhere slipped past them, climbing into skies above them. After hearing sounds which signalled that they were hit, he heard the sound of something catching fire and felt something hot. One of the 5 engines which were operational had caught fire and its propeller had stopped turning. He felt the air around him rapidly getting thinner and thinner…
The machine gunner on top of the plane was desperately firing his machine gun on the skies above. He hears the muffled sounds of machine gun fire. As he felt his consciousness slipping away, Den Taruk grabbed an oxygen mask and affixed it to his face.
“Hah… Hah… Hah… Fuck!!! There’s no way machine guns could cause this much da…”
The Guti Maun was resistant against machine gun fire. The 12.7mm machine guns normally mounted on fighters shouldn’t be able to pierce its armoring. Even the occasional 20mm autocannons would have difficulty against the plating. However, the enemy fighter easily cut holes into their bomber, overwhelming the pressuring system. His body began to feel light, subtly hinting that they’re losing altitude.
Beep beep beep
An emergency buzzer was ringing within the aircraft.
“There! It’s coming back!!! Fuck!!! It’s fast!!!”
Den Taruk hears something unpleasant in the form of something being cut open. And then an explosion. And then fire.
“We lost control!!! We lost control!!!”
Gravity suddenly seems to dizzyingly change.
“Is… is that it?!”
Grabbing hold of a parachute, Den Taruk desperately opens the escape hatch and emerges from the plane. His body begins to accelerate due to gravity pulling him down. As the force of the wind pushed on him while he fell, he looked up to where he had come from.
“T-the empire’s proud bomber…!!!”
Enveloped in flames, the super heavy bomber Guti Maun continued to fall out of the sky. Despairing, Den Taruk also continued to fall into Mu territory.
・・・
Ministry of Defense, Tokyo, Japan
An emergency defense meeting was being held at one of the conference rooms in the Ministry of Defense. Each official sat on chairs lined up around an elliptical table. A young official was pointing to a monitor as they explained.
“The enemy main fleet is currently advancing eastward in the ocean west of Newland. Furthermore, a 200-strong aircraft formation, after completing replenishment at Leifor, passed through the Mu continent and is currently heading straight for our country. Moreover, 52 imperial cruisers and destroyers have gathered at the capital of the Kingdom of Riem and a further 300 aircraft are positioned in the airfield within the kingdom. Lastly, the naval force of the Kingdom of Riem is also continuing to gather.”
“And their objective…”
“Our mainland, without a doubt. We have already arranged 2 escort flotillas to be positioned to the west, 1 deployed off the coast of Kyushu, and the last one around the waters of the Nahanath Kingdom. F-2 fighters and BP3-C and P-1 bomber units are also ready to sortie out at any moment. Just in case, we had the Coast Guard’s patrol boats deployed to the west as well while the F-2 fighter units deployed to Rodenius, except for one squadron, are en route back to the mainland. With our calculations, we will be able to carry out this defense!!!”
“What about Nahanath? Considering the enemy’s numbers, letting only a single escort flotilla and a handful of F-2 fighters defend them seems pretty tough…”
“Based on satellite acquisitions of the movements in the Kingdom of Riem, an attack on the mainland is imminent. Since the enemy main fleet is massive, they cannot reach our country without replenishing first so we believe that they will head for resupply at any of the countries in Newland. Based on their numbers, we believe it will take a substantial amount of time for them to complete resupplying. With the time they will have bought us, we will be able to make it in time to divert our forces and intercept them.”
“We can’t rule out the possibility that the enemy forces currently in Riem will carry out a simultaneous attack with the enemy fleet off Newland. Won’t we be barely cutting it short if we are faced with a two-front attack?”
“We certainly can’t rule that possibility out but according to the Mu spies in Riem, there’s no doubt that once the 200 enemy aircraft reach Riem and complete preparations, they will immediately launch their attack on our mainland.”
“What about a preemptive strike on the Riem port?”
“Since Riem has vehemently maintained that it bears no hostile intention towards Japan and has expressed it internationally, a preemptive strike will be difficult to consider politically. Furthermore, since the enemy air force in transit is crossing over the airspace of other countries, as long as there remains the possibility that their remains after being shot down could harm or kill the citizens of those countries, a preemptive strike on them is also out of the question. This is just for reference but it seems that a loosening of the Technology Outflow Prevention Act for Mu is being explored to prevent this same situation from happening in the future. If something like this were to happen again, Mu would be able to deal with it on its own.”
“We mustn’t let a single enemy aircraft, particularly those bombers, enter the skies above the mainland. There’s still the lingering possibility that they may have nukes.”
“Yes. By the moment they commence their operation after taking off from Riem, our fighters will take their time shooting them down. As for the enemy force that we have currently verified…”
The meeting continued on to explain the detailed positions of the SDF. For the first time in a defense meeting since the transfer, the heat from an actual threat looming on Japan was felt. Further combat adjustments were made as the meeting continued deep into the night.
・・・
Hilkiga, Kingdom of Riem
From the royal castle, King Banks looked out to the west. A base unravelled before him over part of the plains. Mu’s airfield had been expanded by the Gra Valkas Empire into a fully fledged base with several iron birds laid out neatly on concrete pavement. They were far bigger than the planes Mu once brought over. It was also far bigger than their wyverns and the wyvern lords of the Parpaldia Empire. They were also faster. Such was the empire that had defeated the Holy Mirishial Empire. He even felt their strength simply from looking at how neatly organized their attack aircraft were.
Still, a tinge of anxiety remained.
“Will we really be okay…”
Their enemy is that country: Japan.
The Parpaldia Empire was a powerful superpower. Although it’s within the Third Civilization Area, it subjugated its neighbors, civilized country and non-civilized country alike, and possessed territorial ambitions to the south. At the time, people within the Kingdom of Riem postulated that in the event the Parpaldia Empire continues southward to absorb the huge expanse of land which was under what called itself the Annonrial Empire, they’d surpass the Holy Mirishial Empire in scope. There was even the possibility that if they reap the economic benefits from being massive while continuing their technological innovation, they would be shortly dethroning the Holy Mirishial Empire from being the dominant superpower.
It was thought that the empire’s strength knew no bounds. However, when Japan entered the scene, the map was changed forever.
The empire treated the Japanese people visiting within its conquered domains like it treated any citizen from other countries. Their tourists were lined up and summarily executed. Incurring the wrath of Japan, the empire suffered overwhelming defeat after overwhelming defeat. In the face of their military might, the Parpaldia Empire’s influence as a superpower fell into tatters. Unleashing its anger, Japan efficiently and accurately targeted only the Parpaldian soldiers. He heard that they didn’t yield an inch of mercy in doing so.
“Those bastards… They really know how to fuck someone up who angered them…”
And then there he was, trying to draw a bow against that Japan. They’ve already formally announced that they aren’t hostile to them but once their wyverns turn their flames on Japanese installments in the Parpaldia Empire, they’d have no more excuses to throw. A wrath that burned like a raging flame was the only thing that appeared in his eyes.
If the Gra Valkas Empire fails to win over Japan, Riem would certainly be thrown into the fire. The ruling dynasty of the Kingdom of Riem would more than likely end with him. However, if he places his stake on Japan, then the Gra Valkas Empire, which single-handedly destroyed the World Union Fleet, would brand them as enemies. They might even subjugate the Holy Mirishial Empire and put the world beneath their feet. Japan might not be able to lift a finger against them.
King Banks continues to think.
“Your Majesty! You were here all along!”
“Rival…”
General Rival talks to King Banks.
“There’s no way we will lose a war right on our homefront. From a broader perspective, it is already understood that Japan cannot win over the empire. However, Riem is too close to Japan, so this basically counts as a war close to our home. We cannot afford to lose at a fight so close to us.”
“I understand, Your Majesty. There’s absolutely no way that the Gra Valkas Empire is lagging behind Japan. I’ve actually come to report, Your Majesty, that the city-annihilating weapons called bombers will soon be arriving here from the homeland of the Gra Valkas Empire. They’re far bigger than the bombers used by Japan against the Parpaldia Empire and can fly much higher. It seems that all of them will be arriving at that very base.”
Rival points out to the western sky. In the blue sky, several dots finally appear.
The dots eventually take the form of aircraft.
Voooooooooooooooo
Deep, heavy sounds which could shake one’s innards reverberated across the capital.
“Woah!!!”
The bombers boasted immense size as their formation gave off a feeling of strength. Anyone looking at them would have felt that such a strong force wouldn’t lose. Even the attack aircraft neatly parked in the base which King Banks had felt were massive seemed like children in comparison.
“These… These are the superweapons of the Gra Valkas Empire…?! They’re so gigantic!!! No!!! There’s simply no way they will lose against Japan!!!”
The citizens of Riem were overwhelmed by the imposing appearance of the super heavy bomber Guti Maun. The king wasn’t an exception.
After seeing the staggering number of these massive bombers, King Banks felt confident that they’d never lose.
Previous Chapter: Super Sky Fortress 1
Hath Airbase, Southern Mu
Hath Airbase was an airbase located in the southern regions of Mu. Japan has deployed its Self Defense Force to the country but since they couldn’t afford to cover every single region of another country, they weren’t present in bases such as Hath which were situated far from the capital.
BEEP BEEP BEEP
A bizarre electronic-esque sound rang out across the airbase. Pilots swiftly ran towards their trusted, beloved aircraft. A woman’s voice echoed throughout the base issuing a repeated broadcast which heightened tensions.
“Alert! Alert! The Gra Valkas Imperial Army is heading straight for this base! 212 enemy aircraft have been spotted 203km away! All aircraft are to head out and intercept them! I repeat…”
The pilots jumped into their planes as the parked Marin fighters immediately began to roar to life. One by one, the fighters accelerated and took off from the runway and flew into the clear, blue sky.
“We’re counting on you! Give ‘em hell!”
At the air control center, base commander Yellow looked at the fighters flying away. Each fighter gallantly filled the gaps in an ushering formation which looked graceful and awe-inspiring as they flew to meet their enemies.
Mu’s brand new search radar, using technologies described in textbooks imported from Japan, managed to detect enemy aircraft from more than 200km away. Although they were expecting it, the operators were still surprised at how useful it was proving to be.
“We will be measuring their altitude now.”
They illuminated the enemy aircraft with radar that measures altitude. Through this, they could manage to replicate the function of much more modern 3D radar. The radar equipment slowly turned to face the direction of the enemy. Since Mu’s radar is rudimentary, any modern radar operator would likely feel frustrated at how slow the machine is. Japan’s modern phased array radar, which can instantaneously measure all directions by changing the phasing of radio waves, was still a technology that was far into the future.
“Commencing altitude measurement… Huh?!”
A brief silence…
“What’s wrong?!”
“Speed and altitude calculations have been completed! They’re at… 14,000m and are travelling at… more than 700km/h!!!”
“Are you sure?! What the hell??? Are they speed demons or what?!”
The numbers were far above the Marin’s service and maximum ceiling and their speed wasn’t any different. No interceptor they could field could reach that altitude. Moreover, their anti-aircraft guns don’t even reach that high.
“What now?!”
In the face of this overwhelming disparity in capabilities and hopelessness, base commander Yellow could only imagine the sight of the base being one-sidedly destroyed. Unable to steer clear of the impending doom, the personnel of Hath airbase panicked and rushed to mount whatever they could to soften the damage. However, the imperial formation, like a tiger ignoring an ant in search of bigger prey, simply passed over the base.
・・・
Super Heavy Bombing Unit, Special Annihilation Division, Gra Valkas Empire
At the request of the commanders of the Gra Valkas Imperial Navy’s Combined Fleet, the Super Heavy Bombing Unit was on its way to carry out its bombing run on Japan. In the command craft at the helm of a massive formation of over 200 bombers was Arley Tolliger.
“Mu fighters have been going around in circles right below us. They’re showing no signs of being able to catch up to us.”
A subordinate proudly reports in.
“Naturally.”
Their objective is Japan and only Japan. Mu, while exposed to their attack, wasn’t in their sight. Disappointed and showing a lack of interest, Arley Tolliger sighed. For their current plan, they are to keep the Guti Maun’s true capabilities top secret. So that their performance won’t be known by outsiders, they’re taking the replenishment routes usually taken by Imperial Army Air Corps aircraft. In reality, the Guti Maun, with its immense cruising range, could take a far more straightforward route. If they were actually serious, they would have probably even taken on some extra weight just to show off.
The Guti Maun was fundamentally different in capabilities from the other aircraft that the Gra Valkas Empire had manufactured up to this point. It was even said that the minister in charge of finance took one look at its development costs and refused to look at it moving forward. However, when its development finished, many in the military looked at it as some miracle aircraft.
The empire really outdid itself with this one.
I don’t really get why they came up with such a high-performance aircraft.
Coming out of development, many people were marveled while equally many people questioned its existence. Since it wasn’t developed by Karslein, the manufacturer of previous aircraft designs, its design philosophy was also different.
Measuring 46m long and 63m at its widest with 6 engines that whip out a total of 60,000 horsepower, the Guti Maun could fly at a maximum of 780km/h and boasts a service ceiling of 15,000m. Its bulletproof plating is thick for an aircraft and with a cruising range of over 19,400km, it could excellently project its power far from imperial borders. While it earned the nickname Sky Fortress, it was a monster that was truly capable of much more than the name.
How the hell did the empire manage to come up with something that outperformed its own standard aircraft?
Not even the members of the Super Heavy Bombing Unit knew how it came into being or why it even exists. Mystery has always surrounded this plane.
Looking at the ground from such high altitudes, the clouds seem to be pasted onto the surface of this world.
“Sir, Bomber 18’s engine 4 is experiencing problems and is beginning to lose output.”
“Hmm. It shouldn’t be a problem but have them return to Love Airbase in Leifor just in case. There mustn’t be any impediments to this operation.”
“Yes, sir!”
The Super Heavy Bombing Unit, save for 1 bomber which experienced troubles, continued its excursion east.
・・・
Inside Bomber 18
“Sir! We’ve received orders to return to Leifor!”
“Alright. We could continue on with no problem with 5 engines but… yeah, it can’t be helped.”
“It’s our latest heavy bomber. We can’t let the native mechanics know what it’s capable of. We will be flying over Mu alone but since they can’t catch up to us, I guess our safety is guaranteed.”
Bomber 18 sets course for Leifor’s Love Airbase.
・・・
Advanced Technologies Test Site, Mu
On this day, Myrus, who has witnessed Japanese technology firsthand, was visiting the Advanced Technologies Test Site.
“Technical officer Myrus, allow me to show you this: a ground-based ECM.”
The commander of the Advanced Technologies Test Site proudly explains to Myrus. Right in front of Myrus’s eyes were several massive, long antennas connected by cables to a downgraded PC imported from Japan.
“This computer, while considered ‘ancient’ in Japan, is still extremely high performance in comparison to those used in the Gra Valkas Empire. I have a feeling this will be extremely useful.”
“Ah, heck. Looks like we’re still leagues away from miniaturizing this for use in aircraft…”
“Indeed. With the current level of tech disclosure with Japan, it will be hard for us alone to miniaturize this to be able to mount on any aircraft. Still, if we could establish this ground-based ECM on every airbase and naval base, it would provide us an exemplary boost in combat capacity. We could even jam Gra Valkas Empire communications with this.”
“Hmph. How splendid!”
Currently, Mu isn’t even next to Japan in terms of tech. Still, tech was something that could be built up and developed.
“Let’s catch up to them someday!”
Myrus unconsciously lets out his feelings.
“Technical officer Myrus, allow me to show you our progress on the aforementioned aircraft.”
A delighted smile appears on the commander’s face. Myrus, who was looking forward to this moment, naturally smiled as well. This was his sole reason for coming to the Advanced Technologies Test Site. He simply wanted to see what has become of their new class of aircraft. The hangar’s doors open.
“W-woah!!! Even its frame is done!!!”
With its wings mounted at the back and the horizontal stabilizers mounted in front, the peculiar-looking fighter painted in green glistened in the light coming from the opened hangar entrance. The experimental fighter of the Imperial Japanese Army from more than 70 years ago was made real from acquired design prints and remodeled. Since much of it had been made from reused modern Japanese parts, the strength of individual parts was much better than what the Imperial Japanese Army had back then and the fighter’s weight was much lighter than what was originally designed.
“We’re really gonna name it that, huh?”
“Of course. In honor of Japan, which gave its design, I want to name her the Shinden Kai1! Wait, since it’s a prototype, that would make it the X Shinden Kai, right? Ah, one more thing… What became of its engine… Oh?”
Moving to the back of the aircraft, Myrus spots an afterburner built into the airframe.
“Huh? This engine…”
Hearing that a jet engine will be substituted in place of the T4 engine for research purposes, Myrus was surprised at the presence of an afterburner.
“It’s an experimental jet engine known as the XF3-400 which was a prototype devised by Japan around 25 years ago.”
“Huh? Isn’t this counted by their tech outflow act? How did we get our hands on this?”
“There are many people who are as eager as you are to transplant Japanese tech to Mu. There’s even some forces in Japan who are equally eager to help Mu, saying that it’s simply in the national interest. We currently only have two of these planes. If the engine breaks down, it’s beyond our tech level to repair it. What we have is simply too different to the parts we made it out of. Still, everyone is currently figuring out if we have some ways to reproduce the parts or alternatively import those parts individually. In the end, this experimental fighter has an extremely high engine output.”
“Excellent. Can it fly?”
“We’ve already done numerous flight tests using it. However, its cruise range is simply too short. Since it uses an afterburner, it burns through its fuel almost immediately. It seems like it would only be useful in operations which only require short operational spans like capital defense. By readying the aircraft for hit-and-run operations, we can expect significant results even against the Gra Valkas Empire. If it’s just capital or base defense, it would be really useful. As for the engine, in the event we can’t manufacture its parts, then we have no choice but to import another one. It would be nice if we can import another one. Since that’s no longer my field of expertise, I would only have to hope that the diplomats and parliament members do their best.”
He continues.
“As for its armament, there are four 30mm autocannons mounted on the nose. With such destructive firepower, it should be able to bring down any aircraft it faces. We are currently considering a reformed version mounted with a single high-caliber cannon. Since Pal Chimera aerial battleship countermeasures are within the scope of this consideration, we are aiming for this fighter to be able to participate in a fight against the ancient sorcerous empire for when it comes back. In the event we mount a high-caliber cannon on it, we would now be faced with the problem of handling the strength of its recoil. While it’s currently in study, it’s currently being considered if the high-caliber cannon in question could be a tank gun.”
“That’s great…”
“Right now, its 30mm autocannons are stocked and ready to be deployed in combat at once. We have planned a test flight shortly so I invite you to please watch it.”
“Naturally! I can’t wait!”
While Myrus was excited, the fighter emerged onto the runway. A high-pitched shrill from its jet engine was heard as the Shinden Kai started its warm up. Clad in green paint and its horizontal stabilizers mounted in front, the Shinden Kai resembled the floating ships of the heavens of the Holy Mirishial Empire in its design which forgoed a propeller. To everyone who was watching, they’ve grown accustomed to their biplane designed aircraft. After witnessing the fighter which aligned itself to the runway, all they saw was a mass of advanced tech.
“It seems to be done warming up. Now, we will be showing routine take off proc-”
“E-Excuse me!!!”
A young officer cuts into their chatter.
“What is it?!”
The commander, who was in the middle of explaining to Myrus, let out a subtly angered tone.
“One enemy plane is heading straight for our base!!! We think it’s the same massive enemy plane that passed over Hath Airbase!!!”
Myrus and the commander looked at each other. The officer continues.
“The enemy plane is approaching us at 600km/h at altitudes of over 15,000m! Our Marin fighters cannot catch up to it!”
“There’s only one… right?”
“Yes, sir!”
“Sir Myrus, it seems that this test flight will now double as the fighter’s combat debut. Please be my guest and take a look.”
The commander was brimming with confidence as a smile appeared on his face.
“Of course! I am looking forward to seeing the experimental Shinden Kai fight!”
・・・
Myrus and the commander moved to the base’s control room.
“Turn on the ECM!!!”
A rudimentary-looking ECM started to function. Its massive antennas turned towards where the enemy was.
“It’s on!!!”
Meanwhile, the experimental Shinden Kai was preparing to take off from the runway. It’s peculiar form overruled Mu common sense up to this point. If anything, its form even seemed to have moved in the opposite direction. A fundamentally different engine sound, that of a high-pitched shrill, dominated over the vicinity.
“Control tower to X1, you are cleared for take off.”
Uweeeeeeeeeee!!!
From the back of the Shinden Kai, the afterburner spitted out a jet of flame. Taking advantage of its immense initial power to weight ratio, it accelerated in a heartbeat and released itself from the ground. After achieving a certain speed, it surpassed every single Mu aircraft up to that point as it swiftly climbed and disappeared into the sky.
“9000m… 10,000m… 11,000m…”
A woman officer manning the radar nonchalantly reads out the altitude reading of the experimental fighter.
“Amazing!!! It climbs so fast!!!”
It was like looking at a Japanese fighter. Far surpassing Mu’s other planes, the Shinden Kai continued to transcendentally climb. Myrus, seeing his beloved country achieve such a high-performance fighter, albeit experimental, was moved to tears.
“This is X1. I have visual confirmation on the enemy aircraft. Commencing attack.”
The experimental Shinden Kai commenced its attack on the Gra Valkas Empire’s super heavy bomber, the Guti Maun.
・・・
Inside Bomber 18
“Is the radio still not fixed?”
“Nope. We still can’t contact the base. There’s no signs it will get better either.”
Although they were at an altitude where the enemy’s blade couldn’t reach them, it still didn’t feel good experiencing radio troubles in the skies above enemy territory. Something bad is going to happen.
“Be wary of enemy attacks, just in case!”
“Yes, sir!”
Den Taruk, who was sitting in the machine gun turret on the underbelly of the Guti Maun, looked at the lands of Mu below him. It was quite a clear day since many of the clouds were stuck close to the ground. In the skies way above the troposphere, he feels the empire’s pride penetrate way into the stratosphere.
“Oh?!”
For a moment, he sees something like a dot right below him.
“No shit?! Another plane at this altitude?!”
In a single moment, Den Taruk’s doubts were turned to certainty. The aircraft which had seemed like a dot suddenly closed the distance, revealing its unfamiliar airframe design.
“E-enemy attack!!!”
Den Taruk took control of the machine gun and tried to aim for the enemy plane.
“What the-?! It’s so… fast!!!”
As soon as he brought his sights on the enemy, it started opening fire. The enemy plane which had rapidly approached them out of nowhere slipped past them, climbing into skies above them. After hearing sounds which signalled that they were hit, he heard the sound of something catching fire and felt something hot. One of the 5 engines which were operational had caught fire and its propeller had stopped turning. He felt the air around him rapidly getting thinner and thinner…
The machine gunner on top of the plane was desperately firing his machine gun on the skies above. He hears the muffled sounds of machine gun fire. As he felt his consciousness slipping away, Den Taruk grabbed an oxygen mask and affixed it to his face.
“Hah… Hah… Hah… Fuck!!! There’s no way machine guns could cause this much da…”
The Guti Maun was resistant against machine gun fire. The 12.7mm machine guns normally mounted on fighters shouldn’t be able to pierce its armoring. Even the occasional 20mm autocannons would have difficulty against the plating. However, the enemy fighter easily cut holes into their bomber, overwhelming the pressuring system. His body began to feel light, subtly hinting that they’re losing altitude.
Beep beep beep
An emergency buzzer was ringing within the aircraft.
“There! It’s coming back!!! Fuck!!! It’s fast!!!”
Den Taruk hears something unpleasant in the form of something being cut open. And then an explosion. And then fire.
“We lost control!!! We lost control!!!”
Gravity suddenly seems to dizzyingly change.
“Is… is that it?!”
Grabbing hold of a parachute, Den Taruk desperately opens the escape hatch and emerges from the plane. His body begins to accelerate due to gravity pulling him down. As the force of the wind pushed on him while he fell, he looked up to where he had come from.
“T-the empire’s proud bomber…!!!”
Enveloped in flames, the super heavy bomber Guti Maun continued to fall out of the sky. Despairing, Den Taruk also continued to fall into Mu territory.
・・・
Ministry of Defense, Tokyo, Japan
An emergency defense meeting was being held at one of the conference rooms in the Ministry of Defense. Each official sat on chairs lined up around an elliptical table. A young official was pointing to a monitor as they explained.
“The enemy main fleet is currently advancing eastward in the ocean west of Newland. Furthermore, a 200-strong aircraft formation, after completing replenishment at Leifor, passed through the Mu continent and is currently heading straight for our country. Moreover, 52 imperial cruisers and destroyers have gathered at the capital of the Kingdom of Riem and a further 300 aircraft are positioned in the airfield within the kingdom. Lastly, the naval force of the Kingdom of Riem is also continuing to gather.”
“And their objective…”
“Our mainland, without a doubt. We have already arranged 2 escort flotillas to be positioned to the west, 1 deployed off the coast of Kyushu, and the last one around the waters of the Nahanath Kingdom. F-2 fighters and BP3-C and P-1 bomber units are also ready to sortie out at any moment. Just in case, we had the Coast Guard’s patrol boats deployed to the west as well while the F-2 fighter units deployed to Rodenius, except for one squadron, are en route back to the mainland. With our calculations, we will be able to carry out this defense!!!”
“What about Nahanath? Considering the enemy’s numbers, letting only a single escort flotilla and a handful of F-2 fighters defend them seems pretty tough…”
“Based on satellite acquisitions of the movements in the Kingdom of Riem, an attack on the mainland is imminent. Since the enemy main fleet is massive, they cannot reach our country without replenishing first so we believe that they will head for resupply at any of the countries in Newland. Based on their numbers, we believe it will take a substantial amount of time for them to complete resupplying. With the time they will have bought us, we will be able to make it in time to divert our forces and intercept them.”
“We can’t rule out the possibility that the enemy forces currently in Riem will carry out a simultaneous attack with the enemy fleet off Newland. Won’t we be barely cutting it short if we are faced with a two-front attack?”
“We certainly can’t rule that possibility out but according to the Mu spies in Riem, there’s no doubt that once the 200 enemy aircraft reach Riem and complete preparations, they will immediately launch their attack on our mainland.”
“What about a preemptive strike on the Riem port?”
“Since Riem has vehemently maintained that it bears no hostile intention towards Japan and has expressed it internationally, a preemptive strike will be difficult to consider politically. Furthermore, since the enemy air force in transit is crossing over the airspace of other countries, as long as there remains the possibility that their remains after being shot down could harm or kill the citizens of those countries, a preemptive strike on them is also out of the question. This is just for reference but it seems that a loosening of the Technology Outflow Prevention Act for Mu is being explored to prevent this same situation from happening in the future. If something like this were to happen again, Mu would be able to deal with it on its own.”
“We mustn’t let a single enemy aircraft, particularly those bombers, enter the skies above the mainland. There’s still the lingering possibility that they may have nukes.”
“Yes. By the moment they commence their operation after taking off from Riem, our fighters will take their time shooting them down. As for the enemy force that we have currently verified…”
The meeting continued on to explain the detailed positions of the SDF. For the first time in a defense meeting since the transfer, the heat from an actual threat looming on Japan was felt. Further combat adjustments were made as the meeting continued deep into the night.
・・・
Hilkiga, Kingdom of Riem
From the royal castle, King Banks looked out to the west. A base unravelled before him over part of the plains. Mu’s airfield had been expanded by the Gra Valkas Empire into a fully fledged base with several iron birds laid out neatly on concrete pavement. They were far bigger than the planes Mu once brought over. It was also far bigger than their wyverns and the wyvern lords of the Parpaldia Empire. They were also faster. Such was the empire that had defeated the Holy Mirishial Empire. He even felt their strength simply from looking at how neatly organized their attack aircraft were.
Still, a tinge of anxiety remained.
“Will we really be okay…”
Their enemy is that country: Japan.
The Parpaldia Empire was a powerful superpower. Although it’s within the Third Civilization Area, it subjugated its neighbors, civilized country and non-civilized country alike, and possessed territorial ambitions to the south. At the time, people within the Kingdom of Riem postulated that in the event the Parpaldia Empire continues southward to absorb the huge expanse of land which was under what called itself the Annonrial Empire, they’d surpass the Holy Mirishial Empire in scope. There was even the possibility that if they reap the economic benefits from being massive while continuing their technological innovation, they would be shortly dethroning the Holy Mirishial Empire from being the dominant superpower.
It was thought that the empire’s strength knew no bounds. However, when Japan entered the scene, the map was changed forever.
The empire treated the Japanese people visiting within its conquered domains like it treated any citizen from other countries. Their tourists were lined up and summarily executed. Incurring the wrath of Japan, the empire suffered overwhelming defeat after overwhelming defeat. In the face of their military might, the Parpaldia Empire’s influence as a superpower fell into tatters. Unleashing its anger, Japan efficiently and accurately targeted only the Parpaldian soldiers. He heard that they didn’t yield an inch of mercy in doing so.
“Those bastards… They really know how to fuck someone up who angered them…”
And then there he was, trying to draw a bow against that Japan. They’ve already formally announced that they aren’t hostile to them but once their wyverns turn their flames on Japanese installments in the Parpaldia Empire, they’d have no more excuses to throw. A wrath that burned like a raging flame was the only thing that appeared in his eyes.
If the Gra Valkas Empire fails to win over Japan, Riem would certainly be thrown into the fire. The ruling dynasty of the Kingdom of Riem would more than likely end with him. However, if he places his stake on Japan, then the Gra Valkas Empire, which single-handedly destroyed the World Union Fleet, would brand them as enemies. They might even subjugate the Holy Mirishial Empire and put the world beneath their feet. Japan might not be able to lift a finger against them.
King Banks continues to think.
“Your Majesty! You were here all along!”
“Rival…”
General Rival talks to King Banks.
“There’s no way we will lose a war right on our homefront. From a broader perspective, it is already understood that Japan cannot win over the empire. However, Riem is too close to Japan, so this basically counts as a war close to our home. We cannot afford to lose at a fight so close to us.”
“I understand, Your Majesty. There’s absolutely no way that the Gra Valkas Empire is lagging behind Japan. I’ve actually come to report, Your Majesty, that the city-annihilating weapons called bombers will soon be arriving here from the homeland of the Gra Valkas Empire. They’re far bigger than the bombers used by Japan against the Parpaldia Empire and can fly much higher. It seems that all of them will be arriving at that very base.”
Rival points out to the western sky. In the blue sky, several dots finally appear.
The dots eventually take the form of aircraft.
Voooooooooooooooo
Deep, heavy sounds which could shake one’s innards reverberated across the capital.
“Woah!!!”
The bombers boasted immense size as their formation gave off a feeling of strength. Anyone looking at them would have felt that such a strong force wouldn’t lose. Even the attack aircraft neatly parked in the base which King Banks had felt were massive seemed like children in comparison.
“These… These are the superweapons of the Gra Valkas Empire…?! They’re so gigantic!!! No!!! There’s simply no way they will lose against Japan!!!”
The citizens of Riem were overwhelmed by the imposing appearance of the super heavy bomber Guti Maun. The king wasn’t an exception.
After seeing the staggering number of these massive bombers, King Banks felt confident that they’d never lose.
