Reflecting Array ApproachThe interceptor group launches first and proceeds across the ocean alongside everyone else at a relatively standard altitude to rendezvous with a very nervous Aesthian tanker aircraft flying within Palisade's firing range. One quick refueling later and the prototype engines are put to the test as the four planes ascend higher and higher until even the highest clouds are to their backs and the bright blue midday skies have given way to the darkness of space. For what feels like hours, the four planes travel in complete solitude along the upper layers of the stratosphere until they finally make contact with friendly forces.

: Mjolnir, this is Mercanan SWACS Watchtower, we're picking you up on our scopes now. Patching you through to Starviper sensor feeds now.
Though you aren't in range to assist (yet) the data link at least gives you an idea of what the Mercanans are currently dealing with.


: Reflecting platform at vector 330, thirty miles. Adjust heading and prepare to enter combat.
Palisade Phase 1The groundpounders get a much less glamorous journey after their refueling, being ordered in on a low flight path that takes them through what one would be forgiven for mistaking for a tropical storm as they approach the Gothic coastline. Upon finally sighting land, you find yourself in an environment that is just as dour and miserable as those native to it. Harsh cliff faces drop off into a sea seemingly determined to batter the islands down one wave at a time, the forest stretching across their surfaces appear desaturated to the point of almost looking grey, and there's nothing but darkened skies overhead as far as you can see. Finally, you see your target ahead as the site comes in range of your radar and contacts start popping up. With how much activity is going on below, it's enough to make you wonder if they saw you coming and were already able to prepare a defense, but if that was the case surely there'd be more than a handful of Typhoons between you and the tower.

: Alright, I'm sure it went without saying in the briefing room, but just in case I'd like to remind everyone this is a
very time-sensitive mission we're on. We stick around too long, and they're going to drown us in reinforcements.

Structures have been labeled to make it easier to call targets (i.e. "i fire a missile at the LAMS to the right of structure G")