Deltaria

[Rogue]

Stefanisti - With a renewed focus on defense by the Horvat administration the Imperial Deltarian Armed Forces (IDAF) will likely face a significant investment, paired with renewed efforts to significantly reform it. Despite fears of potential military anger, it seems that military leadership also agrees that reforms are needed to make it combat effective once more. The reality of warfare and the situation in Majatra have changed, prompting the need for a changed doctrine as well. The Imperial Ministry of War presented its plan for a modern military last sunday, emphasized several key changes during the presentation of the Cvetko Report, named after Colonel Tomislav Cvetko that was heavily involved in the creation of the report. Some highlights from the report:

1. A reduced, but effective army
The Grand Imperial Army has long been the dominant force within the IDAF, used for both keeping imperial power at home, and projecting it abroad. The reality however is that large scale conflict on Majatran soil is rare. Where formerly major wars were fought between Vanuku and Deltaria, as well as Deltaria and its other neighbours, this hasnt happened in centuries. Facing this new reality, the army will shrink. Instead of massive battle formations, the Ministry seeks to create a relatively compact, battle ready and mechanized force. No more then 150.000 soldiers should serve in the army, with most of these soldiers serving in mechanized or mobile infantry brigades if it is up to the Ministry. This, combined with cutting the artillery corps in half, would result in a more mobile, but less bulky force. Helping Deltaria face the realities of modern warfare. 

2. Air superiority
A new doctrine, according to the Cvetko report, should strive for air superiority in battle. By having a relatively large and capable multirole fighter corps the Deltarian air force could rule the sky and provide adequate ground support. Combined with air superiority fighters and dedicated AA on home soil, the airforce should become capable, but primarily stronger then its ever been. A strong airforce could not just protect Deltarian cities, but also protect Deltarian troops and ships. Air will play a major role in future Deltarian warfare. 

3. Naval stopping power
Not a navy to dominate, but a navy to penetrate. The Imperial Navy will need both air and submersible power, but should not strive for total domination. Instead, Deltaria should be capable to conduct small operations globally to protect its interests, but primarily have the strength to break through the Majatran Straits in case of need. This way, the navy does no longer become a pit for excessive military spending, but a force aimed at efficiency and strength. 

4. Modern means
Drones, AI weapon systems and cyber combat should get a new, prominent role. Investments in these systems should be a priority, with the return of the seperate cyber branch of the military as a primary goal. By intergrating the future within Deltarian doctrine, it will be able to stay ahead of competitors in the long run. 

The Cvetko report has been handed to Minister of War Nikolina Vujnović and Prime Minister Horvat. The signs of change are ramming on the doors of the military, with many wondering whether Deltaria will return as a important military power in the region.