Operation Burning Hoplite

DATE: 18/12/2025

TIME (GMT): 19:00

ERA: Modern

MAP(S): Uzbin Valley

TYPE: COOP

TEAMSPEAK: ts1.biaarma.com

GAME: Arma 3

EVENT: Official

AUTHOR(S): Doctor

SLOTS: 85 / 90

---

RATING: (57)

---

In early 2026, fragmented Taliban elements operating in eastern Afghanistan uncovered a cache of Soviet-era documents during a raid on a long-abandoned military site. The papers reference a hardened underground bunker constructed in the late Cold War period, allegedly used to store nuclear fuel intended for a never-completed research or power project. The facility was formally written off by Soviet authorities during their withdrawal and has not appeared in any verified post-Soviet records.

Within weeks, the U.S. National Security Agency intercepted a series of encrypted Taliban internet communications discussing the potential sale of “special fuel” to unknown foreign buyers. While the messages suggest confidence and urgency, intelligence analysts cannot confirm whether the bunker has actually been located or if the fuel exists at all. The possibility that nuclear material may be unsecured—or that the Taliban are attempting a sophisticated bluff—has prompted heightened concern and the initiation of covert verification efforts.

Squadron B of U.S. Delta Force has been assigned as the lead element for a deniable reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering operation into the Uzbin Valley, the region most frequently referenced in the intercepted communications. Their primary objectives are to locate corroborating intelligence on the existence and status of the Soviet bunker and to capture a key local warlord believed to be acting as an intermediary for the Taliban. Intelligence suggests the warlord possesses firsthand knowledge of the bunker’s location, or at minimum can confirm whether nuclear material has been recovered or is being falsely advertised.

The task force is built around a compact but highly flexible ORBAT, consisting of two Delta troops, each fielding three assault teams, supported by a small company headquarters element to coordinate ISR and joint assets. Aviation support includes two CH-47 Chinooks and a single UH-60 Black Hawk for rapid insertion, extraction, and contingency lift, alongside an unarmed drone for real-time reconnaissance. A helicopter-borne medical response team remains on immediate standby, while a five-man CBRN detachment is attached to assess, secure, and advise on any suspected nuclear or radiological material encountered during the operation.

The mission will be conducted entirely at night to exploit technological overmatch, with all friendly elements equipped with night vision devices and IR marking equipment for identification and deconfliction. The operating environment is complex, with a high civilian presence in and around the Uzbin Valley, necessitating strict rules of engagement limited to return fire only and positive identification of hostile intent. Enemy forces are assessed to be predominantly local Taliban fighters armed with Soviet-era small arms, including AK-pattern rifles and RPGs, with no access to advanced weapons systems. Intelligence confirms there is no armoured threat, no anti-aircraft artillery, and no enemy aviation capability in the area of operations.