Operation Northern Hammer

NOTICE: HIGH-INTENSITY, EXTENDED OPERATION
This mission is long and requires careful planning, coordination, and execution across all forces.

CLASSIFIED // NATO EYES ONLY
Prepared by: Allied Command Europe, Naval and Amphibious Forces
Date: 26 June 1990
Security Level: SECRET

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Location: Coastal Iceland, near Reykjavík

Soviet forces have occupied Iceland, establishing defensive positions along key coastal approaches. Reconnaissance confirms heavy armor and air defense systems, including potential long-range SAMs. Local airfields may launch fighter jets and bomber sorties, while a large surface force, codenamed Task Group Vostok, has been detected operating offshore. Submarine activity remains unconfirmed but cannot be ruled out.

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Primary:

• Land NATO Marine forces and establish a secure beachhead. At least 4 of 8 amphibious craft must survive.

Secondary:

• Protect the supply convoy. At least 3 of 5 transports must survive.

Additional:

• Consider engaging Task Group Vostok. B-52G heavy strike support may appear to assist, as well as friendly submarine support, but both are not guaranteed.

Failure Criteria:

• Landing force fails to reach shore.
• Loss of critical supply ships.

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Friendly:

• Amphibious landing force: LCACs carrying Marine units.
• Carrier air support from USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70), operating from long range.
• Potential B-52G strategic strike support (limited probability).
• Friendly submarine support (limited probability).

Enemy:

• Coastal ASM and SAM batteries: SA-6, SA-8 Gecko, and possible S-300 battery.
• Armor: T-72 tanks defending the beach.
• Aircraft: Fighter jets and potential bomber sorties.
• Surface: Task Group Vostok.
• Submarines: Presence unconfirmed.

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• Beach landing: Timing and coordination are critical. Enemy defenses are concentrated near landing zones.
• Air support: Long-range carrier sorties and potential B-52 strikes must be carefully synchronized.
• Threat prioritization: Suppress SAMs before advancing amphibious forces.
• Fog of war: Enemy air response may be rapid; reconnaissance and SEAD are critical.
• Environmental hazards: Icelandic coastal weather may reduce visibility and affect operations.

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• Establish air superiority before advancing landing craft.
• Coordinate naval gunfire and air support to minimize losses.
• Protect supply convoys; ensure at least 60% reach the objective safely.
• Monitor Task Group Vostok movements and avoid ambushes.
• Commanders: Precision, timing, and integrated operations across air, sea, and landing forces are essential. Success ensures the re-establishment of a NATO foothold on Iceland and disrupts Soviet operational control.