Clone Infantry
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The Clone Infantry is the mainstay defensive and offensive force of the Gigerdi Alliance Military Ground Forces. The concept behind this force is revolutionary, since it minimizes the need for constant and costly recruitment of individuals from within the ranks of the citizens of the alliance. It is also a cheap way to produce effective and combat ready troops for the battlefield.
What is the Clone Infantry ?
The Clone Infantry project was started shortly before the formation of the Gigerdi Alliance. Scientists from both militaries of the separate Gigerdian states came together in order to develop a new kind of fighting force. The idea revolved around the use of genetic technology mixed with the wonders of cloning. The scientists took tissue and DNA samples from the most prominent ground force soldiers and proceeded to clone their bodies and physical capabilities in order to create a fighting force of soldiers optimal for the harsh and uncertain conditions of ground combat. These bodies were then implanted with neural receptors and sometimes even hand-held weaponry with pre-coded plans for tactical and strategical skills. The neural implants on the soldiers allowed ground force commanders to be in constant contact with the troops from an orbiting starship or from a command center hundreds of miles away from the actual site of conflict.
How does the Clone Infantry operate ?
The Clone Infantry usually operates as various separate divisions or brigades. One division has approximately 10,000 to 20,000 soldiers, whereas the strength of a brigade might greatly differ. However it is notable that the Clone Infantry is usually deployed to a combat zone as a division.
In command of the various unit structures are the specially trained ground force officers. They have been trained in battlefield tactics and strategic planning, which they will utilize through their own neural links in contact with the divisions on the ground. The link between the command and the ground forces can be established either through satellite uplink or direct relays.
The Clone Infantry is moved to the site of the operation in large troop transports. Small squads of Clone Infantry can also be used as a security detail in ground installations - but very rarely inside starships. The Clone Infantry is usually moved from the orbit to the ground via transporters, drop pods or from dropships and shuttles. The method of insertion is usually at the discretion of the commanders of the specific operation. The Clone Infantry is also usually supported by mechanised elements: such as hover tanks, artillery/missile vehicles and larger battle tanks will usually provide additional firepower to support the foot soldiers.
How to apply as a commander
The path to a commander of a Clone Infantry division can be a rigorous one. After a recruit has enlisted into one of the GA Military academies offering training on ground combat, he or she begins studies on both theoretical and practical fields of study concerning ground operations. Initially the recruit will be assigned a squad or perhaps a few fire and maneuver teams to command in the field. As the recruit progresses, bigger and more important ground formations may be given at the disposal of the recruit. Naturally one will also be promoted as he or she progresses.
