Modern War #3: Somali Pirates is a two-player strategic wargame that explores a hypothetical modern conflict between international Coalition forces and powerful Somali pirate factions. Designed by Joseph Miranda, this game challenges players to conduct modern combined-arms warfare — integrating naval, air, land, and special operations — while balancing public opinion through the innovative Netwar Index system.

• Historical & Hypothetical Background: Set in the volatile region of East Africa and the Horn of Africa, Somali Pirates envisions a world where pirate syndicates, warlords, and Al Qaeda affiliates have formed a formidable alliance. Their growing strength threatens vital international trade routes through the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. In response, a multinational Coalition — including the United States, NATO, and potentially China — launches a coordinated campaign to dismantle this threat and restore stability to the region.
• Gameplay & Objectives: Two players take opposing roles in this asymmetric modern warfare scenario:
  • The Coalition: Conducts a complex counter-insurgency and stabilization campaign, deploying modern naval task forces, air power, and special operations units to neutralise pirate bases and seize key territories.
  • The Pirates: Represent decentralized networks of warlords, militias, and extremist allies. Their goal is to resist invasion, exploit chaos, and expand influence through smuggling, attacks, and control of strategic assets.
  The Netwar Index measures each side’s success — tracking media influence, political will, and public support. Players must manage not only battlefield victories but also the war of perception and legitimacy.
• Game System & Scale: The game’s innovative system captures the dynamics of modern “hybrid warfare,” integrating conventional military operations, insurgent tactics, and information warfare.
  • Each counter represents major military forces: naval squadrons, air assets, ground battalions, or special operations teams.
  • Players maneuver across a strategic map encompassing Somalia, the Red Sea, and the Indian Ocean.
  • Victory is determined through control of key objectives and manipulation of the Netwar Index to achieve global dominance or survival.
• Strategic Themes:
  • Modern counter-piracy and anti-terrorism operations
  • Coalition coordination vs. decentralized insurgency
  • Public opinion and media influence as a tool of war
  • Economic warfare and control of maritime routes
  • Asymmetric gameplay between powerful militaries and irregular forces

Game Components:

• 1 x 22” x 34” full-colour map covering East Africa, the Horn of Africa, and the Indian Ocean
• 228 die-cut counters representing naval fleets, ground forces, aircraft, militias, and special operations units
• Rules manual detailing the Netwar system and unique mechanics for asymmetric conflict
• Player aids and scenario sheets for organized play

Scale:
Players: 2
Level: Strategic / Operational
Map Area: East Africa and the Indian Ocean
Units: Naval, Air, Land, and Special Operations Forces

Gameplay Focus: Somali Pirates offers a fast-paced and deeply strategic look at 21st-century conflict and counterterrorism. Its asymmetrical design, media-driven mechanics, and realistic hybrid warfare scenarios make it a unique experience for both modern military enthusiasts and long-time wargamers.

Modern War #3: Somali Pirates is ideal for players interested in modern global conflicts, asymmetric warfare, and geopolitical simulations.

Available now from Milsims Games — Australia’s leading store for wargames, military simulations, and strategy titles. Includes price-match guarantee and fast local shipping from Mont Albert, VIC.

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