Modern War #39: Axis of Evil – Conflict in the Persian Gulf is an operational and strategic-level two-player wargame simulating a large-scale modern conflict for control of the Middle East. Designed around the powerful and flexible system introduced in Putin’s War (Modern War #29), this game explores the escalating struggle between a Russian-led Eurasian Union and a Coalition of opposing powers determined to prevent domination of one of the most strategically vital regions on Earth.

Players command modern military coalitions fighting across an immense area — from the Persian Gulf and Iran to Syria and the Eastern Mediterranean. The scenario envisions a global crisis in which the Eurasian Union, with allies or support from Russia, China, and Iran, pushes into the Middle East to seize vital oil and gas infrastructure, while a US-backed Coalition of nations, including Saudi Arabia, Israel, and other regional powers, mobilises to stop them. The result is a volatile and high-stakes modern war where conventional, cyber, and hybrid warfare intertwine with political ambition and limited logistics.

The game system operates at a grand strategic level, giving players command of army corps, air forces, and special operations units. Each hex represents 62 miles (100 km), and each turn represents between three days and two weeks, depending on operational tempo. Players must balance logistics, reinforcement priorities, and divergent political objectives while conducting air and ground operations across multiple fronts. The inclusion of diverse regional forces introduces asymmetry and unpredictability — reflecting the reality of coalition warfare in the modern era.

Combat in Axis of Evil combines traditional maneuver and attrition with the use of airpower, precision strikes, and special forces operations. Players can use these elements to cripple enemy infrastructure, interdict supply lines, or seize critical objectives such as oil fields, ports, and communication hubs. The vast operational theatre challenges players to coordinate forces over long distances and through varied terrain — from desert plains to urban strongholds — where control of supply routes often determines victory.

Each player’s ultimate goal is to gain control of the Middle East by seizing key resource, logistics, and communication centers. The Eurasian player must press quickly and decisively before Coalition reinforcements can build overwhelming superiority, while the Coalition player must leverage its technological advantage, air superiority, and allied coordination to resist and counter the invasion.

Components:

• One 22” x 34” full-colour strategic map of the Middle East
• 176 die-cut counters representing corps, divisions, air units, and special forces
• Comprehensive rulebook based on Putin’s War system
• Player aids and scenario setup charts

Scale and Play Details:
Players: 2
Level: Operational / Strategic
Hex Scale: 62 miles (100 km) per hex
Turn Scale: 3 days to 2 weeks
Counters: 176 pieces

Modern War #39: Axis of Evil – Conflict in the Persian Gulf offers an immersive and plausible look at a 21st-century great-power conflict. With a balance of military realism, political tension, and strategic scope, it delivers a compelling simulation for fans of modern warfare and geopolitical wargaming. Every decision — from targeting oil infrastructure to committing elite special forces — can shift the balance of power across the world’s most volatile region.

Available now from Milsims Games — Australia’s premier retailer for modern and historical wargames. Includes price-match guarantee and fast domestic shipping from Mont Albert, VIC.

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