The Syrian Civil War started with the Arab Spring in early 2011 but has only become more and more complex since then.With international tensions high, and so many players maneuvering in a very small space, it is amazing that the conflict has not overflowed into a general regional or even global war. The two most likely protagonists in any escalation are Russia and Turkey, countries with many long standing differences of opinion and grudges against each other. In this scenario you play either Russia or Turkey as you attempt to maintain national honour and pride while keeping any hostilities limited. Complicating your efforts are US, Coalition, Syrian, ISIS and Rebel forces. Winning is not always a matter of causing casualties. Side Brief – TurkeyAnother hot and hazy summer day in Southeastern Turkey. You are the commander of the 10th wing of the air force and are charged with securing Turkish airspace from any violations. Your forces consist of two F-16 squadron based at Diyarbakır and one F-4 Squadron at Malatya Erhaç. Supporting the Coalition but not under your control are two tankers and a new 737 Wedgtail working out of Incirlik. You are also aware of a navy frigate and submarine off the coast which you have been told are yours to command if you need them.The coalition forces in your area, mostly US, British, French and German have informed your staff that they will be flying against rebel targets in northern Syria today, some have cleared airspace but they are not usually a problem. Indeed, many are based at Incirlik and you have instructions to accommodate them as much as possible. On the other hand, the Russians do not have authority to cross the border, and they will likely push that limit. Tensions with them have steadily increased since we shot down the Su-24 for violating our airspace last November! The Syrians are not usually an issue, they cower in their bases and wait for the Russians to do the dirty work.Your task today, as every day, is to ensure that our airspace is not violated, particularly by the Russians!But you’re not allowed to start a war on your own – you must use non-lethal means unless given authority, the government is a little touchy on that point! As well; you should use your F-4’s to bomb some Kurdish forces as payback for the damage the Russians are doing to the Turkoman Brigades.Stay safe and keep things calm!Side Brief – RussiaAs the Commander of the Russian Forces in Syria you review your situation:The weather today is hot and somewhat hazy. Your forces represent the best in the Russian military, a mix of over 40 aircraft from the most modern fighters to unmanned surveillance drones, the best SAM system in the world, two of the quietest submarines available and one of the most potent ships afloat patrolling off the coast. Still, you are surrounded, vulnerable and outnumbered.Your primary task is to support the Syrians and help them win this interminable civil war; you can do that by destroying ISIS and the wester...