Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 225 Extrapolating Military Technology, yet more Morale

16 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 225 Extrapolating Military Technology, yet more Morale

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs
10.  Morale (discipline) 

The main point about morale is that you have to have a reason to fight.  In general, people need a reason to do the work they do--more so when their lives are on the line.  Patriotism is really not enough.  There are two levels of reasons to fight.  One is head and one is gut.  You fight because of what you believe in.  If you waver in your dedication to the higher ideals of your nation--such as national exceptionalism, you still need so idea or ideal to propel your thinking.  You could imagine this as self esteem.  Without a strong self esteem, a military fighter will not be able to continue the fight.

On a lower level, the core belief that you fight for some idea or ideal is critical.  This is when the larger ideal will not do.  Usually, the loss of either ideal will result in the critical loss of morale.  For example, the Romans were propelled by the idea of national exceptionalism.  This was fueled by their conquests and the Romanization of those they conquered and others just outside their sphere.  They were also propelled by the view that their gods and their society was perfect, moral, and ethical.  The beginning of the end for the Roman Empire came from the realization that their culture and society was not ethical or moral.  In general, the system of providing the dole and entertainment to the people was undercutting their culture--"bread and circuses" led to the idea that their society was not self supporting.  Along with the loss of self esteem from the realization that other cultures could provide for themselves and that the Romans were dependent on others, came the additional input (from Christianity) that their paganism was not very ethical or moral.  It is hard to see which idea was more potent in bringing down the morale of the Legions.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 219 Extrapolating Military Technology, Compact Food Tactical Costs

10 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 219 Extrapolating Military Technology, Compact Food Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs
10.  Morale (discipline) 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  Of course, from the can we gradually moved to MREs (Meals Ready to Eat).  The MRE improved the weight, flavor, and compactness of the can.  The MRE even solved the problem of heating the can.  When I was issued C-Rats (Canned rations--at least that's what we said they stood for), we heated the cans by putting then on the hot exhaust parts of the motors of our vehicles.  We had all kinds of ways of making the C-rats taste better, and everyone had their favorites.  At the same time there were C-Rats, there were also K-Rats (survival rations of compressed cornflakes and stuff), LRPS (I don't remember what the acronym means, they were dehydrated meals that really tasted great).  You had to drink a lot of water with K-Rats because they'd stop you up.  The LRPS were basically an entrée and not a full meal. 

As I wrote, the MREs solved the problem of heating by having a chemical pack that heats the hot part of the meal to above boiling in minutes.  So, let's look at the interpolation of the technology.  The combat meal went from cans (C-Rats) to a lightweight packaged meal (MREs).  The meals are about the same caloric level (2000), but the size, variability, quality, weight, and convenience went up.  This is what your extrapolation for future battle-ready food should do.  I don't expect meals to ever be about swallowing pills (where do you get the bulk and the calories?), but I do expect more convenience, quality, and smaller size.  However, most of the food an army eats is not combat meals--most of the food is prepared on the battlefield.  The reason is cost and morale.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 218 Extrapolating Military Technology, and yet more Food Tactical Costs

9 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 218 Extrapolating Military Technology, and yet more Food Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs
10.  Morale (discipline) 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  The can changed the world for warfare and nutrition.  Few realize that the ability to store and transport large amounts of food--especially prepared food and meats made modern warfare possible.  It would literally be impossible to try to fight a modern war without stored easily transportable food.  That transportable food was in cans. 

Initially, one of the biggest problems with cans was opening them.  The first cans were sealed with screws.  In a world with few screwdrivers, screws on cans resulted in the loss of one very famous battle in South Africa and in other possible battles elsewhere.  The can opener was a great invention that led to other innovations.  People in general and writers many time do not realize the greatest ironies in history.  The inability to open a can that led to the loss of a battle is one of these great ironies.  By the way, it wasn't food in the can, but ammo. 

You might ask how such a thing can happen.  This is the work of the historian and the writer.  The historian gives the facts behind the problem, the writer puts the soul behind the problem.  These kinds of issues are great plot and theme points.  It is hard to believe that a can can be so important, but that is both history and life.   

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 214 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Space Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

5 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 214 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Space Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  The simple extrapolation of ammo handling into space gives us great insight into the problems and needs of space combat.  You can imagine the fate of a group who approaches combat in space like planet based warfare--they will be toast.  You can imagine the carnage and the problems throughout the system where unbridled warfare exists, but you can also see the advantages for the terrorist or the rebel or the revolution. 

Whether readers or writers fully comprehend the reason for the use of energy weapons in space--this is it.  Except energy weapons pose their own problems.  For example, how far will a blast of energy go until it dissipates or is stopped.  In space, there isn't much dissipation, and it won't stop until it hits something.  The possibility is that there energy beams, blasts, etc. will be traveling for eternity until they hit something.  This is not a good thing at all.  It makes bombs and bullets in space look better and better.  I can armor against bombs and bullets, but it takes a lot to armor against energy beams and blasts. 

Space is a dangerous place for warfare.  There are ramifications.  What happens when the Space Ship Enterprise gets hit by one of the plasma cannon shots it fired during the first episode.  Couldn't happen in the Star Trek Dreck universe, but a real possibility in the real universe.  At least if there really is Warped drive.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 213 Extrapolating Military Technology, Space Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

4 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 213 Extrapolating Military Technology, Space Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  So, let's extrapolate ammo handling into the future.  Since I don't expect land or sea based operations to change much at all, let's look at space operations.  In space, ordinance handling will be more difficult.  The difficulty with handling ordinance in space is the problem of containment, fusing, operations, and weightlessness. 

When a bomb goes off in space, their is no air friction, ground, or gravity to contain the blast or the blast particles.  So, even though you can't hear the explosion, the particles (fragmentation), will continue to travel at the speed they started until they hit something.  Now, space is big, but massive warfare in orbit could cause significant problems for ships in that area for a long time--until the fragments leave the solar system.  This is a significant problem for operations in space.  An uncontained explosion will be horrific in space.  Therefore, you can expect all space operations to use directed explosion weapons with as little fragmentation as possible.  You really can't have uncontained fragments of any size hanging around.  The weapons will need to actually strike their targets.  In modern warfare, you don't need or really want the weapons to hit their targets--you only need to get close enough to blast fragmentation into a target.  In space, you want to hit the target and then pour energy into it.  This means tracking and attack systems must be able to handle high velocities and closure rates.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 212 Extrapolating Military Technology, and more Emergency Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

3 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 212 Extrapolating Military Technology, and more Emergency Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  If you bring live ordinance home, you need a way to handle it, a place to park, and a way to off load it.  The handling is the opposite of the loading--except that with a malfunction, you may not know what is wrong until you get it on the ground and examine it.  The parking is the hazardous cargo area.  Almost every major and definitely every military field has a hazardous cargo or hot ordinance area.  These are near the ends of the runway and isolated from the base or airport facilities.  The reason is that if the ordinance goes off, the fire and emergency crews let it burn. 

That's not true in the Navy--except on the land.  On the seas, and likely in the future in space, it is too dangerous to bring malfunctioning ordinance (or any live ordinance) back on board.  The Navy dumps any live ordinance before the aircraft lands on the carrier at sea.  In the future, in space, the rules of the game may change a little, but not that much.  If the risks of landing with live ordinance are low enough, then you could bring it on board.  If it is high--like a carrier landing, you can't risk bringing it on board.

By the way, the Navy has the crew eject or land on land if they can't get rid of live ordinance.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 211 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Emergency Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

2 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 211 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Emergency Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  When you have any aircraft problem with live ordinance, the first step in a combat environment is to get rid of the ordinance.  This is harder and easier than it sounds.  It is easy to get rid of a load of ordinance--it is usually inconvenient and painful.  The inconvenient and painful is that you have to have a place that the drop won't hurt the good guys, but that is convenient to the battlefield--or you just drop your load on the bad guys.  The problem with that is, with a bad aircraft, getting shot at is a bad idea.  Getting shot at in a good aircraft can be a bad idea, and anything in the air is a target.

In considering the costs, economics, and operations, in your writing, you should understand these issues and, when necessary, in your writing, you should use and write about them.  The use and write about them is the key point.  I know that many science fiction writers have no concept about how these things work.  Many in the military have no idea, unless they have been involved.  The point of writing is to convey the reality of the times and world.  The more real your world is the more depth your writing will have.  These details give great breadth to your writing.

What you do with live ordinance when you get on the ground is also important--in many cases, you can't get rid of it, so you have to bring it home.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 210 Extrapolating Military Technology, Emergency Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

1 March 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 210 Extrapolating Military Technology, Emergency Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  What do you do when you have a weapons malfunction?  First, you have a checklist.  In all complex systems, you have checklists for every known malfunction, and you have training and generic operations for malfunctions that are not known.  Personally, I have seen few malfunctions that were not covered by a checklist of some kind.  Even in flight test, I've known what to do when I had a problem. 

A simple reading of weapons emergency checklists will show you that they cover most every problem.  So, there is little scope for emergencies that are not known or predicted.  Most problems are not unknown, but rather set in situations that are difficult if not impossible to solve. 

In one of my unpublished novels, I have a situation of an engine failure under dire circumstances that killed crew members of a ship.  The engine failure wasn't the unpredicted problem--it was the environment (a box canyon etc.) that was the problem. 

In weapons malfunctions, the problem is usually the circumstances and not the malfunction itself.  For example, a problem with fusing isn't a problem unless the weapon hangs or the weapon is dropped too low etc.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 209 Extrapolating Military Technology, yet more Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

28 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 209 Extrapolating Military Technology, yet more Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  Problems with ordnance are many.  It's just like a round in a gun.  A rocket can be a squib.  A bullet can fail to fire properly.  A mechanism can fail.  Fuses can fail.  Launchers and drop systems can fail.  I haven't experienced them all.  I'm trained for them and so must your forces.  In warfare, you see malfunctions.  They don't happen very often, but they happen.  They can be a plot point or a turning point, but don't have more than one--unless the plot is about failed munitions.  Or a plot point could be a failed munitions, fuses, rocket motors.  Don't have more than one--unless the plot point is about sabotage. 

In other words, weapons can fail, but they don't often fail--unless they are sabotaged or they have some kind of defect.  These are great plot points or themes for writing in science fiction or military fiction.  We'll look next at what you do when you have a weapons malfunction.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 208 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

27 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 208 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  A great plot device for tactical operations are those with live ordnance and malfunctions.  You can have both regular aircraft (or vehicle) malfunctions or ordnance malfunctions.  I've had both.  Whenever you bring back live stuff that hasn't been expended, you have a problem.  The Navy usually dumps unused live ordnance.  This can be done safely because of the fusing on the weapons. 

Weapons don't go boom unless they are armed.  In an aircraft, the pilot controls the fusing of the weapon through preflight settings and through the employment software (or hardware).  In the good old days, the pilot would simply select the fusing (nose, tail, or none).  This allowed many tactical options including dropping the bomb in  a state where it would not explode--or shouldn't.

I've have a few weapon malfunctions on regular aircraft and some on test aircraft.  The most memorable in a fully tested aircraft was when the rockets came about halfway out on the ground prior to takeoff.  They hadn't been locked properly in the launcher.  From then on, I check the seating of the rockets.  Sometimes it is hard to tell.  Other than that, I've had a flight control malfunction on the ground prior to takeoff with rockets.  I've also had a hydraulic leak--that was fun--with rockets on board.  Lots can go wrong with weapons.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 207 Extrapolating Military Technology, Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

26 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 207 Extrapolating Military Technology, Ammo Handling Operations Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  Tactical operations with live ammo on board are as controlled as the ground operations.  Any time you are carrying live stuff, you are a potential danger to yourself and others.  Just imagine carrying a loaded weapon.  In the military, the troops who are responsible for these operations are cautious to prevent friendly and collateral damage. 

The danger of carrying live weapons is greater than unarmed operations.  The danger in indiscriminate use if even higher.  In the military, there is always either a FCO (Fire Control Officer) or a FAC (Forward Air Controller) who gives the final permission to fire (drop) weapons.  The ultimate authority with troops in contact is the ground commander.  The ultimate authority when troops are not in contact is the AOO (Air Operations Officer).  Aircraft can't just drop weapons or engage targets without the proper authority. 

Aircraft and ground forces always work to an ROE (Rules of Engagement).  These are applicable to peace time and to war time.  the purpose is to protect crews and people on the ground.  Operations are handled with great care, and we haven't touched on emergency procedures and weapons problems.

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 206 Extrapolating Military Technology, Ammo Handling Tactical Costs

25 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 206 Extrapolating Military Technology, Ammo Handling Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  The rounds (bombs etc.) have special packaging and markings.  In the gunships, the aircraft are not loaded in the normal preflight area.  Usually, the aircraft is checked (preflight), started, and moved to the loading area.  In the loading area, the armament troops bring the ammo out to the gunship and load it.  The loading area is in the weapons safety station also called "last chance." I can tell you lots of stories about last chance. 

In normal fighter aircraft, the aircraft are usually loaded on the ramp by the armament troops.  The fight starts up with everything pinned and ready to go.  At last chance, the armament troops arm the systems.  The pull the arming pins and the pylon pins.  They pull the pins on the guns.  They set the rockets and missiles to arm from safe.

In the gunship, all the ammo is loaded in the proper bins.  Only the Gatling gun ammo is already loaded at the ramp.  When the gunship is loaded, the systems are not ready to fire, but the ammo is on board.  The next step is the takeoff.    

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 205 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Ammo Tactical Costs

24 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 205 Extrapolating Military Technology, more Ammo Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  You might imagine the safety process that the production of ammo must go through.  That in itself is worth contemplating.  The real point where the military and most units get involved is transportation and packaging.  The packaging must be exact or the weaponeers and logisticians will reject it.  An improperly packaged weapon is more than dangerous--it is deadly.  An improperly made round is likewise dangerous. 

The rounds are packaged and marked very specifically.  The rounds (and bombs) themselves are marked.  In the US military, if a round has a green stripe, it is a live operational round (or bomb).  A practice or non-live round has a blue stripe around it.  This is true of all operational rounds, bombs, missiles, and rockets.  The reason for a blue stripe is to tell fire fighters and rescuers whether to fight the fire or rescue the crew.  If there is a blue stripe, rescue forces know the round is safe and will rescue the crew and fight the fire.  If the round is green, they evacuate and wait for the rounds to cook off--or on ship board, they push the aircraft into the drink.

The markings and packaging of the rounds is critical to the way they are treated and the safety of the crew.    

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 204 Extrapolating Military Technology, Ammo Tactical Costs

23 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 204 Extrapolating Military Technology, Ammo Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  One major type of support is ammo.  Ammo, like fuel has got to get to the front line troops.  The question is how will it get there.  I know in movies and many books, this is magic.  The ammo is magically there in the vehicle for the soldiers to use--or better, there is no discussion at all about ammo.  The soldiers just fire their photon torpedoes.  I don't think so.  If you know anything about the military and moving bombs, bullets, and other types of ammo around, you know all this is a big deal.

Let me explain it to you a little.  I have been in the military aircraft on target community for a long time--over 20 years.  Although, I've flown and fly aircraft that drop bombs and fire missiles and rockets, the AC-130 gunship is the most indicative of weapons safety and care.

When you are going to fire the weapons on a gunship, you go through a very complex ritual that starts with production, packaging, transportation, and storage.  

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 203 Extrapolating Military Technology, even more Replacement Tactical Costs

22 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 203 Extrapolating Military Technology, even more Replacement Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  So, for every vehicle class you have in your future battlefield, you will need a recovery vehicle.  You will need a resupply vehicle.  You will need transport vehicles.  Usually, you will need strategic and tactical resupply and transport vehicles.  This increases the complexity and depth of your military development. 

Imagine, in a Mecha world, the type of vehicle you will need to recover mechs.  I suspect they would be a very high power, heavy mech, but with limited firepower. Talk about a plot device.  In general, tactical and strategic costs mean most of the vehicles and troops around the battlefield are not armed as well as the front line troops.  Those in the front line may not be supplied as well as those who are committing the attacks.  In other words, the tactical commander has a great deal to say about who gets the peak of supply.  Those who don't, don't usually have the firepower (through supply) to commit to an offensive attack of any kind--they don't have enough fuel or ammo.  They may not have enough of the other stuff too. 

In a battlefield, the commander says which units get priority for replacement parts and repair.  It usually is the crack front line groups.  The ones the commander can depend on for battle wins.  This doesn't mean the commander ignores the other units, but that the best trained, best led, and best equipped are his ace in the hole.  They are the ones that usually get the full support of supply.   

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com

Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 202 Extrapolating Military Technology, yet more Replacement Tactical Costs

21 February 2014, Writing Ideas - Writing Science Fiction, part 202 Extrapolating Military Technology, yet more Replacement Tactical Costs

Announcement: There is action on my new novels.  The publisher renamed the series--they are still working on the name.  I provided suggestions as did one of my prepub readers. Now the individual books will be given single names: Leora, Leila, Russia, Lumiere', China, Sveta, and Klava--at least these are some of the suggestions.  They are also working on a single theme for the covers.  I'll keep you updated.

Introduction: I wrote the novel Aksinya: Enchantment and the Daemon. This was my 21st novel and through this blog, I gave you the entire novel in installments that included commentary on the writing. In the commentary, in addition to other general information on writing, I explained, how the novel was constructed, the metaphors and symbols in it, the writing techniques and tricks I used, and the way I built the scenes. You can look back through this blog and read the entire novel beginning with http://www.pilotlion.blogspot.com/2010/10/new-novel-part-3-girl-and-demon.html.

I'm using this novel as an example of how I produce, market, and eventually (we hope) get a novel published. I'll keep you informed along the way.

Today's Blog: To see the steps in the publication process, visit my writing website http://www.ldalford.com/ and select "production schedule," you will be sent to http://www.sisteroflight.com/.

The four plus one basic rules I employ when writing:

1. Don't confuse your readers.
2. Entertain your readers.
3. Ground your readers in the writing.
4. Don't show (or tell) everything.
5. Immerse yourself in the world of your writing.

I am writing about the extrapolation of science and technology to be able to write science fiction.  I made the point that it is almost meaningless to try to fully extrapolate a universe (world) that is 10,000 years in the future (and maybe 1,000 years in the future) without applying some cultural and technological shaping.

By shaping the cultures of your science fiction universe, you can shape the science and technology that is extrapolated.  Here is how I culturally shaped the universe of The Chronicles of the Dragon and the Fox to make the 10,000 year extrapolation work.

The major areas in warfare technology are:
1.  Software
2.  Weapons
     Heavy Weapons
3.  Countermeasures
4.  Defense
5.  Communications
6.  Robots
7.  Vehicles
8.  Environments (personal equipment)
9.  Costs 

Tactical costs are food, fuel, ammo, and replacements.  You can imagine the extrapolation of replacements and parts the future.  Every vehicle and weapon system will require so type of recovery capability and repair.  There will need to be a way to bring new vehicles, parts, repair capability, and new troops to the front. 

Imagine your battlefield.  You will need to get the replacements to the area and then tactically deploy them.  In the case of space or a planet, you will need a spaceship to take the replacements to a space port and then some way to get them from orbit to a planetary space port.  From the port, you will need to move them to the back lines and finally to the front.  Each of these require a transition, a method, and a movement.  I mention this because I like to use these transitions to forward ideas in the novel. 

Moving your troops to the front line doesn't have to be a single paragraph and shouldn't be a single sentence.  This is a writing technique, but a very worthwhile one.  The major events in the life of a soldier are usually not training, battles, and glory.  The major events in the life of a soldier is the travel to the battlefield, the movement in the battlefield, and the movement in response to the battle.  Yeah, the battle is pretty important, but if you read most autobiographies of soldiers, you will find they focus on the movement part and not just the battle.  The battles are usually a small part of the whole.  Getting there is half the journey and an important part of an author's tools.  

More tomorrow.

Also remember, I'm trying to show you and give you examples of how to write a science fiction theme statement and turn it into a plot.

For more information, you can visit my author site http://www.ldalford.com/, and my individual novel websites:
http://www.aegyptnovel.com/
http://www.centurionnovel.com
http://www.thesecondmission.com/http://www.theendofhonor.com/
http://www.thefoxshonor.com
http://www.aseasonofhonor.com