37º 14’ 12” North, 115º 48’ 41” West
Air Force Flight Test Centre at Groom Lake, Nevada, the United States
17 September 2012
The sun beat down fiercely that morning on the second runway at Groom Lake, an air base set on the burning sands of the Nevada desert. Groom Lake was a detachment of Edwards Air Force Base, just under two hundred miles away to the south-east in the Mojave Desert; both were part of the Nellis field of operations. Groom Lake was its official title, but the base enjoyed several other nicknames: Paradise Ranch, Home Base or Homey Airport. But the most popular of all was Area 51. Since the 1950s, these military facilities had been shrouded in an air of mystery and secrecy that had only served to feed people’s imaginations. Rumours of UFO sightings and spaceship testing abounded. In truth, these speculations weren’t entirely wrong. Groom Lake was a very special military base. Kept away from prying eyes, it was of great strategic importance. But not because it guarded an alien spacecraft.
The military facilities known as Area 51 were no ordinary air base because they weren’t used to store combat units that would be deployed at the front. Instead, experimental aeroplanes were developed and tested at the base. Once these aircraft had been approved by the USAF and other agencies, such as the CIA and NASA, they were transferred to more standard facilities. The Nevada desert had been the first to witness experimental flights by prototypes that would subsequently become internationally famous. This was why barely any photographs of Groom Lake existed, other than a few shots taken by the Soviet Union during the Cold War and images from civilian satellites. The United States government zealously guarded all activity at the base. This was understandable, because after the NORAD, it was one of the most valuable strategic military targets in the country.
Groom Lake was in the heart of the Nevada desert, just over sixty miles north of the bright lights of Las Vegas. It sat on a plain that ended in the Papoose Mountain range to the west; to the north, east and south, the plain stretched out across the desert until it reached the foothills of several mountain chains that screened it like powerful walls. The base practically bordered Yucca Flat, the large 1960s nuclear testing zone that was now used for storing nuclear waste. The entire perimeter of the air base was surrounded by barbed wire and signs warning that access to the area was prohibited under penalty of death. An extensive system of security cameras and patrols, by jeeps on the ground and UAVs in the sky, ensured that no unwanted eyes ever rested their gaze on the Groom Lake facilities.
The USAF Boeing C-32 VIP transport aeroplane touched down smoothly on the landing strip. It slowly taxied towards the visitor welcome zone opposite the main hangar at the centre of the complex. The aircraft was more commonly known as Air Force Two and was mainly used by United States cabinet members and congressmen travelling around the world on official business.
The aircraft came to a halt on the tarmac. A stair car quickly sped towards it and began the process of coupling to the door. A convoy of five all-terrain army vehicles moved along one of the access roads and drew up alongside the aeroplane. Twelve soldiers got out and rapidly marched over to the foot of the staircase where they stood in line. They were followed by grey-haired William Murdock, commander in chief of the Groom Lake facilities, USAF Lieutenant Colonel Jack Preston and USAF Captain Derek Chapman. Finally, Clark Henderson, an executive at Space-Combat Ventures brought up the rear. Preston was forty-six years old. He was tall and sinewy with short blonde hair, in striking contrast to Chapman, an Afro-American with short, dark hair. The two men were of similar height and extremely fit. They positioned themselves next to the soldiers and waited for the stair car to finish attaching itself and the aeroplane door to open.
“The day’s finally come. I sure hope they give it their all. We’ve got to impress the congressmen, Jack,” Henderson whispered in his ear.
“We’ve been training long and hard for this. Don’t worry, they’re going to get a good show today. The boys will make sure of it,” Preston smiled to himself.
“We’re not going to make it easy for you,” Chapman added, looking at him challengingly.
“I’d expect nothing less from you, Derek. There’s a lot at stake with this test,” Preston turned his attention back to the plane.
“I’m sure you and Kira are going to put up one hell of a fight,” Chapman said with the voice of experience. “Let’s see if we can get rolling.”
The stairs clamped onto the aeroplane and the front door of Air Force Two opened. The first person to exit was an airman in USAF uniform. He turned and gestured inside for the others to follow him. He began to climb down the stairs as another uniformed figure appeared in the doorway, this time an old man. Six more suited men followed and several assistants carrying briefcases appeared shortly afterwards.
“I thought just the congressmen were coming. No one told me that the USAF chief of staff would be here too,” Henderson looked annoyed.
“He joined at the last moment. It seems General Giles wants to personally supervise the combat test. It’s his big gamble with Congress,” Commander Murdock explained.
At fifty-six years old, General Robert P. Giles was the United States Air Force chief of staff and a heavyweight in the United States armed forces. He had spent the past ten years working tirelessly to modernise the US Air Force. In his eyes, it was in desperate need of moving with the times, adapting to modern life and new technology. Today, he was at Groom Lake to supervise his star project, the X-56, codename Phoenix: the first orbital supremacy stealth fighter jet in the world.
The first man in uniform reached the group and started to greet the waiting men one by one.
“Commander Murdock, Mr Henderson, Lieutenant Colonel Preston and Captain Chapman, it’s a pleasure. I’m Lieutenant George Drayton, General Giles’s secretary. I’ll be your point of contact with the group of congressmen today; I’m here to answer their questions and make sure the Phoenix Project test is supervised correctly,” he announced.
Moments later the reception party started to welcome the six congressmen and General Giles. The waiting soldiers gave the general a military salute as he walked past and Henderson shook their hands. When the time came for General Giles and Preston to greet one another, the general gave him a firm handshake.
“Good to see you again, Preston. Sorry to hear about your divorce, I hope all’s well with your daughter,” General Giles seemed sincere.
“It’s an honour to see you again, sir. Well, you know how these things go… There’s always collateral damage. I hope I’ll see more of my daughter soon, once we finish testing the X-56,” Preston had no time to think about his personal situation.
“Yes, I think we all want these tests finished and some good results in as soon as possible.”
“Yes, sir,” Preston was aware of everything that was at stake.
Once the introductions were over, Lieutenant Drayton, General Giles’s secretary, gestured to the congressmen to indicate they were going to take the all-terrain vehicles over to one of the hangars. Once there, they would be shown an introductory presentation about the project and combat test. The congressmen and their assistants split themselves between three of the vehicles, while Commander Murdock, Henderson and Chapman got into the fourth. Preston climbed into the last vehicle with General Giles and Lieutenant Drayton.
The vehicle’s engine roared into action and Preston and his companions set off on their brief journey; the Phoenix Project hangar was less than half a mile away. It was set apart from the other buildings at the base and had its own additional six-hundred-foot security fence. Roughly thirty soldiers with dogs and two M1A3 Abrams tanks were exclusively tasked with protecting the area.
“So, if you don’t mind me asking, why are you here, sir?” Preston faced him, if something happened, he needed to know as soon as possible.
“How’s the Phoenix doing? Do you think it’s ready for the kind of test we’re putting it through today? I’m worried that we’ve rushed into it, but we don’t have the luxury of letting those bureaucrats cut our budget,” General Giles stared out of the window, thoughtful.
“It’s ready, sir. Its handling is outstanding and it has great combat capacity. All the tests we’ve done so far have been successful… I’m sure it’ll be up to scratch for our congressmen pals. That said, the launch system and secondary module are more of a worry.” He frowned.
“I’m aware of that. That’s actually the reason I’m here. But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. We can discuss that after the test, if all goes well.” Preston was unable to decipher P. Giles's enigmatic face.
“Here we are, sir,” Lieutenant Drayton interrupted.
The convoy crossed a special access point and stopped outside the hangar entrance. The passengers got out and entered the building. The hangar itself was vast, measuring four hundred feet long by three hundred feet wide and a hundred feet high. It was connected to the subterranean levels underneath the base by floors that were built a thousand feet deep into the ground. There was a large lifting platform in the centre that moved up and down between the various lower levels housing the assembly and development workshops. The surface level was only used for access and as a warehouse for the finished prototypes; none were currently visible. A monitoring centre had been installed in the hangar for the test. It consisted of a series of tables covered in computers surrounded by technicians at work. Next to it, several rows of chairs had been placed in front of high-definition fabric screens. Two pilots, one of whom was Asian, were waiting for them.
“Gentlemen, please take a seat. We’re about to start the Phoenix Project presentation,” Lieutenant Drayton pointed ahead.
The group of congressmen and assistants sat down and were joined by General Giles and Lieutenant Drayton. Chapman and Preston stood to one side of the largest screen with the young Japanese man. Henderson picked up a mobile device and switched it on.
“Good morning, Congressmen, General Giles. Allow me to introduce myself. I’m Clark Henderson. As you know, I’m in charge of the Phoenix Project at Space-Combat Ventures, SCV, the main company behind this project. I’m here to give you a brief introduction to what we’ll be seeing today. First, I’d like to introduce you to the men who will be playing key roles in the combat test; they’ll explain everything to you in greater detail. On one side, we have Lieutenant Colonel Jack Preston and Lieutenant Kira Takeda, the pilots who will be flying the two X-56 prototypes in the test. On the other, we have Lieutenant James Curtis, who is also part of the Phoenix test team. He’ll remain here to explain to you exactly what is happening during the exercise in real time. And finally, this is Captain Derek Chapman —he’ll be leading an air defence squadron who will intercept our two Phoenixes and try to stop them carrying out their test mission successfully. Now, I’d like to show you a short film that explains the origins of the Phoenix Project.”
Henderson tapped the screen of his device and a video presentation started to play on the fabric screen. An off-screen voice began to talk over a series of images and animations. It explained how, since the end of President Reagan’s ‘Strategic Defence Initiative’ in the 1970s, the US Army had forgotten how vitally important it was to control airspace as a defence against external attacks. The Phoenix programme aimed to develop a fighter jet that would not only be able to achieve total orbital supremacy, but could also survive re-entering the atmosphere. It could then launch a subsequent stealth attack on any target on the Earth’s surface while evading all known air and land defence forces. Henderson paused the video at this point.
“The Phoenix Project was a response to this initiative and it ultimately led to the two identical X-56 prototypes that you’re going to see today,” Henderson explained. “The Phoenix is not only the first orbital supremacy air incursion fighter jet, it’s also the first modular aircraft in the USAF. Please pay close attention to the next video to fully understand this concept.”
He activated his control again and a new video began to play on the screen. The same off-screen voice started to describe the Phoenix Project. It began by discussing and displaying designs for the ‘Burning Ashes’ module, a delta wing with an independent scramjet engine, armed with two high performance lasers. It then described the specifications of the Phoenix module, the most advanced fighter jet ever designed. Heir to projects such as the X-44 Manta, the aircraft had no tail surfaces, a single, wedge-shaped delta wing and a next generation thrust vectoring system. It was designed with enhanced stealth features and several weapons bays (two lateral bays with a larger bay underneath the fuselage) for transporting all types of missiles and bombs, including nuclear weapons such as the B-61 bomb. It was also equipped with a .50 calibre machine gun integrated into the fuselage for close combat.
The voice explained how the X-56 was created by integrating the Phoenix and Burning Ashes modules; they were coupled together to make one single aircraft. The video reproduced images showing how the X-56 would be placed in an electromagnetic catapult to be launched at Mach 4. It would then ignite its scramjet engine and soar upwards to an altitude of over sixty miles, orbiting Earth at roughly Mach 25. Once in stable orbit, it would be able to bring down any target using its two lasers: satellites, aircraft or even ballistic missiles. These weapons could blast the selected target with intense heat until it exploded.
Once its orbital supremacy mission was completed, the aircraft’s second function would come into play. The X-56 could attack land targets located at any point on the Earth’s surface. To launch an attack, the Phoenix would detach itself from the Burning Ashes module to commence re-entry into the atmosphere. At this point, the Burning Ashes module could either initiate its own re-entry manoeuvre, guided by automatic pilot, or be controlled by an operative on Earth for continued domination of orbital space. The Phoenix would activate its ablative gel and re-enter the atmosphere at the best angle of attack possible. This would mean it could swoop down on the enemy, leaving no time to react. Once its target had been destroyed, the Phoenix could use its enhanced manoeuvrability to evade enemy fire. It could even make a vertical landing at any safe meeting point, which could be anywhere from a small clearing in a wood to the terrace of a house, thanks to its vertical take-off and landing technology.
The video stopped playing. Some of the congressmen looked surprised while the rest remained sceptical. Henderson gazed at them, scanning their faces. He wouldn’t give them too much time to think; today had to be a continuous bombardment of information and results that left them enraptured. There was no time for deep contemplation. That might lead to doubts about the project.
“I hope you enjoyed the presentation. It clearly outlines the origins of the project and exactly what the X-56 is,” Henderson looked to his right. “Now I’m going to hand over to Lieutenant Colonel Jack Preston, who is going to describe part of today’s test.”
Preston took over the controls that Henderson passed to him and started to play another presentation. It showed a diagram of the test.
“Good morning. Today we’re going to perform an operational combat test on the X-56. To be more specific, Lieutenant Takeda and myself will be in charge of flying the two X-56 units, which we’ll call Phoenix 1 and Phoenix 2, to test their combat skills and handling capacity,” Preston started to explain.
The pilot talked over various images and diagrams, explaining that the test would not involve the Burning Ashes module or the electromagnetic catapult launch system. Instead, they planned to use two B-52 bombers to carry the two X-56s to a height of five thousand feet. Once there, the two Phoenixes would be released and would simulate re-entering the atmosphere as part of an attack on an enemy target called Alpha. The mission of the two prototypes was to reach Alpha, a simulated underground bunker, and to destroy it without being shot down by its aerial and anti-aircraft defence forces as they arrived and left.
“Captain Derek Chapman is now going to explain the details of the defence operation that will try to stop the Phoenixes passing the test,” Preston motioned for him to step forward.
He passed the control to Chapman, who opened several images on the screen showing the various units that were going to take part in the exercise.
“Ok, we’ve been allocated an F-35 air defence squadron for this test. There’ll be fifteen fighter jets, six fixed SAM batteries and a further ten mobile anti-aircraft positions equipped with 30mm automatic cannons,” Chapman was pointing out each item. “We’d normally deploy the Phoenix in surprise attacks on the enemy. However, in today’s test, the defence forces are aware that an imminent enemy attack is likely, although they don’t know exactly where it will come from. This makes the test more difficult, the idea being to show you that the Phoenix is operative and capable of striking a target even in the most adverse combat conditions.”
“Instead of real ammunition, we’ll be using two laser shot systems, one to simulate being hit by bullets and another to simulate impacts by missiles. The only real weapon that we’ll use will be the two anti-bunker missiles carried by the X-56 to destroy Alpha,” Preston added.
“If that’s all clear, our pilots can head to their combat units while we observe the test from here. We’ve set up a wide-ranging camera system to closely monitor today’s exercise. That includes cameras on the actual aeroplanes, fixed cameras on the ground and UAV in the air. So, if there aren’t any questions…” Henderson left the question hanging.
“There’s one thing I don’t quite understand. Perhaps you can help clear it up for me?” interrupted one of the congressmen, John Casper, standing up.
“What’s on your mind, Congressman?” Curtis stepped forward.
“Well, I’ve looked through the documents you provided us with in advance and now I’ve heard your explanations. What I still can’t understand is why we’re squandering money on two prototypes when surely one would be enough,” Congressman Casper looked at them, accusingly.
“Very simple. The Phoenix programme is based on maximum combat effectiveness with the minimum use of resources. That’s why, instead of deploying a large squadron of fighter jets to destroy this type of target, we wanted to create two planes that, working as a team, could do the same damage as an entire air strike,” Henderson recited, hiding his anger at the criticism.
“The Phoenix is not only designed to lock on its own targets, it can share them with the second plane. That means one Phoenix can lock on targets while the other shoots them down from a safer position,” Preston added.
“What’s more, in this particular test, the prototypes have to destroy Alpha, an underground bunker nearly a thousand feet below ground. That means two units are essential,” Curtis dared to intervene.
“And why is that?” Casper looked at him contemptuously.
“Well, imagine you want to destroy a maximum security bunker. At the moment, there’s no way of blowing up that type of bunker with just one direct hit. Unless you use a nuclear weapon, but that would be very extreme and, tactically, should be considered a last resort. So, our plan involves using two synchronised penetrating bunker busters. That means the first is launched to open way for the second; the second bomb is the one that actually destroys the target. This exercise was designed to stage an attack on the hardest target possible. We need two Phoenixes to prove it’s possible to destroy Alpha with a lightning strike operation so fast there is no way the defence forces can react,” Curtis explained.
“I appreciate what you’re saying, but I’m not quite convinced. We’re talking about an astronomic sum of money… Anyway, I’ll wait until the test is over before jumping to any conclusions,” Congressman Casper replied, still sceptical.
After this exchange, the three pilots left the hangar and headed towards their vehicles. Preston and Takeda approached Chapman and shook his hand.
“Good luck, Jack, Kira. Remember, we’re going to make it as tough for you as possible,” Chapman winked at them.
“We’d expect nothing less, sir. But I can assure you, you’ll find this is no walk in the park,” Takeda replied timidly.
“Come on, it’s time to see what these machines are capable of. Good luck, Derek,” Preston saluted him.
Chapman took one vehicle, while Preston and Takeda climbed into another to drive to their respective aeroplanes. Inside the hangar, several technicians activated the other enormous screens set up next to the general and congressmen. Another group of operatives wheeled out a huge rectangular surface, measuring thirty feet by fifteen feet, and placed it on the other side of the visitors who looked at it in surprise. Their eyes opened even wider once it was switched on. It suddenly projected a perfectly clear, three-dimensional hologram of the surrounding landscape.
“Don’t be alarmed. This is the latest in 3D holographic projection. We can use this projector to follow every step of the exercise. We may not be using any real munitions out there, other than the bunker busters, but using this projector, we’ll be able to see every shot and missile as if they were real,” Curtis began to interact with the device.
The hologram recreated a detailed image of the geographic area where the test was going to take place and the Groom Lake zone. Perhaps what impressed the congressmen most of all was the fact that it also displayed real time images of the aircraft involved in the test.
“It looks like a videogame,” one of the congressmen remarked.
“Yes, it does. Even so, don’t forget that these holograms aren’t just virtual reality. They’re true representations of actual units, so everything you see here will be real,” Curtis assured him.
Curtis approached the holographic projector and put on a black glove covered in sensors.
“If you watch, you’ll see that I can use this glove to move across the visualization zone and to zoom in and out,” he raised his hand to show it.
“But, how is that possible? How can it be a true, real-time representation of everything that’s going on out there?” a second congressman asked.
Commander Murdock cut in. “It’s all thanks to a combination of sensors, laser markers and an advanced 3D radar system. What’s more, all the combat unit IT systems used in the test are connected to our central database. So, we’ll not only be able to see what happens, but can also participate and add new variables as the test plays out.”
“Don’t worry, if you’re not convinced by all this technology, you can also follow the test on a more conventional visual system, on those screens,” Henderson pointed at them.
The congressmen looked over at the screens while Henderson handled his control with skill, opening dozens of windows. Each window was linked to one of the cameras that was going to broadcast the whole test live. On the main screen, one larger image stood out among the other windows. It currently displayed the vehicle transporting Preston and Takeda to the two X-56 aircraft that were coupled to the B-52s.
Preston was proud to have Takeda flying with him in the test. Recruiting him to the team three years earlier had been a real stroke of luck. They had first met after a course that was being taught at the prestigious us Air Force Academy, where Takeda had managed to earn a place thanks to the support and influence of his family. Takeda had been born in Japan but had moved to the United States to live with his uncle and aunt when he was just four years old, after the tragic death of his parents in a fire. His new family in the United States gave him a faithful introduction into the American way of life. Despite this, he always retained a deep respect for Japanese traditions. Even as a child, he had shown a great love for aviation and, although he could be somewhat reserved in nature, he was always passionate about anything to do with piloting combat aircraft. It was his dream, his life. He was born to fly and became the top cadet in his year with the highest scores in every flight and combat exercise. Despite enjoying apparently unlimited talent, Takeda’s instructors criticised his one great flaw: A lack of discipline. Particularly when he was supposed to follow orders to the letter. Instead, Takeda liked to improvise and perform the riskiest, most daring manoeuvres possible. Exactly what Preston needed for his recently formed team of test pilots for the Phoenix Project. Takeda had a brilliant mind, capable of calculating trajectories and understanding the physics and mathematics required to be a pilot. He combined his mental abilities with a physique that was every inch fibre and muscle, at odds with his slim build and average height. He was the typical slender Japanese man who could beat anyone in hand-to-hand combat, taking them by surprise if they were stupid enough to pick a fight. In spite of this, Takeda normally avoided confrontation and preferred to focus on his training rather than waste time on any sort of social life.
It was an unexpected honour for Takeda to be approached and invited for coffee by none other than Lieutenant Colonel Jack Preston, a living legend in the air force. All his classmates looked on enviously as he accepted the invitation and they left the course building together. What was even more surprising was Preston’s suggestion that he join a special group in the USAF that would work on testing a new aeroplane prototype. And not just any aircraft. This aircraft would break every existing mould and set a new standard for aerial combat. Takeda didn’t think twice; his answer was a resounding yes. It was the best decision he ever made. The past three years had been a whirlwind of excitement with the opportunity to fly as often as he wanted and close involvement in the Phoenix Project. His suggestions had been highly valued and were often taken into account by the engineers and technicians in charge of the X-56’s final development and assembly.
Preston and Takeda’s transport was now coming to a halt by the central parking facilities used by large aeroplanes at the base. The two imposing B-52 bombers were waiting for them. It was an extraordinary sight: each B-52 had one of the Phoenix aircraft attached to its roof. Preston and Takeda could see the project technicians running through the final checks as their vehicle pulled up next to the first b-52.
“Kira, this is my stop. See you up there. Let’s show these congressmen what the Phoenix is made of,” Preston greeted him by putting his right hand to his temple.
“Sure thing, sir. I’m going to make sure that the Phoenix puts on one hell of a show,” Takeda nodded as he returned the salutation.
“That’s the spirit. We’ll keep in touch over the radio.” Preston closed the door and walked away.
Preston closed the jeep door and walked over to the ladder that led up to the roof of the B-52 bomber and Phoenix 1. He heard the all-terrain vehicle drive off towards the second B-52 where it would deposit Takeda. Preston greeted one of the engineers, who handed him a device he could use to run through the final system checks for Phoenix 1. Everything was set. The prototype was ready for take-off. Preston was handed a helmet by another technician and then he climbed up the small side ladder of the Phoenix and positioned himself in the cockpit. The Phoenix cockpit was truly a sight to behold. To ordinary eyes, it looked like a futuristic spaceship straight out of a science fiction film. But everything was real, there was only space for the absolutely necessary: every control, screen and button had a vital function. Not just anyone could fly the aircraft; only a highly trained and skilled pilot could handle the X-56 and release its full potential. Preston had already completed numerous test flights and, along with Takeda and a few other pilots, had spent the past three years training for this very day. Still, I mustn’t be over-confident, Preston thought. Test flights weren’t the same as a real-life total combat simulation such as the one that about to start in just a few moments.
“Lieutenant Colonel Preston, do you copy?” he heard a voice ask him over the helmet intercom.
Preston put on his helmet and hermetically sealed it to the neck of his pilot’s jumpsuit. He lowered the digital visor and watched it light up as it connected to the Phoenix’s systems. The visor could be used to control several of the prototype’s functions and to activate its advanced augmented reality system to visualise targets. He would even be able to view Takeda once they had taken off.
“Lieutenant Colonel Preston here, copying loud and clear.”
“This is Captain Hayes, in charge of your taxi to the stratosphere. We’re all set for take-off and have clearance from the control tower.”
“All checks complete. Phoenix 1 is ready for take-off,” Preston looked carefully at the data.
“Lieutenant Kira Takeda here, Phoenix 2, all systems ready,” Takeda added from the cockpit of his prototype on top of the other B-52.
“Check, all units ready. Captain Hayes here, initiating take-off manoeuvre.”
A deafening roar filled the Groom Lake base as the two B-52s started up their powerful turbines and began to move, taxiing towards the far north end of the main runway. To their left, they could see the squadron of F-35s running through its final checks before take-off. Preston and Takeda watched as Chapman spoke to his fighter jet pilots.
“Today we’re up against the two most advanced combat aircraft in the USAF, but don’t let that scare you off. They won’t find this a breeze… We’ll make sure of that. I expect the very best of you and want to see you take down those Phoenixes. We’ve got to show them that we’re better prepared and better trained for combat. That the F-35 has no rival!” Chapman urged his men on.
“Sir, yes sir!” the fourteen pilots standing in front of him chanted in unison.
“Come on then! All pilots to their fighter jets. We take-off in five. Don’t give those prototypes a moment’s peace.”
The airmen headed towards their respective aircraft, moving as if they were one. Chapman climbed into his own F-35 and let the technician in charge of his bird place his helmet on his head. This day had been a long time coming. He was keen to face Preston in combat again. It was time to see just how good his old pal really was. Although they were close friends, best friends in fact, competition was an important part of their relationship. They had worked together as a team for years now. In fact, they operated like a set of perfectly oiled gears. They had an impeccable service record and had taken part in combat operations in Iraq, the Balkans and Afghanistan. It was their joint experience in this latter destination that had forged bonds that would forever link them together. Flying as pilot and co-pilot, their aeroplane had been shot down in the mountains but, against all predictions, they had managed to survive and escape from the clutches of the Taliban. Chapman still shivered when he cast his mind back to the hardships they had suffered. But there was fondness in these memories too: the way they had never once considered abandoning each other. Each man had spurred the other on in moments of weakness when it seemed that all hope was lost forever. He admired Preston for his fighting spirit, that he was unable to accept defeat under any circumstances. Nevertheless, during today’s exercise Chapman planned to use every trick up his sleeve to come out on top. Even so, winning would be no piece of cake. Preston and his protégée were going to be hard nuts to crack.
Everything was ready at the Phoenix Project monitoring centre. The screens were now showing the two B-52s from every possible angle as they commenced their take-off. Several technicians were using hand-held devices to analyse the data picked up by the cameras and sensors located inside and outside the X-56s. Curtis was explaining exactly what was happening at each stage in the test to the congressmen. Henderson and Commander Murdock were sitting with General Giles and discussing what a powerful impression the B-52s made. It was a real spectacle, watching those great hunks of metal soar up into the air with the Phoenix prototypes loaded on top. One screen showed Captain Hayes at the controls of one of the B-52s and another two displayed Preston and Takeda in the cockpits of their respective Phoenixes. A further screen tracked the movement of the F-35s as they taxied to the runway to commence take-off. A UAV filmed a panoramic view of the whole base and a fixed camera showed one of the permanent SAM batteries with several soldiers milling around it.
“There go our Phoenix birds, may their fire rain down on their enemies and nothing nor no man stop them,” General Giles said, solemnly.
“Well, let’s hope the only real fire that rains down is the one on Alpha. I wouldn’t like anything to go wrong. I don’t want any accidents,” Commander Murdock did not want to even contemplate that scenario.
“Don’t worry, the X-56s have been inspected through and through. Nothing will go wrong,” Henderson reassured him.
The entire cockpit of Phoenix 1 vibrated as light turbulence shook its mothership, the B-52. Preston continued to check its systems as the B-52 gained altitude. The internal laser sensors inside his helmet detected every movement by his eyes and eyelids. It translated these movements into commands and sent them to the operating system that controlled the prototype. This revolutionary system meant that he could lock on an enemy target with just a simple eye-movement and destroy it by pressing the trigger on the main joystick. He activated the intercom and selected the private channel he could use to communicate with Takeda.
“Kira, nearly time to get started. You know the plan; we’ve had plenty of practice. We get in, we strike and we get out before they know what’s hit them.” Preston sounded firm and convincing.
“Yes, sir, I’ve been the simulations on the on-board computer. After detaching from the B-52s, we rise to seventy thousand feet and then nosedive onto Alpha with the sun behind us. Some quick fireworks and we exit just above ground level. There shouldn’t be any problems,” Takeda felt in his natural element.
“Don’t be so sure. Derek’s a sly fox. I’m sure he’ll have more than one surprise up his sleeve,” Preston knew him too well.
Their intercoms crackled into life. “Groom Lake control here, ten minutes to commence operation.”
“Phoenix 1, copy,” Preston answered. “Phoenix 2, copy,” Takeda repeated.
“Motherships 1 and 2, copy,” the pilots in the B-52s added.
Chapman was also in the air now, joined by part of his air defence squadron. The F-35s circled over the runway as they waited for their fellow pilots to take off. Once they were all airborne, they divided into three groups of five and sped off towards the test zone. They had also been training for this exercise for weeks and didn’t want to lose face. The squadron was determined to prove that they remained the top defence force in the USAF and could easily stop any potential attack. Even one by the two most sophisticated combat prototypes in the air force. The three groups of aeroplanes separated and started the surveillance runs each had been detailed for the exercise. They would be in permanent contact with the control centre during the exercise. Each group would fly at a different altitude and cover different stretches so that one group was flying over Alpha at all times. The control centre was also in command of the ground defence and the ground teams would spring into action to neutralise any threat the second the Phoenixes were detected.
At the test monitoring centre in the Phoenix Project hangar, the technicians were closely monitoring data from the sensors and cameras. The congressmen had just been served tea and coffee. They were chatting among themselves about the remarkable 3D holographic projector table when Curtis called them to attention.
“We’re just about to start the test, so I’d like to explain to you what the first step will involve. It’s definitely one of the riskiest,” he pointed to one of the screens.
The first thing the two Phoenixes have to do is to detach from the B-52s mid-flight. This is a highly delicate manoeuvre that, if not performed correctly, could end in catastrophe. Firstly, the Phoenixes have to switch on their engines and synchronise their thrust power with the thrust of the B-52s. They need to match the B-52s speed while still clamped together. When they reach the same speed, the clamps will open. Then, the X-56 pilots have to accelerate and pull their planes upwards simultaneously to make sure they aren’t hit by the bombers’ tails. They’ll accelerate at maximum speed and climb to an altitude of thirteen miles, at which point the combat test will begin.
The two B-52s were flying side by side; Takeda and Preston could see each other clearly without needing to use their internal cameras. They gestured to indicate all was well and continued with their final checks.
“Mothership 1 here. We’ve reached launch altitude, fifty thousand feet. Speed, six hundred miles per hour. Arriving at departure point in one minute,” Captain Hayes reported.
“Phoenix 1, copy. Phoenix 2, initiate engine ignition sequence,” Preston ordered.
“Phoenix 2, copy. Initiating engine ignition sequence,” Takeda responded. Both Preston and Takeda activated their thrusters, setting them at minimum power.
“Phoenix 1 and 2, confirm speed synchronisation with Motherships 1 and 2,” said the voice from Groom Lake control.
“Initiating synchronisation in three, two, one…” Takeda and Preston called out together.
As they replied, they both pushed forwards the throttles of their X-56s and accelerated until their flight speed matched that of the bombers. The Phoenixes increased their power and their cockpits started to vibrate harder as they fought against the clamps that anchored them to the B-52s. Preston and Takeda watched via their helmet interfaces as their speed increased to six hundred miles per hour.
“Attention, Congressmen. The test is about to start. The two Phoenixes have now accelerated and are flying at the same speed as the B-52s. Any moment now they’ll release the clamps and take off at full speed,” Lieutenant Curtis warned.
The congressmen all stopped chatting and focused on the screens that displayed the two X-56s on top of the B-52s. General Giles and Commander Murdock watched closely, while Henderson continued to check the telemetry system and data received from the two prototypes.
“Lieutenant Colonel Preston, Phoenix 1. Taking off!” Preston responded.
“Lieutenant Takeda, Phoenix 2. Taking off!” Takeda immediately echoed.
As soon as the words left their mouths, both pilots released the clamps and the Phoenixes slowly and gently rose up above the B-52s. It was a delicate manoeuvre, as Curtis had explained, but Preston and Takeda had practised it several times and were confident of performing it smoothly. The two X-56s separated from their motherships and, when they were around ten feet away, they pulled upwards and sped away at top speed. They reached full power in just a matter of seconds, leaving the B-52s trailing behind. Preston and Takeda flew side by side, gaining height to reach their maximum altitude without being attached to the Burning Ashes module.
Watching from the ground, the ascent of the prototypes amazed both the congressmen and technicians alike. It really was like watching two phoenixes soar heavenwards to the Sun, just white trails left behind in their wake. More than one spectator found it hard to believe they were going to stop at seventy thousand feet. They would have sworn that the aircraft were going to leave the planet altogether.
Takeda gazed down at the Earth in wonder. At that altitude, he even could make out part of its curve. He had long dreamed of flying into space, so the Phoenix Project was the chance of a lifetime. During this combat test he would only brush the heavens with his fingertips, but it was a huge incentive for the future. He felt charged with energy and the belief that he could overcome any challenge.
“OK, Kira, ten seconds till attack start position. Ready?” Jack looked back at his cabin.
“I’ve never been more ready in my life, sir. Five seconds to change course,” Takeda felt completely calm, despite the palpable tension.
The Phoenixes reached an altitude of seventy thousand feet. For a moment, they appeared to hang in the air, to float, weightless. The illusion was shattered seconds later as both aircraft made a sharp hundred and eighty degree turn to nosedive earthwards.
“Alpha target 50 miles away. Engines at full power. Estimated arrival time, one minute at this speed. We’ve got the sun behind us… They won’t see us coming,” Takeda announced.
“Ten, no, fifteen enemy birds detected in the zone. Five will be right over Alpha when we arrive: Red 11 to 15. Prepare lateral missiles. I’ll take out the first two. You hit the next two with your missiles, then finish off the last one with your machine gun. Got it?”
“Targets confirmed. Weapons ready. Wait a minute… The onboard computer says that we only have six radar homing air-to-air missiles each,” Takeda was not at all pleased to discover this.
“I knew they were going to play dirty. It doesn’t matter, we’ll complete the mission with what we’ve got. Thirty seconds to mission target. Locking on. Get ready to initiate bombing manoeuvre as soon as we take out the hostiles over Alpha.”
Check, targets locked on,” Takeda confirmed.
The group of five F-35s was flying over Alpha at twenty-two thousand feet. They had not yet seen any sign of the two prototypes. They knew it would be tough to spot the X-56s because they couldn’t rely on their radar systems; the new aircraft were specially designed to avoid detection. The pilots knew their eyes would be their best asset for spotting the Phoenixes’ approach.
“Red 13 here, I’ve just detected two heat plumes! Christ, they’re right on top of us! Forty thousand feet, vector 23, mark 14,” the pilot urgently exclaimed.
“Evade! Evade! They’re missiles!” the group leader ordered.
It was too late. Before they even had time to begin their evasive manoeuvre, the cockpits of Red 11, Red 12, Red, 13 and Red 14 flooded with a beeping noise that meant they had been hit. The four F-35s had all been destroyed. Red 15 just had time to start turning, but all attempts to escape were futile. Its cockpit filled with noise indicating it had been hit by machine gun bullets, swiftly followed by the beeping that signalled it had also been destroyed. The five F-35 pilots were completely stunned; they could not believe their eyes as they watched the two prototypes flit between their aeroplanes at breakneck speed. The pilots were simply left speechless.
Preston smiled to himself. They had made a spectacular entrance. But the most important part was yet to come.
“Locking on Alpha, transmitting data to synchronise launch,” Preston said.
“Data synchronised. After you.”
The two Phoenixes separated as they nosedived onto the target. Alpha was a building in the middle of nowhere right in the heart of the Yucca Flat desert, a major nuclear test zone now scarred with countless nuclear craters. Beneath the metal structure of Alpha was a well; it was a thousand feet deep and had been filled in with concrete. It had several lower levels that were separated by a special cement and metal conglomerate. There was a sensor right at the very bottom that was protected by yet another defensive structure. This sensor was the mission target; the prototypes had to destroy it to complete the test mission successfully.
Takeda had a clear view of the target; he locked on Alpha. The moment the countdown on his computer finished, he pulled the trigger. The lower bay of Phoenix 2 automatically opened and an enormous MOPX bunker blaster dropped out. It rapidly plummeted downwards as Takeda manoeuvred Phoenix 2 away to avoid the blast. There were four anti-aircraft positions along a mile-long perimeter around Alpha, each manned by six men. They had just been notified that five F-35s had been destroyed when they saw something drop onto Alpha with a dull thud. They heard a strange hissing sound from inside. Then, before they knew it, the building had exploded in a ball of flames and they had been knocked off their feet by the shock wave. A blazing column of fire was still erupting from what had been the Alpha building when another MOPX penetrated its interior. The second bomb quickly tumbled down the disintegrating well and struck what was left of the concrete.
The impact activated its plasma laser and it burned a path even deeper into the heart of the structure. If the first explosion had taken the soldiers by surprise, the second made an ever bigger impression. The whole earth shook and a jet of flames burst upwards into the sky.
“Alpha’s down! I repeat! Alpha’s down!” shouted a voice at the Alpha defence control centre.
“How the hell…?” replied a communications operator at one of the anti-aircraft sites.
“Attention all anti-aircraft positions. Directed fire! Trajectory, three, four, seven, mark, two: long bursts of five. Two bandits on the run! SAM batteries, automatic fire on all heat emissions from three thousand feet up. Watch out for our Red units,” Chapman yelled over the radio.
At the Phoenix Project monitoring centre, no one could believe their eyes. The holographic projector had turned into a maelstrom of lights and colours as it reproduced exactly what was happening in real time. Only the white trails left by the fighter jets as they flew at lightning speed were visible in the desert sky above, but the hologram generated by the projector showed a totally different story. Thousands of tracer bullets whizzed through the air straight at the Phoenixes; none could reach them. The prototypes were flying at breakneck speed just above the ground. On the rare occasions they separated from the ground when forced to by the landscape, the hologram lit up to reveal the missiles powering after them. But not a single one succeeded in finding its target. Either the X-56s successfully evaded the missiles or they used their countermeasure systems as a decoy.
“As you can see, the Phoenixes have managed to take out five fighter jets and the Alpha target in under a minute. The enemy has had no chance to react,” Curtis announced enthusiastically.
The spectators could clearly make out the vast, smoking crater that had once been Alpha on the holographic projector.
“The ground defence forces are opening fire on the Phoenix, but are out of luck so far. The other two groups of F-35s are manoeuvring to intercept them. Wait a minute. Yes, take a look, it seems the X-56s are heading straight towards the closest air defence group. The other group, the one led by Captain Chapman, is on the other side of the sector and will take a while to get there,” Curtis continued to explain.
Preston and Takeda knew that they had been very lucky up until now, but were also aware that they couldn’t expect to get away without a fight. With this in mind, they had decided to seize the initiative and fly straight at the closest group of f-35s.
“Let’s repeat the same strategy, Kira. In the confusion, they won’t have been able to analyse our combat pattern,” Preston said.
“Copy, preparing lateral missiles. Locking on,” Takeda interacted with the controls with ease.
The pilots in the Red 6 to 10 group had been astonished to hear that their colleagues had been shot down. They had wheeled back towards Alpha but moments later were informed that the main target had also been demolished. On Chapman’s orders, they immediately changed their flight path again.
“Group 2 leader, the bandits are heading straight at you. I’m sure of it. Watch out! Spread out. Any visual or radar contact, open fire with everything you’ve got,” Chapman ordered.
“Copy, sir. We’re not picking up anything right now but… Wait a minute… Contact just beneath us! Three miles, lock heat-seeking missiles on and fire at those bastards!” the Group 2 leader shouted.
It was too late. The Phoenixes had already launched four ruthless missiles that struck and destroyed four of the defence fighter jets. The fifth F-35 succeeded in releasing a missile before being downed in a hail of machine gun bullets, but it had no chance of finding its target because the Phoenixes hurtled past the F-35 formation at full speed.
“Impressive,” said one of the congressmen at the monitoring centre.
“The Phoenixes have just neutralised the second air defence group, but the third is now approaching fast,” Curtis reported impassively.
Chapman was furious. He had known that stopping the Phoenixes would be tough. But he didn’t expect such a crushing defeat. It was intolerable. They had to come up with a plan, and fast. Right now, they looked like sitting ducks. He quickly scanned the navigation map and tried to think like Preston. Which route would the prototypes take to evade the SAM batteries and anti-aircraft fire? To the north and south there was only open desert; the Phoenixes would be too easy to spot. There were several small mountain ranges to the east with anti-aircraft positions and two SAM batteries. To the west there was nothing but chains of mountains and canyons; only a suicidal maniac would consider flying through there. But of course, this was Preston and Takeda. And Takeda was famous for attempting the riskiest and most dangerous manoeuvres in the whole Air Force Academy. That was it; they were going to change course and fly west to evade his defence force. Chapman decided to gamble everything.
“Red 4 and 5, full speed to bearing delta three, bravo two. Then swing round to the east and get ready for whatever comes at you. Red 2 and 3, you’re with me. We’re going to drive the Phoenixes straight at Red 4 and 5. They’ll get caught in the cross fire before they reach the mountains,” Chapman wanted to fight back no matter what.
Red 4 and 5 set off at top speed. Chapman and his two escorts flew towards the area where the second formation had been downed before wheeling their aircraft around to the west. If Preston and Takeda were going to do what he thought, at least one of his remaining fighter jets would be able to shoot them down. SAM batteries and anti-aircraft missiles were clearly useless against the prototypes.
“Take a look. Captain Chapman has guessed the Phoenixes’ escape plan,” Curtis pointed out.
He approached the 3D holographic projector. Sure enough, the spectators could see the two Phoenixes heading towards the chain of mountains in the west, with three of Captain Chapman’s F-35s in hot pursuit. The remaining two F-35s had already reached the mountains and were turning around to face east, ready to meet them.
“Jack, I’ve got two hostiles in front of us,” Takeda said.
“I can see them. I don’t like them splitting up like that. They’re planning something…” Preston sensed that Derek was preparing one of his surprise moves.
“Agreed. Sir, let me take them both out with my last two missiles. Then I can act as bait. Let’s separate. As soon as they attack, you take down the last three,” Takeda suggested.
“I see where you’re going with this. It’s risky, but I think it could work. Go ahead,” Preston ordered.
“Affirmative, getting a lock on,” Takeda replied.
Preston pulled upwards to perform an Immelmann turn while Takeda prepared to open fire. As soon as he was ready, Takeda launched two missiles at the two F-35s that were flying straight at him. Once again, the fighter jets had no time to react. The missiles found their targets and the aircraft were inexorably destroyed. In the few seconds afforded them, Chapman and his two accompanying fighter jets managed to ready their weapons. Preston had completed the Immelmann; he now had the three remaining F-35s in his sights. They were too close to use missiles, so he targeted Red 3, rapidly firing bullets from his machine. Red 3 was quickly brought down. Chapman and Red 2 each launched two heat-seeking missiles at Takeda in Phoenix 2. Takeda banked to the right then rapidly pulled upwards and activated his countermeasures as a decoy. Two missiles took the bait; they struck the decoy flares and exploded. The remaining two missiles continued to chase him; Takeda accelerated but it was only a matter of seconds before he was hit. The mountains were right in front of him. He decided his only hope was to nosedive. He hurtled downwards, only pulling his aircraft up and avoiding disaster at the very last minute. This time the turning angle was too sharp for the missiles. Although they attempted to follow the prototype, both struck the side of the mountain as Takeda cunningly sneaked into one of the valleys.
Meanwhile, Preston had been trying to change course to escape, but Red 2 had also performed an Immelmann and was snapping at his heels. Chapman decided to pursue Takeda into the valley. He knew Phoenix 2 no longer had any countermeasures left and that his back was covered. Preston chased after Chapman but had to dodge incessant machine gun fire from Red 2. Takeda skimmed through the valleys and canyons with Chapman in close pursuit. The F-35 rattled off machine gun fire at the prototype; the bullets brushed past Phoenix 2 for now, but it was only a question of time before Takeda was hit.
“Kira, I’ll try to get Derek off your back. Just hang on a little longer,” Preston promised.
“OK. He’s right on top of me… I’ll see what I can do,” Takeda replied.
Preston was under constant fire from Red 2 and found it difficult to manoeuvre through the mountainous landscape, but despite these double pressures he still managed to lock on Chapman in Red 1. He armed his penultimate missile and launched it. The missile powered directly at Chapman, who made no sign of changing course or activating his countermeasures. Just as it was about to strike its target, it suddenly plummeted earthwards and crashed into the mountainside.
“Don’t worry, that’s not a system failure you’ve seen there. It’s one of the surprises in today’s test. The plane piloted by Captain Chapman represents a new, unknown enemy prototype with missile inhibition equipment. We wanted to show the potential risk factor of being confronted with unknown technology and the Phoenix’s ability to adapt,” Curtis had been looking forward to this moment.
Chapman smiled to himself. He would’ve paid good money to see Preston’s face right now. He certainly wouldn’t have expected that. Now it was just a matter of time before he shot down Takeda; Red 2 would finish off Preston and the test would be over. So, the Phoenix wouldn’t get full marks in the test… It would still pass with flying colours and the honour of his defence squadron would’ve been saved.
“Kira, something happened to the missile I just fired… It was deactivated just as it was about to strike. I don’t dare waste the last one I’ve got… I’ll try to get closer and take Chapman out with my machine gun,” Preston cursed himself.
“No, sir, if you do that, Red 2 will get you. Give me a second…” Takeda replied immediately.
Takeda continued to dodge Chapman’s fire as he raced through the canyon, his wingtips almost brushing the rocky walls. He kept snatching glances at the navigation map, searching for an opportunity. And it sprang out at him in the shape of a bridge. He knew Preston wouldn’t be happy about this, but the idea quickly grew on him. The more he thought about it, the more he liked it. Everyone would hit the ceiling.
“Sir, remember that idea I had about the trick bridge manoeuvre?” Takeda asked.
“What? You’re not thinking—”
Takeda cut him off. “Yes. We’re out of time. There’s a bridge just ahead, a mile away. Gain altitude, get a lock on me and, when I say, launch your missile. Sending you the missile telemetry right now.”
“You’re one crazy kid. But it’ll be worth it just to see Derek’s face,” Preston admitted, amused.
Preston climbed upwards just as Takeda had asked. Red 2 was still on his tail, its machine gun rattling out non-stop bursts of fire. There was no time to think. The cards had been dealt, now all that was left was for each side to reveal their hand. Takeda’s attempts to evade Chapman’s bullets were increasingly desperate. It was practically impossible. Three beeps sounded in his cockpit; he had been hit three times at one end of the fuselage but luckily it was nothing serious. The bridge was now right in front of him.
“Get ready! On the count of three, two, one… Now!” Takeda shouted.
Preston pulled the trigger and his missile hurtled out after Phoenix 2. Chapman saw Takeda plunge earthwards in an audacious manoeuvre. The guy’s crazy… He’s handing victory to us on a plate, Chapman thought. Takeda flew just low enough to be able to pass beneath the bridge. Then he made as if he were going to climb upwards again once he was through to the other side, despite the alarmingly tight gap. Chapman smiled. Bingo, he thought, now you’re mine. He flew over the bridge. He was about to open direct fire on Phoenix 2 when, all of a sudden, his cockpit filled with a beeping noise; he had been shot down. Not realising his mistake, he had flown his F-35 straight into the flight path of the missile that Preston had launched at Takeda. Takeda soared up out of the canyon and quickly banked to target Red 2, which had Phoenix 1 in its sights. Preston swerved sharply to give Takeda space to take his shot; Takeda used his machine gun to shoot down the only F-35 that was still standing. After that, both prototypes manoeuvred at maximum speed to leave the test zone.
“Gentlemen, I’m pleased to announce that after this last move, today’s test is now finished,” Curtis couldn't stop seeing the sequence in his mind, he was excited.
The congressmen looked astonished. They were deeply satisfied with what they had seen and broke out into animated conversation. General Giles was beside himself with joy; the Phoenix and his pilots had responded just as he had hoped. Better, in fact. Commander Murdock stood up and congratulated Henderson, who had been glued to his mobile device until now. Henderson looked relaxed for the first time since he had arrived. The whole Phoenix Project team was euphoric. They congratulated each other, delighted with the prototypes’ overwhelming success.
Congressman Casper approached General Giles.
“You must be pleased, General. This test has earned you some breathing space. But don’t go thinking it’ll last for long. This project is prohibitively expensive. We still have no deadline stating when the launch platform and second module will be operational. In my opinion, other projects are more important than this whim of yours and that’ll be reflected in my report,” Casper was not one to give up easily.
“Congressman Casper, how wonderful to hear you’re so happy with our superb result. I know it’s hard to admit a fighter jet could be quite so effective. But fear not, this is no whim. It’s the future of the air force and I’m going to make sure you see it made reality, however much it hurts,” General Giles said, smiling.
During the next half hour, the congressmen were taken to the base guest quarters so that they could rest, while the various units that had taken part in the test returned to the base. Preston and Takeda made a vertical landing in their Phoenixes next to the project hangar. Chapman was waiting for them. When they climbed out of the prototypes, he marched firmly over.
“You’re totally crazy, both of you. They should have you court martialled right now, but… I loved it! There I was, savouring the sweet taste of victory when, bam! You got me! That was spectacular. Insane, but out of this world,” he told them as he handed each a cigar.
“Thanks, Derek. Truth is, you made it pretty tough for us, especially at the end. You kept very quiet about your ‘special’ plane,” Preston sighed as he weighed the cigar.
“Well, they asked me what sort of device would make things hardest for you, and I figured that would be the most effective. Of course, no one could have guessed you’d use Kira as a target. Or that there’d be a bridge right there forcing me to take that missile.” Derek bit his lip, still in disbelief.
“I guess there’s no need to say that was all our Lieutenant Takeda’s idea. It seems he still has some bad habits from his Academy days,” Preston looked proudly at Kira.
“Thanks, sir, I think that was a compliment,” Takeda responded timidly, all his confidence had remained in the plane cabin.
“Come on, kid, let’s go. This we’ve got to celebrate,” Chapman said, linking arms with Takeda and Preston.
They heard a voice from behind them. “I’m afraid that’ll have to wait. I need to borrow Lieutenant Colonel Preston.” General Giles and Lieutenant Drayton were waiting.
“You go ahead, I’ll catch you up,” Preston told Chapman and Takeda.
“Follow me, Preston,” General Giles looked pleased, but his face was serious.
They walked over to one of the all-terrain vehicles they had used to reach the Phoenix Project hangar. Lieutenant Drayton opened the door and gestured for Preston and the general to climb inside.
“Well, sir, what’s up?” Preston was perplexed.
“The test was a resounding success, Preston. The problem is, there are still grave doubts about the project’s viability because of the delay in developing the railgun technology and launch platform.”
“I appreciate that, sir, but you know that that isn’t down to us. The armed forces laboratory is working on it. We’re waiting for the new prototype.”
“I know, Preston, but it’s not enough. We need to move faster and expand our resources.”
“I see. So, what are you thinking?”
“How’s your Spanish, Preston?” He looked at him enigmatically.
“My Spanish? Well, I spent several years in Spain at the Rota and Morón de la Frontera bases, as you know. Why do you ask?” Preston now really felt lost in the conversation.
General Giles looked at him in amusement.
“Simple. You and your team have been reassigned to Spain. You’re leaving next week.”
“Spain? But how is that possible? We can’t leave the Phoenix Project right now,” Preston said in surprise.
“My secretary will give you all the details. Have a good trip, Preston, I know you won’t let me down,” General Giles said as he signalled to Lieutenant Drayton.
Lieutenant Drayton opened the door and gestured for Preston to get out before climbing into the vehicle and starting the engine. The vehicle pulled away, leaving a perplexed Preston behind. What strange game had the general just mixed him up in?