Organisational Background:
Soban task forces operate in relatively small numbers and rely on agility – both in terms of strategy and physical maneuverability – to accomplish given objectives. The Hiigaran Navy Fleet Command deploys these elite detachments in the roles of reconnaissance, intelligence-gathering, unconventional warfare and humanitarian assistance under the designator HGNS. Their force strength and annual budget is classified, but it is known that the Sobani Fleet has grown substantially since the redevelopment of the HGN following the First Invasion.
They are far from the public conceptions of murderous mavericks for they are bred and trained for war as well as the peace that comes after it. They are not only skilled combatants but specialise in various disciplines that assist in humanitarian assistance and negotiation. It is not uncommon for Soban elements to be assigned to refugee systems where they will help keep the peace and cross-train with their fledgling navies. While most Sobani activities during the Invasion Era are still classified to this day, the HGNS have gained a modern reputation as ‘battlefield saints’ due to their publicised diplomatic efforts with third-class civilisations.
It must be stressed that the HGNS are not invulnerable. Even their abilities cannot pierce the vanguard of a Vaygr assault column. The Sobani refrain from deploying larger-than-frigate hulls on the basis that their hyperspace signatures are too difficult to mask and will cause more harm than good in the small-unit, aggressive reconnaissance operations that they are regularly involved in. Indeed, while an accompanying Prince of Hiigara may seem appropriate on paper for a behind-the-lines exercise, not even that august battleship could stave off sector defenses for long before being overwhelmed. This is the primary reason why carriers are the only super-capital-class that accompany the signature Soban frigate flotillas into battle – they have a comparatively undersized hyperspace and radar footprint and bear excellent support facilities, as well as sufficient firepower should an operation go down south.
The Soban are possibly the best light naval units in this galaxy … if their commander is capable of utilising their skills to the fullest degree.
Culture: The modern Soban traditions have progressed at a drastic rate since Landfall, although the Sobani are still the most true to their historical past. The simultaneous economic growth and resulting demand, as well as the enormous casualties of the Invasion Era, caused the Sobani leadership to reject the old ways. Thus, several elite training academies have sprung up in the Hiigaran Control Zone where select HGN personnel are accepted on an evaluational basis and are given the honourary title of Soban. Sobani children are no longer expelled from the kiith, but instead are treasured by their families and are taught from birth to be servants of Hiigara.
The majority of HGN Soban personnel serve in the HGNS or with the Marine Corps.
Mission Objectives:
1.
Spearhead HGN counter-attack efforts through aggressive reconnaissance
of potential operational zones
2. Gather solid intelligence in both strategic and tactical spheres
3. Contact Independent Vaygr Federation personnel and broker a ceasefire