2022 Holyn invasion of Kifathe

2022 Holyn invasion of Kifathe
	Part of the 2022 Holyn-Kifathe crisis
	; ; Top photo: A Holyn SOKO So-21 attack aircraft taking off from an air base in Skoskie.; Bottom: Holyn troops in the city of Nzeho.
Date	21 September - present; (2 years, 1 month, 4 weeks and 1 day)
Location	Skoskie, Holynia and Kifathe
Status	Ongoing; Holyn forces capture Pintwama after President Shany Okiro flees to Simtambe.; Anti-Holyn insurgency begins;
Belligerents
Commanders and leaders
Strength
Casualties and losses
Holynia: 2,147 dead (1,283 from combat); 6,150 wounded; 170 missing; CUK; 3,500 dead; 7,000 wounded; 1,000 missing	Kifathe: 20,000 estimated military dead; 50,000 wounded; 8,000 civilian casualties

The 2022 Holyn Invasion of Kifathe, code-named Operation Jungle Citadel (Holyn: Operácia Citadela v džungli) by Holynia, is an armed intervention in the Kifathe Civil War by the Holyn military. The current operation formally began on 5 September 2022 when Holynia began airstrikes against Kifathe military positions and government facilities. A ground invasion followed a week later. Holynia claimed the operation is to "stabilise" the situation in Kifathe by removing Kifathe President Shany Okiro from power. Holynia's overseas territory of Skoskie saw several spillover incidents in the preceding years leading to both civilian and military deaths. Tensions rose in 2022 as a result of these spillover events, a water dispute and a growing refugee crisis resulting from the civil war.

The invasion began in September 2022, with two initital axis out of Skoskie. Heavy aerial bombardment by both aircraft and missiles destroyed Kifathe military facilities. Roughly 160,000 Holyn soldiers participated in the initial invasion. In October, an amphibious assault opened a third front in the north of Kifathe. Throughout October, Holynia steadily took ground in both the south and the north. By late November, the Kifathe government collapsed as Holyn forces captured the capital city Pintwama.

Throughout December, the remaining government forces held the city of Kwinmanty, various villages in the south and swathes of jungle. President Shany Okiro remained in nominal control of his forces held up in Kwinmanty. In January, a renewed Holyn assault captured Kwinmanty and defeated the last bastions of organized resistance of pro-Okiro forces. Okiro went on the run and has not been located by Holyn forces.

A transitional government was established in the opening days of the invasion. It was led by Chama cha Ukombozi Kifathe leader Hodari Ekwensi. Ekwensi filled the transitional government with close allies. The transitional government would not immediately rule the country, instead a seperate military regime was established, led by Holyn military officers and politicians. The military government would rule Kifathe until the situation was deemed stable to introduce the transitional government. Holyn officials stated the aim was for democratic elections inside Kifathe to ensure "proper representation of the people's interests".

An anti-Holyn insurgency flared up in February. Comprised of various pro-Okiro and anti-Holyn/Wrutesh forces, the insurgency has steadily increased its activities throughout the spring of 2023. By the summer, the Kifathe resistance were highly active in Vutwema and Lumegesa provinces. Pintwama also saw steady insurgent attacks. Insurgents used a variety of guerilla warfare tactics such as missile attacks, suicide attacks, snipers, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), car bombs and small arms fire.

The invasion has led to varying levels of international support and condemnation against Holynia. The International Assembly's Security and General Councils failed to pass resolutions condemning the invasion. The Navron Union condemned the invasion, but did not issue sanctions against Holynia.

Background

Kifathe Civil War (1999-2022)

Kifathe’s decade-long civil war had left the country deeply fractured, with a weak central government struggling to maintain order. Warlords and militant groups operated with near impunity, particularly in areas bordering Skoskie. By late 2021, these groups increasingly targeted Skoskie with cross-border raids to secure supplies, kidnap residents, and smuggle arms. Reports emerged of atrocities committed against Skoskie civilians, including the abduction of Holynian citizens.

The Holynian government accused Kifathe’s leadership of turning a blind eye to these incursions and failing to contain its armed groups. Renáta Mišurová’s administration declared that the security of Skoskie and its residents could no longer be guaranteed without direct intervention.

In June 2021, the conflict escalated dramatically when a Holynian military convoy delivering humanitarian aid to a Skoskie border town was ambushed by a militant faction operating from Kifathe. The attack resulted in 14 Holynian soldiers killed and 23 injured. Holynia claimed to have evidence that Kifathe’s government provided covert support to the group responsible, although Kifathe denied these allegations. The ambush became a rallying point in Holynia for calls to respond decisively.

Water crisis

The crisis was largely attributed to over-extraction of water upstream in Kifathe’s Nalwa Basin, where dam projects prioritized agricultural irrigation amidst Kifathe's efforts to rebuild its economy following years of civil war. These projects disrupted water flow to Skoskie, sparking protests and demands for international mediation. Kifathe’s fragile government, divided between factions vying for control, failed to address these concerns, fueling tensions with Holynia.

Failed diplomacy

Holynia sought to mediate through international channels, urging Kifathe to implement reforms and increase border security. However, the talks stalled as Kifathe’s leadership remained paralyzed by infighting. Holynia also accused Kifathe of weaponizing water access as a political tool, exacerbating tensions further. When negotiations failed, Mišurová declared that Kifathe’s dysfunction posed an existential threat to Skoskie.

Border skirmishes

In late 2021, tensions at the border between Skoskie and Kifathe began to rise as Kifathe’s internal strife spilled over. Armed Kifathe soldiers, many from breakaway militias operating without the central government’s consent, crossed the porous border into Skoskie. These forces were primarily seeking refuge or attempting to escape advancing rebel factions within Kifathe. On November 15, 2022, a group of Kifathe soldiers inadvertently entered Skoskie while retreating from a rebel group in Kifathe’s southeastern province. The soldiers, caught in the open and disoriented, clashed with Skoskie border police, resulting in the deaths of three Kifathe soldiers and two Skoskie officers.

This skirmish was initially seen as an isolated incident. However, it exposed the vulnerability of Skoskie’s northern frontier and raised alarm among Holynian officials about the increasing threat from Kifathe’s fragmented military forces.

Kivo border crossing clash

A small, unprovoked skirmish broke out at the Kivo Crossing, a contested border point between Skoskie and Kifathe, on January 16, 2022. A unit of Kifathe soldiers, presumed to be loyal to a splinter faction of the Kifathe army, crossed the border into Skoskie under the cover of night. They engaged with local Skoskie border guards, opening fire after being confronted. The Kifathe forces were allegedly searching for supplies and attempting to smuggle arms across the border to rebel groups in Kifathe’s northern provinces.

The Skoskie police, supported by a small Holynian military detachment stationed at the border, repelled the attack. Four Kifathe soldiers were killed, and six others were captured. While the Kifathe government insisted it was an isolated incident, Holynia saw the encounter as a direct violation of its sovereignty, which only fueled further anger and suspicion.

Zaytu Clash

In late March 2022, a Holyn border patrol stationed in Skoskie's Zaytu region—an area along the Kifathe border—encountered a group of Kifathe soldiers who had crossed into Holynian territory. These soldiers, believed to be part of a rogue faction loyal to one of Kifathe’s warlords, were attempting to secure supplies and recruit locals to bolster their ranks.

A tense standoff occurred when Holynian border police ordered the soldiers to turn back. Kifathe forces, under unclear orders, refused to leave and engaged in a brief exchange of gunfire with Holynian officers. Two Holynian officers were wounded in the exchange, and Kifathe soldiers retreated after reinforcements were called in. However, the incident sparked a diplomatic crisis, with Holynia accusing Kifathe of failing to maintain control over its military forces and of harboring violent factions

March 2022 water treatment attack

A few weeks later, on March 3, 2022, a unit of Kifathe soldiers, believed to be operating under a rebel faction, attacked a Skoskie water treatment plant near the border. The facility had been vital in processing water for both Skoskie’s civilian population and the Holynian military garrison stationed in the region. The Kifathe forces launched a coordinated assault, using a mix of light artillery and small arms to disable the plant’s security systems.

Skoskie police, backed by Holyn military personnel, responded quickly, surrounding the facility and pushing back the attackers. However, the attack resulted in extensive damage to the infrastructure, worsening the already critical water crisis in Skoskie. Six Kifathe soldiers were killed during the confrontation, and three Skoskie police officers were injured. The attack deepened Holynian concerns about Kifathe’s ability (or willingness) to prevent its military factions from destabilizing Skoskie, further justifying the move to escalate military involvement.

This confrontation marked the point at which Holynia’s government began to publicly declare that Kifathe’s military actions had crossed a red line, and that the defense of Skoskie would require a stronger, more comprehensive military response. Renáta Mišurová, in her address to the nation, justified the need for a "firm response" to the actions of Kifathe, citing the repeated incursions as direct threats to the security of Holynia and Skoskie.

Prelude

The buildup began in May 2022, when Holynia’s Ministry of Defense began to formulate contingency plans for intervention in Skoskie, both as a response to the deteriorating security situation along the border and as a safeguard against the ongoing water crisis. Holynian officials, primarily under the influence of Prime Minister Renáta Mišurová and her administration's security team, identified Kifathe’s instability as a growing threat to both national security and Holynia’s overseas territory.

During this period, Holynian intelligence agencies conducted extensive reconnaissance, analyzing the Kifathe military’s movements, assessing the security of Skoskie's water infrastructure, and evaluating the threat posed by Kifathe-based militant factions. Early estimates were made regarding the number of Holynian troops and the amount of equipment that would be required to secure Skoskie’s borders and potentially restore order in Kifathe.

As part of a broader diplomatic strategy, Holynia sought to address its concerns through international channels, primarily through the International Assembly and regional Navroni organizations. However, these efforts were met with limited success, and by June 2022, the Holynian government began a more overt military buildup in Skoskie, signaling its intent to act unilaterally if necessary.

During this time, Holynia sent a small contingent of military advisors and logistical support teams to Skoskie. Their primary mission was to reinforce the Skoskie defense forces, provide training, and assess the viability of establishing larger military bases within the territory. The first shipments of equipment, including light armored vehicles, heavy artillery, and aviation support, began arriving by sea, with Holynian naval vessels docking at key ports along Skoskie’s coast.

By July 2022, the military buildup was in full swing. Holynia commenced large-scale infrastructure projects in Skoskie, constructing forward operating bases (FOBs) along the northern border, near the most volatile areas where cross-border skirmishes were frequent. These FOBs were intended to serve as hubs for future military operations, housing thousands of troops, weapons, and supplies.

Simultaneously, Holynian military airlifts began transporting critical supplies, including medical equipment, munitions, and vehicles, via cargo planes to Skoskie's airstrips, which were rapidly expanded and reinforced to handle the influx of materials. The Holynian Air Force deployed several squadrons of fighter jets to Skoskie, bolstering the air defense capabilities of the territory.

In addition, Holynia signed a covert agreement with Skoskie’s local government to provide logistical support for the Holynian forces, including port facilities and airfields, in exchange for increased security assistance. This effectively put Skoskie under Holynian military oversight, further cementing Holynia’s presence in the region. August 2022: The First Wave of Deployments

By August 2022, the presence of Holynian forces in Skoskie had grown significantly. A major amphibious operation was launched from Holynian ports, involving the deployment of hundreds of thousands of soldiers and armored vehicles. These forces were transported aboard large naval vessels, including assault ships, landing crafts, and logistics support ships, which made port calls at strategically located Skoskie harbors.

At the same time, a large number of military transport planes began airlifting additional troops, supplies, and specialized equipment, such as drones and communications systems, into Skoskie. These deployments were highly coordinated and included the positioning of elite special forces units in key locations along the border with Kifathe, ready to respond quickly to any provocations or incursions.

During this month, Holynian naval vessels also began to establish a continuous presence in Skoskie's territorial waters, conducting maritime security operations to prevent arms shipments from reaching Kifathe’s rebel factions. A series of naval exercises were also conducted, demonstrating Holynia’s readiness to secure Skoskie and project power into the broader region.

By September 2022, Holynia had completed the majority of its military buildup in Skoskie. Hundreds of thousands of soldiers had been deployed to the region, including armored brigades, infantry divisions, and elite special operations units. The total number of Holynian forces in Skoskie was estimated to be over 300,000, with large contingents stationed along the border and key strategic areas such as the Nalwa River and water treatment plants.

In addition to ground forces, Holynian naval and air power were significantly augmented. Holynian fighter jets, bombers, and surveillance aircraft began regular patrols over Skoskie and Kifathe, ensuring air superiority and reconnaissance capabilities. Holynian submarines and warships maintained a strong presence in the waters off Skoskie, securing vital shipping lanes and projecting power into the Indian Ocean.

Key infrastructure was further reinforced during this time, including fortified airbases, radar stations, and supply depots. Holynian military planners also worked closely with Skoskie’s local government to coordinate a unified defense strategy, ensuring that Holynia would have control over vital infrastructure, such as power grids and water facilities, should the need arise.

By the end of Augugst 2022, Holynia had completed the majority of its preparations, and Prime Minister Renáta Mišurová made a public address outlining the government’s position on the escalating situation in Kifathe. She emphasized the need for decisive action to safeguard Skoskie’s sovereignty and resources.

Invasion

Opening strikes

On the evening of 5 September 2022, Holynia's military began a strike campaign across Kifathe. This strike campaign was focused on stationary targets like air defence sites, airfields and military bases. An opening volley of PS-17N land attack cruise missiles were launched from destroyers HMS Ledetz and HMS Úžín in the Gulf of Tammer. Holyn electronic warfare systems in Skoskie were used to degrade Kifathe radar systems. Over 50 Holyn aircraft, primarily Aero Stežery AS-94 and AS-84 strike aircraft participated in bombing raids throughout western Kifathe. Holyn attack helicopters were used to attack Kifathe observation posts along the border

On 6 September, Holyn Air Force unmaned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) conducted strikes on Pintwama. Explosions were reported outside the Presidential Palace and the city's airport. Holyn PS-17 cruise missiles attacked the city's main power plant. A few hours after the strikes, the Kifathe government reported the Defence Minister, Nikhil Nhlahla, was killed in one of these airstrikes. In the evening, a volley of over 100 cruise missiles and drones attacked Pintwama. Government buildings including the Ministry of Defence headquarters and the Republican Guard command buildings were destroyed. Pintwama International Airport was hit by Holyn cruise missiles on 6 September, striking the runways, taxiways and destroying several hangars at the airfield.

Between 7 September and 10 September, the pace of airstrikes began to draw down. Holyn manned and unmanned aircraft launched almost 300 air strikes throughout Kifathe. On 7 September, Holyn missiles struck an apartment tower in Pintwama. This attack resulted in almost 100 casaulties.

Kifathe air defence became overwhelemed by the volume of air strikes and were unable to conduct a coordinated defence of the country. Command and control capabilities were degraded by Holyn missile strikes and electronic warfare attacks. Pre-deployed Kifathe air defence sites were struck in the opening strikes. Estimates put around 60% of Kifathe's air defence capability was destroyed in Holynia's opening attacks.

Battle of Solyo Airport

The Holyn command had identified Solyo Airport as a suitable location for establishing a forward operating base inside Kifathe. The airport had been spared from the initial volley of airstrikes. It was located 60 kilometres from the Holyn border and was situated along fork in Kifathe's highway network. This would give the Holyn military a central location to funnel supplies and base reserve forces for later stages of the invasion.

The Holyn Airborne Assault Forces 7th Guards Airborne Brigade and 12th Guards Airborne Brigade were tasked with capturing the airport. On 9 September, the assault began with the 7th Guards Airborne Brigade leading the initial assualt. A battalion from the 7th Brigade, consisting of roughly 800 soldiers, were airlifted by Vlach Vl-24 and Vlach-Krejčí Vk-40 transport helicopters. They were escorted by 6 Vlach-Krejčí Vk-90 attack helicopters from the Holyn Ground Forces. Along with the 7th Airborne Brigade, a small group of 18th Special Operations Brigade operators had inserted 3 days prior and conducted ground reconnaisance. Additional troops of 18th Special Operations Brigade were deployed with the initial assault force.

The attack began when Aero Stežery AS-94s bombed the small military base and local police station near the airport. 30 minutes after the bombings, roughly 30 Holyn transport helicopters had crossed the border and made their way to Solyo Airport. They flew low to the ground in formations of 4 helicotpers. The assault force faced disorganized and sporadic small arms fire from Kifathe militias along their route. The small arms fire damaged one of the Vk-40 transports and forced it to make an emergency landing. The crew and 18 paratroopers survived the landing and were later rescued by a returning Vk-24 transport.

Despite the resistance faced enroute, the assault continued. The Vk-90 attack helicopters strafed parts of the airfield and attacked responding Kifathe security forces. The Vl-24 and Vk-40 helicopters began to land and unload the assault force. The assault force began to secure the airport, with more and more paratroopers landing every few minutes. They faced minimal resistance and within an hour of the assault had secured the airfield.

A ground force consisting of the 12th Guards Airborne Brigade and support troops from the Ground Forces crossed the border and reached Solyo Airport two hours after it was secured.

Ground invasion

In the late afternoon of 6 September, the first Holyn ground troops crossed the border into Kifathe. A battalion from the 7th Separate Reconnaissance Regiment secured the Luama border crossing. Holyn artillery units stationed in Skoskie began cross border firing on border outposts, military facilities and police stations. The 5th Guards Tank Division was the first regular ground forces unit to enter Kifathe, capturing the town of Luama.

The dense jungle, or bush, of eastern Kifathe was unsuitable for heavy mechanized formations. Light infantry would be tasked with fighting in these regions, particularly once the wet season began.

Battle of Naumushi

On 7 September, the 1st Brigade Combat Group, 5th Guards Tank Division, along with 1st Brigade Combat Group, 19th Guards Motor Rifle Division advanced within 15 km of Naumushi. Naumushi is situated in the Pungasha River valley and one of the cities Holyn forces must cross to reach Pintwama.

A battalion's worth of Republican Guard troops had deployed to the Naumushi on the 6th. 2nd Company, 7th Separate Reconnaissance Regiment was tasked with performing ground reconaissance ahead of the assault. 2nd Company, consisting of roughly 90 "Scouts" in lightly armored vehicles mistankenly entered the city and faced a rolling battle through the city. The company was confronted with Kifathe forces armed with tanks, anti-tank guided missiles and mortar fire. After a potracted battle, with the support of the Holyn Air Force and nearby artillery units, the survivors of the 2nd Company escaped Naumushi and reached the positions of the 4th Battalion, 19th Guards Motor Rifle Division. 39 Scouts were killed during the battle.

The 5th Guards Tank Division and 19th Guards Motor Rifle Division launched a combined assault on Naumushi and captured the city after a 2 day battle.

Battle of Lumegesa

On 12 September, the 1st Tank BCG, 1st HM Life Guard Division, advanced northward towards Lumegesa. A Republican Guards Brigade, along with roughly 2 brigades of regular Kifathe National Army, were stationed in the city.

Fighting began to take place on the outskirts of Lumegesa, where Holyn troops faced fierce resistance from Republican Guards and KNA troops. On 16 September, Holyn troops engaged in close quarters fighting with Kifathe troops throughout the southern portion of Lumegesa. Holyn artillery began regular attacks on the city.

On 21 September, Holyn troops began crossing the Chumwek River in central Lumegesa. Kifathe sappers blew several bridges, delaying the advance of Holyn troops. By 22 September, the entire city south of the Chumwek River was captured by Holyn troops.

Kifathe mortars struck a Holyn forward operating base south of Lumegesa on 23 September. On 24 September, Holyn forces began advancing to the west of Lumegesa. The 21st Guards Tyszowce Motor Rifle Division captured the Lumegesa airport on 25 September.

On 4 October, Lumegesa had fallen to Holynia. Sporadic clashes continued between Kifathe militias and Holyn troops.

Pungashi River Valley advance

Holyn laser guided artillery and cruise missiles destroyed a military base south of Mayuko. On 11 September, Holynia intesified strikes on the city of Mayuko

A contingent of forces assaulted the Chumwek Dam on the morning of 12 September. Kifathe troops withdrew from the dam on 13 September. By 14 September most territory south of the Pungashi River in western Kifathe had fallen to the Holyn military.

Kifathe troops marching towards Mayuko.

On 15 September, Holyn forces began crossing the Pungashi River directly east of Mayuko. By the evening of 15 September, Holyn conventional artillery was within range of the city.

On 16 September, a single Kifathe Air Force Dassault Mirage 2000 intercepted two Holyn SOKO So-21 close air support aircraft east of Mayuko. One SOKO So-21 was destroyed, while the other aircraft landed undamaged. A pair of nearby Holyn Aero Stežery AS-100 fighters shot down the lone Mirage.

On 17 September, four SOKO So-210 strategic bombers launched 20 PS-51 cruise missiles at targets around Mayuko. One of these strikes destroyed the main power plant for the Mayuko region.

Holyn aircraft bombed a hospital Ruhenho on 18 September, killing roughly 45 civilians. On 19 September, a church in Kaselenzi was destroyed by a Holyn cruise missile. The attack killed roughly 100 civilians. The church was being used as a evacuation point for civilians from around Mayuko. Holynia later blamed the incident on poor intelligence and outdated maps.

Battle of Kayayi

Holyn troops moved on the town of Kayayi, which is adjacent to a key road interchange of the Mayuko-Kamri highway. The 1st Tank Brigade Combat Group of the 5th Guards Trutnov Tank Division captured the highway interchange, while a Brigade Combat Group of the 19th Guards Bystrica Motor Rifle Division led the assault on Kayayi. Holyn 155 mm artillery and 122 mm MLRS attacked positions of the Kifathe military inside Kayayi. By the morning of 23 September, the town was under Holyn control.

Battle of Mayuko

The Holyn 5th Guards Tank Division, 19th Guards Motor Rifle Division and 46th Guards Motor Rifle Division advanced to the outskirts of Mayuko on 24 September. On 25 September, Holyn reconaissance units managed to enter the city itself and faced sporadic resistance. These units withdrew back to their previous positions later in the day. Holyn artillery began shelling the city on 25 September.

Soldiers of the Holyn 19th Guards Motor Rifle Division during combat operations in Mayuko.

The city was initially defended by the remnants of the 3 Infantry Brigade and 15 Infantry Brigade of the Kifathe National Army. These units faced desertions and low morale. On 26 September, the initial reinforcements of the Kifathe military began to arrive in Mayuko. The 6 Mechanized Brigade arrived, equipped with Saurer 4K 4FA armored personnel carriers and SIBMAS infantry fighting vehicles.

Holyn Air Force SOKO So-21 attack aircraft struck Kifathe convoys heading to the city. Civilian evacuation convoys were also struck by Holyn attacks. 46 civilians were killed when their bus was hit by a Holyn bomb.

On 28 September, Holyn forces captured the southern portion of the city. On 29 September, Holyn tanks attempted to advance into the city, but were repelled by anti-tank missiles.

Two Holyn aircraft, a Aero Stežery AS-83 and a SOKO So-21, were shot down over Mayuko on 30 September.

On 1 October, Holyn troops reached the center of the city, with sporadic clashes continuing in the northern outskirts of Mayuko. Holyn tanks managed to storm through the main north-south road through the city. Some Kifathe forces made a last stand in an apartment building in the northern part of the city.

By 2 October, Mayuko had fallen to Holyn forces. The Holyn Ministry of Defence confirmed the city was under their control. Electricity and water were no longer functioning in Mayuko.

Central Kifathe

The Holyn forces that had concentrated in the south of Kifathe had captured their first objectives, the cities of Mayuko and Lumegesa. They began to refit and prepare for a northward advance towards the capital city.

On 12 October, Holyn forces advanced towards the city of Kiamlo. They captured the villages of Ruhanma and Kilebule on 12 October.

On 16 October, troops of the 23rd Guards Tyszowce Motor Rifle Division captured the village of Yabekiso.

Battle of Byubanza

Holyn troops captured the airport of the city of Byubanza on 17 October. Street fighting within the city itself began on 18 October. Holyn forces reached the Byubanza Technical College on 19 October. Social media reports stated the 10th Kifathe Division was tasked with defending the city. Holyn electronic warfare systems reportedly degraded communications ability of the Kifathe military during this battle.

Troops of the 12th Guards Vlesek Light Rifle Division were engaged in heavy jungle fighting on 21 October. Pro-Okiro militias and Republican Guard troops retained control of much of the dense bush surrounding the city.

Battle of Pintwama

Aerial bombardments on the capital had tapered off after 15 September, with limited strikes continuing thereafter. The majority of government and military facilities had been damaged or destroyed. Holyn aircraft prioritised front line strikes in support of ground forces objectives. Only 8 cruise missiles were launched towards Pintwama between 15 September and 8 October.

On 8 October, a second round of aerial bombardments on Pintwama began. Various structures were targeted, some suspected of being adhoc military command centres.

The Kifathe Ministry of Security headquarters in Pintwama was destroyed by a Holyn air strike on 9 October. A palace of President Okiro was destroyed on 11 October. Several air defence sites around Pintwama were destroyed between 11-12 October.

A massive aerial bombardment occurred on 15 October, with roughly 80 cruise missiles launched towards Pintwama. The Parliament building was struck and later engulfed in flames.

On 19 October, Holyn Aero Stežery AS-94 fighter bombers struck targets throughout the capital. On 21 October, a Holyn Aero Stežery AS-08 unmaned combat aerial vehicle was shot down over the city.

By 24 October, most of Kifathe's air defence systems had been destroyed or made ineffective. Holyn precision strikes had destroyed critical radars and ammunition dumps, making long and medium range air defence systems inoperable. Holynia continued to lose aircraft to short range air defences and shoulder launched anti-aircraft missiles.

On 29 October, Holyn troops of the 5th Guards Trutnov Tank Division entered Pintwama. Fierce urban combat took place throughout the city between 29 October and 3 November.

On 4 November, the 3rd Guards Opava Tank Division had advanced to the northeast of Pintwama, cutting off the M14 highway.

On 10 November, a combined push by the 5th Guards Trutnov Tank Division, 3rd Guards Opava Tank Division and several attached battalions of Ground Force Motor Rifle Divisions entered the center of Pintwama. The urban fighting had largely become a one sided battle for the Holyn military. Holynia was regarded as having gained air superiority over Kifatahe by November.

Holyn troops reached the burnt out Parliament building in Kifathe. Heavy fighting between Pro-Okiro forces and the Holyn military occured in this area. Most government officials had fled Pintwama by this point. The parliament building was captured on 14 November, with a Holyn flag being raised over the burnt out structure. The Presidential Palace, 3 blocks aways, was in a worse state, with much of the building by this point being reduced to rubble by continued air strikes and shelling.

During the night of 14-15 November, Holyn troops continued to advance, facing little to no resistance from Pro-Okiro forces. They made rapid advances throughout the rest of the city. Pro-Okiro forces began to relocated to the western suburbs, fleeing the city center.

On 16 November, Holyn aicraft began targeting Pro-Okiro forces on the outskirts of Pintwama.

Amphibious invasion

On 2 October, an amphibious landing occured along the northern Kifathe coast. Holyn loitering munitions struck Kifathe military bases housing the 9 Mechanized Brigade. In the morning of 2 October, a helicopter formation of 30 helicopters, mainly Vlach Vl-20 transport helicopters, assaulted the Port of Kapsogoma. The assault force consisted of the 51st Guards Air Assault Brigade and 67th Guards Air Assault Brigade of the Holyn Air Assault Forces. This force had deployed from the HMS Prince of Brezovička landing helicopter dock and various other landing ships positioned around the northern Kifathe coast.

The port was swiftly taken by the Holyns after a brief battle with the local police and scattered Kifathe military. 1 Holyn soldier had been killed and 21 wounded.

By afternoon, the HMS Sliačany and HMS Rychnava amphibious transport docks and HMS Krušetnica and HMS Rovinka landing ships arrived at the Port. The 5th Guards Marines Brigade and 8th Marines Brigade began to unload at the Port.

The HMS Krušetnica deploying Marines in Kapsogoma on October 2, 2022.

Kifathe launched a counter attack, with elements of the 9 Mechanized Brigade and 10 Infantry Brigade being deployed towards the city. By the evening of 2 October, they were 30 km from Kapsogoma.

Meanwhile, the HMS Zábidovo, HMS Nemšová and HMS Homok landing ships supported an amphibious assault on a beach west of Kirebi. Kirebi is 50 km to the west of Kapsogoma. The 6th Marines Brigade and 7th Guards Marines Brigade were involved in this operation. This region was under the control of BTUW rebels.

On the morning of 3 October, the Holyn Air Assault troops in Kapsogoma launched a new assault on the Kapsogoma International Airport. After seizing the airport, the Kifathe counterattack force reached the outskirts of Kapsogoma. Clashes were reported around the airport in the late morning of 3 October. The main Royal Holyn Marines assault force linked up with Air Assault Forces at the airport. By 4 October, the Kifathe attack had been repelled. Kifathe aircraft were able to conduct air strikes on Holyn positions in Kapsogoma.

On 4 October, the Holyn forces that landed west outside Kirebi had captured portions of the Kirebi-Kapsogoma motorway,

Additional heavy equipment for the Marines began to arrive in Kapsogoma. In addition, the 21st Guards Tyszowce Motor Rifle Division had deployed to the city, arriving by ship and aircraft. These reinforcements were meant to secure the city and enable future advances.

Air defense had been provided by the HMS Vanov guided missile cruiser, HMS Štramberk and HMS Lapša guided missile destroyers. On 5 October, ground bases long range surface to air missile had been deployed to Kapsogoma.

On 7 October, Holyn forces launched a combined arms assault, seizing several villages along the Kirebi-Kapsogoma motorway. By the end of the day, the isolated Marines Brigades west of Kirebi had linked with the main Holyn assault force. Holyn forces had taken over 100 casaulties, with 46 confirmed dead.

Battle of Kirebi

On 8 October, Holyn troops defeated BTUW rebels in the village of Kwantu, 10 km from Kirebi. Between the Holyn forces and Kirebi lay roughly 3,500 BTUW rebels occupying various small villages. Prior to the Holyn invasion, this region was contested between the Kifathe government and the BTUW rebels. Routed Kifathe troops who were retreating eastward towards Kirebi came under attack from the BTUW.

Holyn unmanned aircraft and loitering munitions targeted BTUW positions throughout the region.

Kirebi is home to roughly 2 million people and is the third largest city in Kifathe. It sits on the estuary of the Zeisa River. The city is the birthplace of Kifathe President Shany Okiro.

The Mayor of Kirebi, Mohlomi Nkoe, announced he would personally lead the defense of the city and formed a volunteer militia. The 72 Republican Guard Brigade arrived on 8 October to bolster defenses in the city.

President Shany Okiro made his first statement on the war since it began. Okiro vowed Kirebi would be a turning point in the war. The threat to Kirebi was significant and losing the city would cut the country off from vital sea trade. The 99 Brigade of the Republican Guard was also deployed to Kirebi on 9 October. The HT-65 main battle tanks of the Brigade were spotted in dugouts to the west of the city.

Kifathe security forces deployed around Kirebi.

In the morning of 9 October, Holyn rocket barrages began striking the outskirts of Kirebi.

A Holyn advance on Kirebi began, with an Tank Brigade Combat Group from the 57th Guards Saskal Light Rifle Division securing the Zeisa River's northern bridge. Holyn Airborne Assault troops captured the small village directly east of the brigde. By evening on 9 October, Holyn troops were fighting Kifathe Republican Guard troops outside the Kirebi Stadium. The stadium was engulfed in flames after a Holyn airstrike. By morning on 10 October, fighting had died down as thunderstorms reduced visibility.

On 12 October, Holyn forces resumed their advance after a brief pause. This pause allowed an additional Brigade Combat Group to arrive from Kapsogoma.

On 13 October, Holyn cruise missiles strike throughout the city of Kirebi. International journalists reported that Holyn forces had captured the remains of Kirebi stadium and were slowly advancing into the city. Fierce street battles raged in the western outskirts of Kirebi throughout the day.

On 14 October, the remaining 3 bridges crossing the Zeisa River were destroyed or severely damaged by Holyn attacks. Holyn Aero Stežery AS-83E strike aircraft used guided bombs to attack these bridges.

On 15 October, a SOKO So-21 was damaged by a Kifathe SHORAD system, however the aircraft managed to return to base. Another SOKO So-21 was shot down over Kirebi later that day. The Holyn 7th Guards Marines Brigade and 17th Guards Tábor Motor Rifle Divison established a pontoon crossing the Zeisa River on 16 September. Troops of the 67th Guards Air Assault Brigade reached the city's water treatment plant in the evening.

The 4th Marines Tank Battalion suffered the loss of four HT-85 tanks on 18th October in the west of Kirebi. Fierce fighting took place throughout the city, with Holyn troops facing stiff resistance. The 57th Guards Saskal Light Rifle Division withdrew westward after losing two infantry mobility vehicles during fighting on the 19th of October.

Local authorities in Kirebi announced that electrical power to the city would cease temporarily on 20 October to 21 October to prevent irreperable damage. As of 25 October, power has not been restored. On 22 October, troops of the 7th Guards Marines Brigade reached the Chama Cement Plant in Kirebi. Meanwhile, troops of the 17th Guards Tábor Motor Rifle Divison reached the Yabassi district of Kirebi.

On 7 November, Holyn Marines captured the Kirebi Airport.

By 20 November, Holyn forces had secured most of the region of Kirebi. Cuscan intelligence officials described the situation on the northern front as a victory for Holynia. Most Kifathe government forces had been routed and the remnants scattered into the jungles, forced to surrender or engage in battles with BTUW rebel forces.

Order of Battle

All Holyn Ground Forces Brigades are organized as Brigade Combat Groups.

Holynia

Operational Command (Army Gen. Pavel Volf)
Operational Group of Forces West (Col. Gen. Martin Vykukal)
Holyn Ground Forces
- Third Guards Tank Army
  - 1st Tank Brigade Combat Group, 5th Guards Trutnov Tank Division
  - 2nd Tank Brigade Combat Group, 5th Guards Trutnov Tank Division
  - 3rd Tank Brigade Combat Group, 5th Guards Trutnov Tank Division
  - 11th Guards Lopúchov Hussars Brigade
- Second Guards Army
  - 1st Motor Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 19th Guards Bystrica Motor Rifle Division
  - 2nd Motor Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 19th Guards Bystrica Motor Rifle Division
  - 2nd Light Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 12th Guards Vlesek Light Rifle Division
- Sixth Guards Army
  - 1st Motor Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 52nd Zukalo Motor Rifle Division
  - 1st Light Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 102nd Kozáka Light Rifle Division
  - 97th Seperate Tank Brigade
Holyn Air Assault Forces
- 47th Guards Air Assault Brigade
- 99th Guards Air Assault Brigade
Operational Group of Forces East (Lt. Gen. Svatopluk Kozák)
- First Guards Tank Army
  - 1st Tank Brigade Combat Group, 1st His Majesty's Life Guards Tank Division
  - 2nd Tank Brigade Combat Group, 1st His Majesty's Life Guards Tank Division
  - 1st Motor Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 17th Guards Tábor Motor Rifle Divison
  - 2nd Motor Rifle Brigade Combat Group, 17th Guards Tábor Motor Rifle Divison
- Second Guards Tank Army
- Sixth Guards Army
Operational Group of Forces North (Maj. Gen. Jan Haušild)
Royal Holyn Marines
- 1st Marines Division
  - 5th Guards Marines Brigade
  - 6th Marines Brigade
  - 7th Guards Marines Brigade
  - 8th Marines Brigade
  - 4th Marines Tank Battalion
Holyn Air Assault Forces
- 26th Guards Air Assault Brigade
- 51st Guards Air Assault Brigade
- 67th Guards Air Assault Brigade
Holyn Ground Forces
- 1st Brigade Combat Group, 6th Guards Benedikt IV Motor Rifle Division
- 2nd Brigade Combat Group, 6th Guards Benedikt IV Motor Rifle Division
- 1st Brigade Combat Group, 15th Guards Hankovce Light Rifle Division

Kifathe

Kifathe Armed Forces
- Kifathe National Army
  - 1 Kifathe Division
    - 1 Armoured Brigade
    - 6 Mechanized Brigade
    - 10 Infantry Brigade
    - 11 Infantry Brigade
  - 2 Kifathe Division
    - 9 Mechanized Brigade
    - 2 Infantry Brigade
    - 3 Infantry Brigade
    - 15 Infantry Brigade
  - 3 Kifathe Division
    - 6 Armoured Brigade
    - 14 Mechanized Brigade
    - 7 Infantry Brigade
    - 8 Infantry Brigade
  - Republican Guard
    - 18 Brigade
    - 45 Brigade
    - 72 Brigade
    - 99 Brigade

Reactions

Supranational bodies

Navron Union — The Navron Union Chairperson Lesego Nyathi condemned the invasion and called on both sides to "reach an immediate ceasefire". The NU Commission formally condemned Holynia and suspended its observer status within the NU. Imports from Skoskie into NU member states were banned until December 31, 2022.
International Assembly — Secretary General Koyanagi Norio called on both sides to "cease hostilities". The IA called a Security Council meeting, however, Holynia vetoed a resolution to condemn the war. The General Assembly failed to pass a vote condemming the invasion, but a statement did pass the officially called for a ceasefire.

States

Cusco — The Cuscan government called for an immediate ceasefire. The State Department accused Holynia of manufacturing reasons to invade Kifathe, but did not condemn the invasion.
Saha — The Saha government called on both nations to exercise restraint. Saha advised its citizens in Kifathe to leave immediately on 21 August.
Wrutesh — Foreign Minister Pieter Wilson called on Kifathe to stop its agressive actions towards Holynia. On 21 August, Wrutesh President Erco Van Jaarsveld voiced support for Holynia's invasion.
Zion — Prime Minister Gilon Lichtman emphasized support for the Holyn operation, calling Kifathe a "barracks of terrorism". A Holyn delegation arrived in Zion in October 2022 where Zion reemphasized there support for the invasion.

2022 Holyn invasion of Kifathe

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