That, Charles knew, was true.  The Russian Special Forces were known for pushing themselves to the limit, just like the other such units around the world.  And, unlike the more open powers, the Russians had fewer qualms about taking terrifying risks to complete the mission.  Their performance in the Third Afghanistan War alone had marked their operators as being men to watch, even before they’d started bending the letter of international agreements on cyborg soldiers.

“We have to break into the system first,” Charles said, after a long moment.  “And if we do that, we have to assault the planetary defences too ...”

“They won’t have time to install anything heavier than a handful of automated platforms,” Ivan said, confidently.  He shrugged, an exaggerated gesture that seemed to make up for his frozen features.  “We know the risks, Major, and we know we have to break into the system first.  Should that fail, we will consider alternatives.  But, for the moment, this is our best option.”

“I will consult with the Captain,” Charles said, flatly.  “He will have the final say ... unless you wish to insert your shuttle into the system on your own?”

“Maybe as a last resort,” Ivan said.  He looked down at the plan, then passed Charles a copy.  “I would advise you not to share it with anyone, but I don’t think it matters here.”

Charles snorted.  Three months ago, the concept of having Russian SF forces on Ark Royal would have been utterly absurd.  Even though the carrier was in the reserves, the Admiralty would have had kittens at the thought ... unless they decided to sell the carrier.  But that would have alienated a pressure group that would have brought an immense political storm down on their heads.  Now ... working with the Russians – and a handful of smaller navies – might mean the difference between victory and defeat.

“I’ll show it to the Captain alone,” he said.  “He will have the final say, as I said.”

He understood Ivan’s impatience to act.  New Russia and millions of Russian civilians were under enemy occupation – if, of course, they were still alive.  The aliens could have butchered them all by now.  If Charles could feel the urge to hurry up and get stuck into an enemy that had casually wiped out two British carriers and thousands of crewmen, Ivan would feel far worse.  But they had to be careful.  Ark Royal was effectively irreplaceable.  Did the enemy realise that was true?

“Good,” Ivan growled.  He didn't look happy, but at least he'd conceded the point.  “See to it, please.”

Charles nodded, then checked the terminal.  Two days to the tramline that would lead them directly to New Russia.  Two days ... to lay their plans and hope, desperately, that the aliens weren't in position to intercept them.  And if it went wrong ...