Victory Map 9 Strategy Notes Strategy notes assume the "A" is placed in the lower left corner. One medium sized island and three small (one hex) islands with treacherous shoals inhabit the Pearl Sea.  Two resource hexes and only three production hexes invite resource interdiction scenarios. Attack Attacking from the North, the small islands of Heru and Lanapuu will be the first objectives on the horizon.  But thanks to the Kaala Atoll, there are only two narrow paths to approach these islands.  The only strategy likely to be successful involves setting up a blockade while pounding it over several turns from the air.  If the blockade is successful, an attacker should concentrate his fire on the ground or naval units in the hex, as any enemy air casualties are easily replaced by merely flying over the blockade.  Once the islands are reduced in strength, only then can an amphibious or airborne landing be attempted. An attack from the south provides two targets of opportunity, each with their own challenges.  The small island of Apua may prove to be the easier of the two, however it is only a resource hex, and Kanaii is not a production city.  The decision to attack may hinge on whether the scenario utilizes resource production.  Regardless, control of this island will provide a player with a valuable airbase in the Pearl Sea.  Lastly, the island is ringed by reefs which limit easy access to the other islands.  This makes it very difficult to defend – naval units placed in the hexes with the arrows will limit reinforcements from both islands.  Attacking the main island of Palikai requires that a decision be made on which side to approach.  The Nalu Rocks channel an invasion force to one side or the other.  The large city of Hainalu could be difficult to wear down because of its inherent production capability to replace combat losses.  The small city of Kauna’s exposed position will make it difficult to blockade. Defense Once again, occupying the crucial choke-points before an attacker has the opportunity will be of primary importance on this map.  The large sea area will make aircraft carriers especially valuable.  A tactic that will be especially effective is to place a forward line of ships so that any sea battle takes place away from your lines of supply.  While this does limit the air response ability, it will lessen the probability that one or more of your islands will be isolated.  If such an isolation occurs, it will be very difficult to reverse. A retreat of any stranded units, in concert with a counter-attack might be the best option in this situation.