[ TERMINAL ACCESS: GLOBAL FEED ]

Tensions in the Middle East have escalated into physical conflict from an unexpected periphery. Following a forced shutdown of the SUR-GRID network by the leadership of the Islamic Communist Bloc, control signals to autonomous mining vehicles, known as 'Sandcrawlers,' operating in remote oil fields were severed. Losing navigation, these numerous colossal machines have strayed beyond defense lines into surrounding residential areas and territories controlled by independent warlords. Perceiving this as an opportunity for plunder, old-generation armed factions (Warlords) have attacked the Sandcrawlers with anti-tank missiles, leading to sporadic armed clashes with the defending Islamic Communist Volunteer Army. The central leadership's hardline stance has ironically resulted in a rapid deterioration of security in its own peripheral regions.