The Metal Wars

The Metal Wars, also known as the Unification War, took place between 2069 and 2070, involving the New United States and the Free States of North America, marked by significant corporate involvement and military technology.

Overview

The Metal Wars, officially referred to as the Unification War, occurred from January 2069 to June 2070. This conflict was primarily between the New United States (NUSA) and the Free States of North America, including states like Colorado and New Mexico. The war is characterized as a corporate war due to the involvement of major corporations such as Militech and Arasaka.

Key Events

The NUSA, led by President Rosalind Myers, initiated the conflict by declaring war on the Free States. The first military actions targeted Colorado, New Mexico, Wyoming, Montana, and Arizona. The Battle of Ridgecrest emerged as the bloodiest engagement, resulting in over 3,000 casualties in a single day. By mid-2070, federal forces had occupied most of the Free States, except for Texas and Northern California, which remained neutral.

Aftermath and Treaty

The war concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Unification in Arvin, South California. This treaty marked the end of hostilities but left the Free States with a degree of autonomy. Both sides claimed victory, although the peace terms were largely unsatisfactory, leading to ongoing tensions. The NUSA accepted the conditions for a peaceful resolution, while Texas did not sign the treaty and remained hostile.

Corporate Involvement

Militech provided advanced military technology to the NUSA, while Arasaka secretly financed the Free States. Both corporations suffered significant losses during the conflict, with Militech losing thousands of soldiers and billions in military equipment. The treaty allowed corporate interests to operate in Night City, which became an international free city.

Future Implications

Despite the treaty, the Unification War did not resolve the underlying conflicts, and predictions suggest the likelihood of another armed conflict by 2080. The ongoing tensions and dissatisfaction with the peace terms indicate that the Metal Wars may not be the last of such conflicts.