Space Wolves dig in on Hylas

Following the Federacy-led invasion of Hylas, the Alliance's continued advance relied heavily on Tau logistics within the Zadoc subsector. This strategic dependency necessitated a significant presence of Tau Earth Caste personnel in the rear areas of the invasion zone, supported and defended by Tau military forces. On 2405.023M42, the beleaguered Imperial defenders received critical reinforcement when a company of Space Wolves arrived to lend their aid in the conflict.

The Space Wolves, assessing the situation, quickly realised that their numbers were insufficient to dislodge the entrenched invasion force entirely. However, to buy the Imperial defenders crucial time to strengthen their positions, the Space Wolves executed a daring raid on the Tau-held rear areas supporting the Alliance invasion. This strike aimed to disrupt the logistical supply chain that was vital to the Federacy's continued operations.

The raid was characterised by the ferocity and precision typical of the Space Wolves. Their attack was swift and brutal, with the Tau defenders unable to effectively counter the onslaught. Despite their advanced firepower, the Tau forces failed to find their mark, and the Space Wolves wreaked havoc on the logistical support structures. The Earth Caste and their defenders were forced to withdraw, allowing the Space Wolves to inflict significant damage before retreating back to their hidden strike cruiser in the upper atmosphere of Hylas.

This successful raid provided the much needed respite for the Imperial forces under General Van Dorn. Seizing the opportunity, Van Dorn's troops made substantial progress in constructing a trench line northeast of the settlement of Desmond, positioned strategically in front of the difficult terrain of the swamps of West Hallen. These defences would prove crucial in the coming engagements, fortifying the Imperial position and slowing the Alliance's advance.