The Italian Army's Centaur tank destroyers, despite having excellent 105mm guns, faced increased pressure from the sudden appearance of enemy tanks and denser anti-tank fire.
One Centaur, during successive evasive maneuvers, was hit in the rear side by an RPG-7 fired from very close range, catching fire.
"Tanks! Enemy tanks! At least two, with more armored vehicles! We need anti-tank support, air support!"
Bertolini felt cold sweat seeping from his forehead.
"Order the entire brigade to switch to full defense! The vanguard battalion will alternately cover the retreat towards the 2nd reserve battalion! Deploy all anti-tank weapons, request tactical air support, quickly!"
He must cut his losses.
While saving face is important, losing another battalion would mean utter ruin for him.
However, the process for requesting tactical air support is cumbersome.
The Air Force... It's quite complex.
Several countries are involved.
Around 10:40 in the morning, over the battlefield.
