Sqz stands down. The AAR is now concluded. Sqz (A) vs. obvert (J)

[SqzMyLemon]

June 20/44:

Same shit, different day.

I lose 60 escorts and 50 4E's because my sweeps get sent in coordinated and as the last combat mission once again. I thought sweeps NEVER coordinated? This must be the 3rd or 4th time my P-47 sweeps were sent in together and last during air combat to achieve nothing as usual.

I especially like the raids where 7 and 8 bombers are assigned 15 and 47 escorts respectively. All I want is a fair shot. So far almost every Japanese bombing raid is preceded by sweeping fighters, yet when I mount large raids, my sweeps are almost always sent in last and there seems to be an effort by the AI to group my sweeps into one large attack, but it comes at the end of combat. Why does the AI treat one side differently then the other? I don't mind taking losses, but so far this game my air losses are disproportionate, because more often than not my sweeps are not flying first and my bombers are getting chewed up. I have no option anymore, I will have to order sweep missions only, unlike my opponent who is able to assign both sweep and bombing missions because they consistently work.



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Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 54
J2M3 Jack x 36
N1K2-J George x 42
Ki-84a Frank x 47
Ki-100-I Tony x 49

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 24
B-24D1 Liberator x 57
B-24J Liberator x 8
P-38J Lightning x 22
F6F-3 Hellcat x 31

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M8 Zero: 4 destroyed
J2M3 Jack: 2 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 damaged
Ki-100-I Tony: 4 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 7 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak
B-24D1 Liberator: 7 destroyed, 21 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged
F6F-3 Hellcat: 7 destroyed

Airbase hits 4
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 11

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
10 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
1 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
1 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 20 on standby, 13 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 16000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
35 planes vectored on to bombers
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 18 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
18 planes vectored on to bombers
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 15 on standby, 14 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 7000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
32 planes vectored on to bombers
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 9 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 16000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
18 planes vectored on to bombers
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 20 on standby, 20 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 7000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
34 planes vectored on to bombers
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 22 on standby, 14 scrambling)
11 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
36 planes vectored on to bombers



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Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 45 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 33
J2M3 Jack x 31
N1K2-J George x 41
Ki-84a Frank x 38
Ki-100-I Tony x 39

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 8
P-38J Lightning x 15
F6F-3 Hellcat x 32

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 3 destroyed, 2 damaged
B-24D1 Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak
F6F-3 Hellcat: 6 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (22 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
22 plane(s) intercepting now.
19 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
17 planes vectored on to bombers
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (19 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
19 plane(s) intercepting now.
12 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
20 planes vectored on to bombers
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
6 planes vectored on to bombers
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (24 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
24 plane(s) intercepting now.
15 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 4000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 72 minutes
13 planes vectored on to bombers
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (14 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
14 plane(s) intercepting now.
24 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 8000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes
25 planes vectored on to bombers
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
13 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 10000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 82 minutes
10 planes vectored on to bombers



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 52 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 17 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 25
J2M3 Jack x 26
N1K2-J George x 35
Ki-84a Frank x 33
Ki-100-I Tony x 27

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 7
P-38J Lightning x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 4 damaged

Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (20 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
20 plane(s) intercepting now.
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
6 planes vectored on to bombers
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
5 planes vectored on to bombers
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (16 airborne, 0 on standby, 6 scrambling)
16 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 4000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes
10 planes vectored on to bombers
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (20 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
20 plane(s) intercepting now.
12 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 6000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
9 planes vectored on to bombers
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (25 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
25 plane(s) intercepting now.
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
6 planes vectored on to bombers



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 22,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 24
J2M3 Jack x 25
N1K2-J George x 34
Ki-84a Frank x 28
Ki-100-I Tony x 27

Allied aircraft
Beaufighter X x 1
B-24D Liberator x 6
B-24D1 Liberator x 7
B-24J Liberator x 49
P-38J Lightning x 15
F6F-3 Hellcat x 11

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Beaufighter X: 1 destroyed
B-24D Liberator: 1 damaged
B-24D1 Liberator: 1 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 3 destroyed, 14 damaged
P-38J Lightning: 5 destroyed
F6F-3 Hellcat: 3 destroyed

Airbase hits 3
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 6

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
11 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
8 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
3 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
19 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
7 planes vectored on to bombers
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 5 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
12 plane(s) not yet engaged, 8 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 25000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 33 minutes
5 planes vectored on to bombers
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 8 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
19 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 6000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
12 planes vectored on to bombers
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 26000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 6 scrambling)
18 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 78 NM, estimated altitude 23,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 26 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 17
J2M3 Jack x 14
N1K2-J George x 28
Ki-84a Frank x 20
Ki-100-I Tony x 21

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24J Liberator: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 2 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
15 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
17 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 8000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 39 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 11000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
16 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 3000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 39 NM, estimated altitude 23,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 13
J2M3 Jack x 9
N1K2-J George x 20
Ki-84a Frank x 13
Ki-100-I Tony x 12

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M8 Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 3 destroyed, 2 damaged
B-24D1 Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (9 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
9 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Raid is overhead
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 13000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (13 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
13 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 10000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 45 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Raid is overhead
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Raid is overhead
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (11 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
11 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 54 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 18 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 9
J2M3 Jack x 8
N1K2-J George x 15
Ki-84a Frank x 11
Ki-100-I Tony x 11

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-100-I Tony: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24J Liberator: 2 destroyed, 4 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (8 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Raid is overhead
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Raid is overhead
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (9 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
9 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 48 NM, estimated altitude 24,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 4
J2M3 Jack x 7
N1K2-J George x 11
Ki-84a Frank x 6
Ki-100-I Tony x 5

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 1 destroyed, 5 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 20000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 14000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 32 NM, estimated altitude 25,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 2
J2M3 Jack x 5
N1K2-J George x 4
Ki-84a Frank x 3
Ki-100-I Tony x 2

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
J2M3 Jack: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24J Liberator: 6 damaged

Japanese ground losses:
6 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 20000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Raid is overhead
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Raid is overhead
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 18000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 65 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 15000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 72 NM, estimated altitude 20,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 24 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 2
J2M3 Jack x 2
N1K2-J George x 2
Ki-84a Frank x 1
Ki-100-I Tony x 2

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 5 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 22000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 17000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 48 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 79 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K2-J George x 2
Ki-100-I Tony x 2

Allied aircraft
P-47D25 Thunderbolt x 68

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
23 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *
21 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *
21 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 26000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 22000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 71 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 21 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K2-J George x 1

Allied aircraft
P-38J Lightning x 3
P-47D25 Thunderbolt x 23

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
23 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters to 38000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 1 minutes

[Lokasenna]

Sweeps don't coordinate, but they can arrive at the same time... In many cases, I'd actually prefer that they arrive individually as when they arrive simultaneously, sometimes the majority of the planes don't even take part in the fight so are "wasted."

Here's a tip for your bombers: set them to primary naval attack (range 0) and secondary airfield/port/ground attack (whatever you're trying to do). This will ensure, basically, that they fly in the afternoon rather than either phase. This doesn't mean your sweeps will always arrive first, but it increases the chances (I've seen sweeps in the PM phase as well as AM).

Alternatively, you could simply sweep and not nothing else. That way your sweeps always fight (and presumably beat) the CAP. It takes time to rebuild gutted airgroups. Use sweeps and recon liberally, bomb in daylight sparingly.

[SqzMyLemon]

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

Sweeps don't coordinate, but they can arrive at the same time... In many cases, I'd actually prefer that they arrive individually as when they arrive simultaneously, sometimes the majority of the planes don't even take part in the fight so are "wasted."

Here's a tip for your bombers: set them to primary naval attack (range 0) and secondary airfield/port/ground attack (whatever you're trying to do). This will ensure, basically, that they fly in the afternoon rather than either phase. This doesn't mean your sweeps will always arrive first, but it increases the chances (I've seen sweeps in the PM phase as well as AM).

Alternatively, you could simply sweep and not nothing else. That way your sweeps always fight (and presumably beat) the CAP. It takes time to rebuild gutted airgroups. Use sweeps and recon liberally, bomb in daylight sparingly.

Thanks for those tips. I have also set my sweeps to 29k, 30k and 31k before to separate sweeps. I will have to get back to doing that. I know how I come across when things don't go well, but when I see what my opponent is able to do, it really sucks to watch how the AI handles my air units sometimes. I mean, I am losing 40-60 bombers on big raids because my sweeps don't fly first. It's crazy and frustrating. I can only imagine how fewer bomber losses I'd be suffering if my sweeps even took out 25% of the CAP before my bombers attack.

[SqzMyLemon]

I'm a long time Patriots fan. Emotionally drained after watching that game last night, and it's still hard to comprehend how they came back and won the game.

One note to self though. Never run a WitPAE replay during the Super Bowl when your team is down 28-3, especially when you know the AI likes to gut your bomber forces just because it can. [:D]

[Lokasenna]

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

Sweeps don't coordinate, but they can arrive at the same time... In many cases, I'd actually prefer that they arrive individually as when they arrive simultaneously, sometimes the majority of the planes don't even take part in the fight so are "wasted."

Here's a tip for your bombers: set them to primary naval attack (range 0) and secondary airfield/port/ground attack (whatever you're trying to do). This will ensure, basically, that they fly in the afternoon rather than either phase. This doesn't mean your sweeps will always arrive first, but it increases the chances (I've seen sweeps in the PM phase as well as AM).

Alternatively, you could simply sweep and not nothing else. That way your sweeps always fight (and presumably beat) the CAP. It takes time to rebuild gutted airgroups. Use sweeps and recon liberally, bomb in daylight sparingly.

Thanks for those tips. I have also set my sweeps to 29k, 30k and 31k before to separate sweeps. I will have to get back to doing that. I know how I come across when things don't go well, but when I see what my opponent is able to do, it really sucks to watch how the AI handles my air units sometimes. I mean, I am losing 40-60 bombers on big raids because my sweeps don't fly first. It's crazy and frustrating. I can only imagine how fewer bomber losses I'd be suffering if my sweeps even took out 25% of the CAP before my bombers attack.

Well, another thing you could try but I haven't is setting all your sweepers to escort. With a large home base and an HQa present, you may be able to get them all to coordinate if they're in the same command. You might be able to get all the bombers and fighters, including sweepers, to fly together - even with the sweepers-as-escorts set to high altitudes to pounce on any CAP that goes after the bombers.

I've been on the receiving end of this, sort of, and it seems to work OK... not as well as sweeps first, bombers second, but it's definitely better than everything getting shot up by full CAP and then your 200 sweepers arrive to meet empty skies.

[Andav]

I know it does not help much but witpqs has had the same trouble with sweepers coming in last. I am not sure how much he has documented in his AAR but it is rare for the sweepers to come before the bombers. I think when he wants to bomb something he sweep first and then bombs.

Wa

[SqzMyLemon]

ORIGINAL: Andav

I know it does not help much but witpqs has had the same trouble with sweepers coming in last. I am not sure how much he has documented in his AAR but it is rare for the sweepers to come before the bombers. I think when he wants to bomb something he sweep first and then bombs.

Wa

Thanks for this. I haven't been reading witpqs' AAR much lately, but may have to give it another reading through. Even on my smaller raids I'm noticing my sweeps arriving last, so I don't know why that doesn't appear to be the case for Erik. The problem I find with having to sweep for a few days first before sending in the bombers, is that it gives your opponent ample time to react. One of the reasons I chose this attack against a heavily defended target was that there were 31 ships in port. Had I swept for two days I can almost guarantee that Erik would have moved the ships out of harms way once his CAP was gone.

I really don't get why the AI seems to be treating my raids differently then those of my opponent.

[Lokasenna]

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

I really don't get why the AI seems to be treating my raids differently then those of my opponent.

Well, two reasons:

1. Dumb luck
2. Subtle differences in settings/circumstances

[SqzMyLemon]

June 20/44: continued...

Lost in the excitement of the Super Bowl and bomber carnage was the fact that both Dagua and Wewak fell on the first deliberate attacks. Erik had successfully withdrawn more of the troops from under my nose as usual. My CAP and LRCAP and day/night settings have had no visible impact on the ability of Japanese transports to withdraw troops for no losses. I've tried low altitudes, but I now have a sinking suspicion that Erik may be setting them to much higher altitudes to avoid interdiction. I have no proof, but there is definitely something he is doing that is preventing my getting to his transports. Regardless, both bases are mine now.

Erik also sent in a number of SCTF's to interdict my amphibious task foces. I withdrew all my shipping to Hansa Bay and Madang in anticipation of this. The good news is my DB's at Lae flew and hit two CL's and two DD's with 1000lbs bombs. One CL took two. Sinking sounds were heard during the replay, but I have no idea what sank. There were Jack's on CAP, but I only lost a few DB's to a post bombing interdiction. I expect a possible bombardment run against Hansa Bay's airbase, so I've sent in a SCTF of my own to Hansa Bay to protect against one. Too bad the excessive bomber losses and failed sweeps ruined the turn for me, otherwise it would have been a good day.

I'll replenish the escort squadrons, rest the sweeps then try again to suppress Hollandia and Sarmi. I will not bomb for awhile though, it will be sweeps only to clear the skies. I've got 270 B-24J's in the pool, so I will replenish and upgrade some bomber groups, consolidate some of the older air models into a few squadrons and be ready for the next bloodletting. Unfortunately, the way the air model has been performing has really tainted how I feel about the game, and how I have to conduct my flight operations feels wrong and unrealistic in the extreme. Sweeps should fly ahead of bombers most of the time...period. There should be cases where they don't, but those should be rare or occur far less often in my opinion.

Whatever, it's a game and I need to let this one go. It's going to continue to happen and I should just play under the expectation that every air mission of mine will be a disaster first, so when something good happens I can be pleasantly surprised instead.

[Lokasenna]

Is it possible that the troops were withdrawn prior to this turn?

Intercepting transport planes is rather difficult. Try varying your CAP altitude.

You should spawn some PTs to harass his bombardments [;)].

[SqzMyLemon]

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

Is it possible that the troops were withdrawn prior to this turn?

Intercepting transport planes is rather difficult. Try varying your CAP altitude.

You should spawn some PTs to harass his bombardments [;)].

I have 18 PT boats at Hansa Bay in three separate task forces.

I've been capping Dagua and Wewak for weeks, both day and night, trying different combinations. Altitude as low as 1k and as high as 10k. I think they are flying higher than that or I'm just not getting the right mix of CAP.

[Lokasenna]

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

Is it possible that the troops were withdrawn prior to this turn?

Intercepting transport planes is rather difficult. Try varying your CAP altitude.

You should spawn some PTs to harass his bombardments [;)].

I have 18 PT boats at Hansa Bay in three separate task forces.

I've been capping Dagua and Wewak for weeks, both day and night, trying different combinations. Altitude as low as 1k and as high as 10k. I think they are flying higher than that or I'm just not getting the right mix of CAP.

Range could also be preventing interception.

[SqzMyLemon]

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

Range could also be preventing interception.

Could be, but I'm basing out of Hansa Bay to Dagua and Wewak. That's like only 3 hexes I think. I'm using NF's including Havoc and Corsair fighters. No love so far.

[SqzMyLemon]

June 21/44:

My bombers need to replenish and repair so the fighters were ordered to sweep Hollandia today. I kept the same settings as the day before for my P-47's. Four squadrons set to 31k swept individually, none of this arriving at the same time business. Why they arrived at the same time yesterday is a mystery. I wish I could have sent the bombers in again today, but I simply couldn't risk arriving ahead of the sweeps again. The CAP was moderate, and I could have had a good strike at both the airbase and port at Hollandia, but again there is that issue of will my sweeps even fly and will they arrive before my bombers. I really hate having to play this way and I feel totally handcuffed by voodoo game mechanics.

Anyway, I lose about 30 P-47's, but they achieve almost a 2:1 kill ratio. On the day I lose 7 pilots KIA, 1 MIA and 10 WIA. A pretty good outcome for me. However, I thought the P-47 was a pretty durable plane, so I'm rather surprised how many drop out of combat due to damage and how many are ultimately destroyed through Ops losses. I will sweep again tomorrow with two fresh P-47 squadrons, but I will assign a large number of escort and LRCAP this time.

I think I know why Erik has 52 xAKL's at Hollandia. After each air combat there are no auxiliary aircraft listed (damaged) at Hollandia, which normally there should be after two days of heavy air combat for his service 2 and 3 aircraft. I believe he is loading up his damaged aircraft each turn onto the xAKL's, so there is no risk of having them destroyed on the ground. Then he can withdraw the air group and damaged aircraft on the ships to reform at a rear base. At least that is what I think he is doing, otherwise there is no reason to keep 50+ ships in port at a forward base. I will try a few things to see if I can get to those ships, either in port or when they first set sail.

There are now 225+ Japanese fighter aircraft at Sarmi and 58 at Hollandia, according to recon last turn.

[Lokasenna]

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

ORIGINAL: Lokasenna

Range could also be preventing interception.

Could be, but I'm basing out of Hansa Bay to Dagua and Wewak. That's like only 3 hexes I think. I'm using NF's including Havoc and Corsair fighters. No love so far.

For over a year I had no luck intercepting Bullwinkle's transports to Chungking from a range of only 2 hexes. I just assumed he wasn't even flying any.

[SqzMyLemon]

There was no naval bombardments or combat last turn. Erik withdrew his SCTF's back to Sarmi. Perhaps he didn't want to risk getting caught within range of my DB's, or run into a strong Allied SCTF of Cleveland's and Fletcher's.

I've also noticed there is no attempt to fly naval air strikes against my transports unloading at Ponape anymore since his last effort. Despite sinking five ships, the cost in aircraft and crews was probably too high to pay. Suits me fine. I'll keep the size of my taskforces small and I've added another two squadrons of fighters to Ponape, bringing the total to four. I should send a larger re-supply taskforce soon though to drop off at least 60k. If I offer up such a juicy transport taskforce at Ponape, maybe Erik will try an attack. If I send in my carriers to spring a CAP trap it would be a nasty surprise.

Once I perform a few aggressive forward supply missions, I should be able to make a move towards Darwin and the DEI again.

Still no reaction to my recent moves in Burma. I keep resetting movement ticks towards the gap, but my real movement is east to the hex northeast of Toungoo. Then I repeat the process to feint towards Toungoo while the army really deploys to cut off Taung Gyi. Once Taung Gyi is isolated, I can siege the base with a holding force and use the rest of the army to attack along a single axis. Neutralizing Taung Gyi is the key to me being able to advance in Burma.

[SqzMyLemon]

I gave the air force in New Guinea the day off. I need to come up with a new air attack plan in light of the most recent setback.

Unfortunately, I think I'll have to give up trying to achieve tactical surprise and instead telegraph my bombing targets days in advance with sweeps, before sending in the bombers, Sucks, but there it is. This game gets easier for Japan every day.

[SqzMyLemon]

June 24/44:

Japanese sweeps in Burma over Allied positions occupying the hex northwest of Prome across the river. Making the mistake of not deploying AA units with forwards unit in the past, I deployed two heavy AA units to support the ground troops. It paid off. Three Japanese fighter sweeps came and went unopposed, then the bombers came in. 25 Helen bombers at 6k were given a warm reception. For the loss of one gun, the FLAK shot down 7 Helens.

Erik lays a trap for Australian Mitchell II bombers targeting the Japanese 6th Indpt SNLF Coy at Wessel Islands. I'd gotten lazy and had not been assigning escorts or sweeps. LRCAP based from Darwin shoots down 6 Mitchells. Payback tomorrow though. [8D]

Allied bombing raids consisted of attacks against Aitape chip away at the defenders. Bombers also target the routed defenders of Dagua stuck in the marshes southwest of the base. 26 squads are destroyed. I am really liking my Havoc and Mitchell bombers these days.

I also mount a small raid against Woleai's airbase. I've targeted the base periodically to try and destroy Japanese ASW bombers based there. One squadron of B-24's destroys 2 B7A2 Grace bombers on the ground and inflicts 21 runway hits. A good little raid.

Tomorrow is a good day for Allied air!

[SqzMyLemon]

June 25/44:

It's official, I have no idea how the air model works, but whatever it did today turned out great. Ok, I ordered one squadron of P-47's to sweep Hollandia. I assigned 4 squadrons of Corsairs to provide LRCAP. I assigned 5 squadrons of P-38's to escort. I assigned 2 squadrons of Spitfire VIII's to LRCAP. I also thought I set 5 squadrons of P-47's to LRCAP as well, but they never showed up. All squadrons were set to the same altitude of 31k.

So, what happened? Well my sweep, escort and LRCAP showed up, but no P-47 squadrons set to LRCAP. Here is where I am confused. The combat replay showed a P-47 icon, but during the combat the number of P-47 aircraft present remained at 0. There was not a single pass by any P-47, despite the fact the squadron was represented by icon and in the combat report. So, if the P-47's never showed up, how come the escort and LRCAP did? Did my escort aircraft escort the LRCAP? Regardless of what happened, it was a good result for my fighters. I got the numbers present to finally counter the low CAP Erik has been using to decimate my lone sweeps. Note, despite the combat report showing the P-47 sweep, it played no part in the ensuing engagement. I can only imagine what would have happened had all six of my P-47 squadrons participated. AAR follows:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 79 NM, estimated altitude 33,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 41
J2M3 Jack x 22
N1K2-J George x 27
Ki-84a Frank x 22
Ki-100-I Tony x 72

Allied aircraft
Spitfire VIII x 22
P-38J Lightning x 91
P-47D25 Thunderbolt x 23
F4U-1A Corsair x 48

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M8 Zero: 2 destroyed
N1K2-J George: 1 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 destroyed
Ki-100-I Tony: 7 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4U-1A Corsair: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
23 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet *

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 11 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 9 on standby, 13 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 42 minutes
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 7 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
331 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 9 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 7 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 7000 and 36090.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
55th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 20 on standby, 20 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 7000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 15 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 34440.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes

The Allies also avenged the loss of the Australian Mitchell's yesterday over Wessel Islands. Either Erik forgot to reset his CAP, or he thought I wouldn't attack today. AAR follows:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Wessel Islands , at 83,126

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 10 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 4
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar x 7
Ki-84a Frank x 3

Allied aircraft
F4U-1A Corsair x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 2 destroyed
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar: 4 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
S-305 Hikotai with A6M5 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 7000.
Raid is overhead
19th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 9000.
Raid is overhead
26th Sentai with Ki-43-IIIa Oscar (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 5000.
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Wessel Islands , at 83,126

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 10 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 4
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar x 7
Ki-84a Frank x 3

Allied aircraft
F4U-1A Corsair x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 2 destroyed
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar: 4 destroyed
Ki-84a Frank: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
S-305 Hikotai with A6M5 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 7000.
Raid is overhead
19th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 9000.
Raid is overhead
26th Sentai with Ki-43-IIIa Oscar (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 5000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 5000.
Raid is overhead

On the day I lost 5 Corsairs. The Japanese lost 31 fighters by my count during the replay. The Intelligence Report showed closer to 40. A good day's work. I've ordered additional sweeps against Hollandia for tomorrow. Hopefully the P-47's fly. The Corsairs needed to be stood down. I don't expect a repeat in results, but I'll be curious to see what happens if the P-47 squadron actually sweeps and if roughly the same number of escort and LRCAP aircraft show up. There is no other motive to these attacks then to destroy Japanese fighters while sustaining lower fighter losses myself. While the bombers recover, I want to keep the pressure on. I have a number of ideas on how to press the attack and start to hit any Japanese target where I can get the tactical advantage.

The Allied Fleet is still weeks away from being able to sortie, but I have a number of missions planned, all with the purpose of destroying Japanese aircraft and maybe drawing KB out.

Darwin is on my hot list for attention. Another week or so and then I'll target the Japanese fighters and airbase at Darwin.

[SqzMyLemon]

June 26/44:

A sad day. In light of yesterday's Allied success in the air, Erik resorts to the old tried and true tactic of raising the altitude to gain the bounce. We started the game with a 31k altitude restriction, a carry over from the original HR's agreed to by Erik and Torsten, but since then have allowed any altitude to be flown. However, we've both taken to setting our max altitudes at 31k. There was one day when I set my fighters higher in an effort to see if that made any difference against Erik's new tactic of setting low CAP. It didn't. Since then I've taken my lumps with air operations trying to overcome the low CAP flying at 31k consistently. Yesterday I hit pay dirt by being able to get enough aircraft over the target at once to nullify the low CAP. So in light of this, what did Erik do today over Hollandia? He set all his CAP to 33k which was higher than all my aircraft. What ensued was the Japanese CAP arriving in twos and threes and every little sub-group getting the bounce on a superior Allied force. Bounce after bounce my aircraft just took it without hardly engaging at all. On the day we trade 1:1 losses, so it wasn't horrendous for me. What is really too bad is that Erik went right to the higher altitude and bounce after suffering only one bad day in the air himself. The air model in this game can be exploited and everyone knows how easy it is to get the tactical advantage, simply by virtue of putting your aircraft higher than your opponent. Erik has found a counter to high sweeps by using low CAP settings for all his fighters, which takes advantage of how the air model works (it puts more aircraft in the air faster and overwhelms a smaller sweep). I'm disappointed Erik choose to employ this tactic, especially considering I've taken a beating for seven months trying to counter his low CAP. In these seven months of game time, we've both been on a level playing field in terms of altitude with air operations voluntarily. Now it seems that only counts as long as Erik doesn't suffer greater losses than me after I finally counter his low CAP on one occasion. Two can play at that game and I'll simply max out my altitude moving forward. It took only one day of lopsided results for Erik to set higher CAP. So be it, so will I.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hollandia , at 93,116

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid detected at 77 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 22 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M8 Zero x 20
J2M3 Jack x 20
N1K2-J George x 22
Ki-84a Frank x 29
Ki-100-I Tony x 58

Allied aircraft
Spitfire VIII x 19
P-38J Lightning x 66
P-47D25 Thunderbolt x 59
F4U-1A Corsair x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-100-I Tony: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-38J Lightning: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
25 x P-47D25 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-2 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 7 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 23000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
221 Ku S-1 with A6M8 Zero (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 6 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 26000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
S-316 Hikotai with J2M3 Jack (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 6 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 24000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
18th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 9 on standby, 5 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 25000 and 36090.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
55th Sentai with Ki-100-I Tony (0 airborne, 19 on standby, 12 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 26000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
87th Sentai with Ki-84a Frank (0 airborne, 14 on standby, 9 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 33000 , scrambling fighters between 29000 and 34440.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes

I lost 8 Corsairs, 5 P-38's and 1 P-47 from this engagement. I had the superior numbers, but by virtue of the bounce that advantage was lost. My losses weren't horrible, but it's the principle that matters to me. One day of poor results for Erik and he went straight for the height exploitation of the air model. I've flown at 31k because we both have when performing sweeps and I've suffered heavy losses as a result of trying to counter low CAP. Setting my aircraft lower or higher against low CAP does nothing, it's the numbers that matter. In this situation, the numbers didn't matter, but a smaller Japanese force got the bounce continually by virtue of a 2k higher altitude.

Another case.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Aitape , at 95,118

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 33,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K2-J George x 9

Allied aircraft
Thunderbolt I x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K2-J George: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Thunderbolt I: 2 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Thunderbolt I sweeping at 31000 feet

CAP engaged:
Yokosuka Ku S-1 with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(14 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 35000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 1 minutes
S-306 Hikotai with N1K2-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(16 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 5 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 35000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes

I lost 5 Thunderbolt I's from getting bounced by a smaller force by virtue of altitude settings.

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Morning Air attack on Pisanuloke , at 58,57

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar x 49
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 27

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 23
P-51A Mustang x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-43-IIIa Oscar: 3 destroyed
Ki-45 KAIa Nick: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 2 destroyed
P-51A Mustang: 1 destroyed

CAP engaged:
31st Sentai with Ki-43-IIIa Oscar (0 airborne, 20 on standby, 20 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
45th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 13 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes

If I don't get the numbers up against the low CAP settings I suffer heavy losses, despite the bounce. My escort of two squadrons of P-51B fighters never showed up and the numbers of Japanese CAP was the difference here. All told I ordered 100 aircraft (less 10%) on this mission, only 26 showed up, hence the results.