Japanese Torp Bombers and CV Escorts

[montesaurus]

Sometimes when my Kates attack ships they use bombs instead of torpedoes. Is there a maximum range they will travel with torpedoes?

Also, can someone give me an idea how to best use Japanese CV escorts for other than cannon fodder? Do the planes on those ships contribute to CV battles?

Thanks.

[jdsrae]

Check if the CVE has any “Torp sorties”. If not, Kates flying from them will only ever drop bombs.
Even if flying from CV and CVL with torp sorties, check the aircraft info screen for Kates. Up to max normal range they’ll use torpedoes only if torp sorties are available. For extended range they’ll use bombs.
I use CVEs in an anti-submarine role to escort convoys, not anywhere near enemy CVs.
You’ll need to train up the pilots in ASW skill before expecting them to be effective though.

[SheperdN7]

Yes all aircraft have a range- “Normal” which is the range the aircraft can travel carrying a full payload (in your case, Kates carrying torps, which is 7 hexes) and an “extended” range, which is the range the aircraft can fly with a reduced payload (2x250 kg bombs, in the Kate’s case)

Look in the Aircraft database as well as clicking on the “Aircraft Data” button to be able to see the normal, extended, and maximum ranges that an aircraft can fly.

As for your second question, it really depends on the player. For myself I enjoy using the CVE’s that the IJN possess to form “Mini-Butai” air combat TF’s that are used in conjuction with KB during fleet operations. One thing to consider is that CVE’s can perform air operations on coastal hexes without any penalties. So with that, CVE’s can be used as a CAP trap against enemy aircraft attacking your Amphib TF’s during invasions.


Just my 2 cents.

[montesaurus]

Thanks for you help guys, useful info!