Level Bomber Strategies?

[AbsntMndedProf]

Can anyone give me some ideas as to how best to use level bombers?

Seems that, since they must be assigned targets prior to knowing where the enemy is, and where they are going, makes their use somewhat difficult.

Any input would be appreciated. Thanks!

Eric Maietta

[Grumble]

Yes it does, but it accurately simulates the situation facing a commander. If you are attacking, examine the terrain as if you were the defender, and target accordingly. Against an AI opponent, terrain around victory hexes is a good place to start. If you are defending, you may wish to simply put down some iron on the start-line. Again, analyzing the terrain from the other guy's standpoint to find possible attack axes against your defenses. All things being equal, dominating terrain, and towns are usually pretty good targets.
As to when to bring them on, personally I use 'em all at once pre-game. Too inflexible to try to preprogram their arrival at such and such a turn; though if you have a fair idea of where you (or the enemy) will be at turn xxx that's also a possibility.

[Capt. Pixel]

I've found the best use of Level Bombers is as 155mm Howitzers! <img src="wink.gif" border="0">
I've never been suficiently impressed with the results from using them (they're not worth the points - I'd rather have howitzers, thank you).
IMHO, these types of assets (and rocket launchers, too), are really only useful if the opponent is in a static position as a result of really bad weather, Rivers, rough hills, defensive stance, etc. They could also be handy for prepping a paradrop/glider zone.
If one can manage to bring these guys in to paste an enemy position AND if he can take advantage of the disarray with his ground units, then you've got a fine weapon system.
That, however, is a lot of 'IF's, and they never have seemed to paid out for me. <img src="tongue.gif" border="0"> <img src="rolleyes.gif" border="0">

[Warrior]

I have absolutely no use for level bombers. They must be targeted for pre-bombardment and they're not available after that, and more than half the time they don't show up anyway. A waste of purchase points.

[timc]

I've only used level bombers for turn 0 bombardment of front-line defensive positions during an assault. Interestingly enough, that's just about the only way you could use them in real life. They are highly inaccurate but devestating to the targets near the impact area. Just like real life. Makes breaching the minefields easier. I've noticed that level bombers always come in from my side to the enemies side regardless of the air entry hex setting. I'd much rather have them fly N-S or S-N alnog the enemy deployment line. Is that possible?