Matrix Games Forums

So, we JFBs get a carrier capable patrol plane, the Ka-1 (that's listed as an IJA plane, go figure). That uses a unique engine, the Kayaba Argus.

Normal range 1, extended range 2. Max speed 103 - I'm sure there are guys on the forum who have driven faster than that.

Am I missing something, or is this pretty worthless? No reinforcements seem to use it. Seems like both the plane and the engine should be converted ASAP, but I'm wondering if there's some unique thing about this plane that makes it worth it.

The Ka-1/Ka-2 series was an autogyro design that saw limited service with the IJA, notably with the 1st Independent Chutai aboard the Army's 'aircraft carrier' Akitsu Maru in 1944.  Could carry a couple of 60kg bombs, from memory, so as pretty ineffectual ASW platform.  Now, if they'd given it the power to lift MAD, dipping sonar and a couple of depth charges...
 
I agree that both plane and engine should be converted ASAP to something more worthwhile.  Presumably, if you're playing with realistic r&d, you'll only be able to change to development models, but that still seems worthwhile to me.  Even if it were a paragon amongst anti-submarine aircraft I think would.

Er, hello? Autogyro? Barely capable of lifting ITSELF off the ground by its very nature. We put it into the game because it was THERE, not because it was good.

A bit OT, but variations on the autogyro concept were capable of producing aircraft with a respectable payload.  Anyone remember the Fairey Rotodyne?
 
Mmm... Dipping sonar, captor mines, a SOSUS chain down the Ryukyu's...  The JFB wishlist has no end [;)]

While the auto-gyro was pretty dismal in the capabilities depeartment, you do have to give the Japanese credit for thinking outside the box. Ka-1 was the first ship-borne rotor wing aircraft, and the first such aircraft used in an ASW role.

60 years later even small frigates and corvettes are carrying rotor wing aircraft in the same role (albiet much more effective). In a modern combat scenario, the best way to kill a sub is with a helicoptor...the sub can't fight back...no one has fitted SAMs to a sub operationally yet.

ORIGINAL: Local Yokel

A bit OT, but variations on the autogyro concept were capable of producing aircraft with a respectable payload.  Anyone remember the Fairey Rotodyne?

Mmm... Dipping sonar, captor mines, a SOSUS chain down the Ryukyu's...  The JFB wishlist has no end [;)]

Surface-to-Air Missiles would be nice.

Flettner Heli in Drache(ex Yugoslav Zmaj) Minelayer in Adriatic late 1942

Also developed for use by U-cruisers in the KM, according to Groener.

Hmm, this one is from far back...sad thing is I responded again. [:D]