Task Forces Autoreturn to Base???

[MikeBinOK]

I just picked up UV, my first game of this type since IBM 286 days. I had no problem setting up and starting the game, but in trying the Coral Sea scenario, I find that after each turn, all my task forces (I'm playing the Allies) reset themselves to return to their starting base (Brisbane or Nomeau). I've only done this through the first two turns, but it's happened each time.

I had given the TF orders to move to an area within their normal cruise speed range. Both TFs have plenty of endurance left (it's the start of the scenario).

Do TF automatically reset to return to their starting base once they reach an assigned destination? That's the only explanation I can come up with for this behavior. If I'm overlooking something, or have forgotten to make a preferences change, please make a suggestion.

And be gentle, I only broke the wrapper on this game two hours ago!

[DougM]

I'm not an expert, but since no one else has answered...
You need to set the TF to "Patrol/Do Not Retire" if you want it to stay on station. Otherwise, upon arrival at its destination hex, the TF will return to home port.

[MikeBinOK]

Thanks, Doug!

[Attack Condor]

In addition to the normal return to home when the TF reaches its DH, there are a few other things to keep in mind once you get into the longer scenarios:
1. If a TF is low on endurance, it'll head home. Subs are especially prone to this if you send them on long distance missions (and one benefit to computer control).
2. Damaged TFs will return home if the damage is great enough.
3. Low on Ammo will cause autoreturn.
4. Non-CV TFs may react to enemy CV TFs by returning to home.
5. While not causing an auto return to home, if a TF has its DH changed, and an auto return condition is met the next turn, it will return to its previous DH, not its home port.
Just a few off of the top of my head. Check the manual concerning TF missions for more. Have fun, and welcome aboard!