CAP vs Escort

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Hi Folks,

I've been playing this game on and off since the DOS days, but I've yet to figure out the difference between CAP and Escort missions. So far as I've been able to determine, setting my fighters to CAP missions just means that less of them will be available for airbase defense, which seems counterintuitive.

So, could somebody please explain the nature of CAP missions vs escort missions? When would you use each of them?

Thanks

[MikeB]

This is somewhat of an answer...as i am not convinced i know the difference either. Part of WIRs "Fog of War" effort. Drat!
The airbase HQ GENERAL and the ops points somewhat decide the degree of support from airbase HQs. While Air support is NOT guaranteed, a reasonable degree of support has been observed in the following situations.

CAP supposedly will fly defensive fighter cover over ANY combat unit / factory within 7 hexes of the air base HQ.(regardless of whether the combat unit is a component of the airbase HQ)

CAP will fly defensive fighter cover over combat units assigned as components of the airbase HQ...out to the range limit of the combat unit(somewhat).

I am uncertain if ESCORTS default to air defence during enemy turn. Supposedly, they will escort bombers of the air base HQ out to the limit of the fighter range....in support of combat units assigned as components of the airbase HQ.

Oh yes, dont forget that Bombers used as STRATEGIC bombers will fly ground support for combat units assigned as components of the airbase HQ. It might be wise to have escort / CAP fighters with them.

Hope this helps. Can other more experienced players add to the above.


Mike B