The other night we got a game in with my new B-17 just to see how she handles.
I took control of the B-17.
Flying a bombing run on a Japanese military base that was on an island just off the coast. The targets: a military complex and any ships that may be at anchor in the harbour. (ship courtesy of Topside Mini's free promotional unit I got this past week, a very nice piece I might add)
The defenders (one Zero each flown by a friend for a total of three) took off the airbase when the alarm was given.
They attacked the B-17 in full force and dealt considerable damage.
The defenders had however taken off rather slowly, combined with the fact that mistakes were made and the B-17 momentarily gained freedom from the teeth of the assailants.
This time it was my turn to make a mistake as I misjudged the first bomb load on the complex, with only two left I'll have to make them count. At least I had time to turn and score a hit on the minelayer in the harbour. This dealt enough damage to make her take on water and begin sinking.
I then made the long, tedious attempt to turn the bird around and see about making another pass. One pestering Zero got within short range of my guns and went down in flames (22 points), but not before knocking out my dorsal turret gunner who would be sorely missed in the next few phases.
Still turning, the other two Zero's attack together and knock out my waist gunner, creating a rather large blindspot on my now severely wounded aircraft.
A rudder damage further prevents my plane from turning properly, at this point I should turn tail for home with lots of damage done to my bird, but I've come this far. Maybe I can reach my last target... maybe.
Alas, it is not to be! At 46 damage taken, and just about every "C" chit drawn I finally pull the explosion from a long range shot.
I quite enjoyed the use of the B-17, though I fear another one or two will be in order soon, or at least a few escort aircraft. The victory will have to go to the Japanese, while they lost a ship and one aircraft their Complex (the primary target) remained undamaged. I should have flown off to the side first and then began my approach lengthwise on the targets to take them out in one bombing run but lesson learned for next time. Overall a pretty fun scenario to play and I look forward to using the bomber again!
Bookmarks