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Wider Wargaming => Non-Pendraken Stuff => Topic started by: bigjackmac on 20 April 2017, 03:05:01 PM

Title: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 20 April 2017, 03:05:01 PM
AKA, "Phantoms Over Havana."  As usual, I will be posting the subsequent batreps on this thread.

All,

Okay, standby for something a little bit different, something I've been meaning to get to for quite some time, and something we're going to have to step back in time for.  Here's the deal: my intent for this massive Imagi-Nation-type alternate history was always to have a bunch of ground fights, but also some air to air fighting, and perhaps even some naval fighting.  If you're reading this I'm sure you're aware of the eighty-four (84) battle reports for ground fights I've posted for Cuba Libre.  Now it's time for some air fights.

I just bought a new set of air rules called "Lacquered Coffins," a set of WWII rules that (as always) I've modified a bit to suit my purposes in order to use for 'modern' aircraft (can you still call F-4s and MiG-21s modern?).  My changes are thus:

-I play solo, so I need to mix it up.  Rather than IGO-UGO, I'm using cards (one card per aircraft, with the aircraft tied to a particular card) for activation.  So I do the mandatory move for every aircraft, then move to cards.

-I shortened the range for guns (6, Long Range 8), gave them 2D6.

-I made missiles minimum range 5, good out to 12, Long range 16, 4D6.  I gave each aircraft four missiles. I know F-4s can carry more than four missiles, so if you like it better, think of it as four shots of two missiles ;)  I also am not currently differentiating between IR and radar missiles, I'm just getting into some new rules and want some quick, fun games.

-I added deflection as modifiers, side and front quarter -2 (the game already has head-on and tail, which is assumed).

-I can't remember if this is in the book or not, but when a plane is going down I have the pilot make a test to bail out.

-I'm using a hexboard with 1/600 minis, so 1" in the rules equals one hex.

Everything else is as written.

This is an even up, 4 vs 4 matchup, which I plan to do a few times while I learn these new rules, before getting into various force sizes and initial deployments.  All of these will be straight up fighter duels; perhaps someday I'll branch out into other stuff, but that's what interests me right now.  I'm not sure how many fights I'll play out for the War of Liberation; I'm hoping for around ten, but it could be more (if I'm really enjoying myself) or less (if I run out of planes/pilots).  Right now I'll be simply referring to these guys by callsign, i.e., Boxcar 01.  As they prove themselves (by surviving!) I'll become more invested and begin to actually start naming them and getting into personalia.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JFjOIGPVJEE/WPU8fwFBefI/AAAAAAAAc0Y/hkownChIXFwx8eD2naOWa0YWmgF-DR61wCLcB/s1600/IMG_1849.JPG)
The board, north is up.  I'm using a hexboard from the old game "Flight Leader" (you can actually see the name in the bottom right corner).  CLA Air Force in the southwest (bottom left) corner, Castro Air Force in the northeast (top right).  I'm using the relatively new set, "Lacquered Coffins," modified slightly.  The airplanes are 1/600; the CLA flight consists of F-4 Phantoms from PicoArmor, the Castro flight consists of MiG-21s from Tumbling Dice.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IC7Xr8SHnf8/WPVC6RlV1vI/AAAAAAAAc0s/DLNcFtQ5PU4mOuJC1YiAiTtXCfNWKSyGQCLcB/s1600/G1P8.jpg)
Hopefully it isn't too off-putting, but in an effort to make it more clear to readers, I'm now photo-shopping the pics and putting in identifiers (1-4) for the aircraft and brushing in trails to show maneuvers.

To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/04/phantoms-over-havana-fight-1.html

The fight was a lot of fun; it flows well, mixing things up with the cards for activation worked like a champ, and everything made sense.  It took a bit longer than I'd like; yeah, that's always the case with new rules, but I gotta tell ya, I don't think that factored in a lot, as the mechanisms were very familiar.  I think more of the time is spent with the maneuvering, then manipulating the dice for altitude, speed, and missiles, which is a little bit of a pain in the butt, but worth it.  Let me know what you think of me doing the batreps with the blue and red trails and black numbers (I'm already writing the next fight up the same way).

Next fight up in this series is the second flight, Blackjack 01-04, on another vanilla fighter sweep, taking on four Castro-regime MiG-21s, though I should be posting batrep number five of Operation Rush Delivery first.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 20 April 2017, 03:53:22 PM
Cool report!
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: d_Guy on 20 April 2017, 04:58:04 PM
We don't see much air war - enjoyed this.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: ronan on 20 April 2017, 05:53:57 PM
The Flight Leader board !  :)
I used to play it a lot ! ( wait a minute ... I've check ... my game is missing....  :o   :'( )

Nowadays I use Air War C21, and like it !
(http://2d6.fr/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/AirWarC21_1973-LucRonan_24juillet14_image10b.jpeg)
from my blog http://2d6.fr/?p=3027 (http://2d6.fr/?p=3027)

Good job here, Jack, as usual
( You noticed I didn't have much time to read all your AARs...  :(  )
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 20 April 2017, 08:47:06 PM
Thanks Lemmey and D_Guy, glad you liked it!

Ronan!!!  Hey buddy, how are you?  Yeah man, I've missed you, and not reading my batreps so much, what I miss is you posting YOUR batreps!!!

Guys, if you're not aware, Ronan has a great blog, and did some great Spanish Civil War (Force on Force) and WWII Eastern Front (NUTS! and Chain of Command, if I recall correctly) campaigns in 10mm.  Ronan's stuff is a big part of my inspiration for blogging. 

So Ronan, get back to work!!!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 April 2017, 06:00:02 PM
Whoops, put a post in the wrong spot...
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: ronan on 24 April 2017, 08:02:38 PM
Quote from: bigjackmac on 20 April 2017, 08:47:06 PM
So Ronan, get back to work!!!

;D

you're nice ! Thank you !
:)
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 April 2017, 09:52:55 PM
I try, but I haven't seen any new batreps, so you look like you need a kick in the rear!!!  ;D ;D :P

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 27 April 2017, 02:20:01 PM
All,

So it's 0815 on 1 Feb 1990, and CLA aircraft are winging towards Castro's Cuba from secret airfields in *REDACTED*, in support of CLA ground forces which have landed via parachute or amphibious assault.  Two hours ago, Boxcar flight tangled with four MiG-21s of the Castro regime's air force, which saw each side lose two aircraft in fierce dogfighting.  CLA Air Force aircraft continue to execute near continuous sorties against ground targets, zooming in, bombing command and control centers, radar sites, grounded aircraft and their support facilities, moored ships and their port facilities, artillery and tank parks, ammunition and fuel storage, anti-aircraft sites, etc..., then heading back to rearm and refuel, then get back in the fight.  Castro's Air Force has managed to put another four MiG-21s into the air, and so Blackjack flight, consisting of four F-4 Phantoms, is vectored in to intercept the interceptors.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Yemrhcy7w_0/WPVaT1mbXuI/AAAAAAAAc3Q/fOvaVG3Vi1A0JFpv-ihErNC8ENORZY9GQCLcB/s1600/G2P15.jpg)
Red 01 and Blackjack 04 slash past each other, nose to nose.  Red 03 recoils in horror as a Sidewinder destroys his wingman, Red 04 (not pictured); but he recovers quickly, pulling hard left, lining up a decent shot on Blackjack 04, and launching a missile.  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/04/phantoms-over-havana-fight-2.html

Another fun fight, more coming up ASAP.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 27 April 2017, 02:53:49 PM
Love aerial combat, and your games look awesome, I am especially impressed with the picture of the missile that has been fired. Very well done!

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 27 April 2017, 05:40:22 PM
Ohhh
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 28 April 2017, 04:01:43 PM
Terry - Thanks man, glad you liked it.

Lemmey - ???

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 02 June 2017, 01:58:49 PM
All,

So it's 1415 on 1 Feb 1990, and CLA aircraft are winging towards Castro's Cuba from secret airfields in *REDACTED*, in support of CLA ground forces which have landed via parachute or amphibious assault.  There have been several sorties flown between with no contact, but six hours ago, Blackjack flight engaged four MiG-21s of the Castro regime's air force, knocking three of them from the sky without losing any aircraft.  Two hours prior to that, Boxcar flight tangled with four MiG-21s, with each side losing two aircraft in a fierce dogfight.  CLA Air Force aircraft continue to execute near continuous sorties against ground targets, zooming in, bombing command and control centers, radar sites, grounded aircraft and their support facilities, moored ships and their port facilities, artillery and tank parks, ammunition and fuel storage, anti-aircraft sites, etc..., then heading back to rearm and refuel, then get back in the fight.  Castro's Air Force has managed to put another four MiG-21s into the air, and so Bruiser flight, consisting of four F-4 Phantoms, is vectored in to intercept the interceptors.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3HJTJzxW5Z0/WSjYzN8EBcI/AAAAAAAAdPg/nMmmYpledVYg4IgFY__FmGmSfZXHNiMaACLcB/s1600/IMG_2027.JPG)

Looks like trouble for the good guys!  To see the whole batrep, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/06/phantoms-over-havana-fight-3.html

Alright, another fun and exciting fight!  I'm very comfortable with the rules at this point (despite the two cases of allowing fighter maneuvers and then firing in the same turn), and I've got my system down in terms of playing, note-taking, and picture taking (despite missing one), so I'm ready to rock.  So this is the last fight of Day 1 of the War of Liberation, and, as such, is the last of the 'even up' fights, where it's four F-4s vs four MiG-21s, coming straight on at each other from opposite sides.  From here on out it will all be randomized: number of aircraft in the engagement, speeds, altitude, and entry location.  Also, I am adding in some spotting rules, so that will factor into the fight as well.  You may think that's odd, and sure, I suppose it is in terms of modern-era aircraft with radar, particularly operating at dogfighting range, but give me a break, I'm looking to play a fun game!  So, all those factors will be randomized, and then they'll have to deal with spotting too.

Next fight coming right up.

V/R,
Jack

Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 02 June 2017, 02:55:48 PM
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 02 June 2017, 05:12:57 PM
 :-bd

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 05 June 2017, 03:49:12 PM
All,

Thanks Phil and Lemmey!

So it's 1115 on 2 Feb 1990, Day 2 of the War of Liberation, and CLA aircraft have flown several sorties over Cuba this morning without contact.  However, a flight of fighter bombers is inbound to strike military targets near Havana when Castro-regime fighters are spotted.  Boxcar 01 and 04 are flying escort and are diverted to intercept.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0fOQMFjQ6L4/WSl2-GFXmXI/AAAAAAAAdQ8/A4yBuLqk-xUXrAi0LIQd4zQGECixOk_4gCLcB/s1600/IMG_2044.JPG)
Once again, things not going so well for our freedom loving CLA Air Force pilots...  To see the whole fight, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/06/phantoms-over-havana-fight-4.html

Well damn, that didn't go as planned.  But damn are the rules working like a champ!  The game was quick and fun, with much of the drama rolling around the spotting aspect, which immediately put the CLA pilots at a disadvantage they just couldn't overcome, particularly given Cool Hand Raoul's (Red 01) marksmanship.

Thus the first fight of Day 2 goes 0-1 to the bad guys, bringing the total tally to 8-5.  Next up is the second fight of Day 2, so stand by.

V/R,
Jack

Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 05 June 2017, 04:22:04 PM
Ohh, character development and names for the Reál Cübâns!  8)
Nice one Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 05 June 2017, 04:55:27 PM
Yeah man, I'm getting there ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 05 June 2017, 04:58:03 PM
 8)

Cheers - Phil.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: d_Guy on 05 June 2017, 05:12:49 PM
Nice!

You, Sir, give a stage production company a run for their money!  :-bd :-bd
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Womble67 on 05 June 2017, 07:29:58 PM
Yeah very nice

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 07 June 2017, 06:31:25 PM
All,

First, thanks Phil, Guy, and Andy, I appreciate it!

So it's 1515 on 2 Feb 1990, and CLA aircraft are again on the prowl!  Earlier this morning Boxcar 01 and 04 ran into three MiG-21s and came out on the short end, losing one aircraft to none for the enemy.  Now we have Bruiser 03 and 04 (who is rated as a Veteran due to having two kills) closing in on three MiG-21s.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VTV_oKIIZPQ/WSmAGVX-jKI/AAAAAAAAdR4/-eKaOPs9AKsGpK9PsZVRRfcxZVqE-N2SgCLcB/s1600/IMG_2056.JPG)
Damaged by an enemy missile, Bruiser 03 returns fire.  To see the whole fight, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/06/phantoms-over-havana-fight-5.html

Another good one, where the CLA pilots were again let down by their spotting skills, and though outnumbered and in a bad tactical situation, they held their own, downing one enemy bird and wounding another's pilot, while losing one of their own.  Bruiser 03's pilot and weapons officer were quickly picked up by CLA ground forces.  The war's tally now stands at:

CLA Kills: 9
Castro Regime Kills: 6

Stand by for fight number three on Day 2.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 07 June 2017, 07:14:30 PM
Very nice report, again, Jack.  8)

Cheers - Phil.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 08 June 2017, 02:09:46 PM
Thanks Phil!  I'll try and get the next batrep posted tomorrow.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 09 June 2017, 02:34:21 PM
All,

So it's 1815 on 2 Feb 1990, and CLA aircraft are performing their last sortie of the day.  The Combat Air Patrol is looking for a fight, and things haven't been going so well.  Earlier in the day, Boxcar flight lost an aircraft without hurting the enemy, and then Bruiser fight traded planes with the enemy (1 to 1).  Blackjack 01, 02, and 03 have been loitering just off the coast of Cuba when the call goes out that two Castro regime MiG-21s have been spotted.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ime9Oq_NtUs/WSrEtcFTk4I/AAAAAAAAdTw/C0A94Fspq8MyEQUsd6CvnYmc0h0UJ72JACLcB/s1600/IMG_2080.JPG)
I believe this is what you call a furball.  One Phantom has already been damaged, multiple missiles in the air.  To see how the fight turned out, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/06/phantoms-over-havana-fight-6.html

So, not exactly 'Top Gun' yet, but we're getting there.  Actually, I don't want to get there, kills ratios of 10 to 1 don't seem like much fun.  But these games have been fantastic, and now it's time to get to Day 3.  Next fight coming right up.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 09 June 2017, 06:55:57 PM
Hell of a fight Jack!
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 09 June 2017, 06:58:45 PM
Great scrap !

Cheers - Phil.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Womble67 on 09 June 2017, 09:13:19 PM
Good report

Take care

Andy
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 10 June 2017, 02:13:45 PM
I am really enjoying your games and your models look very nice.

I have always tried to use the old Blue Max rules for air games, but have found gamers who've not played it much have trouble with the movement charts, so I am going to have to make them easier to follow. I'd really like to do some Korean War games with Migs vs. Sabers or F-80s. I have the models but need to rework the movement first before introducing it again.

I've been playing Flying Tigers vs. Ki-43s. But have some earlier Japanese planes on the work bench I need to finish.

Bottom line I find your games very inspiring!

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 11 June 2017, 02:27:45 PM
Thanks Lemmey, Phil, and Andy!

Terry- Hey, thanks for posting.  I'm glad you're enjoying the dogfights, they've been plenty fun.  I must admit I'm not familiar with Blue Max; not familiar with much really!  I've played a few different aerial games, bought a bunch more, but mostly played (and had a lot of fun with) Bag the Hun by Too Fat Lardies.  Ultimately there were a few things in there that still didn't fit perfectly, and so I gave Lacquered Coffins a shot and they're working really well for me.  I have so many plans, I just need more time!

I, too, have MiG-15s and F-86s, as well as Flying Tigers and early Japanese, and a whole lot more.  I'd love to have a look at your stuff if you've got it posted somewhere.  Glad to be of inspiration, and thanks again for posting.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 12 June 2017, 03:54:48 AM
jack, I was able to find some of my WWI pictures, not a game, just the planes so I will share them with you for now and continue to look for eh Ki-43s and Flying Tigers. All of my models are 1:300 scale and fr eh most part very old Skytrex models I bought a bunch of back in the 80s. I also play my air games on a hex mat, but I don't bother with altitude just to keep it simple fast playing a fun.

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_4711_zps9bwjpyyx.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_4711_zps9bwjpyyx.jpg.html)
French Breguet 14 at left and a SPA 7 at right.

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_4710_zpsz7j5plko.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_4710_zpsz7j5plko.jpg.html)
German DFW C.V left and an Albatros D.III right.

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_4712_zpsem3t3hkc.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_4712_zpsem3t3hkc.jpg.html)
British Be2c  at left and Be2e at right. The Be2e is in the experimental camouflage the RAF tried.

I realize some of the colors may seem a  bit bright, but all are taken from Windsock or other reliable sources and matched to Methuen.

More to follow,

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: paulr on 12 June 2017, 05:47:01 AM
 :-bd =D> :-bd =D> :-bd

Very impressive basing =D>
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 12 June 2017, 07:15:51 AM
Those ARE nice, Terry !

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 12 June 2017, 07:48:45 AM
Beautiful and the bases are stunning
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Steve J on 12 June 2017, 10:30:07 AM
Cracking work and love the basing. Very impressive 8).
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: lowlylowlycook on 12 June 2017, 04:44:27 PM
You've got some very nice looking planes here.

The basing on your biplanes is amazing and give a great sense of height.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 12 June 2017, 04:49:24 PM
Terry,

Those planes are absolutely beautiful, thanks for posting!  You weren't supposed to show me up on my own thread!  ;) ;D ;D

I very much hope you find the P-40s and Ki-43s, I'd love to see those too.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: d_Guy on 12 June 2017, 05:42:33 PM
Amazing models, Terry, with wonderfully creative basing. I think you and Jack should get together and remake Howard Hughes' "Wings"!  :)
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 12 June 2017, 05:48:03 PM
All,

So it's 0715 on 3 Feb 1990, and CLA aircraft are sortieing towards Havana on a fighter sweep, anxious for action.  Two days of war have seen the CLA's fighter squadron reduced from twelve planes and twelve pilots to six planes and six pilots, though the damage to Castro's Air Force has been severe as well, with numerous fighters destroyed on the ground, and eleven destroyed in air to air combat.  The first fight on the morning of Day 3 sees an even up fight between three F-4 Phantoms and three MiG-21s.  Stand by for action.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RzQnmZpX14/WSrRyMeNJMI/AAAAAAAAdVk/my1wuxazQccOhZutAsHaqRX8EqjPTciPACLcB/s1600/IMG_2114.JPG)
And with Bruiser 04 getting the final kill of the engagement, the CLA Air Force now has its first ace!  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/06/phantoms-over-havana-fight-7.html

Next up we have Blackjack 01 (a Veteran), 02, and 03 squaring off against four of Castro's Air Force MiG-21s, so stay tuned.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 12 June 2017, 05:59:41 PM
Great report Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 12 June 2017, 08:11:16 PM
Wot Will said.  8)

Cheers - Phil.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 13 June 2017, 12:40:30 PM
Thanks guys!

I didn't play any of these this past weekend, unfortunately; I started a new project.  Again...  :o :'(  :d

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 17 June 2017, 05:35:45 PM
Jack, Finally got some time to take some new photos of my Flying Tigers and Ki-43s.

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_2125_zpsfk7w95du.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_2125_zpsfk7w95du.jpg.html)

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_2126_zpsru90lwpk.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_2126_zpsru90lwpk.jpg.html)

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_2127_zpsctzsvdqe.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_2127_zpsctzsvdqe.jpg.html)

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Painting/IMG_2128_zpsqfgxhdrb.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Painting/IMG_2128_zpsqfgxhdrb.jpg.html)

Yeah, there is some casting nips on he K-i43 that I didn't see until after it was finished - not sure how I didn't see it, but I didn't. We'll just call that previous battle damage!!!

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 17 June 2017, 05:46:58 PM
Those are brilliant
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 17 June 2017, 06:18:01 PM
 :-bd

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: paulr on 18 June 2017, 12:29:37 AM
 :-bd =D> :-bd =D>
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 19 June 2017, 01:31:23 PM
Wow, those Ki-43s and P-40s look amazing.  Makes me want to find time to get mine out! ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: lowlylowlycook on 21 June 2017, 04:58:20 AM
Sweet little planes.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 22 June 2017, 03:37:43 AM
Jack,

Let me know if you need any color schemes for them. I have plenty of references and am happy to share.

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 22 June 2017, 09:15:12 PM
Cool, thanks Terry!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 24 June 2017, 02:51:47 AM
Jack, I sent you a message about this.

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 June 2017, 06:48:29 PM
Terry,

Thanks man, but mine are already done (they're 1/600 and don't look anything near as good as yours!):

(http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0YJlbtupcuw/UglGecSGBkI/AAAAAAAAAIo/IGkLqs54kA4/s1600/P1120125.JPG)
Some Tigers chasing Japanese bombers.

(http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vOJzmdBXXag/UkTZRzo5NGI/AAAAAAAABao/Sc_kq5HqRY4/s1600/P1120805.JPG)
Some Wildcats.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-v5Ww4nIDQIw/UkTZm89ZvmI/AAAAAAAABbY/RzGH-jFzeVY/s1600/P1120811.JPG)
Some Zeros.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cZVUbAGxqQI/UkTZ-8jLCqI/AAAAAAAABcY/SoqkWVDKneA/s1600/P1120823.JPG)
Some Ki-43s.

(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWyonvFGMtI/UkTaDyto5dI/AAAAAAAABcg/ctuL3YJ_Pbg/s1600/P1120825.JPG)
And some Bettys (Betties?).

V/R,
Jack

Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 24 June 2017, 11:21:26 PM
No worry jack. if you need any info down the road, always happy to share.

I think your planes look fine, and your colors look very accurate. I'd sure be pleased with them!

One thing I've learned from many years of doing this hobby, as long as one does their best and has fun doing it, then no need to compare to others. Mainly because there will always be some one out there whose better. And, bottom line, they all play the same.

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Techno on 25 June 2017, 07:13:23 AM
Look good to me, Jack.

Cheers - Phil
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 25 June 2017, 07:17:11 AM
Look good, but didn't all US aircraft only carry the national marking on one wing ?
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: fsn on 25 June 2017, 09:59:10 AM
From Feb 43. Before that, they were on both wings.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 25 June 2017, 04:22:36 PM
I am guessing those P-40s are Flying Tigers while serving with the Chinese so would have Chinese markings which went on both wings.

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 25 June 2017, 04:37:45 PM
Were referin to u't Wildcats though.
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 26 June 2017, 12:51:06 AM
Ah yes, my bad, I thought you were referring to the P-40s as your post did not specify and I saw no error on the Wildcats. However as has already been stated the F4Fs are still correctly done.

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Misc%201/F4F-3_new_pitot_tube_of_later_model_zpswizfcdyo.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Misc%201/F4F-3_new_pitot_tube_of_later_model_zpswizfcdyo.jpg.html)

(http://i257.photobucket.com/albums/hh235/terry37photos/Misc%201/ddvsdvs_zpsh6yjfpws.jpg) (http://s257.photobucket.com/user/terry37photos/media/Misc%201/ddvsdvs_zpsh6yjfpws.jpg.html)

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 26 June 2017, 03:34:17 PM
I appreciate it, Terry!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Lord Kermit of Birkenhead on 26 June 2017, 04:40:01 PM
Wernt critical, just askin
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 26 June 2017, 05:32:37 PM
Ian,

Nah man, I was thanking Terry for his offer of reference material, not a comment on the insignias ;)

V/R,
Jack
Title: Phantoms Over Havana, Fight #8
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 August 2017, 02:47:10 AM
All,

So it's 1130 on 3 Feb 1990, and again the Cuban Liberation Air Force (CLAF) is enroute to tangling with Communist fighters of the Castro regime.  But things have changed up a bit: Generalissimo Waraldonez ordered a reorganization of the CLAF fighter squadron.  Heavy casualties have been sustained, and while the aircraft can (and are) be replaced, getting new fighter pilots is an altogether different story.  The Generallissimo ordered the best pilots of the attack squadrons (also flying F-4 Phantoms) to be reassigned as replacement pilots to bring the fighter squadron back up to 12 pilots.  The attack squadron commanders complained, but relented when the Generalissimo pointed out the attack squadron aircraft wouldn't survive the war without a fighter squadron to take on the enemy MiGs.

The first fight on the morning of Day 3 saw an even up fight between three F-4 Phantoms and three MiG-21s, in which the Castro forces downed one F-4 and Bruiser 04 downed all three of the enemy MiGs, becoming the CLAF's first Ace.  Now we have Blackjack 01 (a Veteran), 02 (Regular), and 03 (Veteran) squaring off against four of Castro's Air Force MiG-21s, so stand by for action.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDy_py2SSIw/WZoZqog3FSI/AAAAAAAAffM/lyOico6LRWsZta8J_CM8musao22DZ0etwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4061.JPG)
Overview, north is up, with the CLA aircraft at right (east), heading west and the Castro regime aircraft at bottom left (southwest), heading east.   So the sides are bit different, with two groups of fighters having been out and about looking for trouble, but not finding any until they turned about to head home. 

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wvo46ohNoDc/WZoawfSYImI/AAAAAAAAfgk/bMxAAGVYJegstNY2ap6icpI213Hrra8kwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4086.JPG)
Blackjack 03 is a bona fide killer.  To see how the fight went down, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/08/phantoms-over-havana-fight-8.html

In the next fight we see a four on four match, thought he CLAF has two Regular and two Rookie pilots heading into the fight.  Coming right up!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 24 August 2017, 08:20:26 AM
Oh nice
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 24 August 2017, 02:16:29 PM
Always enjoy seeing pictures of your games. Keep'em coming please!

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 24 August 2017, 11:52:45 PM
Thanks fellars, more to come!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Phantoms Over Havana, Fight #9
Post by: bigjackmac on 28 August 2017, 02:12:14 PM
All,

So it's 1800 on 3 Feb 1990, and the Cuban Liberation Air Force (CLAF) has an entire flight inbound, looking to clash with a flight of Castro-regime MiGs intent on intercepting inbound CLAF ground attack aircraft.  Boxer 01, 02, 03, and 04 are ready for a fight; Boxer flight had suffered the heaviest so far in the campaign, and so now they were down to two Regular pilots and two Rookie pilots, men that flew F-4 Phantoms in the close air support/interdiction squadrons, now pressed into duty as fighter plots.  They will treated as Rookies only for their first fight, after that they will considered Regulars (they're not actually Rookie pilots, they're just not used to being used for air superiority missions).

The first two fights on Day 3 of the War of Liberation have been unqualified successes, with one F-4 lost and one damaged, to five MiGs lost and one damaged, with one pilot in the Bruiser flight becoming the CLAF's first Ace, and a pilot in the Blackjack flight getting his fourth kill.  Boxcar flight has but a single pilot with a kill, Boxcar 01, and it is but a single kill.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kjTQBoeGfPM/WZor5g5UtMI/AAAAAAAAfiE/OWc-wAQPdh0RlaPof_odH23O85XXEJZ0QCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4104.JPG)
Apparently the Communists were pissed!  MiG-21s slash hither and thither, damaging Boxcar 02 and launching a missile at Boxcar 01.  To see how the forces of liberation performed, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/08/phantoms-over-havana-fight-9.html

Three more dogfights over Havana to come, then some different stuff, on the way!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Terry37 on 28 August 2017, 06:38:06 PM
Great Report, and looks like it was a fun game.

I believe you said you were using 1:600 scale models, which for the more modern jets seems right. I have some 1:300 and they are huge!

I am not familiar with your rules, but please tell me how you handle a plane flying off the edge off the board? In my rules (modified Blue Max) they come in on he opposite edge.

Please keep those reports coming!!!

Terry
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 28 August 2017, 07:48:49 PM
Wow, a bit interesting that one! 🇨🇺
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 29 August 2017, 12:35:41 AM
Lemmey, ya bastid ;)

Terry - yes Sir, 1/600.  I wish I'd have done WWII in 1/300, but the smaller scale works well for me with jets.

Regarding heading off the table (and trying to get back into the fight, as opposed to withdrawing), the game used card activation.  So when a plane goes off the board I leave its card in the deck, and he has to pass a pilot check to come back on, arriving in the same spot he left, just facing the opposite direction.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Phantoms Over Havana, Fight #10
Post by: bigjackmac on 04 September 2017, 11:40:35 PM
All,

So it's 0900 on 4 Feb 1990, and the Cuban Liberation Air Force (CLAF) has an entire flight inbound, looking to clash with a flight of Castro-regime MiGs intent on intercepting inbound CLAF ground attack aircraft.  The Cuban Liberation Army's blitzkrieg-style invasion has been an unprecedented success, and the CLAF pilots can feel it.  The way CLA ground forces are thundering forward, eating up Castro's territory, it won't be long before the Communists no longer have serviceable airfields available.  

Bruiser flight is in the air, with a Regular pilot (Bruiser 03) and two Rookies (Bruisers 02 and 04) led by an Ace (Bruiser 01, looking for a fight.

(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-v752YAB9NZk/WaiFfPVvYVI/AAAAAAAAfuM/nSOxtkM9VD0ApNDKof7o-4YTnrOk1QfEACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4146.JPG)
The Cuban Ace, Bruiser 01, is a predator.  He leaves the formation, cutting hard left and going nose to nose with Red 03, sending the MiG-21 down in a ball of flames with some well-placed 20mm cannon fire.  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/09/phantoms-over-havana-fight-10.html

Two more fights left in the War of Liberation.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 05 September 2017, 07:11:58 AM
Interesting fight, they're never one sided!
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 06 September 2017, 02:44:39 PM
Just lucky I s'pose.  Next fight coming right up!

V/R,
Jack
Title: Phantoms Over Havana, Fight #11
Post by: bigjackmac on 06 September 2017, 02:51:59 PM
All,

So it's 1330 on 4 Feb 1990, and the Cuban Liberation Air Force (CLAF) has a pair of F-4 Phantoms on Combat Air Patrol, circling above Havana, as a trio of MiG-21s streaks out to meet them.  The ground war is so successful that the Castro regime is on its last legs, and his pilots are finding it harder and harder to locate fuel, munitions, and even serviceable airfields still in Communist hands!

The CLAF fighters are members of Blackjack flight, specifically Blackjack 01, a Veteran pilot, and Blackjack 02, a Regular pilot.

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eeF2waNFy_4/WaiVbmHSM0I/AAAAAAAAfwo/S2Yu6hF8mJgoYavTn8Bmtbl0NtGLfAg1ACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4184.JPG)
Yeah, just look at that mess!  Quite the furball!  To see how the fight went, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/09/phantoms-over-havana-fight-11.html

Well, one more fight to go, and it really makes me angry...

V/R,
Jack

Title: Phantoms Over Havana, Fight #12
Post by: bigjackmac on 07 September 2017, 03:18:56 PM
All,

So it's 1640 on 4 Feb 1990, and the Cuban Liberation Air Force (CLAF) is once again on the prowl.  But the focus of this report, Gentle Reader, is you.  Because I am angry with you, because, for you, I tinkered with the scenario setup and, for you, I tried to make it more interesting and, ultimately, for you, I got the ever-loving @#$% kicked out of me!  So I've got a bone to pick with you, Gentle Reader; but first take a gander at the disaster you inflicted on me.  Or I inflicted upon myself for your benefit...  If it weren't for you, for the "oh, you cheated/used Magic Dice" comments I was sure I'd receive, I'd have probably been a lot happier with the last dogfight of the War of Liberation.

This is a simple two-ship vs two-ship fight, with two of the last MiG-21s left in Castro's Air Force up and about to run into Boxcar 01 and 02, both Regular pilots.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t__Y4yyX-Ro/WaiW4xGlUbI/AAAAAAAAfx4/XPtGU-g-mvMvsL8nVknvZbkt3pTB-MFoACLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_4204.JPG)
This picture about sums it up...  To see how the fight went, and to check the new posted, official squadron roster, please check the blog at:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/09/phantoms-over-havana-fight-12.html

and:
http://cubalibrewargame.blogspot.com/2017/09/cuban-liberation-air-force.html

In any case, enough pissin' and moanin', the War of Liberation is over, we won!  The whole thing was a tremendous amount of fun, and the air campaign portion was a blast.  I think the rules have been sufficiently tested (12 total fights) and they worked like a champ, delivering a lot of tense, fun, dogfights.  I won't claim they're the most realistic or anything, but they do exactly what I want them to do, and I'll be playing them in other eras as well.

So, as always, lets get to some stats.  The Cuban Liberation Air Force started and ended the war with a single fighter squadron: they began with 12 pilots.  Though the war lasted only five days, the squadron quickly lost three pilots killed in action, then robbed some of the ground attack squadrons to replace them, then lost another two pilots killed in action (including one of the replacements).  But they scored well: the Free Cubans ended the war with two Aces and a Veteran pilot.  The CLAF scored a total of twenty victories versus Castro's Air Force, against thirteen losses, with sixteen of those victories coming from the two Aces and one Veteran.

So, with the War of Liberation thus concluded, the single Expeditionary Force's fighter squadron is being expanded to a total of four flights of four (vice the three it had for Liberation), and reorganized in preparation for worldwide deployment.

V/R,
Jack
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: Duke Speedy of Leighton on 07 September 2017, 05:30:13 PM
How many reports!!!
Nice one Jack, and a stung in the tail! 🇨🇺
Title: Re: Modern Dogfight using Lacquered Coffins (Modified)
Post by: bigjackmac on 08 September 2017, 03:57:27 PM
Thanks Lemmey!

That concludes the War of Liberation, now we'll have a flight deploy to Cronistria, another to South Leon, and then two to Saudi for Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm.

So plenty of time to make up for this fight.  Or get my butt kicked a bunch more!

V/R,
Jack