Previous Thread
Next Thread
Print Thread
Rate This Thread
Hop To
Page 24 of 26 1 2 22 23 24 25 26
#4582173 - 10/07/21 06:16 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The evening of 31st August sees Hostile 851, a hundred-plus raid, crossing the coast east of the triangular headland of Dungeness. Three full-strength patrols are scrambled to intercept, to be joined by another two as the raid comes inland.

[Linked Image]

First into contact are the twelve Hurricanes of No.1 Squadron, led by yours truly in JX-B.

[Linked Image]

And there's the raid, well above us and crossing right to left. The bombers are flying in large groups, one behind the other. Around them are the fighters - they look like Messerschmitt 110s. I call in the Bandits and hear myself ordering 'B' Flight to take the escorts, while the rest follow me and go for the bombers. Already, the 110s are coming down on us.

[Linked Image]

'A' Flight go steadfastly for the bombers...

[Linked Image]

...while 'B' Flight breaks up and will hopefully keep the escorts of our back.

[Linked Image]

Can we get to the bombers? That's the question!

...to be continued!

Attached Files 31 Aug eve.jpgshot_643.jpgshot_645.jpgshot_647.jpgshot_648.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/07/21 06:18 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

Inline advert (2nd and 3rd post)

#4582178 - 10/07/21 07:25 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The fighting is in full swing as we struggle to reach the bombers. Messerscmittt 110s flash past, going in all directions, but I press on, keeping an anxious eye on the view astern in my mirror. The good news is that it looks like one of the other squadrons tasked to intercept has done so - Spitfires, possibly.

[Linked Image]

We finally near the bombers' level and start closing for stern attacks. Every so often, a 110 latches onto somebody's tail and my first shots are directed at driving away these interlopers...

[Linked Image]

...while keeping after the bombers up ahead.

[Linked Image]

Finally the range is begining to wind down and I still haven't been caught by a 110. I can see ahead and to the left that more of the big fighters are still in position near the bombers, but I'm determined to press on.

[Linked Image]

I shoot one of the Dorniers out of formation...

[Linked Image]

...then instead of breaking, press on and do the same to the one in front of him. Only then do I pull up, after taking several hits.

[Linked Image]

I'm hit again as I complete my break. My engine is losing power and at full throttle, it takes full left defection on the stick to keep the wings level.

[Linked Image]

There are now some Heinkels to my left, screened by more 110s, and I try to get at them.

[Linked Image]

But I find I'm steadily falling behind and below the Huns. Worse, a gaggle of 110s is breaking up and banking right, as if to come around behind me.

[Linked Image]

I keep an anxious eye on those 110s. Are they after me, or another intercepting squadron?

[Linked Image]

I think they're after someone else but there's no point hanging around here in a crippled Hurricane just for some hotshot Hun to come along and add me to his bag. I dive away and make for home at low level.

[Linked Image]

A check on the R/T before winding up the mission confirms that most of the boys are still in action, which sounds promising. I can only claim two Damaged, or Probables at best.

As it happens, back in the Ops Room, I can see that the four squadrons which intercepted Hostile 851 are claiming fourteen shot down, for just one loss, from 312 Squadron. A good result!

[Linked Image]

Went the day well? As in the title of that famous British WW2 film* about an English village whose occupants find themselves fighting back against German paratroops disguised as British soldiers. Well it seems we haven't done too badly. I don't know why the screen is showing 30 not 31 August; as can be seen from other entries, it seems to lose count, or double count, at the end of some days.

[Linked Image]

This was the last raid of the day so Fighter Command has fought its way into September, just about!

* derived from an epitaph written in 1918:

Went the day well?
We died and never knew.
But, well or ill,
Freedom, we died for you.


...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_649.jpgshot_651.jpgshot_652.jpgshot_653.jpgshot_654.jpgshot_655.jpgshot_658.jpgshot_659.jpgshot_662.jpgshot_663.jpgshot_665.jpg31 Aug eve rmission folder.jpg31 Aug eve end.jpgshot_660.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/07/21 09:19 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582225 - 10/08/21 01:47 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The morning of 1 September is going to be a busy one. By ten o'clock, two large raids are approaching and I've scrambled what I can put up to intercept them, concentrating on Hostile 901, sixty-plus. Hostile 902, a hundred-plus is on a heading to bomb Digby fighter base in 12 Group, so I put up 611 Squadron, based there, to patrol it. 'Directives off' and less AI control seems to be working better for me, as recommended earlier here by Vox.

[Linked Image]

I jump into Spitfire I ZP-B, leading the twelve aircraft of 'Sailor' Malan's 74 Squadron.

[Linked Image]

Heading south-west across the Thames Estuary towards the Medway, I can see the raid up ahead. Unescorted bombers, they look to be, as expected.

[Linked Image]

I order the boys to go for the leading group of bombers...

[Linked Image]

...and as tunnel vision sets in, don't realise that my approach is taking me rather close to the trailing formation of Huns, who are in Junkers 88s.

[Linked Image]

I'm watching out to see if some of the boys are going in, but I probably gave the attack order a little early and now I'm in too much of a hurry to hang back for them - my second or third mistake in quick succession.

[Linked Image]

My excuse is that I want to get at these boys before they bomb.

[Linked Image]

I waken up when the Huns to my left start lacing my Spitfire with tracers.

[Linked Image]

I roll away, but not before my wing and engine are hit hard.

[Linked Image]

Not a good start!

...to be continued!

Attached Files 1 Sept am 2.jpgshot_645.jpgshot_646.jpgshot_648.jpgshot_649.jpgshot_650.jpgshot_651.jpgshot_652.jpgshot_643.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/08/21 01:57 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582234 - 10/08/21 04:03 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
Having recovered my composure, I'm determined to get at least one of the unescorted bombers. With great difficulty, I coax my wallowing Spitfire behind the nearest Huns, close the range and start shooting. The Spit's nose is wandering all over the place and most rounds go astray, but I start getting hits...

[Linked Image]

...and succeed in forcing one Junkers 88 out of formation.

[Linked Image]

My ammo runs out trying to get the one ahead of him. I've no option now but to disengage so I pull off to one side. From there, I can see a stream of fighters rushing after the bombers!

[Linked Image]

There are Hurricanes from two different squadrons, as well as 74's Spitfires.

[Linked Image]

I get a grandstand view as they pile into the Huns. Bomber after bomber falls away from the leading formation, many trailing smoke and flames.

[Linked Image]

In the end, it looks like the formation has been pretty well wiped from the skies.

[Linked Image]

My own machine isn't exactly in great shape, but at least it's still flying.

[Linked Image]

My spectating is rudely interrupted by a flash of orange fire as my Spitfire bursts into flames. Time to get out, and fast!

[Linked Image]

My 'chute pops open and I'm able to view the air fight for a little longer as it drifts slowly out of sight.

[Linked Image]

Well, I made a bit of a mess of my own attack and lost my kite in return for two Probables at best. But overall, the planned concentration of squadrons against Hostile 901 has gone rather well!

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_653.jpgshot_654.jpgshot_657.jpgshot_659.jpgshot_663.jpgshot_665.jpgshot_666.jpgshot_667.jpgshot_668.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/08/21 04:08 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582304 - 10/09/21 01:26 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
As the morning of 1 September rolls on, so does the fighting in the air. New raids are plotted approaching but I've concentrated what resources I have against the first arrivals, most of whom are splitting up and/or returning to France, with the squadrons that intercepted them also at or returning to base. The exception is Hostile 902, sixty-plus, which is in the Midlands, headed roughly in the direction of the important industrial city of Birmingham.

[Linked Image]

I join the action as the six Spitfires of 611 Squadron sight the raid.

[Linked Image]

At first, I'm not sure what I'm dealing with. There's several groups of aircraft, some at lest of which must be bombers, but are there any escorts? At this stage, few Messerschmitt 110s were fitted to carry any form of long-range external tanks and this is a bit far north for them, I'm thinking.

Ack Ack fire breaks out but it seems to be directed well ahead of the formations that I can see.

[Linked Image]

The raid is moving slowly right to left across my front and we bank left, the better to close the range.

[Linked Image]

The rearmost two groups of Bogies adjust their course. What are they? RAF squadrons intercepting? I don't think so. Escorts reacting to our presence?

[Linked Image]

No, they are bombers, and I lead the boys in behind the nearest group. Junkers 88s, they are. When I judge I'm close enough, I order the boys in. The resulting order - as heard and displayed in text - mentions a fighter escort above, but I think my virtual persona is seeing things that aren't there.

[Linked Image]

Anyway, in we go!

...to be continued!

Attached Files 1 Sept am2.jpgshot_669.jpgshot_671.jpgshot_672.jpgshot_673.jpgshot_674.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/09/21 01:32 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582307 - 10/09/21 02:01 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
On my first pass, I succeed in shooting a Hun out of formation, right engine trailing smoke.

[Linked Image]

The Hun gunners are hitting me in return so I waste no time in breaking up and away. Other Spitfires are now coming in behind me.

[Linked Image]

Everything still seems to be working, but I'm not massively looking forward to another encounter as these Hun gunners know their business better than some.

[Linked Image]

One of the bombers has fallen behind but I decide to go for the one now on the right front of the formation, who is also trailing smoke.

[Linked Image]

I succeed in causing him some further harm, but take more damage in return.

[Linked Image]

The straggler is still there so I decide to have a crack at him next. I need an easy victim, not a fair fight.

[Linked Image]

I attack in a turn this time, rolling out as I come up behind him.

[Linked Image]

And down he goes! Not on fire but he'll be lucky to get far, I reckon.

[Linked Image]

With the last of my ammo, I knock another bomber out of formation, jettisoning his bombs as he goes...or maybe one big bomb.

[Linked Image]

This time I've pushed my luck too far, though. Return fire sets my Spitfire alight!

[Linked Image]

Out we go! Again, this jump will qualify for Caterpillar Club membership!

[Linked Image]

A check of the Mission Folder as lunchtime approaches shows we have done well. Despite 1 Squadron losing six, we are claiming 63 shot down from Hostile 901, which means we reckon we wiped it out! As for the other raid that was intercepted, we're claiming a respectable twelve from Hostile 902, despite 611 losing three Spitfires. The raids have lightly damaged the 12 Group fighter base at Digby, and rather badly beaten up the Spitfire 'shadow factory' at Castle Bromwich.

[Linked Image]

The mounting damage to fighter production is a serious concern, added to the wrecked airfields and fighter losses. But so far, today has been a good one.

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_675.jpgshot_676.jpgshot_677.jpgshot_678.jpgshot_679.jpgshot_680.jpgshot_681.jpgshot_682.jpgshot_684.jpgshot_685.jpgshot_686.jpg1 Sept late am.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/09/21 02:15 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582357 - 10/10/21 06:39 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The afternoon of 1 September sees sixty-plus Messerschmitt 110s, plotted as Hostile 401, making a run for Filton fighter base. I put up six Spitfires from 41 Squadron to patrol the airfield and jump into the cockpit of Red Leader when the raid is spotted.

[Linked Image]

They are flying in double vics of five not finger four, which makes me think they'll be bombers.

[Linked Image]

So it seems! These Huns are from 1 Gruppe, Zerstoerergeschwader 52.

[Linked Image]

We climb steeply after them, almost hanging on our props...

[Linked Image]

...while some of the Huns seem equally keen to get at us!

[Linked Image]

A dogfight quickly develops, and I succeed in sending one of the enemy down in flames.

[Linked Image]

I soon manage to clobber another 110.

[Linked Image]

Even as he's going down, another one is curving in behind me, though lower down.

[Linked Image]

I tighten my turn and before long I'm gaining on him.

[Linked Image]

He dives away smoking after my first bursts, but before long another one is after me.

[Linked Image]

Once again, it doesn't take long for me to turn the tables...

[Linked Image]

...then it's his turn to break desperately, with his fuselage well holed...

[Linked Image]

...and smoke pouring from one of his engines.

[Linked Image]

The 110 spirals steeply down to its destruction, but I know there's one more up here somewhere. I start a steep spiral climb at full power while I try to locate him.

[Linked Image]

But the Hun seems to have disappeared.

I haven't seen, or heard much from, the rest of the squadron since the fight started, so I call them up. They all answer that they are free. There's now no sign of the enemy so I order a return to base. Early indications are that we're claiming just three for one of our own lost, but as it happens, that will change significantly before the day's out.

...to be continued!


Attached Files 1 sEPT PM.jpgshot_693.jpgshot_692.jpgshot_694.jpgshot_696.jpgshot_698.jpgshot_700.jpgshot_704.jpgshot_705.jpgshot_708.jpgshot_706.jpgshot_707.jpgshot_710.jpgshot_687.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/10/21 06:56 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582363 - 10/10/21 08:00 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The last raid of 1st September is Hostile 851, sixty-plus apparently unescorted Heinkels who are again headed for Filton fighter base, whose destruction the Luftwaffe seems very keen to complete at any cost. I scramble thirty-six fighters from five different squadrons, though not all may be able to intercept.

[Linked Image]

The bombers are from KG53 'Legion Condor'...

[Linked Image]

...the different spinner and individual aircraft letters in the appropriate gruppe colour

[Linked Image]

First to make contact are the twelve Hurricanes of 17 Squadron, which I'm leading in YB-K.

[Linked Image]

I order the boys to pick their own targets and our formation quickly dissolves as we race for the Huns.

[Linked Image]

I tackle a group with yellow rudders. I manage to knock one down out of formation...

[Linked Image]

...but my shooting is rather erratic and I'm able only to damage another couple of Heinkels...

[Linked Image]

...before I run out of rounds...

[Linked Image]

...and can only watch as the aerial armada ploughs remorselessly onwards. I can but hope that others will make a better fist of this one!

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!

Attached Files 1 sEPT eve2.jpgshot_725.jpgshot_726.jpgshot_727.jpgshot_728.jpgshot_729.jpgshot_730.jpgshot_732.jpgshot_733.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/10/21 08:11 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582367 - 10/10/21 08:40 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
Next into action against Hostile 851 are the six Hurricanes of No.1 Squadron. I order the boys in...

[Linked Image]

...but this time, hang back to observe results before committing to my own attack.

[Linked Image]

The results look fair enough...

[Linked Image]

So in I go. I send one Heinkel down with a smoking engine...

[Linked Image]

...before breaking upwards and away.

[Linked Image]

I then pull off to one side to take stock. The fighter attacks seem to have petered out, so I repeat the order to attack.

[Linked Image]

The Huns begin a turn to starboard. Have they bombed? I'm not sure.

[Linked Image]

I attack again and shoot another Heinkel out of formation.

[Linked Image]

Time for one more, I think. In we go...

[Linked Image]

...but in my anxiety to bring one down with what must be my last rounds, I collide with my target, tearing off my kite's port outer wing. I'm lucky to be able to get out...

[Linked Image]

...and that my brolly pops open, leaving me to watch the Huns thunder overhead.

[Linked Image]

That was the day's last raid. We are claiming thirteen from Hostile 851 for three aircraft lost from 1 Squadron.

[Linked Image]

The figures for the other raids make interesting reading:

- Hostile 901, sixty-three claimed for no losses;
- Hostile 902, an incredible two hundred and seven claimed, well over the raid's reported strength, for no loses; and
- Hostile 401, sixty-four claimed (apparently by just 41 Squadron!) for no losses.

If the claims are anything like reality, 1st September has been a very good day for Fighter Command!

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_713.jpgshot_714.jpgshot_715.jpgshot_717.jpgshot_718.jpgshot_719.jpgshot_720.jpgshot_721.jpgshot_722.jpgshot_723.jpgshot_724.jpg1 sEPT eve3.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/10/21 08:51 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582447 - 10/12/21 04:28 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
September 2nd begins with two small raids coming our way. I decide to concentrate what I can put up against the first one, Hostile 901, thirty-plus. First to make contact are the twelve Hurricanes on 17 Squadron, which I'm leading in YB-K.

[Linked Image]

We're over the Thames Estuary and can see the raid flying east at high altitude, with London's docklands below.

[Linked Image]

I report the Bandits to control. I seem to be seeing escorts where none exist! By now the Ack Ack is hammering away at the Huns and I think I saw one of them shot down as we first spotted them.

[Linked Image]

In we go!

[Linked Image]

Having satisfied myself that the others are doing as they are bid, I throttle back slightly to let them have first crack.

[Linked Image]

So successful is the Squadron's attack...

[Linked Image]

... that I begin to wonder if they will leave any Huns for me!

[Linked Image]

Right - my turn!

[Linked Image]

I cause only damage on my first pass, but on the second, my target - these are Junkers 88s of KG51, the Edelweiss Geschwader - goes down in flames.

[Linked Image]

Just two or three bombers are left out of the formation of ten that we attacked! So far, so good!

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_737.jpgshot_741.jpgshot_743.jpgshot_744.jpgshot_746.jpgshot_747.jpgshot_748.jpgshot_749.jpgshot_750.jpgshot_752.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/12/21 04:50 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582449 - 10/12/21 05:13 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
In I go again!

[Linked Image]

Just two Huns left now!

[Linked Image]

The formation to the left, with white spinners, is also starting to take losses.

[Linked Image]

My own attack sets on fire the last Junkers from the first group.

[Linked Image]

Down there, it looks almost like a paratroop landing is in progress! The large parkland is I think Kensington Gardens with the round lake, and the adjacent Hyde Park to the left with the Serpentine lake mostly hidden by the canopy frame.

[Linked Image]

My ammo expended, I pull off to one side and give the boys a little longer.

[Linked Image]

By the time I call them off, the Hurricanes of 56 Squadron have joined the party! With no escorts showing up to spoil the fun, this interception is going well!

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_754.jpgshot_755.jpgshot_756.jpgshot_757.jpgshot_758.jpgshot_760.jpgshot_763.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/12/21 05:18 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582452 - 10/12/21 05:43 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The morning's last air battle sees 1 (Canadian) Squadron's six Hurricanes intercept a third raid, Hostile 904, further north. I'm leading in YO-X...

[Linked Image]

...and there's the raid.

[Linked Image]

This time, though, it's escorted, and we're the only people making this interception. I can see some 109s diving to cut us off.

[Linked Image]

This one looks like mine!

[Linked Image]

He's not on his own and I spend several tense minutes trying to out-turn the Huns or at least, stay out of their way.

[Linked Image]

Lower and lower I go. I call for help and though I can see two or three Hurricanes also turning nearby, I seem to be fighting a lonely battle. I end up down at the level of some barrage balloons, protecting an unknown but obviously important target.

[Linked Image]

My luck finally runs out and I collect some hits from cannon shells somewhere behind.

[Linked Image]

My engine is faltering too, and I slide back the canopy, ready to get out.

[Linked Image]

My kite is barely answering to the controls so I decide to jump while I can. My 'chute has barely opened when my Hurricane explodes just inside the perimeter track of the airfield I was flying over.

[Linked Image]

All I need now is for somebody to direct me to the officer's Mess so I can have the stiff drink I now sorely need!

[Linked Image]

The Squadron lost three of its six aircraft in return for one claimed Destroyed from Hostile 904.

[Linked Image]

While it looks like 54 Squadron failed to intercept Hostile 902, the three squadrons which met the other raid, Hostile 901, have fared much better, claiming no less that forty kills for no losses!

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_764.jpgshot_766.jpgshot_767.jpgshot_768.jpgshot_769.jpgshot_770.jpgshot_771.jpgshot_773.jpgshot_775.jpgshot_776.jpg2 Sept lunch.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/12/21 06:08 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582482 - 10/13/21 10:46 AM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The morning of 3rd September begins with two full-strength patrols, from 54 and 74 Squadrons flying Spitfires, being scrambled to meet Hostile 801, sixty-plus. I also scramble three more six-aircraft patrols to cover bases in the raid's path. These I will revector against the raid some time after they're airborne - unless the raid turns out to be a fighter sweep or heavily escorted, in which case I will either return everyone to base or delopy against the next raid, which will follow soon.

[Linked Image]

Seventy-fours's Spits soon have the raid in sight over Essex, north of the Thames Estuary.

[Linked Image]

Leading the Squadron, I can see what must be another RAF squadron coming in from our right. Good timing!

[Linked Image]

I order the attack and watch with a mix of pride and satisfaction as the boys spread out to left...

[Linked Image]

...and right on either side, preparatory to getting stuck in.

[Linked Image]

I reduce the throttle a tad and hang back for a better view and so they won't get in the way of my own pass. By now, the raid is headed north-west and London's docklands are visible to our left front.

[Linked Image]

The squadron starts piling into the bombers, who as reported are unescorted. To my right front, I can see the other squadron also attacking, Hurricanes from their distinctive silhouette.

[Linked Image]

I edge out to the outside of the left-hand bunch as the sky in front is suddenly filled with exploding or falling aircraft, Ack Ack bursts and tracers criss-crossing.

[Linked Image]

I close in rapidly and my fire sends a Junkers 88 reeling out of formation, dense smoke obscuring my view and increasing the collision risk.

[Linked Image]

The bomber goes on fire and falls away, just in time to avoid me running into him.

[Linked Image]

That was more than a bit hairy! But so far, so good!

...to be continued!

Attached Files 3 sept am.jpgshot_777.jpgshot_778.jpgshot_779.jpgshot_780.jpgshot_782.jpgshot_783.jpgshot_785.jpgshot_786.jpgshot_787.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/13/21 11:05 AM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582485 - 10/13/21 11:25 AM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The bad news is that the Hun air gunners are no slouches and my Spit has been badly riddled and my engine is running rough. It's all I can manage to crawl back into range and let loose with a series of tentative long-range bursts which exhaust my ammo. I somehow manage to send another bomber banking left out of formation.

[Linked Image]

Others are also getting good results...

[Linked Image]

...both Spits and Hurricanes.

[Linked Image]

I can but throttle back and watch them go. My oil temperature is soaring and it'll be all I can do to get down safely somewhere. My last view of the air battle before I recall the squadron shows the raid's passage being marked by a fierce Ack Ack barrage. A damaged bomber is crossing my nose, making for home, but unfortunately I can't catch him; and even if I could, my last, long-range attack exhausted my ammo.

[Linked Image]

An early check shows we're claiming twenty-nine from Hostile 801, which has cost us no less that six Spitfires from 74 Squadron and four Hurricanes from 17.

[Linked Image]

This is a bit on the costly side, but we are continuing to savage chosen raids by concentrating whatever force we can muster. The accepted downside is that the morning's other raids go unmolested, while my fighters are returning to re-arm and re-fuel. How long we can keep this up remains to be seen.

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_789.jpgshot_790.jpgshot_791.jpgshot_792.jpg3 sept am2.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/13/21 11:27 AM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582494 - 10/13/21 01:29 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The remainder of 3rd September passes quietly, as if both sides are licking their wounds. I opt to fly in one last engagement, in which 611 Squadron's six Spitfires intercept a large raid with a Messerschmitt 110 escort. If you leave the offer to fly that pops up in the Ops Room too long, you can find that the action has already started. As in this case, where I find us diving steeply onto a bunch of apparently-unsuspecting 110s, with some Heinkels below them.

[Linked Image]

Also caught by surprise, I am glad to avoid a collision, never mind shooting anything down. Levelling out below the Huns, I find myself directly behind a group of bombers, with two similar groups to the left and more 110s above.

[Linked Image]

I can see that the centre group is already being whittled down, so I pile into them too.

[Linked Image]

I succeed in shooting one of the Heinkels out of formation.

[Linked Image]

My victim is still under control but losing height and leaving a faint trail of smoke. A 'Damaged', or a 'Probably Destroyed' at best.

[Linked Image]

I pull up and around for another crack. The Huns aren't at all pleased and fill the sky around me with their tracers. I take yet more hits...

[Linked Image]

...and transfer my attention to a different group, with yellow rudders. Another 'Damaged' is the best I can do before I run out of rounds.

[Linked Image]

I let my well-holed aircraft fall away...

[Linked Image]

...and slide back the canopy for a breath of virtual fresh air as the raid goes on its way. It looks like the others were mostly detained by the 110s we ran into first and that only one or two of us got to the bombers this time.

[Linked Image]

So concluded the fighting for 3rd September, with a fair success in the morning about all Fighter command had to show for a relatively quiet day.

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_793.jpgshot_794.jpgshot_795.jpgshot_796.jpgshot_797.jpgshot_798.jpgshot_799.jpgshot_800.jpgshot_801.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/13/21 01:37 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582527 - 10/13/21 09:22 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
September 4th begins with an incursion by Hostile 801, reported as thirty plus. This is a good opportunity to concentrate forces and I start ordering squadrons away.

[Linked Image]

Sixty-five Squadron's Spitfires are first to make contact. A cat (perhaps ironically, called Winston) walking across my PC desk delays my taking command until we're already well committed!

[Linked Image]

The Huns are unescorted Junkers 88s and we are soon getting stuck into them.

[Linked Image]

My own first pass knocks one of the Huns out of formation...

[Linked Image]

...then up and away I go. It's usually when faced with a nice target like this one that I mess things up through poor shooting, colliding with my target, or getting riddled, but this time I manage to avoid all three, at least so far.

[Linked Image]

Another Hun goes down from my second pass...

[Linked Image]

...though it looks like he's running for home rather than going down.

[Linked Image]

Rather than chasing him down, I return to the attack on the original formation, in the hope of whittling it down as much as possible before it bombs.

[Linked Image]

A third bomber breaks formation under the fire of my eight Brownings!

[Linked Image]

And once again, I manage to avoid anything nasty.

[Linked Image]

That's my ammo gone so any further damage to this raid will be up to someone else!

As it happens, the five squadrons which intercepted Hostile 801 are claiming eighteen shot down, for five losses. Not a brilliant result, but it will do.

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!

Attached Files 4 sept am.jpgshot_802.jpgshot_803.jpgshot_806.jpgshot_807.jpgshot_808.jpgshot_809.jpgshot_810.jpgshot_811.jpgshot_812.jpg4 sept am2.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/13/21 09:28 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582531 - 10/13/21 09:48 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
I let the campaign AI play out the rest of the day's interceptions, except for one. In the afternoon, I lead the six Hurricanes of No.1 (Canadian) Squadron against an unescorted raid of Dorniers.

[Linked Image]

Just when I think my first pass has been unsuccessful, the crew starts bailing out of my target.

[Linked Image]

The Hun falls away to the left and I shoot up the bomber in front of him before breaking down and away, without taking any serious damage in return.

[Linked Image]

I come around for another stern attack on the same group, now missing two aircraft from the original ten from the left of their formation.

[Linked Image]

My second pass sets a Dornier alight and the crew wastes no time in abandoning the blazing aircraft. I make that one Destroyed, and two Probables.

[Linked Image]

I break down again and watch the burning bomber as it spirals earthwards.

[Linked Image]

The blighter nearly collides with me on the way down, but I manage to get out of his way at the last minute.

[Linked Image]

I come around for another pass, by which time it looks like the others are also marking their mark on this raid.

[Linked Image]

I succeed in damaging another Dornier badly enough for the crew to bail out, although my break is a bit unorthodox. Two Destroyed and two Probables, that will do nicely!

[Linked Image]

This time I've taken significant damage and decide to call it quits, even as my last victim is falling from the sky.

[Linked Image]

My coolant temperature looks fine but the oil is a bit hot, so it's definitely time to reduce power and go home.

[Linked Image]

Apart from a fighter sweep up to London by Messerschmitt 109s which I deliberately ignore, that concludes the day's operations. It seems we haven't done too badly, overall!

[Linked Image]

[i]...to be continued![/i


Attached Files shot_815.jpgshot_816.jpgshot_817.jpgshot_818.jpgshot_820.jpgshot_821.jpgshot_822.jpgshot_823.jpgshot_824.jpgshot_826.jpgshot_827.jpg4 sept end.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/13/21 10:02 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582631 - 10/15/21 11:59 AM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
The morning of 5th September sees two raids plotted, Hostile 901, thirty-plus, and Hostile 902, sixty-plus. By the time the latter is plotted, I've already started scrambling everything available - which isn't much, these days - against Hostile 901.I know it's reported as consisting of Messerschmitt 110s, but as these all seem able to carry bombs in BoB2 and can certainly hit ground targets, I'm happy not to re-vector my patrols against the second raid.

[Linked Image]

No.312 (Czech) Squadron's six Hurricanes are the first to make contact. I'm leading, in DU-T.

[Linked Image]

Well, there's the raid, under Ack Ack fire as it approaches the Thames Estuary. But of rather more immediate concerned is the bunch of Messerschmitt 110s charging us from our right front!

[Linked Image]

I turn hard to avoid their onrush while hastily endeavouring to order the boys to get stuck into them. As I come around, I can see the 110s are in a loose gaggle, chasing down a group of about four Hurricanes. This won't do!

[Linked Image]

I start shooting the 110s off their tails.

[Linked Image]

I even manage to set one on fire.

[Linked Image]

Red 3 is on the blower calling for help. But I'm about to be attacked from behind, myself!

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!

Attached Files 5 sept am2.jpgshot_830.jpgshot_832.jpgshot_833.jpgshot_834.jpgshot_835.jpgshot_836.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/16/21 12:07 AM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582641 - 10/15/21 02:00 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
I'm soon putting my Hurricane's superior rate of turn to good use. By this time, I'm over the Thameshaven oil storage tanks and calling for help, but the only aircraft now in sight are 110s...

[Linked Image]

...and rather a lot of them; there's three in the view below.

[Linked Image]

I briefly go back onto the offensive, chasing down one of the Huns.

[Linked Image]

Hit hard, the 110 rolls over and goes down trailing smoke.

[Linked Image]

Is he going to pull out before piling into the drink? I have little opportunity to watch, for his friends are everywhere. The only help I have is some Ack Ack coming up at the Huns.

[Linked Image]

By now i'm quite low and in a turning fight with several Huns.

[Linked Image]

One of them crosses my nose, evidently damaged earlier by myself or the Ack Ack.

[Linked Image]

I get some hits on him but my ammo runs out and I have to break off!

[Linked Image]

My tail is clear so I turn east and make a run for it, on the deck at full throttle. I've gained a bit of ground but at least one of the Huns has turned after me!

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!

Attached Files shot_837.jpgshot_838.jpgshot_839.jpgshot_840.jpgshot_841.jpgshot_842.jpgshot_843.jpgshot_844.jpgshot_845.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/15/21 02:13 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

#4582648 - 10/15/21 02:54 PM Re: BoB2 screenshots - the RAF campaign [Re: 33lima]  
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
33lima Offline
Senior Member
33lima  Offline
Senior Member

Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 2,712
Belfast, NI
A damaged Hun has given up on me, but two others have not. What to do? I remember there's an airfield or two somewhere up ahead. If I make it that far, I can but hope that the airfield's defences will deter the Messersschitts.

[Linked Image]

The grazing livestock seem oblivious to the unfolding drama.

[Linked Image]

Even the harsh roar of Hun aero engines bothers neither sheep nor cattle.

[Linked Image]

The damaged 110 has definitely given up and is climbing away to the south.

[Linked Image]

But the other two seem game for a spot of high speed low flying.

[Linked Image]

Dodging around some houses, I notice a pillar of smoke behind me. One of the Huns has come to grief!

[Linked Image]

I call up the Controller to get a Vector to the nearest airfield - these things come back rather faster than they should but I'm not quibbling. As it happens, there's an airfield slightly left of my track and just four miles away. I'm soon approaching the base, which I find out later is Gravesend, a satellite base for Biggin Hill. Beyond it are the masts of the Chain Home RDF station at Canewdon.

[Linked Image]

But what's happened, back there? The second Hun has also gone in!

[Linked Image]

The damaged 110 has a nice view of the whole thing, as he climbs south for home over the Thames Estuary.

[Linked Image]

I too climb, as I pass over Gravesend. The air defence people down there would probably have been very happy to shoot up those Huns, given the base had obviously taken a pasting, with most buildings reduced to dirty patches of rubble. But they won't be needed, for now.

[Linked Image]

I call up the boys on the R/T; all but one report in. Somewhat relieved on everyone's account - not least my own - I ease back on the throttle and slide back the canopy.

[Linked Image]

The tension suddenly gone, I make a quick circuit of the RDF towers, for a spot of well-earned sight-seeing.

[Linked Image]

...to be continued!


Attached Files shot_846.jpgshot_847.jpgshot_848.jpgshot_849.jpgshot_850.jpgshot_851.jpgshot_853.jpgshot_854.jpgshot_855.jpgshot_856.jpgshot_857.jpgshot_859.jpg
Last edited by 33lima; 10/15/21 03:42 PM.

SimHQ Battle of Britain II screenshots thread
CombatAce Mission Reports
"Everything we hear is an opinion, not a fact. Everything we see is a perspective, not the truth." (attributed to Marcus Aurelius)

Page 24 of 26 1 2 22 23 24 25 26

Moderated by  RacerGT 

Quick Search
Recent Articles
Support SimHQ

If you shop on Amazon use this Amazon link to support SimHQ
.
Social


Recent Topics
Carnival Cruise Ship Fire....... Again
by F4UDash4. 03/26/24 05:58 PM
Baltimore Bridge Collapse
by F4UDash4. 03/26/24 05:51 PM
The Oldest WWII Veterans
by F4UDash4. 03/24/24 09:21 PM
They got fired after this.
by Wigean. 03/20/24 08:19 PM
Grown ups joke time
by NoFlyBoy. 03/18/24 10:34 PM
Anyone Heard from Nimits?
by F4UDash4. 03/18/24 10:01 PM
RIP Gemini/Apollo astronaut Tom Stafford
by semmern. 03/18/24 02:14 PM
10 years after 3/8/2014
by NoFlyBoy. 03/17/24 10:25 AM
Copyright 1997-2016, SimHQ Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 7.6.0