http://www.squadselectseries.com/events ... ummary.pdf - new summary up
In the final frame each side used a combination of seaplanes and navy reconnaissance aircraft to hunt for the enemy Task Force. B25s were the first to find the IJN sailing south allowing the Americans to launch their strike a good 10 minutes earlier than the Japanese. This time the Japanese put up a heavy CAP leaving their inbound strike force relatively lightly escorted. This was a wise move on their part as the continued attacks by American scouts throughout the night were met with a good number of zeros. The Americans for the first time lost more aircraft to enemy action than the Japanese, 52 USN were shotdown to 46 IJN. Near the end of the night after SBDs with escort hit two carriers further relentless B25 attacks sank a Kaga and further damaged an already smoking carrier. The Japanese strike was the lightest of the series with both Kates and G4M1s trying to get past the Wildcat defense. High bombing Betties managed to hit two carriers but fire control teams soon had them under way again. The Kate torpedo bombers were easy meat for the Wildcats with few zeros to keep them looking over their shoulders.
In the final frame the IJN won for the first time but the Allies still took the series. Waiting on the S6 for pilot losses but the IJN won Frame 5 handily 123 to 79. The series went to the USN 434 to 403. Will updated when the final results are in over the weekend.
Great planning and organization on both sides with real stress being felt when one side was discovered and the other was not. The ability to launch a successful strike was always difficult especially when the enemy was free to CAP their carriers as they saw fit. Some excellent coordination in escorting and conducting attacks as well as playing to each sides airframes strengths and weaknesses.
Salute!
Next series we move to the desert and highlight the P40B and Bf109E4 Aa matchup.
Sides and map posted on the main site. Rules and scoring still being worked on but will be up over the weekend. Passwords out then to.
jabo
