The 352nd has our group of assigned OSS guys working on a plan for Frame 5. The current thinking is that the Axis should throw a "Big Wing" at Malta for the last Frame. What was learned from Frame 4 is that the buffs must fly in a VERY TIGHT Box is there if any hope of defending them. A "loose" formation of buffs is simply points for the opposition.
Accordingly the assistance of our buffers is solicited in the planning of this final mission for the Series. The "Box" and the fighter protection should be established PRIOR to penetrating Allied Radar. The fighters are a bit more flexible at meeting time and altitude requirements of the buffs. So, at the RED X, what the fighters need to know from the buffers in the planning portion is:
What is the Frame time that you can be assembled as a box and ready to go to Malta?
What altitude will you wish to cruise?
What will your airspeed be?
With the numbers we have been experiencing, the DRs and the Nomads can share a (
3) step field. The Stalkers could share the same field without over-stepping a (
3) Step field. Please choose a field that will allow you to get the altitude you need at the Red X, and let that be known so it can be included in the Final Orders for the Frame. It is suggested that you select a RTB location that will allow a secondary mission if time allows. Again, please advise what your choice for that would be, and it will be made available to you. Pick a target on Malta what will maximize the points available from the ord that you select to carry.
The 4th, LF 6 and the 352nd can select any field of choice that will put you at the proper altitude and arrival time for our buff group. The current thinking is to keep the 23rd FG based on Pantelleria and joining the Big Wing from there while they look for any inbound strike on their home island. We will have to deal with that "on the fly" if it happens to occur.
the "Rides and Sides" chart lists the strength of the various Squads as follows (your mileage may vary):
4th FG (2)
LF 6 (2)
23rd FG (2)
352nd FG (3)
Night Stalkers (1)
Nomads (1)
Doolittle's Raiders (2)
Please request a base field that is adequate for your intended operations.
Comments and completely alternative scenarios are solicited. Please post them in this thread.
<S>
Dr. Dart, can you please make this thread a "sticky" until the Series is completed?