I also realize that there have been good intentions to fix the problem of too-powerful ASW Air attacks, but I suspect that, instead of being generally nerfed for all parties, it is now badly warped. It is indeed FUBAR i.m.o.
The game is Grand Campaign, PBEM, as the Allies. It is an ongoing game, so I'm not going to post screen shots. The date is approaching May 1943. A sample of Allied air groups includes:
- Experience: 58; 72; 56; 58; 62
- Morale: 99; 93; 99; 97; 98
- ASW Skill: <50; 59; 61; 70; <50
All these groups have been set to 60% ASW and 40% rest. The planes involved are Wellington GRs, Hudson III (LR)s, and PV-1 Venturas. Two of these types have ASV-II radars. (ASD-1 radar only appears in September 1943).
I've flown at varying altitudes: 100, 1000 . . . 4000.
I'm aware that ASW operates at half range.
Many Japanese subs have been spotted within that range. My infantry can sometimes stand on the beach and throw rocks at them!
I have had PBYs on Naval Search missions take shots [and HIT!] subs.
This far into the game, I have yet to register a single attack by Allied aircraft on ASW missions against Japanese subs. I've sunk some subs with surface units and other subs, but no ASW-Air hits or attempted hits. My opponent has also noted this.
In the meanwhile the Allied subs are having the tar beaten out of them at every opportunity by JAPANESE ARMY LEVEL BOMBER - Sally and Helen! No, not IJN planes like Betty, Nell, Mavis or Emily . . . but by IJA level bomber without a sniff of radar. My opponent has also noted this.
Of course, I expect you to be in denial - especially a certain Danish gentleman. [8|]
In the meanwhile we'll just soldier on with a broken game.