Use of AVs

[ndworl]

I've been using AVs in my important convoys to improve ASW protection - with the logic that increased detection improves effectiveness of ASW ships. I read on the AE site that AVs did not use their aircraft underway (like CS do) but were really mobile support bases for float planes. Now I know AE has many more nuances and specialisation, but is that the case in WitP as well? I'd hate to think I've been wasting fuel running these things around the place with no purpose.

[dr.hal]

There are two types of capabilities with AV type units, the aircraft they support and the aircraft they CARRY! These are not necessarily the same thing. MOST AVs only support seaplanes or amphibs, they do NOT operate them. Such as the AVDs you get which are old DDs (converted four pipers of the Clemson class). SOME ships however have an inherent capability to operate a seaplane (float plane if you will) such as a few small Dutch AVPs. When you view the information on an AV type ship you will notice it has "Aircraft Capacity/Used:" and then "Seaplane Support:". Most AVs only have seaplane support and a "0" for capacity. The AV Wright however, as an example of the exception has a capacity of FOUR. So those aircraft would be float aircraft and can operate at sea. The Dutch AVP Arend has a capacity of ONE to complement its ability to support 7 seaplanes. Thus it can operate one float plane. I hope this helps.

[turkey]

Hi dr. hal. Does this advice aply to WitP or AE? I can't find AVP Arend in WitP.

[dr.hal]

Ahhhh... ok, AE.... but I believe it still holds true for WITP.... and yes, the Arend is not in the original WITP as I recall... sorry about that....

[Mobeer]

I thought only CS sea plane carriers could use seaplanes whilst at sea. AV and AVD are seaplane tenders that need to be docked or disbanded.

[ndworl]

Thanks, that's been very useful. I gather that I have been wasting fuel sending them in convoys. I'll have to find some places where they will be useful in a static role.

[dr.hal]

For most Mobeer, you are correct, but there are a few that DO operate their own float planes... NOT seaplanes, but float planes.... such as I've indicated.... Hal

[dr.hal]

And yes Ndworl, there are far better uses for such ships over escort duty......

[BPRE]

Hi,

Japanese AVs and CSs operate their aircraft while at sea without any problems. I don't believe there are any Allied ships (AVs, AVDs) which actually carry any air groups in vanilla WitP but I might be wrong. They will only support basing of aircraft.

As for usage you can use them for convoy attacks for instance but don't expect too much damage. The bombs these float planes carry are too small. Otherwise it's search and ASW.

/BPRE