Battle of France - Part I has now been released!

[Rami]

Good afternoon,

Before I leave for the evening's festivities, the Eben Emael mission is underway. I'll also do a mission at UncleTgt's request, "just for fun."

[Rami]

Good morning,

For the mission to land at Fort Eben Emael, I set the mission start time for 05:30. When the mission loads, the glider points sharply down and is buffeted by strong winds and some AA fire, even though there is none within fifteen miles of your position, and the aircraft in front of you (the glider tugs) are friendly. The dynamic elements are also messed up.

Change the time to 05:45, and the mission runs like a top with no issues whatsoever.

Two questions...

1) Ever hear of anything like this?

2) Why would changing the time make an iota of difference?

[Roxane-21]

French troops have their breakfast at 05:40. You know how important food is for us.

[bearcat241]

Never heard of such a thing Rami...the old persistent and ever-lurking gremlins i guess...lol

I honestly can't imagine how time of day would factor into this. You mean you're actually getting flak burst around the glider with no enemy guns within 15 miles?!?!

[Rami]

Never heard of such a thing Rami...the old persistent and ever-lurking gremlins i guess...lol

I honestly can't imagine how time of day would factor into this. You mean you're actually getting flak burst around the glider with no enemy guns within 15 miles?!?!

Yes. I went back into the mission and checked...nothing around for miles.

[Rami]

Good evening,

Just finished...

"title_string"=BoF Kampfgeschwader - Gliders fly to Eben Emael
"summary_string"=Kamerad, unser Erfolg liegt in Ihren Händen! You will be one of the glider pilots this morning flying our Fallschirmjäger to Eben Emael, so that we can capture the fort! Other glider formations will land near the Kanne, Vroenhoven, & Veldwezelt bridges along the Albert Canal to help secure our advance. Your assignment is to reach Eben Emael safely so our troops can do their job!
"objective_string"=Around dawn on the morning of 10 May 1940, the Germans used Fallschirmjäger in Belgium to secure Fort Eben Emael along with the Veldwezelt, Kanne, and Vroenhoven bridges. The Germans used a total of forty-two gliders, carrying some four hundred and ninety-three Fallschirmjäger. Several German gliders landing at the bridges either landed in the wrong area or were forced down by flak, and one glider stalled out near the landing area. All three bridges and Fort Eben Emael were secured by the German troops.
"intelligence_string"=When your mission loads, you will start in the air, positioned behind the Junkers transports. You will hold your heading until just before landing, where you'll make a sharp turn to the north & then land on any grass surface directly on top of Fort Eben Emael. The glider you are flying will lose altitude slowly, so you should have enough height to reach the fort. On final approach, use the "spoiler" key to deploy your spoilers and parachute, but ensure you are committed to land & be prepared for the sharp downward lurch. Landing safely at the fort completes the mission.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=DFS230 May 1940

"title_string"=Belgian Air Force - Fallschirmjäger "Fox Hunt"
"summary_string"=Listen up, men! We're confident that the Germans are launching their attack today, so a Renard R-31 reconnaissance aircraft is being sent out to sweep above the German border. Your Falcos will be one half of the fighter cover. Gladiators will compose the other half. You will protect the recce plane on its sweep, and be on guard for anything which you might encounter!
"objective_string"=This mission is entirely fictitious, & just for fun. To be sure, there were certainly recce planes sent out by the Belgians during the morning of 10 May 1940, and some likely did have fighter protection. So while this premise is historically plausible, no German gliders landing in Belgium on that morning were ever shot at by any Allied fighters. However, had that occurred, these gliders would have been easy meat, even for biplanes!
"intelligence_string"=Once airborne, the Cr-42 flight will hold position above the Renard recce plane, whilst the Gladiator flight will take the position below. Your task is to protect this recce plane during its patrol. If you encounter enemy planes, the Renard will turn back to base, and your job is to keep the enemy busy so that the Renard can escape. Once the recce plane leaves, you may break away from any combat and head for Maastricht before returning home. Make sure to return in one piece; if this is the German invasion, we'll need every asset we have to resist!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=CR-42_162sq_161GACT
"airfield_string"=Belgium - Ursel

[Rami]

Good evening,

Here are some more missions finished...

"title_string"=Battle of France - Bloch fighter patrol above Belgium
"summary_string"=Pilotes, accédez à vos avions! Luftwaffe bombers have been spotted over Belgium, & may be raiding Brussels. You must fly there as quickly as possible to intercept them before they can escape back to Germany. If you are able to catch them, hopefully near Charleroi, tear into these bombers and bring down as many as you can. With Sedan now lost, it is ever more imperative that we make the Germans pay for every inch!
"objective_string"=This is an amalgam of two French patrols flown on 14 & 15 May. On the evening of 14 May, six Bloch 152s of GC III/10 were brought down by escorts of I/JG 2 while engaging Do-17s just southeast of Charleroi. The next day, five MS 406 fighters of GC III/7 were lost in the same sector to Bf-109s from I/JG 3. This sortie combines the two events. It is unknown exactly how many aircraft engaged; the mission assumes that additional aircraft were involved aside from those lost.
"intelligence_string"=One airborne, you will fly east-northeast to reach the patrol zone just southwest of Charleroi. If the Germans are returning from Brussels, they'll want to fly home over friendly territory, so Charleroi is the likely intercept point. When attacking, let the first wave of fighters draw off their escort, then engage the bombers just after they fly underneath you. Bring down as many bombers as you can, then when you exhaust your ammo, clear out and return to Le Havre. Try to make it back intact; our heavy losses are quickly sapping our reserve planes and pilots!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Bloch MB.152
"airfield_string"=France - Le Havre

"title_string"=BoF Jagdgeschwader - Evening Zerstörer sweep
"summary_string"=Kamerad, herhören! It is our turn this evening for patrol duty. We will sweep across Belgium over to the French border, then back across Belgium again to Namur, hoping to jump on any French or British fighters wishing to interfere with our operations. The more fighters that we destroy, the weaker the opposition becomes!
"objective_string"=This sortie is an amalgam of two separate missions flown on 14 May 1940. During the first encounter, Hurricanes of 79 Squadron engaged some fifteen Bf-110s of ZG 26 near the town of Leuze, Belgium. Later that evening, six French Bloch 152 fighters were lost & yet another damaged by Zerstörers of this same gruppe. However, ZG 26 also lost three of their own in the process, and another Zerstörer from ZG 1 was lost in the mêlée.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off, you'll fly a patrol over Belgium to the French border. If you encounter no action there, you will head southeast toward Dinant. The Dinant-Namur area has seen a heavy concentration of action, & if you do run into enemy fighters, we believe it might be in this area. Once you fend off any attacks, you will turn northeast and return to Monchengladbach.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=TR_BF110_C
"airfield_string"=Germany - Monchengladbach

"title_string"=BoF Kampfgeschwader - Exploiting the Sedan Gap
"summary_string"=Piloten der Luftflotte! Your task today is to strike aerodromes in the Reims sector, where our ground forces are close to breaking through. Much of the air resistance in this sector has come from these airbases, so if we can force the Allies to abandon them, we can continue our thrust into the heart of France. Your target is Berry-au-Bac; let's put this airbase out of action!
"objective_string"=On the morning of 15 May, a German formation of forty Dornier Do-17Zs from KG 3 approached the airbase at Berry-au-Bac with Zerstorers of ZG 26 providing escort. Before reaching the aerodrome, they were intercepted by six Hurricanes of 1 Sqn, and records also suggest the formation could have also been intercepted by two flights of Dewoitine fighters, although KG 2 was operating nearby. The attack was blunted, but some bombers got through and struck the airbase. Five Zerstorers apparently were lost, possibly as many as six, along with one Dornier bomber.
"intelligence_string"=Once airborne, form up with the other Do-17s and fly west-southwest to reach the airfield northeast of Reims. Escort fighters will catch up just before leaving Germany. Along the way, climb up to 4,750 meters, and the other Dornier flights will stagger around you. As you approach Reims, the chance of intercept is high, so be on alert even though you'll have heavy escort. After you release bombs, turn northeast, then east-northeast to clear the target. Make sure to put your bombs on target; our ground forces are close to pushing the French out of this area, so let's do what we can to help!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Dornier Do-17Z2
"airfield_string"=Germany - Gelnhausen

"title_string"=BoF Kampfgeschwader - One down and two to go!
"summary_string"=Piloten der Luftflotte! With other bomber flights in action further south, our task this afternoon is to strike the airfields at Lille, diverting the enemy attention away from the Sedan breakthrough, and hopefully putting the airfields out of action! Let's show the French that if they won't surrender like the Dutch did, we will pound them into submission!
"objective_string"=On 15 May, the Heinkels of KG 53 and KG 54 were met by Hurricanes of 85 Squadron over Lille. The Heinkels were raiding the airfields there, and the entire RAF Squadron rose to meet 'em. There's no indication that the Heinkels had escort, but given what was available, it is likely the Bf-110 handled this duty. In any case, four Heinkels were claimed destroyed, & another Heinkel damaged. No British losses were recorded during this mission, & there were also no records of any escort fighters lost.
"intelligence_string"=After getting into the air, you'll form up with the other bombers, then turn southwest to reach Lille. Bombers from KG 53 will also be in the area in an effort to split their defenses, so it important you maintain height to avoid collisions. Over the target area watch out for fighters and flak, and be sure to put the bombs directly on target; we don't want to waste our effort with our bombers in action all over France!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=GC_He111H6
"airfield_string"=Germany - Varrelbusch

[Rami]

Good afternoon,

Just about done with 15 May.

"title_string"=Battle of France - Busy times along the Meuse River
"summary_string"=Pilotes, c'est à vous de patrouiller! Your flight of P-36 Hawks will sweep along the Meuse River with other French flights from Charleville up to Dinant, looking for any German flights in the area. If you find Luftwaffe fighters or bombers, engage them, & bring down as many as you can! The Luftwaffe seem to be concentrating their forces in the area, and we will be ready to meet them!
"objective_string"=During the period from 13 to 15 May 1940, French Air Force pilots took heavy losses during patrols & intercept missions along the Meuse River between Sedan and Namur. Dinant saw the heaviest action, and in this sector, nearly a dozen French fighters were badly damaged or shot down by Bf-109s and Bf-110s, during interceptions of Do-17Z bombers, or from flak. However, during these missions they did damage or shoot down several enemy bombers, as well as several fighters.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, your patrol zone will take you north on the Meuse from Charleville-Mézières up to Dinant, Belgium. You will sweep for any sign of enemy activity in the area. You've permission to engage whatever you see, but be sure to watch out for signs of enemy fighters lurking nearby before you commit any attack. With our forces suffering heavy daily attrition, we must attempt to conserve our strength to keep fighting back!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=FDG2_P-36 Capt Jean Accart GC I 5 Pontarlier 1940
"airfield_string"=France - Vraux

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Catch Heinkels out on patrol
"summary_string"=Attention, pilots! The area around Reims has been a hotbed of activity the last few days, so we are continuing patrols of this sector, looking for any sign of German raiders. You are cleared to engage what you encounter, but be careful that you don't get pounced on by lurking Messerschmitt Bf-109s. With our thinning numbers, we must conserve our remaining strength to fight on!
"objective_string"=On 15 May, 87 Squadron flew a total of fourteen patrols during the day without any action. On this last patrol, they ran into He-111s of 9/KG 51. The Hurricanes claimed two Heinkels. This mission has been combined with other action that occurred on 14 & 15 May. Hurricanes from 73 and 1 Squadrons also engaged Dorniers of 6/KG 3, Bf-110s of I/ZG 52, & He-111s of I/KG 55 either over or south of Reims. Several bombers were damaged and at least one was lost, but four Hurricanes were shot down in these engagements.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, you will head south & then south-southeast to patrol the aerodromes near and south of Reims. Your height for the sweep will be Angels 18, while other flights will stack in 2,000 foot intervals below you. If you do run into enemy formations, focus on bringing down bombers first, then engage any escorts if they interfere with the efforts to take down bombers. Once finished, you will fly northwest & then return to the airfield at Marcq-en-Baroeul to rearm and reload.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 87 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille (Marcq-En-Baroeul)

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Look for trouble near Reims
"summary_string"=Listen up, airmen! Today, it is your turn for patrol duty. You'll take off & fly east toward Vouziers, climbing up Angels 14. You will be joined by other fighters from 73 & 501 squadrons. Your task is to look for any Luftwaffe formations & engage them, thereby stopping them from reaching the airfields. The Germans are presently making a concentrated thrust in this area after getting across the Meuse; make them pay for every inch!
"objective_string"=Between 13 & 15 May, RAF squadrons in the Reims area flew frequent fighter sweeps between Reims, Rethel, & Vouziers. Their goal was to look for any incoming German raids and catch them before they could attack the airfields there. This mission is an amalgam of three separate engagements by 73 and 501 Squadrons with Bf-110s of II and III/ZG 26 during fighter sweeps, as well as Dornier bombers of KG 2 during their mission to attack Montcornet airfield; this was also escorted by Zerstorers of ZG 26 and ZG 2.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, you will head east & begin climbing. German bombers attacking aerodromes in this sector have generally been coming in from the east-northeast, & this is the sector you will patrol. If you spot German bombers nearby, engage them first before attacking escort fighters. Once your ammunition is exhausted, break off and return to Reims. If the bombers make it to the airfield, you will land at Berry-au-Bac until the base at Reims is operational again.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 73 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Reims

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - A show of force before dusk
"summary_string"=Listen up, pilots! Before we retire for the evening, we're up to fly one last patrol over the front from Louvain to Diest, looking for any German bombers making their last attacks before dusk. Hurricanes from several nearby squadrons will come along for this sweep, so hopefully we will find & be able to engage the enemy on favorable terms. When you're finished, return to base for the night. Good luck!
"objective_string"=This is an amalgam of two missions. On the evening of 15 May, Hurricanes from 87 Squadron with 504 lending cover intercepted a formation of Do-17Zs escorted by Bf-110s. During this engagement, two Dorniers were damaged & one Hurricane was lost. This has been combined with an earlier mission by Hurricanes of 85 & 607 Squadrons, who engaged Bf-109s of 8/JG 3 near Diest. Two Bf-109s were shot down, but one Hurricane from 85 Squadron was lost, & one of 607 Squadron's was damaged.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off, you will form up with the other Hurricanes and head east-northeast into Belgium. Your patrol zone is between Louvain and Diest. If you find enemy raiders, attack their bombers first & only tangle with 109s if you're under immediate threat. While over Belgium, all Hurricane sections will hold different altitudes to allow for greater visability whilst sweeping for German formations. Once you finish this patrol, return to Lille-Marcq and get some rest; tomorrow will be another long day!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 87 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille (Marcq-En-Baroeul)

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Caught their escort napping
"summary_string"=Listen up, pilots! Blenheim bombers took a beating over a Meuse a short while ago, so your task is to sweep through this area and try to chase away any prowling German aircraft in the area. If you find any activity, your three sections have clearance to engage, just be sure that you try to conserve your strength, every day we are taking heavy losses!
"objective_string"=Late in the morning on 15 May 1940, sections of 3 Sqn flew patrols over the Dinant-Namur area. The skies in that area were clear, but on their return they ran into seven Do-17Zs of 8/KG 76, escorted by Bf-109s of III/JG 26. The British Hurricanes were able to take down three bombers before the escort could react, but also ended up losing three of their own in the process.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, you will fly east-southeast into Belgium and climb up to Angels 14. The other two sections will cover above & below your flight. You will sweep from Dinant up to Namur along the Meuse River, looking any signs of German activity. If none is found, you'll return to Merville. Heavy action took place here just a short time ago, so be ready for anything!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 3 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Merville

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Heavy action around Dinant
"summary_string"=Get to your fighters! A formation of Blenheims has taken off, & is heading over from England to raid the bridges over the Meuse at Dinant. You'll meet this formation at the French coast & protect them as they hit the bridges, then get them back to the coastline. This area has been a hotbed of activity lately, so your best effort will be required today to keep the Luftwaffe at bay. Good luck!
"objective_string"=Even into 15 May, the area along the Meuse River remained a hotbed of activity for German, French, & British air forces. During the morning, Blenheim bombers of 15 & 40 Squadrons raiding the bridges at Dinant were accompanied by eleven Hurricanes of 607 & 615 Squadrons. Over the target, some of 15 Squadron's bombers were lost to flak, while 40 Squadron lost two Blenheims near Charleroi, along with one Hurricane to 3/ZG 76. The French were also active in the area, and on 14 May, four Bloch 152s were lost to Bf-109s & 110s while escorting a Potez 63.11 recce plane. This mission combines the two events.
"intelligence_string"=Once airborne, you will fly north & climb hard up to Angels 11 to rendezvous with Blenheims coming over from England. You will escort them to Dinant, where they will attack the bridges. When they are finished, they'll turn around & head for the coast. Once they clear the coast, you will turn south and head back to Vitry-en-Artois. It is critical that we keep these bombers safe; we need every available resource to hold back the Germans!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_Hurricanemk1 607 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Vitry-en-Artois

[Rami]

Good evening,

Here are the last missions for 15 May not involving Belgian and Dutch Air Forces...

"title_string"=Battle of France - Protect our retreating ground forces
"summary_string"=Nos forces ont besoin de votre aide! Forces trying to escape the enemy advance are now on the move, & you'll help by flying sweeps near Sedan, looking for any recce aircraft and dive-bombers. You are cleared to attack whatever you encounter, but use caution, we just can't afford to sustain the heavy losses we've been seeing!
"objective_string"=On 15 May, French fighter squadrons were active in the Sedan area protecting retreating forces and attacking German reconnaissance planes, fighters, and dive-bombers. French P-36 Hawks shot down a Henschel Hs-126 southeast of Sedan, and later in the morning, Bloch 152s shot down two Ju-87s and damaged two others southwest of Sedan. This was followed up by Bf-110s who engaged Bloch 152s & Hurricanes of 615 Squadron just south of Revin, France. In this final engagement, three Bf-110s of 2/ZG 26 were shot down.
"intelligence_string"=Once airborne, you'll proceed northeast to a point just southeast of Sedan, and head west-northwest & then northwest to beyond Charleville-Mezieres, looking for any sign of Luftwaffe recce planes or dive-bombers. All of our retreating forces need to be protected. Once your patrol is complete, return to Vraux to rearm and reload.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=FDG2_P-36 Capt Jean Accart GC I 5 Pontarlier 1940
"airfield_string"=France - Vraux

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Lucky over the Belgian front
"summary_string"=Listen up! Towns along the Belgian frontline have seen heavy attacks, so you will fly a CAP along the front, looking for any German planes. If you find any bombers, these are your first targets. You are cleared to engage whatever you encounter, but be careful up there...there will likely be other action up there today!
"objective_string"=During the morning of 15 May, Hurricanes from 85 Squadron on patrol along the Belgian frontline ran into a formation of Ju-87 Stukas from II/StG 2 & Henschel Hs-126s of II(S)/LG 2, with their escort of Bf-109s. These British Hurricanes were able to claim two Stukas & damage a Henschel before the escort could intervene. The British also apparently shot down two Bf-109s without suffering any loss themselves.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, you will climb to Angels 10 heading into Belgium. Another flight of Hurricanes will fly 2,000 feet above. The patrol zone will be along the frontline from Wavre down to Gembloux. You'll look for all German planes attacking towns and vehicle columns. Concentrate on shooting down any dive-bombers first, & then attack any escorts, but be careful you watch your six! When finished, return to Lille.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_Hurricanemk1 85 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille (Marcq-En-Baroeul)

"title_string"=BoF Jagdgeschwader - Escort Dorniers to Rethel
"summary_string"=Aufgepasst, kameraden! Our Dornier bombers are raiding Rethel this morning, which is still holding out against our ground advance. Because Rethel is within the effective range of a Bf-109, you'll fly escort. Bf-110s have been taking heavy losses and are proving they are very vulnerable to single-seat British and French fighters!
"objective_string"=On the morning of 15 May 1940, French Dewoitine D-520 fighters engaged Dornier Do-17s northwest of Sedan. During the engagements, one Dewoitine fighter was destroyed, but two Dornier Do-17s of 5/KG 77 were also damaged. Dorniers of 5/KG 76 were also involved in this attack. All other aspects of the mission are guesswork, but Rethel would be likely target given its location near the front, and Bf-109s would have had the required range to fly escort, especially considering the vulnerability of the Bf-110.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off you will form up with these other fighters and fly southwest to rendezvous with the Dornier bombers. The bombers will strike the town of Rethel, which is still holding strong against our forces. Being this close to Reims, be alert & ready for either British or French fighters. Because this target is within your aircraft's range, you will be flying Bf-109s, but be sure to keep an eye on your fuel. Be sure the bombers are kept safe, Dornier bombers have taken heavy losses in these opening days!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_BF109E_Witt_Schla geter-JG26
"airfield_string"=Germany - Monchengladbach

[Rami]

Good morning,

About halfway done with 16 May...

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Solo defense of Vitry airfield
"summary_string"=Scramble! The ground crews have just fixed your Hurricane that failed to start, and your wingmen are airborne! Take off and head directly east to intercept Dorniers that are bearing down on your airbase! Try to take down as many as you can, and then land either at your home base or at Merville, the home of 3 Squadron. Show the krauts we will not bow to the pressure!
"objective_string"=607 Squadron had a lite morning on 16 May 1940, but during the afternoon, the Squadron scrambled twice to engage a total of fifteen Do-17 bombers. The attacks were largely inconclusive; both sides suffered damage, but do not appear to have taken any losses. The two missions have been combined, and this low-level scenario is likely fictional, but certainly possible.
"intelligence_string"=After failing to start, this Hurricane's engine was quickly fixed, & your squadron mates are already airborne. Fly due east in order to intercept these Dorniers, & try to take them down before they can reach your airfield. If they reach Vitry-en-Artois, then after you finish your attack on the bombers, land at Merville airfield, located to the northwest of Vitry, until your airfield can be repaired. Good luck!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_Hurricanemk1 607 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Vitry-en-Artois

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Hurricane Scramble at Lille!
"summary_string"=Scramble! Enemy planes are bearing down on Lille from the north-northeast! Climb into your fighter & get airborne to confront them! Claw for altitude & get into a position to shoot down as many as you can, getting them to abort before they reach your airfield! Show the enemy that we will resist every attempt to overwhelm us!
"objective_string"=During the afternoon of 16 May, a large formation of Heinkels from III/LG 1 nearing the aerodromes at Lille triggered a full scramble of 85 & 87 Sqns to confront them. The Heinkels had Bf-109 escorts from JG 2 and JG 27. 87 Squadron claimed three 111s, but only one was confirmed. Two Hurricanes were lost, a single Bf-109 was shot down, and the pilot was captured. Four fighters of 85 Sqdn were lost, with another possible forced landing. Two additional Bf-109s were also shot down during the engagement.
"intelligence_string"=Once airborne, head north-northeast on a heading of 25 degrees, and climb hard to Angels 18. Take down as many German bombers as you can, & only engage the escort fighters if threatened directly. Try and get the Heinkels to abort before Lille. If the He-111s bomb the airfield, land at Lille-Marcq until your airfield can be repaired. Fight until the bombers depart, or you exhaust your ammo. If you get into trouble, landing safely will complete this mission.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_Hurricanemk1 85 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille

"title_string"=BoF Jagdgeschwader - Sweeping the Belgian sky
"summary_string"=Männer, herhören! Your Zerstorers are requested over the frontline to protect the cities of Wavre & Leuven, which our forces have captured. Your task will be to fly a CAP over the area, looking for any British or French intruders. Bf-109s will be in the air with you, & together you'll execute the patrol. Once you complete your sweep of the area, return home; tomorrow will be another busy day!
"objective_string"=During the evening of 16 May, Bf-109s from JG 27 and Bf-110s of I/ZG 1 ran into RAF Hurricanes of 3 & 615 Sqns while patrolling between Wavre and Louvain, Belgium. According to combat reports, the British claimed one Bf-110 and two Bf-109s, while the 'Emil' pilots claimed two Hurricanes from 615 Sqn, and Bf-110 pilots claimed one Hurricane of 3 Squadron.
"intelligence_string"=Once airborne, you will head southwest & meet up with the Bf-109s after you cross the Rhine. You'll fly a joint patrol along the frontline, looking for British or French fighters. The Bf-109s will assist in combat to help handle their more maneuverable Hurricanes. Use your firepower and make slashing attacks to keep the advantage, & avoid any turning fights. Once finished, head northeast to return to Germany and your base at Plantluune.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=TR_BF110_C
"airfield_string"=Germany - Plantlunne

[gius]

Here is a WIP screenshot of the walled town i'm making for Rami:

[Robert John]

Nice work Gius,

Is it based on a real town.

RJ

[Rami]

Gius,

Fabulous! As it happens, I'll have to build several French towns for the next 16 May missions I'm doing, so these are also timely!

[gius]

Thank you guys,

RJ: yes, it's based on the city of Carcassonne in France...

Cheers,
Gius

[No Dice]

This entire project is just overwhelming, great job to all involved !!
two thumbs up



Dave

[Rami]

Good evening,

Here's a mission style I don't get to use too often...

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Pick a card mate, any card!
"summary_string"=To your fighters! Your section has been picked to fly 87 Sqn's morning patrol east of Lille. You will fly with a section of 504 Squadron. Over Belgium, you are tasked with engaging any German aircraft, then returning to base once you ammo is spent. Try to keep your Hurricanes intact on this one, getting replacements and spare parts is tough!
"objective_string"=On the morning of 16 May, a section of Hurricanes from 87 Sqn and another from 504 Sqn took off to patrol east of Lille. The two sections lost sight of each other after takeoff, then 87 Sqn sighted German bombers flying over Belgium and moved to intercept. The Dorniers were engaged near Mons, & the British claimed four with one damaged, but one Hurricane was lost. The other section engaged Ju-88s of I/KG 30. Two were claimed destroyed & another damaged. No Hurricane losses from that section were recorded.
"intelligence_string"=This is a 50/50 mission. After departing Lille, you will either fly 87 Squadron's intercept of Do-17s near Mons or 504 Sqn's Ju-88 intercept. In either case, your task is simple: engage and take down as many German planes as possible, then head west to return to your airfield at Lille. Be sure to use the map feature to plot your return course. Good luck!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 87 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille (Marcq-En-Baroeul)

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Orders to sweep the border
"summary_string"=To youe fighters! Both 87 and 504 Squadrons have been ordered in the air to sweep the Luxembourg border. Your section will fly lead. Head east into Belgium & then southeast to reach the Luxembourg border, where the two squadrons will fly a sweep from north to south, then return to Lille-Marcq. It is imperative that we maintain our aerial presence over the front to prevent the enemy from thinking that we're weak!
"objective_string"=During the early evening of 16 May 1940, 60 Wing was ordered to put 504 and 87 Squadrons into the air to fly a patrol on the Luxembourg border. Just after taking off they were bounced by Bf-109s of 9/JG 26 above Belgium and lost three Hurricanes, although they did down one Bf-109. Northwest of Brussels, they engaged Bf-110s from I/ZG 1. This time they did better, claiming four, although only two could be confirmed. This Zerstorer intercept is historical, but the Bf-109 ambush shortly after takeoff cannot be historically verified.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off, the two squadrons will assemble & fly east into Belgium, then southeast across the country to reach the Luxembourg border. You will sweep the border from north to south, looking for any enemy air or ground activity. Once this patrol is finished, return to Lille. Because the flight path will be over what is now enemy-held territory, the chance is high you'll encounter Bf-109s & Bf-110s, so remain alert & try to gain the advantage during any enemy engagement!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 87 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille (Marcq-En-Baroeul)

[Shadow Wolf 07]

Nice setup. I see you are using MB to the max on this on...

[gius]

Here is shot of the completed work...

[gius]

Another screen, this time in the middle of Abbeville airfield, for testing purposes...

[Rami]

Nice setup. I see you are using MB to the max on this on...

"title_string"=Battle of France - Resisting by any methods available
"summary_string"=Écoutez, nous avons des commandes urgentes! The defenses near Reims are collapsing, and we need every available fast bomber to hit German columns passing through the towns & villages northwest of Rethel before they reach the Cathedral city! Your LeO 45s will be part of the attacking force. Find these German columns & destroy them, before our defense in the area falls apart!
"objective_string"=During the morning of 16 May, French commanders were throwing every resource they had against the German thrust toward Reims. LeO 45 light bombers were raiding vehicle columns, together with other aircraft throughout this sector to blunt the enemy advance. Often, this was being done by individual bombers, but occasionally French formations were larger. Nearly all the bombers came from GB I/12 and GB II/12.
"intelligence_string"=Following takeoff, you will form up with the other flights of LeO 45 bombers & head for the combat sector northeast of Reims. Once there, each flight will seek out their own column; you're assigned to assault a column spotted between Montcornet and Rozoy. After your attack is complete, you'll clear out to the southeast & return to Le Bourget as the other bombers follow suit during and after these raids. French fighter cover will be in the vicinity, they should protect you from any German fighters. Good luck!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=LeO 45 GBI 31 May 1940
"airfield_string"=France - Le Bourget

"title_string"=Battle of France - Halt the enemy thrust toward Reims
"summary_string"=Écoutez, nous avons des commandes urgentes! The defenses near Reims are collapsing, and we need every available fast bomber to hit German columns passing through the towns & villages northwest of Rethel before they reach the Cathedral city! Your Breguets will be part of the attacking force. Find these German columns & destroy them, before our defense in the area falls apart!
"objective_string"=On the afternoon of 16 May 1940, Breguet Br-693 light bombers from GBA I/54 and GBA II/54 were part of this overall effort to slow German ground advances in the Reims sector by raiding any enemy columns they could find. These Breguets suffered during their raids on the enemy columns; two were shot down by flak & another was badly damaged, although one did manage to shoot down a Henschel Hs-126 flying reconnaissance during this mission.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off, you'll rendezvous with the other flight of Breguets and fly northeast. One German column was last seen just east of Montcornet, and the second was sighted northwest of Rethel. When you reach the area, your two flights will split, and your flight will strike the column near Montcornet. Once your raid is finished, you will head back to Dammartin-en-Goele to refuel and reload.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Breguet_Bre_693v 1
"airfield_string"=France - Dammartin-en-Goele

"title_string"=Battle of France - Low-level recon northeast of Reims
"summary_string"=Attention, votre tâche est importante! Villages and towns northeast of Reims are about to be overrun as German armoured columns are breaking through our defenses. Your task is to fly a reconnaissance sweep over the area between Liesse & Montcornet, looking for any German columns nearby. If you do find any, you are to report what you see, and then bombers will sweep in to attack. Do not risk your fighters with low-level strafing; we must preserve them for future battles!
"objective_string"=During the day of 16 May, French planes were out in force to seek out and attack both German troop & vehicle columns near Reims, where the Germans were rapidly closing in on the city itself. Morane fighters were flying low-level recce sweeps above towns like Lappion, Montcornet, Dizy-le-Gros, and Liese Notre-Dame. On the reconnaissance sweeps, several fighters were damaged by enemy fire, but none were lost. Near Dizy-le-Gros, they shot down a German Henschel flying its own reconnaissance. French aircraft involved were from the following units: GC II/6, GC III/6, and GC II/2.
"intelligence_string"=After takeoff, you will rendezvous with two other units on the way to the patrol sector. Because you will be at low level, you must watch out for flak. If you get hit, do not try to complete the mission; turn around & try to get back to your base rather than crash in German-held territory. Keeping your speed high & flying low will be your best defense. You will fly from Liesse to Lappion, and then over to Dizy-le-Gros & Montcornet before you complete the patrol. After this, head back to Juvaincourt to refuel and reload.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=MS 406 Sgt de Puybusque 1940
"airfield_string"=France - Juvaincourt

[dvslats]

Another screen, this time in the middle of Abbeville airfield, for testing purposes...

Wow Gius, that's beautiful!

[gius]

Thanks DV,

i have other objects too ready for BoF...

Thanks for your beautiful addons, when the Constellation will be ready?

Cheers,

Giuseppe

[Rami]

Good morning,

Here's some samplings from the work of 17 May...

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Cobber Kain's evening stroll
"summary_string"=Listen up! The town of Montcornet is under attack by the Germans, and you will fly a patrol over this area before dusk, looking for any attempts by the Luftwaffe to assist their efforts to take the town! Once finished, return to Athis airfield; tomorrow will certainly be another busy day!
"objective_string"=The evening of 17 May saw 'Cobber' Kain lead two sections of 73 Squadron. While out on patrol, they ran into some fifteen Dornier Do-17Zs of II/KG 3. Led by 'Cobber' Kain, the six Hurricanes claimed two of the Do-17s as probables before the Bf-109 escorts could intervene. Once they did, one of the Bf-109s were claimed as well. There is no record of any Hurricane losses during this mission.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off, you'll fly northwest toward the city of Saint-Quentin, where you will then patrol east-southeast into enemy-held territory just a bit north of Montcornet. The Germans have been in a struggle all day for this strategic town, and it has seen several raids today. If any Luftwaffe planes approach, your job is to engage & fend them off. When finished, return to Athis for the night. Good luck!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Hurricane MK1 Early 73 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Athis

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Pound the marshalling yards
"summary_string"=Bomber Command has selected your squadron for tonight's mission. Your Wellingtons will attack the city of Namur, striking the marshalling yard and a factory complex. This large marshalling yard was commandeered just days ago by the Germans, who are now utilizing it in order to support their own offensive. Deny it to the Germans by putting it out of action!
"objective_string"=During the night of 17 May 1940, a mixed force of Wellingtons & Hampdens left England to strike the city of Namur, along with the towns of Gembloux & Dinant. A total of twenty Wellingtons attacked Namur, whilst twelve continued to Dinant, and six Hampdens raided Gembloux. There are no records of the damage they caused, but one of the British Wellingtons may have been hit and forced-landed behind German lines. All other bombers appear to have made it back to their bases.
"intelligence_string"=After taking off, you will form up with the Namur force & fly over the North Sea. The other flights striking Dinant & Gembloux will make their way to their own targets, and you'll assemble during your withdrawal to the coast. Over Namur, your target is the eastern marshalling yard, as another flight strikes the western yard and the last flight hits a factory complex. Expect moderate flak above the target, and then on the way home, keep an eye out for the raiders returning from their targets. Get back over the North Sea, then land at Martlesham. Good luck!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=Vickers Wellington Mk Ic
"airfield_string"=England - Martlesham

"title_string"=BoF Jagdgeschwader - Dawn patrol over Belgium
"summary_string"=Guten Morgen, kamerad! We have been ordered to fly an early morning patrol over Belgium. You will patrol from Brussels continuing southwest down to Mons, sweeping for any British or French fighters covering the same area. Let's show the enemy that there will be no letup in our pressure to push them to the sea!
"objective_string"=On the morning of 17 May 1940, Messerschmitts of I/JG 3, possibly out on morning patrol, ran across twelve unescorted Blenheims of 82 Squadron. The bombers were due to pick up their escort over the target of Gembloux, Belgium, but they never made it. As they neared Nivelles, the Bf-109s tore into them, shooting down ten Blenheims & damaging the remaining two. Only one of the RAF bombers made it to Watton. 87 Squadron's Hurricanes did reach Gembloux on schedule, but these Blenheims hadn't made it through.
"intelligence_string"=After takeoff, you will head west toward the city of Brussels, where you will then fly southwest to Mons. Your height during the patrol will be 4,000 meters. A second flight will stay 250m below you. You're cleared to take down any British or French planes you encounter, then fly back to Bonn; with our ground forces continuing their thrust, you will likely see more action today!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_BF109ECFS2_II_JG2 6_Knuppel
"airfield_string"=Germany - Bonn-Hangelar

"title_string"=BoF Jagdgeschwader - Bait the enemy into a fight
"summary_string"=Aufgepasst, kameraden! Our Stuka units have been taking heavy losses in the past few days, so today we are trying something new. Your Zerstorers will be used as "bait" to lure the British & French into the air and keep them away from the Sedan area, where Stukas will be mopping up enemy resistance. Be ready to engage the enemy, & use your superior firepower and speed to take them down!
"objective_string"=On the morning of 17 May 1940, a large formation of Zerstorers from V (Z)/LG I were bounced from above by six Hurricanes from 1 Sqn. British pilots were investigating reports of Allied ground forces being dive-bombed near Sedan. When these British pilots saw the German Zerstorers above, they kept climbing up to 18,000 feet & got into position for the attack. The British claimed five kills with two probables, but only three were conformed lost by LG 1.
"intelligence_string"=Following takeoff, you'll head west-southwest and climb to 5,000 meters. After passing Sedan, you'll continue to Vouziers, where you will circle in the hopes of luring the British or French into combat, keeping them away from the Stukas. If the enemy takes the bait, avoid the turning fight at all costs; use your superior speed and firepower to initiate and break combat. Once the enemy is eliminated or flees, reform the flight and return to Germany.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=TR_BF110_C
"airfield_string"=Germany - Wiesbaden

[Rami]

Good morning,

The work continues...

"title_string"=BoF Kampfgeschwader - Schnellbombers of KG 30
"summary_string"=Aufgepasst, kameraden! As the Panzers continue the push into France, we must assist their efforts by pounding airfields and towns along the axis of advance. To this end, we'll assault Saint-Quentin; this city has an important rail yard being used by the enemy. You will be part of this bomber force, so place your bombs on target and destroy the rail yard, denying it to the French and British!
"objective_string"=During the afternoon of 17 May a mixed formation of He-111s, Ju-88s, & Do-17s, escorted by twelve Bf-109s, were intercepted near Le Cateau, France by a section of Hurricanes from 213 Sqn, and five more from 73 Squadron. One Bf-109 was claimed, another damaged, and a Do-17 may have suffered damage. The mission supposes Saint Quentin as the likely target. The inclusion of French fighters are based on intercepts that occurred in the area near the time of the attack.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, you'll fly west-southwest & climb to 5,000 meters. If all goes to plan, you'll rendezvous with the other bombers and the escort fighters near Antwerp, then continue into France to reach Saint-Quentin. The small French town of Le Cateau marks the start of the bomb run. British & French fighters have been active in the area, so stay on alert even though you have fighter escorts for protection. Your target will be the rail depot, while others assault the ammo dump and munitions plant. When finished, return to Schiphol.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=KM_JU88_A-4 I/KG 30
"airfield_string"=Holland - Schiphol

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Easy pickings over Flanders
"summary_string"=Get to your fighters! Several reports have come in about Do-17 bombers raiding vehicles on the road between Bapume and Cambrai. You will head to the area, find these bombers and shoot them down, so our forces don't have to worry about being hunted from above. Let's show the enemy that we remain unbowed!
"objective_string"=This is an amalgam of two similar missions flown by 56 and 607 Squadrons during the morning and afternoon of 17 May. In the first sortie, five 607 Squadron Hurricanes intercepted several Dorniers from KG 76 that bombed vehicles between Cambrai and Bapaume. The British claimed three, and four more were damaged. French Moranes of GC III/2 may also have been involved. In the second sortie, six Hurricanes of 56 Sqn bounced seven He-111s from I/KG 54. Without escort, four Heinkels were claimed, with two probable & one damaged. KG 54 only recorded three losses. One Hurricane had to force-land from heavy damage, but no other losses were recorded.
"intelligence_string"=The enemy bombers were reported to be between Bapume and Cambrai. After takeoff, you will head south to see if you can find 'em. Before engaging, be sure to look for any escorts. If you have ammo left after this, continue on an east-northeasterly course into Belgium & sweep for any other activity before returning to Lille-Seclin. Again, be careful to look for any roving escorts before committing; Dowding has made it very clear we must not bleed ourselves dry over France!
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_Hurricanemk1 85 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille

"title_string"=Battle of France (RAF) - Messerschmitt Vs Hurricane
"summary_string"=Listen up, pilots! The Germans seem to be throwing everything into the air; earlier engagements today are showing their fighters are omnipresent. You'll fly an evening patrol above this sector, hopefully finding and bloodying the nose of these intruders. Good luck, and good hunting!
"objective_string"=17 May 1940 saw numerous aerial clashes between the Hurricane and the Messerschmitt. This mission is an amalgam of three separate engagements. The first clash saw two sections of 85 Squadron take on Bf-109s of JG 3 & II/JG 26. One 85 Squadron Hurricane was brought down west of Douai, & two 109s were lost. The second clash saw two sections of 245 Squadron jump Messerschimtts of 8/JG 26 between the town of Ath & Brussels, Belgium. Each side claimed one. The final clash took place near Cambrai, where a RAF section met seven Bf-109s of 2/JG 76. One Bf-109 was claimed by PO Willie McKnight.
"intelligence_string"=After getting airborne, you will fly east-northeast into Belgium, and then turn west-southwest toward the immediate area around Cambrai. These are the two primary areas where fighters have been seen. If you run into any German fighters, engage them at will if conditions are favorable. If your search is fruitless, retire through Douai along your way back to Lille, where you'll take some much-needed rest.
"player_aircraft_name_string"=AH_Hurricanemk1 85 Sqn
"airfield_string"=France - Lille

[Robert John]

Gius
Looks fantastic.

RJ