Visual detection

[Siinji30]

I´m using GWX.

1. What are the approx. ranges for visual detection by AI?

2. At different weather conditions?

3. Warships vs. cargo. Same AI detection range?

[TarJak]

You've asked a big set of questions with a range of parameters. Generally if you check out the contents of sensors.dat you can find the answers.

Have a look at this thread which deals mostly with radar and sonar sensors but is pertinent to visual as well. http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=103709

Running decks awash I've been able to pass to within 1000m of a DD in 1940 in bad weather, but have also had my scope seen at 1800m in calm weather in the same year. A lot depends on the quality of the crew also. Elite DD's later in the war will pick you up on radar much earlier than they will see you anyway.

[melnibonian]

Visual detection depends on weather conditions. On a clear day you can see a ship up to 20Km away, and they can see you from a distance of about 6-8Km. At night obviously these distances deminish. On bad weather conditions the distances become even smaller, but it reality what matters is the relative experience of the look out crews. I don't think there is a difference in the spotting range between merchants and warships.