Position Tracking without Range
 

I'm back in to SH4 after a long hiatus and working to refresh my memory and sharpen my skill set. Currently playing with map contacts on and leveraging the cheat it provides to use the sonar contact line to give approximate distance to target.

I'm playing early '42, pre-radar, and the most common contact situation is a sound contact long before visual range (often due to poor weather). Because I can approximate distance from the sonar line, I can easily plot a couple positions and get initial estimates of target course, speed, and AOB that allow me to maneuver into a good firing position. Note: I usually use the O'Kane firing method so I don't even need an actual range for my solution.

I'd like to turn map contacts off and I'm familiar with the various ways to determine range, but I'm curious if there are any methods to realistically track/plot a target and determine my intercept direction before knowing the range to target? In other words, I know how to get range once I'm close enough to ID or sonar ping. But prior to that, when all I have is a change in bearing and whether the target is closing or moving away, are there any specific techniques to estimate target heading so that you can then maneuver closer for actual measurements? Or is this simply where you have to use 'art' and 'intuition' to get into position?

Thanks,
ESPY

Generic Mod Enabler - v2.6.0.157
[C:\SH4\MODS]

1_TriggerMaru_Overhaul_2-5
RSRDC_TMO_V502
RSRDC_V5xx_Patch1
1.5_Optical Targeting Correction 031312 for RSRDCv502
1.5_OTC_Realistic Scopes for 16 to 9 RSRDCv502
Improved Ship Physics 2.6_TMO_RSRDC_OTC
OTC_ISP_Crew Mod
Improved Stock Environment_v3_TMO&RFB
RadioStationManager
Bigger Better Protractors
BATTLEFLAG_CONNING_TRITON_SS201

Since you mentioned using the sonar contact line to approximate distance, continue doing so. Plot the bearing changes over time to estimate the target's course and speed. By observing how the bearing changes over time, you can infer whether the target is moving towards or away from you, helping you determine intercept directions. Pay attention to how quickly the bearing to the target changes. A faster change in bearing suggests the target is closer, while a slower change suggests it's farther away. This information can aid in estimating target speed and course. If the target deploys sound decoys, analyze their behavior. Sound decoys may give clues about the target's tactics and course changes, helping you anticipate its movements. Consider the weather conditions and environmental factors such as wind, sea state, and visibility. These factors can influence the target's behavior and your ability to track it accurately. Use your intuition and experience to maneuver your submarine into a favorable firing position based on the estimated target heading and your own tactical considerations. Experiment with different intercept directions to find the optimal approach

Welcome aboard!