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Originally Posted by GoldenRivet
i have a lot of success with this tactic. run decks awash and maintain a slow speed.
basically you have to observe the destroyers guarding the flanks, you will notice that they break off into a search pattern every few minutes.
if you can place yourself off to the side of the convoy say.. 1500 - 2000 meters from the nearest merchant and make your attack when this destroyer is breaking off onto a search pattern it will work out.
as soon as the last fish leaves the tube, break off and leave the area making good speed - but not flank speed - just a good 8 or 9 knots.
by the time the first torpedo impacts its target alerting everyone to your presence... you should be a good 3 to 5 KM away, at this time you can move ahead flank.
search lights and starshells will fill the air, but as long as you keep the convoy on your tail, stay out of the searchlights and starshell lights and make good speed... the tactic should work out for you.
I wouldnt go trying it after 42 though.
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I've used very similiar tactics with success up to spring '42. When the escorts have radar it's pointless.
Only thing I do different is not using decks awash. I like to come in from either flank between the lead escort and the first escort on each flank. There is a big hole there when you time it right. Plenty of time to fire some Ta's at medium speed at targets around 4500 yds, which means you should be able to reach to lead tanker or other large cargo in the center of the convoy. If you use map contacts it is quite easy to watch for your opportunity. Now that I play with the contacts off it is harder, but still possible.