Quote:
Originally Posted by ralphnader23
How close is too close at night on the surface? What is a good running speed if I am on the surfacing trying to get into position? Will the destroyers pick me up if I run at flank surfaced?
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Flank is ok in my experience to overhaul. I want to get it over with ASAP. But you might choose whatever you need to get into the night:
(current distance behind convoy+ desired distance ahead of convoy)/time until dark + convoy speed=overhauling speed
The trick is to find the right course that doesn't make you get too close. Or loose sight of them too quickly. I usually use this intercept/manouvering drawing to determine that course: (it might be a bit too complicated, I'm sorry)
http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/show...=1#post1211811
Since bearings change very quickly as you get near to your target I generally try to slow down a little, a few knots above their speed. But after I fire my torpedo (sometimes still surfaced to the side of the convoy) I usually set to flank and move directly away as quickly as possible. So far the noise hasn't blown my cover (in 1940) from a kilometer away. I love it when hell brakes loose as the torpedo's hit steel and they have no idea where I am, watching the show of light beams.
The distance of being too close is indicated when you are targeted and hear bullets wizzing by. Then it is time to dive ASAP. I have no clear number for that. Also depends on light level. Experience grows on you. Besides it is dependent on improvements of Allied quality over the years. I might be lucky now, (well not last patrol
RIP ) but do need to be careful in the future. If you feel brave and daring then you are too close!