builds, paints, and decals From Michael Humphrey
PDF – $20.00 USD
The first book in a series of World War II air-war wargame rules in 1:600th scale, and covers the classic fighter versus bomber engagements. Each game is designed to be a balanced contest lasting around two hours. Target Ahead has two games based on the same objectives and structure, featuring day and night raids.
Players can use the prepared air forces for the six major national WWII combatants, or research their own battle scenarios. A Battle of Britain scenario is included.
The Rules Use Three Distinct Time Periods:
- Early War 1939-1940
- Mid-War 1941-1943
- Late-War 1944-1945
Flights & Squadrons
In Target Ahead, the fighting unit is the flight, which has either three or four aircraft. A squadron has twelve aircraft of either three or four flights. Two additional flights of four aircraft support the squadron, giving a total of 20 aircraft in each air force. Special rules apply to jets and night-fighters.
Attacker & Defender
The attacking player has a squadron of bombers with additional support flights that can operate independently. The mission is to destroy a target (e.g., aircraft factory, oil refinery, docks, etc.) and deplete the opposing fighter force. The defending player leads a squadron of fighters and support flights from an airfield, which is also a potential target for the attacker.
Movement & Combat
Aircraft have movement factors (in inches) and combat uses six-sided dice.
Winning & Losing
The game is won and lost by the number of points accrued based on force size, game set-up, aircrew quality, target damage, and aircraft lost.
Action Cards
Players have twelve Action Cards to enhance their forces.
Equipment
Players will need a playing table of 48" x 48" and 6" x 6" scenery templates for the target and airfield. Twelve standard six-sided dice (D6) are used; six of one color and six of another color. A tape measure, ruler, or pre-marked measuring sticks in inches, and a supply of markers are needed. Aircraft models are mounted on flat or elevated flight bases.