Okay I’m at the computer again.
I’m rethinking this a bit.
Fighters are OOB in stats.
Fighters on both sides may only hit aircraft this includes any non-fighter aircraft.
Any combat unit can hit fighters except subs.
Either side may retreat some or all fighters after one round of combat, must adhere to range limits.
Exceptions to fighters only attacking aircraft:
A. The opposing side does not have any fighters.
B. Either sides fighters are completely destroyed.
C. Either side performs a FULL retreat of fighters.
As for STBs I think a one round bombardment 1D6@4 to any unit and all other stats being OOB I feel is best.
My Reasons:
If the STB is nerfed too badly and too restricted it’s only real advantage is range and SBR to ICs.
One round of bombardment 1D6@4 simulates the heavy fire power of STBs and Medium bombers alike. The one time bombardment simulates the inaccuracy of carpet bombing.
I won’t get too much into history for the sake of gameplay but bombers like the; Mitchell, JU-88, Betty, etc., were just lighter versions of the STB but not quite akin to the likes of what the TcB represents in the game IMO.
I’m a collector so It’s easy for me to say but if you really want to simulate the Medium bomber’s role in the game you may want to buy custom units Mitchells for the Allies, and the HBG Axis heavy bombers to represent STBs.
For the Mitchells and existing OOB Axis STBs (Which will now represent Med. Bombers) I suggest making them Long- range TcBs M-6 A-3/4 D3 C?
OR
Heavy TcBs M-4 D-3 Attack 2D6@3/4 (Best of 2 results or “straight up” 2D6@3) C?
These characteristics represent fire power, accuracy and range for pure combat whereas the StB still represents thier more historical role IMO. As I said I’m a collector and these rules may not work for everyone. For me If I were to implement this in my games, is the direction i would go.
Those are just opinions.