Are Naval Bombers Good in Call of War?
Yes, Naval Bombers are exceptionally good in Call of War, and are arguably one of the most crucial unit types, especially in games with significant naval presence. Their primary strength lies in their ability to directly counter naval threats, particularly submarines and, to some extent, other surface vessels, without exposing themselves to direct counter-attacks from most ship types. However, their vulnerability to enemy aircraft, and Interceptors especially, requires careful deployment and support. They are instrumental in asserting naval dominance and protecting your own fleet, making them a cornerstone of any successful naval strategy.
The Power of Naval Bombers
Anti-Submarine Warfare
Perhaps their most vital role is as anti-submarine (ASW) assets. Submarines in Call of War are stealthy units, invisible to most ships unless actively engaging in combat. Naval Bombers along with Destroyers are the only units that can reliably detect and target them when not in combat. This capability is essential for maintaining control of sea lanes and protecting valuable naval assets from surprise submarine attacks. Without Naval Bombers, your fleets, especially slower and higher value units like Aircraft Carriers and Battleships, become exceedingly vulnerable to ambushes from submarines.
Naval Offense
While they excel at ASW, Naval Bombers can also effectively damage other surface ships, including Cruisers and even Battleships. They strike from the air, bypassing the direct firepower of most surface vessels. While they may not be as powerful against heavily armored units as other bomber types, their ability to consistently harass and weaken enemy fleets makes them a valuable asset in any naval engagement. Their effectiveness is increased with upgrades as the game progresses.
Strategic Sea Control
Naval Bombers aren’t just about direct combat; they’re also about area denial and strategic control. By controlling the skies above sea lanes, you can make it far more difficult for the enemy to move their units. A strong Naval Bomber force can help project power across vast oceanic areas and can significantly slow enemy naval operations. Coupled with other air superiority assets, you can severely limit your opponent’s flexibility in naval movement.
Versatility on Aircraft Carriers
An Aircraft Carrier is the natural home for Naval Bombers. This synergistic relationship allows for mobile air support anywhere at sea. Carriers enable your Naval Bombers to operate far from land bases, further extending your naval control and projection capability. A fleet of carriers with well-supported Naval Bomber wings is a significant strategic threat in Call of War.
Vulnerability
However, it’s crucial to be aware of their weaknesses. Naval Bombers are quite vulnerable to enemy aircraft, particularly Interceptors, which are designed to take down enemy air units effectively. In engagements with strong enemy air forces, Naval Bombers can take heavy losses if not adequately protected by escort fighters or deployed with caution. Furthermore, they are not effective against land targets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Cruisers see submarines in Call of War?
No, Cruisers cannot see submarines in Call of War. Only Naval Bombers and Destroyers can detect submarines when they are not actively engaged in combat.
2. Are Naval Bombers effective against land targets?
No, Naval Bombers are not effective against land targets. Their main purpose is anti-naval warfare, and their damage against ground units is minimal compared to other specialized aircraft types, such as Tactical Bombers or Strategic Bombers.
3. How do I protect Naval Bombers from Interceptors?
Protect your Naval Bombers from enemy Interceptors by deploying them with escort fighters such as Rocket Fighters, having air superiority over the area, or by deploying them alongside naval forces that will draw enemy attention away from them. Also, try to launch your bombers when the enemy air force is already engaged or refueling.
4. How important are Aircraft Carriers to Naval Bombers?
Aircraft Carriers are essential to Naval Bombers because they provide mobile airbases at sea. This allows Naval Bombers to operate far from your land bases, making them incredibly versatile and efficient for operations in vast oceanic areas.
5. Are Naval Bombers effective in the early game?
Yes, Naval Bombers can be effective in the early game, especially if you are facing an enemy that utilizes submarines. While their initial impact might be limited compared to later upgrades, their anti-sub capability makes them vital if there is a risk of submarine attack.
6. What is the best way to use Naval Bombers?
The best way to use Naval Bombers is to deploy them as ASW assets to protect your fleets, engage enemy ships, and control vital sea lanes. They should ideally be part of a well-supported naval task force including Destroyers and Cruisers and under air superiority.
7. How do I counter enemy Naval Bombers?
The most effective way to counter enemy Naval Bombers is by using Interceptors. Having strong air superiority is essential for defending against enemy air attacks. Also, using Anti-Air guns around your ports and naval facilities can help to deter enemy air units.
8. Do Naval Bombers heal automatically?
No, Naval Bombers do not heal automatically. Like all aircraft in Call of War, they need to be grounded at an airfield within a city with a hospital to heal, similar to how infantry heal. They will heal a small amount of health each day while grounded and will not be able to move or take off, thus making them vulnerable.
9. Can submarines attack Naval Bombers?
Submarines cannot directly attack Naval Bombers. Submarines are primarily designed to attack surface ships. While submarines are stealthy, Naval Bombers are one of the few unit types that can effectively counter them.
10. What kind of damage can Naval Bombers do?
Naval Bombers primarily do damage to naval units including subs, cruisers, and battleships. While their damage to land units and buildings is minimal, they can be a significant threat when a naval force is engaging a coastal city.
11. What is the production cost of Naval Bombers?
The production cost of Naval Bombers is relatively moderate compared to some other advanced units, making them a cost-effective solution for naval dominance and ASW. The exact cost varies based on your nation and research levels.
12. What is the range of Naval Bombers?
The range of Naval Bombers is generally quite good, allowing them to operate over significant distances. Their range is further extended if they are based on Aircraft Carriers. Exact range will depend on your research level and unit upgrades.
13. Are upgrades worth it for Naval Bombers?
Yes, upgrades for Naval Bombers are definitely worth it. Upgrades can enhance their attack and defense, increasing their effectiveness in combat and making them more resilient to enemy fire.
14. What is the most vulnerable part of Naval Bombers?
The most vulnerable part of Naval Bombers is their vulnerability to enemy Interceptors. Failing to establish air superiority or provide fighter escorts can lead to considerable losses.
15. How many Naval Bombers are needed for a decent fleet?
The ideal number of Naval Bombers depends on the size of your fleet and the intensity of naval combat in your game. However, a good rule of thumb is to have a squadron of Naval Bombers for every capital ship (Battleships and Aircraft Carriers) in your navy, supplemented with Destroyers, as these will work together to create a strong naval presence.