I can understand both sides of the argument. V bases are a pain in the arse to attack, BUT Joe here brings up another point. Recon is something that is sorely lacking in the MA. I like the idea of being able to up a plane and help out the ground pounders, god knows I can't do that from the ground, I can't hit the broadside of a barn with a Panzer (I know, I've tried. The damned thing moved on me). So before anyone gives this the "no go" (I know, too late) let's look at this.
1: We're talking about a lightly armored, unarmed aircraft. Something that probably resembles the Cessna's great-grandfather. So, yes, defenders have an advantage in being able to spot enemies, the attackers do not have to worry about an air assault from this particular aircraft. The spotters only real weapon would, in essence, be the ability to annoy a Tiger to death.
2: Scoring. Nobodies going to up the plane if there's nothing in it for them, unless of course they're me. (I care more for taking bases and winning the map more then perks. What am I going to do with a 262? I'll probably crash the damn thing anyways) So I propose this: smoke rockets. And before anyone brings up the "that's not how they did it" understand that this is a game. We rely heavily on VOX to communicate information (some squeak more then others) but there are those out there who do not use a headset/mic, (Granted few, but they are out there) and those sneaking in a few more minutes of late night gaming before wife ack/SAM/nuke grounds them. Instead of trying to fly one handed and type while avoiding Whirbies, it would be most effective to line up and "pop smoke" on a target. I would suggest a load out of 10 rockets with a different color smoke (red for example). If the pilot manages to place a rocket within 25 meters of a target he scores. If he gets all 10 off, that can be comparable to a successful bomber run. Attackers can avoid this by, well, moving. Let's face it, you're going to have to anyways, because the base aint gonna come to you. Secondly, use Whirbies, nuff said.
3: They will be a need for some checks and balances. I propose removing the bright red neon sign that follows GV's visible from the air. This will force the Recon pilot to get down and dirty, at the same time make him more viable. It's too easy to spot GV's from the air. That and it makes any camo scheme on the vehicle more effective.
4: It's already being done. I will up a plane and circle a GV battle while calling out targets. Many times I will dive into a target shooting 50 cals to mark the spot. In essence, whats being asked is not the implementation of a new tactic, just the formalization of a current one. The argument that this will provide an unfair advantage to the defenders is nullified just for the simple fact that you're already having to deal with it. As a matter of fact this same tactic is employed in attacking a base at the same time as defending one. As for Lusche's objection to a rearming pad for planes, I agree, it's V-base, not an airfield.
I'm sorry if this reads a little fuzzy, but it's 6 am and I've been up all night (medical problem). I do not intend to be rude or crass towards anyone. But hopefully, you'll take my points into consideration.
-MadHat
CO 81st Bomb Wing "Pogues"
