An idea....,
Okay, I've given this quite a lot of thought and I think I've come up with a solution that solves the two most glaring problems with the bomber model that I've heard with the most frequency: accuracy and vulnerability while in calibration-bombsite (this idea also addresses the peripheral issue of people refusing to use bombers under the new model - except as low level raiders.. ;-) .
Here is how it would work:
Lets assume that 4 pilots want to launch a joint B-17 bomber mission, each pilot with a 3-plane formation. That's 12 planes and should pack quite a punch. The problem is they don't under the new model because its too easy for them to get widely separated from one another and because each pilot has varying levels of skill in hitting the target.
Compounding this problem is the inherent vulnerability window that's created while you spend all that time in calibrarion/bomb site, a weakness that was quickly seized upon and exploited by the opposition. Given these factors its no wonder that the fun factor has gone out of strategic bombing for many.
So, instead of flying as separate formations, I propose that an option be coded into the program that allows the pilots of these formations to 'group' their 3-plane formations to a more accomplished flight leader and create a 'Group Combat Formation' (say a maximum of four pilots - [12 planes] for each group).
Once grouped (attached), the 'Group Leader' would have navigation and bombing control over the entire bomber group while the pilots of the other 3-plane bomber formations (and their gunners if so equipped) can concentrate on manning the defensive armament. This, I believe, would more faithfully recreate the experience of actual bomber missions in World War II and would allow those who have labored to become proficient under the new bombing model to realize some recognition of their efforts by becoming 'Group Leaders.'
My sense is that this might best be done through a 'dot' command.
For example, the command: '.group HiTech' Would give HiTech control of my 3-plane formation. So, when he turns, my 3-plane formation would also turn using the same 'tether' that the 3-plane formations now have. I would be freed from having to fly the plane and could instead concentrate on manning the planes' defensive guns.
Furthermore, when HiTech opens bomb bay doors, mine would open and when he dropped ordnance, I would drop - just like in World War II.
To exit the group a command like: '.detach' would be easy enough to remember. A 'group' radio channel could also be provided if desired.
In summary, the group leader, a pilot with skill in hitting the target in a heavy bomber, would be commanding and piloting a 12-plane formation and, because the other pilots could then concentrate on defense instead of hitting the target, the bombers would not be the easy pickens' they have been while on final bomb runs. More bomber missions would be flown because of the increased effectiveness of such missions and the greater number of missions would present dedicated BUF hunters more numerous and formidible targets to attack.
These are just some ideas I've had germinating around in my head for a while now. I wonder what the rest of you think of them? I'd like to see a greater use of bomber formations again someday and I think this solution would go a long way towards making that possible.
Flying bomber formations is now, at least for a majority of us, a futile gesture that does little more than waste time and give BUF hunters an easy target...and I don't care to be a target drone.
So there it is. I've attached a pic of
what a prototype formation could look like once joined for your review. Constructive commentary is invited and encouraged!
- Dave
Post edits in red text. 
