Topic: Multiple EW operators stripping EW from 1 ship

[markc]

 If a craft has more then 1 EW Operator can they both attempt to reduce the EW of a target? If so are their effects additive or do you take the higher, lower or average of the two attacks?


Thanks
MDC

[Defendi]

I would say use the higher.

[Skaran]

I'd go with the higher too, reason being the vessel/craft has only one offensive EW system operating. (In theory you could have multiple systems but I have a problem with them being all on at once, they could interfere with each other, harmonic frequencies, effect owning crafts sensors etc.) Having multiple operators "playing" with it at the same time is a good way to mess it up.

Evil thought, don't tell players this let them all have a go and then roll for an increased fumble or even breakage on the system. Two operators double fumble range, three triple. Still only take account of the highest skilled characters roll for how effective the system worked, assuming they didn't break it!

[markc]

 I thought that the rules said something like you need multiple EW systems if you want to down more then 1 torpedo? ie 1 EW operator and system per torpedo or other EW action.


 Does that make sense to you?
  Also I guess I should allow a specific number of operators per TL of system and multiple the system by some factor to represent the number of operator stations. ie just because it possibly can does not mean it will with the model you have.
MDC 

[snrdg051306]

Here is what SM: P VM p. 65 says about operating against multiple missiles or torpedoes

This requires more than one operator, and the EW rating must be split up among targets.

Example: The Kathrick’s Pride is under intense assault by unknown pirates. The pirates, sensing the Pride is about to escape, drop five Mark 10 torpedoes. Alex is generally the only operator, but Jen, the doctor, is manning an EW post until there are casualties.

Alex gives Jen 30 points of the Pride’s +50 EW bonus. He then makes his static maneuver. He rolls a 9. Not good. 9 + 54 (his skill bonus) + 20 (his portion of the ship’s EW) -10 (torpedo’s Mark Number) = 73. Failure. The torpedo doesn't detonate.

Jen rolls an 88. 88 + 13 (her skill) + 30 (her portion of the ship’s EW) -10 (the torpedo’s Mark Number) = 121. Success. Her torpedo detonates harmlessly.

Hope this is what you were thinking about.

[markc]

Thanks, yes that is the example I was looking at.
MDC

[Skaran]

Missed that bit, still means one EW system overall though running at anyone time. You could still have backups though.

[snrdg051306]

Yep, backup systems are always nice and per SM: P VM p. 120 are considered Step 42 Select Auxiliary Systems.