The Me163 rocket fighter was a unique aircraft of radical design. Unfortunately, some of its technological short-comings made for operational difficulties - particularly being able to fix on a target after launch. At any rate, here are two combats that were at least initiated against recon aircraft scouting out the Me163 base at Brandis (outside Leipsig) in early 1945. Taken from Rocket Fighter by Mano Zeigler

Last flights of the Komet:

• Komet and Lightning
• Komet and Mosquito

Komet and Lightning: Jan-45

Background: Due to a vulnerability to escorting fighters after their attack run, Me163s were forbidden to attack bomber formations. They were ordered to attack only unarmed recon planes. Finally, they had a chance to attack two F-5As - recon versions of the P-38 shortly before sundown one winters day over Brandis (outside Leipsig). The F-5As were at 8000m (26,200 ft). 2 Me163Bs were sent after them - but were stopped just short of the attack by compressibility debility. What if…..

Map: Land map

Setup: Place the F-5As in 2222 and 1818 heading E, speed 6.0, altitude 26.2, wings level. Place the Me163Bs individually as follows:

1. Roll 1 D10.
2. Consult the TMG in the play aids. Place the Komet within the selected arc of the lead (roll 1-5) or trailing aircraft (roll 6-10)
3. Roll 1D5+5 for initial range.
4. Generate remaining fuel (see Special Rules).
5. Initial altitude is 25.4+(1D10x.2) (25.6 to 27.4).

Initial heading and bank are pilot's choice, Steep or Shallow Climb, speed 9.0.

Game Length: 20 turns

Notes:

• The F-5A is an unarmed P-38G, which is available from Uncle Ted's.
• All the special rules regarding the Me163 are in effect.
• If the Komets begin the battle in a blindspot of both F-5As, the F-5As fly straight and level until they spot the Komets or either one is attacked.
• The F-5As need to escape the Me163Bs to win. The Me163Bs need to destroy 1 F-5A for a marginal victory; both for a decisive victory.

Special Rules: The Me163s have 11+ 1D6 turns of fuel left. Generate this value at the start of the game, but keep it hidden from the allied player.

Additional Rules: If desired, generate pilot skill from the Good chart. Both Komet pilots are Vets.

Komet and Mosquito: Jan-45

Background: The day after the attempted intercept of the Lightnings, a Komet intercepted a Mosquito recon plane again over their airfield. The Komet zoomed up to 14000 m (45,900 ft!) and then circled down, spotted the Mossie, closed before the Mossie spotted him. The Mossie ran by entering a steep dive. The Komet did get him. That was the last Me163 combat.

Map: Land map

Setup: Place the Mosquito in hex 2020, heading E, speed 6.0, altitude 25.0-35.0 (player choice), wings level. Place the Me163B as follows

1. Roll 1 D10.
2. Consult the TMG in the play aids. Place the Komet within the selected arc of the lead (roll 1-5) or trailing aircraft (roll 6-10).
3. Roll 1D5+5 for initial range.
4. Generate remaining fuel (see Special Rules).
5. Initial altitude is pilot's choice (made after the Mossie is in place) - but Range and altitude (.3 alt=1 hex) must total range of at least 8.

Initial heading and bank are pilot's choice, Steep or Shallow Dive, speed pilot's choice 8.0-10.0.

Game Length: 20 turns

Notes:

• All the special rules regarding the Me163 are in effect.
• If the Komet begins the battle in the blindspot of the Mosquito, it flies straight and level until it spots the Komet or is attacked.
• The Mosquito needs to escape the Me163B to win. The Me163B needs to destroy the Mosquito.

Special Rules: The Me163s have 11+ 1D6 turns of fuel left. Generate this value at the start of the game, but keep it hidden from the allied player.

Additional Rules: If desired, generate RAF pilot skill from the Good chart. The Komet pilot is a Vet.