Just some rule clarifications and questions

[JapanPlayer]

Using Alpha 3 or is there another update?
In strategic bombing raids, do strategic and tactical bombers that intend to bomb factories/bases roll in the escort roll assuming there are fighters to defend. Also, do interceptors have the choice of intercepting or does it happen regardless.
About straights and canals: If for example Italy owns Gibraltar and France owns Morocco. If on the American turn they take over Gibraltar and liberate, can UK use it on their turn or must they have owned it since the beginning of the round?
Apologies in advance if these questions have been asked multiple times already.

[Witt]

Morning JapanPlayer.
Interception is a defensive player’s option. He does not have to intercept. (Often it is not worthwhile.) Indeed,  Both Tacs and Strategic Bombers get to shoot on a roll of one, if defending Fighters intercept.

Canals: yes, if the US captures Gibraltar, UK units can sail through the Straits.
To pass through one, control of the Strait is determined  at the beginning of the Power’s Turn.

[Panther]

@JapanPlayer:

Using Alpha 3 or is there another update?

Alpha3 is outdated as it was the predecessor of the 2nd Edition ruleset.

Please see
http://www.axisandallies.org/forums/index.php?topic=28703.msg1018689#msg1018689
for the latest rules.

[JapanPlayer]

Thank you for sending me the newest rules and answering my questions.

[WILD BILL]

@JapanPlayer:

About straights and canals: If for example Italy owns Gibraltar and France owns Morocco. If on the American turn they take over Gibraltar and liberate, can UK use it on their turn or must they have owned it since the beginning of the round?
Apologies in advance if these questions have been asked multiple times already.

Just to point out, it isn’t necessary to also have control of Morocco to pass through this straight, only Gibraltar. Also only surface ships are restricted at Gib, subs are free to pass though this straight regardless of who controls it.

[JapanPlayer]

I see and thank you for that clarification.
Also, can China build artillery their first turn?

[Witt]

Yes, if the criteria are met.
Japan has probably taken Yunan though, thus denying it.

[JapanPlayer]

Thank you