I'm not saying Ebay is perfect but I haven't had any problems. There's still a few honest people out there. I've bought a number of things off Ebay and haven't had to hunt anyone down and show them the business end of my H & K.
It's luck. You have to find the right one b4 they call you back. I usually have to play it a couple of times b4 I get it. Try shooting at them when you get in range, if it takes damage it's not the right one. Move on to another.
Hey, I was stationed at McGregor Range (ever heard of it?) for a couple of years and visited Alamogordo many times. I also worked at White Sands Missile Range. I'm from and live in Michigan now.
I loved the game but would liked to have had some interaction with other pilots besides in flight. Yes, there are lots of defensive missions. Mostly anti-torpedo types. I would recommend it though, with the right loadout you can win.