RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly Pillager)

Matrix Games Forums

Forums Register Login Photo Gallery Member List Search Calendars FAQ

My Profile Inbox Address Book My Subscription My Forums Log Out

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly Pillager)

View related threads: (in this forum | in all forums)

Logged in as: Guest

Users viewing this topic: none

Printable Version

All Forums >> [New Releases from Matrix Games] >> War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition >> After Action Reports >> RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly Pillager)

Page: << < prev 40 41 [42] 43 44 next > >>

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 2/23/2014 9:54:23 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/13/43 (continued)

Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub (SS Pompano) hit and damaged in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol SE of Kyushu (hex location 104, 62). Reported damage to SS Pompano � system 28, float 8, engine 4, returning to base at 17 kts.

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 12/12 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Baker Is and Tabiteuea. Detected status of Tabiteuea shows unidentified Jap ship(s) in port, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity at either location.

Australia: Transport convoy EX-52 (1 AS, 26 transports) arrives from Eastern US via Capetown. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes 112K supply and 38K fuel, no LCU or air units. The AS arriving with EX-52 was detached to remain in Australia.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 2 Jap TF (+2 from last report), 129 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � 113 aircraft (all fighters), 23 Jap LCU, oil production 131(170), refinery 97(4). Ten of the 23 Jap LCU in Magwe are identified in current intelligence data � 33rd Infantry Division/A sub-unit, 9 Armored Car Co, four flak LCU�s (3 battalion size units, 44 Independent AA Gun Co), four aviation support LCU�s (7 JAAF Base Force, three JAAF AF battalions).

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1231

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 2/27/2014 3:25:13 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/14/43

South Pacific: US ground forces capture Noumea and La Foa unopposed and without losses. Along with small light industry and resource production facilities taken intact, a stockpile of 55K resource points was also captured in Noumea. The lack of Japanese opposition in Noumea was pleasant though not a surprise given the �tea leaves� picked up in my intel. In any event, my estimates were considering New Caledonia outside the main defense line in Pillager�s Japanese outer perimeter. A small ground attack air strike with CVE torpedo bombers was ordered against possible Jap LCU in Koumac � this raid either failed to launch or did not find a target in Koumac. US 27th Infantry Division at La Foa is advancing northward to occupy/attack Koumac.

Airfield construction in Noumea was started immediately. Strength of construction engineer elements now ashore in Noumea is at 267 engineer squads plus 55 engineer vehicles with a small number of additional engineer elements yet to disembark.

Cargo unloading operations in Noumea continue � 100 transport ships still unloading cargo in Noumea (most using amphibious unload, some unloading at dock). Cargo still to be unloaded in Noumea includes elements of some engineer LCU�s, plus approx. 148K supply and 7500 fuel. Most transport ships still unloading are expected to empty and depart Noumea within 1-2 days. A task force of 72 completely empty transports plus some escorts and mine sweepers from the invasion force are departing Noumea this game turn.

Current status of Noumea base has 137K supply now ashore along with nearly all Allied LCU elements from the invasion force. Airfield, port, resource production and light industry facilities in Noumea are all intact. La Foa dot base has 5100 supply on hand.

AAR for Noumea follows, La Foa fell �by osmosis�.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Noumea (115,160)

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 37085 troops, 699 guns, 826 vehicles, Assault Value = 1458
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Allied engineers reduce fortifications to 4
Allied adjusted assault: 1338
Japanese adjusted defense: 1
Allied assault odds: 1338 to 1 (fort level 4)
Allied forces CAPTURE Noumea !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker:

Assaulting units:
37th Infantry Division
1st USMC Amphb Tank Battalion
2nd Marine Division
4th Marine Division
4th USMC Tank Battalion
4th USN Naval Construction Regiment
223rd Field Artillery Battalion
131st Field Artillery Battalion
17th USN Naval Construction Regiment
1 Group RNZAF /3
822/828 EAB /1
I US Amphib Corps /1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

US Main Carrier force, CVE groups and surface combat TF remain in sea areas near New Caledonia � plans are for most of them to stay while large-scale transport ship unloading ops in Noumea continue. US patrol subs are operating near entry/exit points to all major sea passages through and around the Solomons � patrols both north and south of the Solomons.

Three LST damaged (two sunk) plus a LSD heavily damaged this game turn during amphibious landing operations in Noumea � none of these casualties due to enemy action. AAR�s and 12/13 Operations report entries follow.

LST-19 hits underwater rocks while attempting to beach at Noumea (sunk)
LST-18 damaged while beaching at Noumea (system damage 12, float 7, engine 2, now empty and leaving Noumea at 10 kts)
LST 2 breaks her back while beaching at Noumea (sunk)
Pumps fail aboard LST-19, flooding increases...
Surviving Damage Control Parties abandon LST-19
Surviving Damage Control Parties abandon LST 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Noumea (115,160)

TF 53 troops unloading over beach at Noumea, 115,160

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Noumea (115,160)

TF 498 troops unloading over beach at Noumea, 115,160

Allied ground losses:
Vehicles lost 13 (0 destroyed, 13 disabled)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Noumea (115,160)

TF 596 troops unloading over beach at Noumea, 115,160

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coastwatcher entries from 12/13 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Feni Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 107,126 near Rabaul, Speed 29, Moving Southeast (these ships leaving Rabaul base hex, moving southbound)
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 106,123 near Kavieng, Speed 33, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Genzan Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1232

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 2/27/2014 3:27:27 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/14/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 246K.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 4 A6M2 Zero (all on the ground)
� 4 A6M3 Zero (all on the ground)
� 2 A6M3a Zero (both on the ground)
� 2 A6M2-N Rufe (both ops)
� 4 N1K1-J George (all on the ground)
� 7 Ki-61 Tony (all on the ground)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 1 B-24J Liberator (flak)

No reported Japanese bombing raids or fighter sweeps over New Guinea this game turn. Allied bombing attacks on Buna and Lae airfields resume.

Night bombing raid by USAAF 4E bombers against Buna airfield. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

6 x 90th BG/320th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 22nd BG/408th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
5 x 22nd BG/408th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Heavy rain (82% moonlight)

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 7

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 8
B-24J Liberator x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

Allied aircraft losses
B-24J Liberator: 2 damaged
B-24J Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak

Airbase hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
4 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (1 airborne, 3 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 29 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 5

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna , at 99,129

Raid detected at 30 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 4

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 42 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 4

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

USAAF bombers hit Lae airfield in an escorted daylight raid. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid detected at 7 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 3
A6M3 Zero x 2
A6M3a Zero x 4
N1K1-J George x 3
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 12
Ki-61-Ia Tony x 8

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 9
B-24J Liberator x 9
P-38H Lightning x 25

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 2 damaged
A6M2 Zero: 3 destroyed on ground
A6M3 Zero: 2 damaged
A6M3 Zero: 3 destroyed on ground
A6M3a Zero: 4 damaged
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed on ground
N1K1-J George: 3 damaged
N1K1-J George: 2 destroyed on ground
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 8 damaged
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 6 damaged
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 2 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Japanese ground losses:
8 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Airbase hits 4
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 26

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1/B with A6M3 Zero (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
3rd Ku S-1/B with N1K1-J George (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 8000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
281 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters to 9000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
381 Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes
70th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 7 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000 , scrambling fighters between 2000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
248th Sentai with Ki-61-Ia Tony (1 airborne, 2 on standby, 5 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 3000 and 37730.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes

Training flight from 281 Ku S-1 has been caught up in attack

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna (after raid above) � no visible Jap TF, 23 Jap LCU, no available information on number of planes in Buna or airfield damage.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae (after raid above) � no available information on airfield damage or number of planes, 11 Jap LCU, 3 Jap TF (21 ships total, all barges and small ship types).

US patrol sub intercepts unescorted Jap transport off Lae. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Finschhafen at 101,126 (adjacent hex SE of Lae)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Ryoyu Maru #21, Shell hits 54, heavy fires, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Mingo, hits 1 (no damage)

xAKL Ryoyu Maru #21 is sighted by SS Mingo
SS Mingo attacking xAKL Ryoyu Maru #21 on the surface
SS Mingo low on gun ammo, MacKenzie, G. breaks off surface engagement and submerges

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1233

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 2/27/2014 3:28:39 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/14/43 (continued)

Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub in action with Japanese surface ASW off Honshu. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Nagoya at 109,64 (due S of Nagoya)

Japanese Ships
PB Kaiun Maru, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (sunk)
PB Nishho Maru
CM Katsuriki
PB Ayaha Maru

Allied Ships
SS Grenadier

SS Grenadier launches 2 torpedoes at PB Kaiun Maru
Grenadier diving deep ....
PB Ayaha Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 12/13 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Canton Is and Tabiteuea. Detected status of Tabiteuea shows unidentified Jap LCU plus ship(s) in port, unidentified Jap planes shown at Canton Is. Otherwise, no visible Japanese forces or activity observed at either location.

Australia: Transport convoy EX-51 (BB Tennessee, 12 transports) arrives from Eastern US via Capetown. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes one LCU (607 Coast AA Rgt), two fighter squadrons (one day fighter, one night), 57K supply and 2K fuel. BB Tennessee has been detached from EX-51 to remain in Australia.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 2 Jap TF, 117 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � 107 aircraft (all fighters), 23 Jap LCU, oil production 131(170), refinery 97(4).

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1234

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/2/2014 8:05:07 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/15/43

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea - 226K supply on hand, all LCU elements from the invasion force now ashore. Airfield construction is proceeding rapidly � current airfield size 2(5), 78% completed to size 3. 12K supply is on hand at La Foa.

A second wave transport TF arrived in Noumea with three additional engineer LCU (6 & 9 Naval Construction Bns, 802 Engineer Aviation Bn), 40K supply and 1500 fuel � this now unloading in Noumea.

The heavily damaged LSD from the amphibious landing operations has sunk. The LSD had 99 float damage, it was only a matter of how much of its supply cargo still on board was salvaged. 55 more ships from the invasion force have fully completed unloading in Noumea and La Foa, these formed into a convoy now returning to New Zealand. 51 ships from the initial landing force are still unloading cargo in Noumea.

Japanese night bombing action launched against empty Allied amphibious transports returning to New Zealand - this TF just departing Noumea. Direction from which the Jap bombers approached in the combat replay indicate the planes may have originated from Luganville. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on TF, near Isle of Pines at 115,163 (S of Noumea)

Weather in hex: Partial cloud (78% moonlight)

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 1 damaged

Allied Ships
LSI(L) Glenapp
APA George F. Elliot

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coastwatcher entries from 12/14 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 9 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 98,127 near Salamaua, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed 2, Moving East
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/5/2014 1:07:09 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1235

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/2/2014 8:07:16 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/15/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 245K.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 1 A6M2 Zero (on the ground)
� 2 A6M3 Zero (both on the ground)
� 2 A6M3a Zero (both on the ground)
� 2 A6M2-N Rufe (both air-to-air)
� 1 N1K1 Rex (on the ground)
� 5 Ki-61 Tony (all on the ground)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 9 B-25C Mitchell (8 air-to-air, 1 ops)

No reported Japanese bombing raids or fighter sweeps over New Guinea this game turn.

Night bombing raids by Allied bombers against Buna and Lae airfields. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

6 x No.18 Sqn RAAF B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
3 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
6 x 90th BG/319th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
6 x 90th BG/320th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/321st BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
3 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Light rain (78% moonlight)

Raid detected at 58 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 19 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 6

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6
B-24J Liberator x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
8 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (1 airborne, 3 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters between 4000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 27 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 4

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Severe storms (78% moonlight)

Raid detected at 19 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 7000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid detected at 32 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 13000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Buna and Lae airfield also hit in daylight raids by USAAF bombers. Japanese fighters even in reduced numbers are still effective vs Allied bombers that are either unescorted or lose their assigned fighter escort enroute to target. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid detected at 41 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 5
A6M3a Zero x 2
A6M5 Zero x 1
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 10

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 12

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-25C Mitchell: 4 destroyed, 5 damaged

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 3 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1/A with A6M3a Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead
6th Ku S-1/A with A6M5 Zero (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Raid is overhead
265 Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters to 2000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 5 minutes
78th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (3 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 36740.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 59 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 20 minutes

Japanese aircraft
no flights

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 27
B-24J Liberator x 9
P-38H Lightning x 25

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 2 destroyed on ground
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground
N1K1 Rex: 1 destroyed on ground
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 8

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna (after raids above) � no visible Jap TF, 23 Jap LCU, no available information on number of planes in Buna or airfield damage.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae (after raids above) � no available information on airfield damage or number of planes, 8 Jap LCU (-3 from last report), 4 Jap TF (25 ships total, all barges and small ship types).

Sigint entry for 12/14 reports 20 JAAF Base Force now located at Rabaul � this LCU transferred here from the Japanese Home Islands (last reported location at Sapporo).

No visible Japanese subs in sea areas between Port Moresby and NE Australia. No reported naval actions or contacts with Japanese ships.

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1236

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/2/2014 8:13:32 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/15/43 (continued)

US West Coast: Clark Field USAAF Base Force returns from the �dead pile� � the latest in a series of destroyed US LCU from the 1941-42 Philippines campaign brought back into play. While this activity isn't generally practical on a large scale, some eliminated Allied LCU (mainly US & British) from Malaya and the Philippines can be resurrected later at a low PP cost and rebuilt to full TOE strength in a home country area. Feasibility of doing this on a given eliminated LCU depends on the value of that unit would have if brought back into the game � in the case of Clark Field base force, one cannot have too much aviation support. Factors driving the choice of LCU to bring back in general being � (1) having the PP to spare for doing this, (2) availability of various element types needed to rebuild the LCU in the replacement pools, and (3) value the LCU has if it�s returned to the game.

To date in this campaign, I�ve gradually brought back and rebuilt a number of US, British and Australian units destroyed during 1941-42 including

� US 31 Infantry Rgt, 192 & 194 Tank Bns (Philippines)
� 8th Australian Division (Malaya) � rebuilt as a full division from a combination of surviving divisional sub-units plus sub-units of the division destroyed in Malaya
� 9th & 11th Indian Divisions (Malaya) � now rebuilding as full divisions using some of the original divisional sub-units destroyed in Malaya
� A number of small British base force and AA units destroyed in Malaya.

Japanese Home Islands: Two inconclusive actions involving southbound Japanese transport TF probably departing Nagoya vs two US patrol subs. Jap transport TF is detected and visible on game map � 5 ships (including 2 AM, 1 xAKL) moving on S heading, speed unknown. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Nagoya at 109,63 (night action SW of Nagoya)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Miyakawa Maru #3

Allied Ships
SS Grenadier

SS Grenadier launches 2 torpedoes at xAKL Miyakawa Maru #3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Torishima at 109,67 (daylight action NW of Torishima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Miyakawa Maru #3

Allied Ships
SS Sawfish

xAKL Miyakawa Maru #3 is sighted by SS Sawfish
Captain of SS Sawfish elects not to launch torpedoes at this target

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daylight action between US patrol sub and unidentified Japanese TF near Okinawa. Given number of ships (> 4) in the TF shown below, ASW can likely be eliminated from the Jap TF�s possible mission(s). AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Daito Shoto at 100,67 (SE of Amami Oshima)

Japanese Ships
PB Kyo Maru #11
PB Shonon Maru #11
PB Tsuneshima Maru
PB Yomei Maru
PB Ansyu Maru

Allied Ships
SS Darter

SS Darter launches 2 torpedoes at PB Kyo Maru #11
PB Tsuneshima Maru fails to find sub and abandons search
PB Yomei Maru fails to find sub and abandons search
PB Ansyu Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...

Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 12/14 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Canton Is and Tabiteuea. Detected status of Tabiteuea shows unidentified Jap LCU plus ship(s) in port, unidentified Jap planes shown at Canton Is. Otherwise, no visible Japanese forces or activity observed at either location.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 2 Jap TF, 112 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s (-1 from last report), light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe (after raid below) � 107 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU (+1 from last report), oil production 126(175), refinery 97(4).

Night bombing raid by USAAF and RAF bombers against oil production facilities in Magwe. Small amount of additional damage to oil production in Magwe. 13 Japanese CAP fighters reported destroyed � all Ki-45 Nick (11 air-to-air, 2 ops). Two USAAF B-17E Fortress lost in the raid, both due to flak. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

6 x No.159 Sqn RAF Liberator II stray due to night
5 x No.215 Sqn RAF Wellington B.X stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/9th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
5 x 341st BG/11th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
7 x 341st BG/490th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
5 x 341st BG/491st BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
6 x 7th BG/493rd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
7 x No.215 Sqn RAF Wellington B.X stray due to night
5 x 7th BG/9th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
7 x 341st BG/11th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Partial cloud (78% moonlight)

Raid detected at 75 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 28 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 19

Allied aircraft
Wellington Ic x 16
B-17E Fortress x 7

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 1 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x Wellington Ic bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 8 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 35200, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 78 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 16

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 21
B-24D Liberator x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-45 KAIc Nick: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 2 damaged
B-17E Fortress: 1 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
8 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
12 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 35200, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 34 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 13

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 6

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Liberator II: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x Liberator II bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (13 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
13 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35200
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 17 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 13

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-45 KAIc Nick: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 3 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (13 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
13 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35200
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 48 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 6

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-45 KAIc Nick: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35200
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 18 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 2

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 7

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-45 KAIc Nick: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35200
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 5

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid spotted at 33 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Allied aircraft
Wellington B.X x 7

Allied aircraft losses
Wellington B.X: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Wellington B.X bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 7

No Allied losses

Oil hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/2/2014 9:14:31 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1237

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/4/2014 4:55:58 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/16/43

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea - 275K supply on hand. Airfield construction is proceeding rapidly � airfield expanded to size 3, 45% completed to size 4. 13K supply is on hand at La Foa. 24 more transport ships (nearly all xAP, AKA) completed unloading cargo in Noumea and now departing for return to New Zealand. 63 transport ships remain in Noumea and continue unloading � some amphibious ships in this group but most ships are xAP and xAK from the second wave. Remaining cargo still to disembark in Noumea include LCU elements of three construction engineer units plus approximately 62K supply and 8K fuel.

Jap bombers hit Noumea airfield in a night raid. No reported damage to airfield facilities. Two H6K Mavis planes reported destroyed in air-to-air action by CAP fighters from US Escort Carrier force still at Noumea. AAR of Jap bombing raid follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Noumea, at 115,160

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms (67% moonlight)

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 28 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coastwatcher entries from 12/15 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 98,127 near Salamaua, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/5/2014 1:05:53 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1238

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/4/2014 4:59:48 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/16/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 244K.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 1 A6M2-N Rufe (air-to-air)

Allied planes reported destroyed - none

No reported Jap bombing raids or fighter sweeps over New Guinea this game turn. The decline in Japanese air activity in New Guinea could have several possible reason(s) �

(1) Pillager may have pulled back Jap air forces in New Guinea to regroup and recover
(2) Major Japanese airfields in New Guinea (Lae and Buna) may no longer be in any condition to recover from damage and support air missions.
(3) It�s possible Pillager could be shifting forces to meet the Allied invasion at Noumea.

If either/both (1) and (2) above are true, the Allied air campaign over New Guinea could now be having a significant impact.

Case (3) above is also quite likely, either alone or in combination with (1) and (2). If so, this is potentially a favorable development. This view is based on an estimate that my ability to launch and maintain two large scale offensive actions (in parallel) from South and SW Pacific now or will eventually exceed Pillager�s ability to deploy sufficient Japanese forces against advancing Allied forces in the South and SW Pacific simultaneously.

Pillager is eventually going to face in the South Pacific theatre (from Noumea and Fiji) an second group of Allied forces virtually equal in strength to what he is now facing in New Guinea. South and SW Pacific theatres have independent air and LCU forces, each theatre also having its own logistic support. A combined pool of 5-6 million supply points and 2-3 million fuel is in place and readily available between both theatres. Carrier and surface naval forces plus amphibious/transport shipping can quickly and easily move between the two theatres. Planning and arrangement of resources in South and SW Pacific theatres during 1941-43 had been done with the intent of the two theatres operating in parallel and also mutually supporting on interior lines.

As a final note� we�re likely due for a visit from the KB. My estimate has Noumea as its most likely destination.

Continued night bombing raids by Allied bombers against Buna and Lae airfields. Latest AAR�s and Combat Events report entries follow.

4 x No.18 Sqn RAAF B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 90th BG/319th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Severe storms (67% moonlight)

Raid detected at 36 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
Mitchell II x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x Mitchell II bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (67% moonlight)

Raid detected at 66 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 22 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 5

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses
Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 32810.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 11 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 9

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 18 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 1 damaged

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna (after raid above) � no visible Jap TF, 23 Jap LCU, no available information on number of planes in Buna or airfield damage.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae (after raid above) � no available information on airfield damage or number of planes, 6 Jap LCU (-2 from last report), 2 Jap TF (9 ships total, all barges and small ship types).

Detected status at Finchhafen shows unidentified Jap planes based on what is now a size 2(3) airfield. Finchhafen may warrant some attention from Allied aerial recon and possible bombing strikes later. Pillager could be attempting to disperse Japanese planes based in New Guinea from Lae/Buna to other airfields to escape Allied bombing. My intention here is to continue pursuit and attacks on Japanese air forces in New Guinea.

Escort with a small group of Allied transports leaving Port Moresby in night action with Jap patrol submarine. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Moresby at 98,132 (due S of Port Moresby)

Japanese Ships
SS I-8, hits 2, heavy damage (one direct hit, second hit causing flooding in control room, reported sunk)

Allied Ships
xAKL Caledon
PG Herald

SS I-8 is sighted by escort
PG Herald attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/4/2014 6:02:12 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1239

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/4/2014 5:01:31 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/16/43 (continued)

Central Pacific: US patrol sub intercepts probable Japanese troop transport convoy. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Truk at 112,104 (due N of Truk)

Japanese Ships
xAP Ussuri Maru, Torpedo hits 3, on fire, heavy damage (sunk)
E W-14
xAP Montevideo Maru
xAP Manzyu Maru
xAP Kitano Maru
xAP Kokuryu Maru
xAP Takatiho Maru
xAP Horai Maru
xAP Huzi Maru
DD Hatakaze
DD Asakaze

Allied Ships
SS Sturgeon

Japanese ground losses:
18 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

SS Sturgeon launches 4 torpedoes at xAP Ussuri Maru
DD Hatakaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Asakaze fails to find sub and abandons search
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 12/15 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Baker Is. No detected or visible Japanese forces or activity shown at Baker Is.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 2 Jap TF, 110 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe (after raid below) � airfield damage 1, 89 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 126(175), refinery 97(4).

Night bombing raid by RAF bombers against Magwe airfield. Minor damage to airfield facilities in Magwe, no report of Japanese planes destroyed. One Blenheim IV bomber lost (flak). Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

4 x No.113 Sqn RAF Blenheim IV stray due to night
5 x No.113 Sqn RAF Blenheim IV stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Severe storms (67% moonlight)

Raid detected at 55 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 19 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 11

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 37

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Blenheim IV: 1 damaged
Blenheim IV: 1 destroyed by flak

Airbase hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x Blenheim IV bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb
9 x Blenheim IV bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb
16 x Blenheim IV bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (2 airborne, 4 on standby, 5 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters between 3000 and 12000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid spotted at 43 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 8

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Blenheim IV bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (8 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1240

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/6/2014 2:30:04 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/17/43

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 334K supply on hand. Airfield now expanded to size 4(5), 8% completed to size 5. Construction to expand airfield size at Noumea has progressed well ahead of estimated schedule � airfield size increased from 2 to 4 in two game turns. Current active strength of US construction engineer elements in Noumea is at 359 engineer and 67 engineer vehicle squads with three additional US engineer LCU (802 Engineer Aviation Bn, 6 & 9 USN Construction Rgts) freshly disembarked but still in strat mode. Three more Allied construction engineer LCU are at sea and now in transit to Noumea. This concentration of Allied construction engineers is intended for expansion of base facilities at Noumea, Koumac and La Foa. Nearly all supply on hand at La Foa moved out of the base hex with US 27th Infantry Division now advancing to take Koumac.

36 transport ships fully unloaded cargo this game turn in Noumea and now departing for return to New Zealand. 30 transport ships continue unloading in Noumea � cargo aboard these ships consists entirely of supply points plus a small quantity of fuel. All remaining unloading ops in Noumea are expected to complete during the 12/18 game turn.

Transport convoy WP-116 (1 AGC, 1 LSD, 45 transports) arrives in Auckland from the mainland US. Cargo aboard the convoy includes 3 LCU (111 US Infantry Rgt, 228 & 230 USN Base Force), 157K supply and 87K fuel. LSD and AGC ships arriving with WP-116 will be detached from the convoy to reinforce the common South/SW Pacific amphibious ship force. Further amphibious ship reinforcements from the mainland US for South and SW Pacific theatres have been discontinued (for the moment) except for those ships currently attached to outbound WP or EX transport convoys now enroute to New Zealand or Australia � newly arriving amphibious ships being routed into a build-up that is underway in the Central Pacific theatre area. The Allied �third pincer� in the Pacific theatres is now under construction.

Coastwatcher entries from 12/16 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 99,125 near Lae, Speed 13 , Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 97,123 near Madang, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 100,124 near Long Island, Speed 11, Moving Northeast

Two Jap H6K Mavis aircraft reported destroyed in air-to-air action over Noumea by CAP fighters from the US Escort Carrier force. No other reported air action this game turn in the Noumea area.

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1241

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/6/2014 2:32:50 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/17/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 244K (unchanged).

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 3 A6M2 Zero (1 air-to-air, 2 on the ground)
� 2 A6M2-N Rufe (both air-to-air)
� 1 A6M3a Zero (on the ground)
� 1 Ki-44 Tojo (ops)

Allied planes reported destroyed - none
� 9 B-24J Liberator (7 air-to-air, 2 ops)

Night bombing of Buna airfield by Allied planes continue. An attempted night airfield bombing raid on Finschhaven failed to occur. AAR�s and Combat Events report entries follow.

6 x 43rd BG/63rd BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 43rd BG/64th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 43rd BG/65th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
4 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
3 x 3rd BG/90th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 43rd BG/403rd BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (57% moonlight)

Raid detected at 22 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 5

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (1 airborne, 2 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters between 3000 and 8000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 43 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 4

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses
Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 3000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 33 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 4

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 2 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 3000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

One USAAF 4E bombing squadron detailed to hit Buna failed to get orders for night bombing, went in on an unescorted mission during daylight (oops!). AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Raid detected at 46 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 8
A6M3a Zero x 2
N1K1-J George x 1
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 10

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

Allied aircraft losses
B-24J Liberator: 4 destroyed, 3 damaged

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 4

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1/A with A6M3a Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead
6th Ku S-1/A with N1K1-J George (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Raid is overhead
265 Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (2 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 8 minutes
78th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (3 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 9000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna (after raids above) � 1 Jap TF (6 small ships), 23 Jap LCU, no available information on number of planes in Buna or airfield damage.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � no available information on airfield damage or number of planes, 11 Jap LCU (+5 from last report), 4 Jap TF (30 ships total, all barges and small ship types).

Detected status at Finchhafen no longer shows Jap planes based there.

US light surface ASW in daylight action with Jap submarine off Port Moresby. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Moresby at 97,131 (adjacent hex S of Port Moresby)

Japanese Ships
SS I-123, hits 6 (sub still detected and visible in this hex)

Allied Ships
SC-1067
SC-1066

SS I-123 is sighted by escort
I-123 diving deep ....
SC-1067 fails to find sub, continues to search...
SC-1066 fails to find sub and abandons search
SC-1067 attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 12/16 reports Jap 63 Construction Bn is now located in Lae, this LCU transferred to New Guinea from the Japanese Home Islands. Last reported location of 63 Bn was in Tokyo on 9/14/43.

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1242

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/6/2014 2:34:03 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/17/43 (continued)

Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub (SS Whale) hit and damaged in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol S of Shikoku (hex location 106, 64). Reported damage to SS Whale � system 28, float 9, engine 3, returning to base at 18 kts.

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 12/16 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from several locations � Roi-Namur, Funafuti (Ellice islands) and Tabiteuea. Detected status of Roi-Namur and Tabiteuea both show unidentified Jap planes, also ship(s) in port at Tabiteuea. No visible Japanese forces shown at Funafuti.

Sigint report for 12/16 reports Jap 23 Independent Mixed Brigade now located at Nikunau (Gilbert islands). 23 Brigade is a transfer from China and participated in the Chungking battles.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 1 Jap TF (-1 from last report), 117 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � no airfield damage, 104 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 126(175), refinery 97(4).

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1243

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/8/2014 2:22:42 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/18/43

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 345K supply and 4300 fuel on hand

13 transport ships fully unloaded cargo this game turn in Noumea and now departing for return to New Zealand. 13 transport ships from the initial invasion force and follow-up transport TF remain in Noumea and continue unloading ops. Remaining cargo aboard ships at Noumea is entirely supply.

No reported air activity over Noumea or the New Caledonia area.

Coastwatcher entries from 12/17 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: xAK Tatsuho Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tassafaronga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 100,126 near Finschhafen, Speed 9, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 99,126 near Lae, Speed 1, Moving West

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1244

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/8/2014 2:33:21 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/18/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 243K, airfield size expected to reach 9(6) within several days at current rate of construction.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 17 A6M2 Zero (16 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 1 A6M2-N Rufe (air-to-air)
� 8 A6M3a Zero (6 air-to-air, 2 ops)
� 11 Ki-44 Tojo (10 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 3 N1K1-J George (all air-to-air)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 8 P-47D2 Thunderbolt (6 air-to-air, 2 ops)

Night bombing of Buna airfield by Allied planes continue. A planned night airfield strike on Lae with 2E bombers failed to launch probably due to weather � weather being an issue with night air ops over New Guinea and NE Australia in the last several game turns. AAR�s and Combat Events report entries follow.

6 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night (attempted raid on Lae)
6 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (attempted raid on Lae)
4 x 3rd BG/90th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (attempted raid on Lae)
6 x 90th BG/400th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night (Buna)
5 x 38th BG/405th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (attempted raid on Lae)
6 x 345th BG/498th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (attempted raid on Lae)
6 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (attempted raid on Lae)
5 x 345th BG/501st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (Buna)
6 x 380th BG/530th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night (Buna)
4 x 380th BG/531st BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night (Buna)
7 x 345th BG/501st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night (Buna)
5 x 380th BG/531st BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night (Buna)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (46% moonlight)

Raid detected at 51 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 17 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 24 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 2

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid detected at 41 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 2

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 3 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 25 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 2

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 26 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 1

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 7

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 3 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 22 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 1

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daylight fighter sweeps by USAAF planes from Port Moresby against Buna. Bombing raids on main Jap airfields in New Guinea have progressed to where numbers of Japanese planes are considerably reduced to a point where fighter sweeps can more effectively take out the remainder with light if not minimal losses. The key to the Allied air campaign over New Guinea was reduction of the numbers of Japanese aircraft in active operation (particularly fighters) � this accomplished either through destruction of planes (by any method) and/or rendering airfields in New Guinea incapable of supporting any significant Japanese air operations. The main issue I�m watching with Allied fighter sweeps (and air ops in general) is plane attrition - preserving numbers of available planes in front-line squadrons and in the replacement pools as much as (reasonably) possible to prevent shortages of planes. Missions do not get flown without planes and air squadrons do not remain operational if the inevitable plane losses aren�t replaced. Allied plane production even at this point in 1943 is insufficient to support consumption of replacement planes in large numbers over extended periods of time. My general philosophy is to get the maximum amount of �mileage� from the assets available. An observation from the AAR�s below is that Pillager has been setting altitude of Japanese CAP fighters to concentrate on intercepting my bombers � today�s fighter sweeps a �curve ball� most of the Japanese CAP was not so well set up to handle. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 18 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 23
A6M3a Zero x 13
N1K1-J George x 5
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 33

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 22

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 4 destroyed
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 3 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x P-47D2 Thunderbolt sweeping at 28000 feet

CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1/A with A6M3a Zero (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 9 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters between 5000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
6th Ku S-1/A with N1K1-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
265 Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 16 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters between 24000 and 32810.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
78th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 23 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 35 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 14
A6M3a Zero x 9
N1K1-J George x 3
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 22

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 22

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 6 destroyed
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x P-47D2 Thunderbolt sweeping at 28000 feet

CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1/A with A6M3a Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes
6th Ku S-1/A with N1K1-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 24000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
78th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 11 scrambling)
11 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 42 minutes
265 Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 10 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 76 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 22 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 4
A6M3a Zero x 6
N1K1-J George x 3
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 10

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 31

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 2 destroyed
A6M3a Zero: 2 destroyed
N1K1-J George: 2 destroyed
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 3 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
18 x P-47D2 Thunderbolt sweeping at 28000 feet
2 x P-47D2 Thunderbolt sweeping at 28000 feet
3 x P-47D2 Thunderbolt sweeping at 28000 feet

CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1/A with A6M3a Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 26000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
6th Ku S-1/A with N1K1-J George (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000 scrambling fighters to 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
265 Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters between 24000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
78th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 9 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 23000 and 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna (after raids above) � 21 aircraft (all fighters), no report on airfield damage, 1 Jap TF (9 small ships), 23 Jap LCU.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � no available information on airfield damage or number of planes, 11 Jap LCU, 1 Jap TF (8 ships, all barges and small ship types).

US light surface ASW in daylight action with a Jap submarine off Cooktown. The introduction of SC�s in this sea area has positively impacted the Allied situation at sea between NE Australia and Port Moresby. My thought had been the SC was the best available ASW ship type to operate in this particular sea area, given my preference not to have more valuable DD and DE running ASW ops in a sea area easily within range of possible Jap naval air strikes. Plans are to continue employing SC�s on surface ASW patrols in sea areas where Japanese naval air strikes are possible or likely. Getting SC�s from the US West Coast to Australia/New Zealand was somewhat a task. Due to their short movement range they had to be attached with a transport convoy with slight delay to the convoy due to SC�s having to refuel at sea from larger ships during transit. Also, only a small number of SC could be attached to each convoy making the transfer of SC from the mainland US to forward theatres a drawn out process. It should be noted SC type ships (or similar) may have a role in Allied anti-kamikaze measures now being considered. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Cooktown at 95,136 (ENE of Cooktown)

Japanese Ships
SS I-15, hits 4 (reported sunk)

Allied Ships
SC-744
SC-1069

SS I-15 is located by SC-744
I-15 diving deep ....
SC-1069 attacking submerged sub ....
SC-1069 is out of ASW ammo
SC-1069 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

An unidentified Jap submarine is detected and visible on the game map at hex location 100, 136 (adjacent hex SW of Deboyne Is), no available information on its movement. No Allied ships in the immediate vicinity of this contact other than 3 patrol subs now in various adjacent sea hexes to the Jap sub�s location.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/9/2014 10:11:53 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1245

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/8/2014 2:35:59 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/18/43 (continued)

Central Pacific: US patrol subs in sea areas surrounding Truk report increased Japanese air patrol activity. SS Sealion south of Truk attacked by two B6N1 Jill air patrols, SS Sturgeon attacked north of Truk by a E13A1 Jake air patrol. My estimate has had KB probably located in Truk since its last action off New Guinea - Pillager could now be warming up the KB for another sortie.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 2 Jap TF (+1 from last report), 112 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � 99 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 126(175), refinery 97(4).

An attempted night bombing strike against Magwe aborted, possibly due to weather conditions. Combat Events report entries follow.

4 x 7th BG/9th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
7 x 341st BG/22nd BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
5 x 341st BG/490th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/492nd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/493rd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
7 x 341st BG/490th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
5 x 7th BG/492nd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
5 x 7th BG/493rd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/9/2014 10:12:33 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1246

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/9/2014 9:14:06 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/19/43

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 351K supply and 4300 fuel on hand. Airfield size increased this game turn from 4 to 5 (20% completed to size 6). Current strength of construction engineer elements in Noumea is 548 engineer squads and 131 engineer vehicles. The first US planes (one US Marine VMF squadron) transferred into Noumea from New Zealand with 18 F4U-1 Corsairs.

US 27th Infantry Division has reached the adjacent land hex to Koumac. No detected Japanese LCU visible in Koumac base.

A follow-up transport convoy arrives in Noumea with three more construction engineer units (41 & 43 USN Seabee Bns, 24 NZ Pioneer Co) plus 10K supply.

Japanese night bombing raid on port facilities in Noumea, no port damage reported. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Noumea, at 115,160

Weather in hex: Severe storms (35% moonlight)

Raid detected at 47 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 17 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M3 Nell x 3

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x G3M3 Nell bombing from 6000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------.

Coastwatcher entries from 12/19 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tassafaronga
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 99,126 near Lae, Speed 6, Moving West
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 12 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 1, Moving Southeast

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/9/2014 10:19:23 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1247

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/9/2014 9:22:41 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/19/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 240K, no reported airfield damage or delays to airfield construction from Japanese night bombing.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 2 A6M3 Zero (1 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 11 A6M3a Zero (10 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 7 Ki-44 Tojo (6 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 8 N1K1-J George (7 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 3 P1Y1 Frances (1 air-to-air, 2 ops)

Allied planes reported destroyed - none
� 1 P-38H Lightning (air-to-air)
� 3 P-40N1 Warhawk (2 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 3 P-40N5 Warhawk (2 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 1 F4U-1 Corsair (air-to-air)
� 1 Spitfire Vc (air-to-air)

Japanese launch night bombing raid on Port Moresby airfield - the raid was fragmented, possibly due to a combination of weather and the usual AE night �stuff�. While the small F4U-2 night fighter squadron claimed only a single �kill�, presence of the US fighters on CAP did cause a significant number of Jap bombers to abort their mission before the start of air-to-air combat. Several items are under examination to improve performance of the night fighters, specifically assigned mission altitude and pilots. The Jap bombers appeared to originate from airfield(s) farther west on New Guinea, possibly known Jap airfields at Madang and/or Hansa Bay. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (35% moonlight)

Raid detected at 35 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
P1Y1 Frances x 20

Allied aircraft
F4U-2 Corsair x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
P1Y1 Frances: 7 damaged

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 2
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
15 x P1Y1 Frances bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VF(N)-75 with F4U-2 Corsair (2 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 14000, scrambling fighters between 5000 and 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes

Some CAP have air radar

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
P1Y1 Frances x 9

Allied aircraft
F4U-2 Corsair x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
P1Y1 Frances: 2 damaged

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x P1Y1 Frances bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VF(N)-75 with F4U-2 Corsair (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 14000, scrambling fighters between 5000 and 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes

Some CAP have air radar

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid spotted at 23 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
P1Y1 Frances x 5

Allied aircraft
F4U-2 Corsair x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
P1Y1 Frances: 1 damaged

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x P1Y1 Frances bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VF(N)-75 with F4U-2 Corsair (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 14000
Raid is overhead

Some CAP have air radar

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid spotted at 29 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
P1Y1 Frances x 6

Allied aircraft
F4U-2 Corsair x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
P1Y1 Frances: 1 damaged

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x P1Y1 Frances bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VF(N)-75 with F4U-2 Corsair (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 14000
Raid is overhead

Some CAP have air radar

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Japanese fighter sweeps over Port Moresby. Considering more than half the Allied fighter planes in Port Moresby (all P-47 Thunderbolts) were stood down to recover pilots and planes from last game turn�s fighter sweep on Buna, other Allied fighter planes stepped into the gap and performed well. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid detected at 18 NM, estimated altitude 23,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 9

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 13
P-38H Lightning x 25
P-40N1 Warhawk x 24
P-40N5 Warhawk x 22
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 22
F4U-1 Corsair x 18

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 5 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 11 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 30000, scrambling fighters between 23000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 8 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 25000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 13 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 14 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 26000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 15 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 13 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 28000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 160 NM, estimated altitude 26,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 48 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 2
A6M3a Zero x 6
N1K1-J George x 41
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 8

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 13
P-38H Lightning x 25
P-40N1 Warhawk x 24
P-40N5 Warhawk x 22
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 22
F4U-1 Corsair x 17

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed
N1K1-J George: 4 destroyed
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 destroyed
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 20000 feet
10 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 20000 feet
4 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet
2 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 20000 feet
5 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 20000 feet
11 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 20000 feet
1 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet
7 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 20000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 3 on standby, 8 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 30000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (2 airborne, 2 on standby, 8 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 33 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 12 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (4 airborne, 3 on standby, 14 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 26000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (6 airborne, 4 on standby, 12 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 13 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 28000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 25000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 76 NM, estimated altitude 25,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 21 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3 Zero x 3

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 12
P-38H Lightning x 24
P-40N1 Warhawk x 22
P-40N5 Warhawk x 20
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 22
F4U-1 Corsair x 17

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3 Zero: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 8 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 30000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 8 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 10000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 12 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 14000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (4 airborne, 3 on standby, 14 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 12 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 14000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 5 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 28000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 140 NM, estimated altitude 24,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 38 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 71
Ki-61-Ia Tony x 11

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 12
P-38H Lightning x 22
P-40N1 Warhawk x 22
P-40N5 Warhawk x 19
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 20
F4U-1 Corsair x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet
22 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet
11 x Ki-61-Ia Tony sweeping at 20000 feet *
20 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet
8 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 4 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 5 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 30000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 9 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 8 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 5 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 54 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (5 airborne, 3 on standby, 14 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 14 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (8 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 28000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Planned Allied night airfield strikes on Lae and Buna failed to launch due (at least in part) to continued bad weather conditions over NE Australia. Combat Events report entries follow (no AAR).

6 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/320th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
6 x 90th BG/321st BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
4 x 28th BG/404th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
8 x 38th BG/405th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
5 x 22nd BG/408th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
6 x 345th BG/498th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
5 x 28th BG/404th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
7 x 22nd BG/408th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night

Detected status of Jap base at Buna � 81 aircraft (all fighters), 1 Jap TF (10 small ships), 23 Jap LCU.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � no available information on airfield damage or number of planes, 11 Jap LCU, 1 Jap TF.

Japanese patrol sub chased off by light surface ASW escorting a transport convoy to Port Moresby. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Cooktown at 97,136 (E of Cooktown)

Japanese Ships
SS I-155

Allied Ships
SC-741
SC-739
LST-479
LST-473
LST-467
LST-452
LST-449
LST-447
PG Moresby
SC-742

SS I-155 is sighted by escort
PG Moresby fails to find sub and abandons search
SC-742 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

US patrol sub intercepts a Jap submarine in the sea approaches S of Rabaul. I-8 had been reported hit and damaged in an action with Allied light surface ASW off Port Moresby on 12/16 � the I-8 also reported sunk on the 12/16 Sunk Ships display. This game turn�s Sunk Ships display indicates another Jap submarine (identified as I-9) was sunk this game turn at the hex location below. Regardless of FOW, we probably got a sub this time. AAR and 12/19 Operations report entries follow.

Previous report of sinking of SS I-8 incorrect. Ship sighted and engaged at 106, 128 (before AAR)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub vs Sub: SS Guardfish attacking SS I-8 at 106,128 (S of Rabaul)

Japanese Ships
SS I-8, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage

Allied Ships
SS Guardfish

SS Guardfish launches 2 torpedoes at 3,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SS I-8 is reported to have been sunk near Rabaul on Dec 19, 1943 (after AAR)

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1248

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/9/2014 9:24:07 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/19/43 (continued)

Alaska: USN Base Force LCU at Sitka and Juneau transferred from West Coast (restricted) command to Pacific Ocean Areas. The two base force units were loaded on returning transport ships from convoy AW-33 and brought to Prince Rupert. Both base force units are currently at approx. 20-25% TOE strength � plans are to build both to full TOE strength in the mainland US from replacements for later front-line employment in the main Pacific theatres. One can never have too many naval support units.

Central Pacific: US patrol sub in contact with probable Jap transport TF. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Chichi-jima at 114,79 (E of Iwo Jima)

Japanese Ships
E Fuyo
xAP Teiritsu Maru
E Saga
E Amakusa

Allied Ships
SS Redfin, hits 1 (no reported damage)

SS Redfin launches 4 torpedoes at E Fuyo
Redfin diving deep ....
E Saga fails to find sub and abandons search
E Amakusa attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 12/19 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Vaitupu (Ellice islands). Detected status of Vaitupu shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 2 Jap TF, 115 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � 92 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 126(175), refinery 97(4).

Sigint entry for 12/19 reports Jap 57 Field AA Bn now located at Moulmein, this LCU transferred to Burma from Manchuria. Previous reported location of 57 AA Bn was Port Arthur on 5/25/43.

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1249

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/13/2014 2:38:31 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/20/43

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 358K supply and 4200 fuel on hand. No reported airfield damage from night Jap bombing raids, 2 F4U-1 Corsair planes are damaged on the ground. Construction engineer LCU aboard the follow-up transport convoy arriving in Noumea last game turn have fully disembarked.

US 27th Infantry Division moving through the adjacent land hex outside Koumac. Still no detected Japanese LCU visible in Koumac base hex.

Japanese night bombing raid on Noumea aifield. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Noumea, at 115,160

Weather in hex: Clear sky (28% moonlight)

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 18

Allied aircraft
no flights

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
F4U-1 Corsair: 3 damaged

Allied ground losses:
3 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Airbase hits 3
Runway hits 8

Aircraft Attacking:
18 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coastwatcher entries from 12/20 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tassafaronga
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 100,125 near Umboi Island, Speed 7, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed 0, Moving East
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1250

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/13/2014 2:44:22 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/20/43 (continued)

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 273K. A transport convoy from Australia arrived this game turn in Port Moresby and partially unloaded � its cargo Dutch 2 KNIL AA Bn plus a quantity of supply. This convoy is departing Port Moresby immediately before completion of unloading with the detected approach of KB north of New Guinea (below). The Dutch AA Bn fully unloaded along with part of the supply point cargo.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 24 A6M2 Zero (12 air-to-air, 11 on the ground, 1 ops)
� 2 A6M2-N Rufe (1 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 4 Ki-44 Tojo (1 air-to-air, 3 on the ground)
� 8 N1K1-J George (all air-to-air)
� 2 E13A1 Jake (both air-to-air)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 1 B-25C Mitchell (flak)

Two Allied patrol subs in the Bismarck Sea area in action vs escort ships with probable KB task forces. Detected number, composition and movement (SW heading) of Japanese TF�s (map below) indicate a probable KB sortie against Port Moresby as soon as next game turn. US Main Carrier force reached Brisbane this game turn from its position supporting the Noumea invasion � the Main Carrier force now departing Brisbane and proceeding northward following a quick DD-only refuel (involving approx. 80 DD�s). Main Carrier force is projected to reach position for a run against KB in 2-3 days � plans are to engage KB with the carrier force if it can reach suitable attack position and a favorable opportunity to attack exists. I�m hoping Pillager takes at least 1-2 good airfield strikes against Port Moresby with KB, this providing time for the US Carrier force to reach position and also allow for some attrition of KB aircraft by Allied CAP and flak over Port Moresby. Combat Events report entries, AAR�s and situation map follow.

B6N1 Jill damaged by flak
B6N1 Jill attacking SS O24 at 101,123

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Manus at 103,119 (due E of Manus)

Japanese Ships
DD Wakazuki
BB Kirishima
CA Chikuma
CL Sendai
CL Yahagi
DD Onami
DD Yuzuki
DD Mochizuki
DD Mikazuki
DD Kikuzuki

Allied Ships
SS Bonefish, hits 3, heavy damage (system damage 20, float 71, engine 6, returning to base at 5 kts)

SS Bonefish launches 2 torpedoes at DD Wakazuki
Bonefish diving deep ....
DD Yuzuki fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Mochizuki fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Mikazuki fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Kikuzuki attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Cape Gloucester at 101,123 (NE of Finchhaven, sub remains in contact with probable KB task forces)

Japanese Ships
BB Kirishima
CA Chikuma
CL Sendai
CL Yahagi
DD Onami
DD Wakazuki
DD Yuzuki
DD Mochizuki
DD Mikazuki
DD Kikuzuki

Allied Ships
SS O24, hits 1 (minor system damage)

SS O24 is sighted by escort
DD Yuzuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Mochizuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Mikazuki fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Kikuzuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Mikazuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Mikazuki is out of ASW ammo
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

No Japanese night airfield strike but multiple daylight Jap fighter sweeps over Port Moresby, likely a prelude to KB�s projected air strike on Port Moresby next game turn. The US Marine night fighter squadron (F4U-2 Corsairs) has withdrawn back to Australia and replaced with an additional day fighter unit. All Allied fighter squadrons in Port Moresby now at 100% CAP � plans are to meet the KB air strike head-on to inflict maximum attrition of KB air strength ahead of a possible attack opportunity by US Main Carrier force. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 25,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1-J George x 15

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 6
P-38H Lightning x 9
P-40N1 Warhawk x 8
P-40N5 Warhawk x 8
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 10
F4U-1 Corsair x 7

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K1-J George: 6 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 25000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters to 12000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 18 NM, estimated altitude 21,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 14

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 6
P-38H Lightning x 8
P-40N1 Warhawk x 8
P-40N5 Warhawk x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 10
F4U-1 Corsair x 7

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 6 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 1 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000 , scrambling fighters to 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 50 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 48 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 152 NM, estimated altitude 24,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 45 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 2
N1K1-J George x 2

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 6
P-38H Lightning x 8
P-40N1 Warhawk x 8
P-40N5 Warhawk x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 9
F4U-1 Corsair x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
N1K1-J George: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 61 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 61 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 54 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 73 NM, estimated altitude 22,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 20 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 9

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 6
P-38H Lightning x 7
P-40N1 Warhawk x 8
P-40N5 Warhawk x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 9
F4U-1 Corsair x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 42 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 13 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Allied night airfield strikes on Lae and Buna launched as scheduled. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

6 x No.18 Sqn RAAF B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
6 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 3rd BG/90th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/319th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/320th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/321st BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
5 x 22nd BG/408th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/492nd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/493rd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 345th BG/501st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
5 x 90th BG/320th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
5 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Severe storms (28% moonlight)

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 10

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-25C Mitchell: 1 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb
4 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 43 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid spotted at 40 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid spotted at 43 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Light rain (28% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 59 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 20 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 7
B-25C Mitchell x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 4

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
5 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 3 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 58 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 45 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 9000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 18 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 2 destroyed on ground
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 4
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 9

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 4000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 42 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 10

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 4000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 42 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 26 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 25 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 1

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid spotted at 43 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna � airfield damage 14, 26 aircraft (all fighters), no visible Jap TF, 23 Jap LCU.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � airfield damage 9, 103 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU, 4 Jap TF (4 Jap TF, 35 barges and small ships total).

Japanese patrol sub chased off by light surface ASW escorting a transport convoy to Port Moresby. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Cooktown at 97,136 (E of Cooktown)

Japanese Ships
SS I-155

Allied Ships
SC-741
SC-739
LST-479
LST-473
LST-467
LST-452
LST-449
LST-447
PG Moresby
SC-742

SS I-155 is sighted by escort
PG Moresby fails to find sub and abandons search
SC-742 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

US patrol sub intercepts a Jap submarine in the sea approaches S of Rabaul. I-8 had been reported hit and damaged in an action with Allied light surface ASW off Port Moresby on 12/16 � the I-8 also reported sunk on the 12/16 Sunk Ships display. This game turn�s Sunk Ships display indicates another Jap submarine (identified as I-9) was sunk this game turn at the hex location below. Despite the FOW, we probably got a sub this time. AAR and 12/19 Operations report entries follow.

Previous report of sinking of SS I-8 incorrect. Ship sighted and engaged at 106, 128 (before AAR)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub vs Sub: SS Guardfish attacking SS I-8 at 106,128 (S of Rabaul)

Japanese Ships
SS I-8, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage

Allied Ships
SS Guardfish

SS Guardfish launches 2 torpedoes at 3,000 yards

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

SS I-8 is reported to have been sunk near Rabaul on Dec 19, 1943 (after AAR)

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/13/2014 3:56:38 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1251

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/13/2014 2:48:26 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/20/43 (continued)

Central Pacific: US patrol sub intercepts unescorted small transport east of the Bonins. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Chichi-jima at 114,77 (E of Iwo Jima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Tasuku Maru, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Redfin

xAKL Tasuku Maru is sighted by SS Redfin
SS Redfin launches 2 torpedoes at xAKL Tasuku Maru

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 12/20 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wotje Detected status of Wotje shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 3 Jap TF (+1 from last report), 130 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � 96 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 126(175), refinery 97(4).

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1252

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/14/2014 10:59:23 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/21/43

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 272K, airfield service damage 60, runway damage 76. 68 Allied fighter planes remain operational at Port Moresby, though questionable as to whether they can take off to fly CAP in the next game turn.

US Carrier Main force has sortied from Brisbane and now heading northward. Pillager has kept KB in the Bismarck Sea area north of Lae (current hex location 101, 124), he�s using the land mass of New Guinea as a shield to keep US carriers beyond an optimum striking range to attack KB. KB�s current hex position allows a 6-hex striking range for Japanese planes launched against Port Moresby while at the same time keeping US carriers beyond the 6-hex range - unless I wish to move the US Carrier force into a coastal hex along the southern edge of New Guinea near Terapo (this a rather unfavorable Allied attack position). The significance of the 6-hex attack range lies in the normal flight range of US carrier dive bombers (specifically SBD-5 Dauntless forming the majority of VB squadrons) � beyond the 6-hex range, they no longer carry a 1000 lb bomb load. Several possibilities still remain� attack off the New Guinea coast at 7-hex maximum range with 500 lb bombs, or launch the SBD�s with drop tanks (normal flight range increased from 6 to 9 hexes) and keep the 1000 pounders. None of these options is a perfect �best case� scenario. All that can be done for the moment is continue moving the US Carrier Main force northward and see how my options play out � Pillager could (in the meanwhile) move the KB closer to Port Moresby (extending my �window of attack range�) or another Japanese action that presents a useful opportunity. I have at least one and possibly two game turns before the US Carrier force reaches position to make an attack run. Pillager could have the KB gone by that time or I may otherwise have to take a �pass� on this action. Also consider the possibility that Pillager may not have included the availability of drop tanks on SBD-5 planes in planning KB�s current sortie, this making the drop tank a possible �potent surprise weapon� in the US arsenal. Patience and discipline required.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea. Total reported plane losses per Intelligence screens Aircraft Losses display � 298 Japanese, 69 Allied.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 29 A6M2 Zero (21 air-to-air, 6 ops, 2 on the ground)
� 1 A6M2-N Rufe (on the ground)
� 12 A6M3 Zero (9 air-to-air, 3 ops)
� 4 A6M3a Zero (all air-to-air)
� 45 A6M5 Zero (37 air-to-air, 8 ops)
� 86 Ki-44 Tojo (68 air-to-air, 15 ops, 3 on the ground)
� 13 N1K1-J George (12 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 46 D1Y1 Judy (37 air-to-air, 7 flak, 2 ops)
� 19 B6N1 Jill (17 air-to-air, 2 flak)
� 12 B6N2 Jill (11 air-to-air, 1 flak)
� 29 P1Y1 Frances (27 air-to-air, 2 ops)
� 1 Ki-21 Sally (on the ground)
� 1 E13A1 Jake (air-to-air)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 9 P-38H Lightning (4 air-to-air, 4 on the ground, 1 ops)
� 10 P-40N1 Warhawk (7 air-to-air, 2 ops, 1 on the ground)
� 8 P-40N5 Warhawk (6 air-to-air, 1 on the ground, 1 ops)
� 32 P-47D2 Thunderbolt (16 air-to-air, 12 ops, 4 on the ground)
� 8 F4U-1 Corsair (6 air-to-air, 2 ops)
� 7 Spitfire Vc (4 air-to-air, 2 on the ground, 1 ops)
� 1 B-24D1 Liberator (ops)
� 2 B-25C Mitchell (both ops)
� 2 PBY Catalina (1 air-to-air, 1 ops)

The expected horde of Japanese planes arrived over Port Moresby. My intent was not to completely stop the raid (knowing there would be too many Jap planes to stop) but inflicting the maximum possible amount of attrition to Japanese air forces. This aim appeared to be quite successful, given the relatively light Allied pilot losses and the probable high proportion of Japanese pilots that went down with their planes. An unexpected factor was the large numbers of Japanese LBA planes participating. The high plane losses to Jap LBA (especially Ki-44 Tojo & P1Y1 Frances) somewhat ensures a decreased level of Japanese air activity over Port Moresby once the KB departs and life goes on. Results of this game turn�s air action over Port Moresby are also a favorable development for the US Carrier Main force. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid detected at 19 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 9

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 16
P-38H Lightning x 21
P-40N1 Warhawk x 21
P-40N5 Warhawk x 22
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 98
F4U-1 Corsair x 17

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 4 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 36800.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 25000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 15 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 14 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 17 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 14 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 17 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 16 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 27000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 17 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 15 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 32

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 16
P-38H Lightning x 21
P-40N1 Warhawk x 21
P-40N5 Warhawk x 22
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 97
F4U-1 Corsair x 17

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 9 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-40N5 Warhawk: 2 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (6 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (4 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
11 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 14 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 5 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 48 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (3 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 13 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
9 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 31000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 156 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 46 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 4
N1K1-J George x 28

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 16
P-38H Lightning x 20
P-40N1 Warhawk x 20
P-40N5 Warhawk x 18
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 89
F4U-1 Corsair x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K1-J George: 4 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
3 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
1 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
16 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 10 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000 , scrambling fighters between 21000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (8 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (15 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
15 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 65 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (8 airborne, 10 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 65 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (5 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 7 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 24000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 55 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
13 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (4 airborne, 13 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 33 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (12 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 27000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (10 airborne, 9 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 30000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 189 NM, estimated altitude 35,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 52 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 3

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 15
P-38H Lightning x 19
P-40N1 Warhawk x 19
P-40N5 Warhawk x 16
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 85
F4U-1 Corsair x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 10 on standby, 3 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 24000 and 38000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 59 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (1 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 29000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 66 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 34000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (4 airborne, 10 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (9 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
9 plane(s) intercepting now.
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 13 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (6 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 10 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 30000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 59 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (5 airborne, 9 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 30000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 35 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 6

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 15
P-38H Lightning x 17
P-40N1 Warhawk x 19
P-40N5 Warhawk x 15
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 74
F4U-1 Corsair x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 3 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 10 on standby, 3 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 25000 and 38000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 29000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 31000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (1 airborne, 10 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 13 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (4 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 42 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 9 on standby, 4 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 195 NM, estimated altitude 25,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 58 minutes

Japanese aircraft (most Jap planes in this wave never saw battle� fortunately)
A6M3a Zero x 25
A6M5 Zero x 267

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 14
P-38H Lightning x 15
P-40N1 Warhawk x 18
P-40N5 Warhawk x 13
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 65
F4U-1 Corsair x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-40N1 Warhawk: 2 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
33 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
26 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
24 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
25 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
26 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
25 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
26 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
30 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
25 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
24 x A6M5 Zero sweeping at 25000 feet
25 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 25000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 34250.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 57 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (9 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
9 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 31000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 6 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 35920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 56 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (8 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 58 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (4 airborne, 4 on standby, 3 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 32920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (2 airborne, 13 on standby, 3 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 55 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 5 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 23000 and 34920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 8 on standby, 4 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 33920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 59 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 34 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 8

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 7
P-38H Lightning x 12
P-40N1 Warhawk x 10
P-40N5 Warhawk x 11
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 52
F4U-1 Corsair x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 3 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 5 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 30000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (3 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 31330 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 13 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 25000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 23000 and 34920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 4 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 8 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 25000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 32920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 22 NM, estimated altitude 33,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 9

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 7
P-38H Lightning x 9
P-40N1 Warhawk x 9
P-40N5 Warhawk x 9
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 48
F4U-1 Corsair x 15

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (4 airborne, 6 on standby, 3 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 25000 and 34250.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 25000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 52 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 13 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 28760 and 34920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 4 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 8 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 29000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (1 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 27000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 23000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 32920.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby , at 98,130

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 22 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 36

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 11
P-38H Lightning x 17
P-40N1 Warhawk x 12
P-40N5 Warhawk x 12
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 78
F4U-1 Corsair x 17

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 7 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed
F4U-1 Corsair: 2 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 16 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 13 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 27000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 14 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 19 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 36

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 10
P-38H Lightning x 15
P-40N1 Warhawk x 12
P-40N5 Warhawk x 10
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 69
F4U-1 Corsair x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 5 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000 , scrambling fighters between 16000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 50 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (4 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (4 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 39 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 74 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 22 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 25
P1Y1 Frances x 39

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 8
P-38H Lightning x 13
P-40N1 Warhawk x 12
P-40N5 Warhawk x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 63
F4U-1 Corsair x 13

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 12 destroyed
P1Y1 Frances: 14 destroyed, 4 damaged
P1Y1 Frances: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 damaged
P-38H Lightning: 2 damaged
P-40N1 Warhawk: 2 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 2 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed on ground

Allied ground losses:
10 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Airbase hits 21
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 46

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x P1Y1 Frances bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000 , scrambling fighters between 13000 and 31450.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
11 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 9 minutes
2 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 28760 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
8 planes vectored on to bombers
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 8 on standby, 2 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 3000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
8 planes vectored on to bombers
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (8 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
8 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 13 minutes
12 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
16 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 24000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
13 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 11 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
10 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 9 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
9 planes vectored on to bombers
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 8 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 4 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 177 NM, estimated altitude 35,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 50 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3 Zero x 13
A6M3a Zero x 20
N1K1-J George x 19

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 5
P-38H Lightning x 12
P-40N1 Warhawk x 11
P-40N5 Warhawk x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 54
F4U-1 Corsair x 10

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3 Zero: 4 destroyed
A6M3a Zero: 2 destroyed
N1K1-J George: 3 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed
F4U-1 Corsair: 2 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
8 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (5 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 16150.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 68 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 24190.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 56 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 15320.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 39 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 51 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 26760.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 62 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 61 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 58 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 61 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 150 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 38 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 127
B6N1 Jill x 73
B6N2 Jill x 63
D4Y1 Judy x 121

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 2
P-38H Lightning x 10
P-40N1 Warhawk x 10
P-40N5 Warhawk x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 38
F4U-1 Corsair x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 12 destroyed
B6N1 Jill: 1 destroyed, 6 damaged
B6N2 Jill: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 2 destroyed, 5 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 2 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 2 damaged
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed on ground
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed, 9 damaged
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 destroyed, 5 damaged
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N5 Warhawk: 3 damaged
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 2 destroyed, 10 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 2 destroyed on ground

Allied ground losses:
62 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 9 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled

Airbase hits 16
Airbase supply hits 4
Runway hits 89

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
13 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
13 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
16 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
9 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
13 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
2 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
5 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
10 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
4 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
13 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
2 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
15 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
15 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
10 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
11 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 13000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 7000 and 24190.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 8000 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 5 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 9000 and 13000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 10000 and 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 7 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 14000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 5 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 8 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 156 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 40 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 17
B6N1 Jill x 29
B6N2 Jill x 8
D4Y1 Judy x 70

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 1
P-38H Lightning x 6
P-40N1 Warhawk x 4
P-40N5 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 16
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 3 destroyed
B6N1 Jill: 3 destroyed
B6N2 Jill: 2 destroyed
D4Y1 Judy: 7 destroyed, 7 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed, 2 damaged

Allied ground losses:
24 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Airbase hits 4
Runway hits 9

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
13 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
4 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
11 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
10 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
1 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 10000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
2 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000'
Airfield Attack: 1 x 500 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
2 planes vectored on to bombers
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
6 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 18000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 30760.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
2 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
3 planes vectored on to bombers
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 102 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 33 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 13
B6N1 Jill x 13

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 1
P-38H Lightning x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 5
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 1 destroyed
B6N1 Jill: 3 destroyed, 2 damaged
B6N1 Jill: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 18000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters to 17000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 5 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000 , scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 4 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 28 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
B6N2 Jill x 5

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 1
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
B6N2 Jill: 2 destroyed, 1 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Allied bombers launch night airfield strikes on Madang, Lae and Buna. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

4 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
4 x 43rd BG/64th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 43rd BG/65th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 3rd BG/90th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 43rd BG/403rd BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
4 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 380th BG/528th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
4 x 380th BG/529th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
4 x 380th BG/530th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
6 x 380th BG/531st BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
5 x 43rd BG/64th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
5 x 380th BG/530th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (17% moonlight)

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6
B-25C Mitchell x 13

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 1 destroyed on ground
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

Allied aircraft losses
B-25C Mitchell: 1 damaged
B-25C Mitchell: 2 damaged

Airbase hits 2
Runway hits 4

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb
4 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 20 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 36 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Severe storms (17% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 35 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 55 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid detected at 29 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 7000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Clear sky (17% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 49 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 54 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 15 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 damaged
A6M2-N Rufe: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid spotted at 26 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 49 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 2 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 3
Runway hits 4

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna � airfield damage 21, 28 aircraft (all fighters), 1 Jap TF (7 ships, barges and small ships), 23 Jap LCU.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � no reported airfield damage, 99 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU, no visible Japanese TF.

Detected status of Jap base at Madang shows no airfield damage or numbers of Jap planes, no Jap TF, 3 Jap LCU�s.

Japanese patrol sub chased off by light surface ASW leaving Port Moresby. No reported contacts between Jap submarines and Allied transports leaving Port Moresby ahead of the anticipated KB air strike. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Port Moresby at 96,134 (SW of Port Moresby)

Japanese Ships
SS I-7

Allied Ships
SC-1067
SC-1066

SS I-7 launches 2 torpedoes at SC-1067
I-7 diving deep ....
SC-1066 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/15/2014 12:00:32 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1253

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/14/2014 11:04:51 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/21/43 (continued)

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 361K supply and 4200 fuel on hand. No reported airfield damage from night Jap bombing raids, all F4U-1 Corsair planes at Noumea are operational. A small transport convoy (4 xAP) arrived in Noumea from Auckland with HQ US 5th Fleet and 5K supply. Although US 5th Fleet HQ does not have any naval support capability, the regular support squads in this LCU easily addresses a current deficit of support elements in Noumea for combat and engineer LCU currently onshore.

US 27th Infantry Division moving through the adjacent land hex outside Koumac. Still no detected Japanese LCU visible in Koumac base hex.

Japanese night bombing raid on Noumea aifield. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Noumea, at 115,160

Weather in hex: Light rain (17% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 1 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 7

Allied aircraft
F4U-1 Corsair x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 1 damaged (possible ops loss)

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-111 with F4U-1 Corsair (2 airborne, 4 on standby, 3 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Noumea, at 115,160

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 6

Allied aircraft
F4U-1 Corsair x 9

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Allied ground losses:
6 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Airbase hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-111 with F4U-1 Corsair (9 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
9 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coastwatcher entries from 12/21 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul , Speed 4, Moving Southeast

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1254

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/14/2014 11:06:53 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/21/43 (continued)

Central Pacific: US patrol sub intercepts unescorted small Jap transport near the Bonins. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Chichi-jima at 114,81 (SE of Iwo Jima)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Nikko Maru, Shell hits 3, heavy fires, heavy damage (sunk)

Allied Ships
SS Redfin

SS Redfin attacking xAKL Nikko Maru on the surface

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 12/21 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Gardner Is. Detected status at Gardner Is shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Australia: Amphibious transports and landing ships from the Noumea operation arriving (or already arrived) in Sydney and Brisbane for repair of minor system/engine damage and general turn-around for the next operation. Several LST with heavier damage are now in shipyard repair. Presence of the KB �up north� presents no delay to planning of Allied amphibious operations as I would be using this period of time to do what�s now being done anyway. In terms of Allied amphibious operations, timing of Pillager�s current KB sortie is actually quite convenient.

Two transport convoys (EX-53 and MX-22) arriving in Australia this game turn from Capetown.

Convoy EX-53 (43 ships) from the Eastern US � cargo includes 160 USA Base Force, nine air units (4 fighter, 3 night fighter, 2 recon), 176K supply and 11K fuel.
Convoy MX-22 (8 TK) from Abadan via Capetown � 60K fuel cargo.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 3 Jap TF, 110 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe (after raid below) � 104 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 121(180), refinery 97(4). Sigint report entry for 12/21 reports Jap 13 Independent Heavy Artillery Bn now in Magwe � this LCU previously reported in Manchuria as of 10/27/43. It�s likely that 13 Heavy Artillery Bn is one of the Jap LCU I�ve been counting in Magwe but had not previously identified � rather than a new arrival.

Night strategic raid launched by USAAF and RAF bombers against oil production facilities in Magwe. One US B-24D Liberator lost (ops), one Ki-45 Nick fighter reported destroyed (air-to-air). Current status of Magwe (above) indicates some additional damage to Magwe oil production.

4 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
7 x No.215 Sqn RAF Wellington B.X stray due to night
5 x 341st BG/22nd BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
4 x 341st BG/490th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
4 x 341st BG/491st BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/492nd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
5 x 341st BG/490th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
5 x 7th BG/492nd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Overcast (17% moonlight)

Raid detected at 75 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 28 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 14

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 11
Liberator B.III x 9
Wellington Ic x 16
Wellington B.X x 9
B-24D Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Oil hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Wellington Ic bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
11 x Liberator II bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x Liberator B.III bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
4 x Wellington B.X bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 4 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 35000, scrambling fighters between 9000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 51 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe , at 57,47

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 14

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 12
B-24D Liberator x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-45 KAIc Nick: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Oil hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (14 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
14 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 57 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 17 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 12

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 16

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 46 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 17 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 12

Allied aircraft
Wellington B.X x 7

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Wellington B.X: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Wellington B.X bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 44 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 12

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 5

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 12

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 4

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid spotted at 22 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIc Nick x 12

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 5

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIc Nick (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 35000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1255

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/17/2014 3:00:57 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/22/43

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 268K, airfield service damage 83, runway damage 80. 21 operational Allied fighter planes remain at Port Moresby, though highly questionable as to whether they can take off to fly CAP again. Allied fighter units in Port Moresby have clearly done their job.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea. Total reported plane losses per Intelligence screens Aircraft Losses display � 187 Japanese, 45 Allied.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 23 A6M2 Zero (20 air-to-air, 3 ops)
� 10 A6M3a Zero (all air-to-air)
� 53 A6M5 Zero (39 air-to-air, 14 ops)
� 4 Ki-44 Tojo (2 air-to-air, 2 ops)
� 2 N1K1-J George (both air-to-air)
� 26 D1Y1 Judy (4 air-to-air, 9 flak, 13 ops)
� 16 B6N1 Jill (11 air-to-air, 2 flak, 3 ops)
� 4 B6N2 Jill (3 air-to-air, 1 flak)
� 2 P1Y1 Frances (both air-to-air)
� 15 Ki-21 Sally (14 air-to-air, 1 flak)
� 32 G4M1 Betty (29 air-to-air, 2 flak, 1 ops)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 7 P-38H Lightning (1 air-to-air, 4 on the ground, 2 ops)
� 3 P-40N1 Warhawk (all on the ground)
� 8 P-40N5 Warhawk (1 air-to-air, 5 on the ground, 2 ops)
� 20 P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 air-to-air, 4 ops, 13 on the ground)
� 4 F4U-1 Corsair (3 air-to-air, 1 on the ground)
� 2 Spitfire Vc (both on the ground)
� 1 B-25C Mitchell (ops)

In the meantime� US Main Carrier force reaches position off NE Australia coast between Townsville and Cairns � now within striking range for possible launch of naval air strikes on KB. Strength of the US carrier force includes 10 CV, 3 CVL. Current situation map follows.

Some of the tactical considerations in play.

(1) KB must remain within 7 hex air range of Port Moresby to launch full air strikes against it. 7 hexes represents the maximum extended range for D4Y1 Judy dive bombers (no drop tanks available for these planes). This hex distance is also the maximum normal range of A6M5 Zero fighters (extended range is 8).

(2) Pillager is keeping KB in continuous movement to avoid Allied submarine attack. I have orders for one sub to move into KB current position (hex 98,123) to attack KB if Pillager keeps it stationary which I do not see as likely. To continue air strikes on Port Moresby, Pillager must keep KB at this range (7 hexes) or closer, either of these options putting it within range of a US carrier air strike.

(3) Estimated possibility of a third KB air strike on Port Moresby about 50-50. Pillager has two options at this point given Port Moresby remains (marginally) operational and the present extent of Japanese air losses � attack Port Moresby again to finish knocking it out or withdraw. Withdrawal eliminates any possible strike from US carriers.

(4) Estimated launch range of US carrier air strikes on KB is 5-7 hexes depending on KB�s new position next game turn, assuming Pillager keeps it within range of Port Moresby for another air strike. US carrier fighters (all F6F Hellcats) and SBD-5 dive bombers (majority of planes in VB squadrons) are launching with drop tanks. Torpedo bombers (all TBF-1 Avengers) and SB2C Helldivers are operating without drop tanks. One VB squadron of SBD-3 Dauntless is also operating without drop tanks. No US carrier planes have orders to operate beyond a 7-hex range, this for purposes of cohesion and also to prevent mini-strikes at 8-9 hexes away.

(5) Bomb/torpedo loads on US carrier planes have a wide range of possibilities depending on the exact range a strike is launched. Depending on where in the 5-7 hex estimated range the strikes occur and the role of drop tanks, there may or may not be torpedoes, same for 1000lb bombs. An unknown factor here is the effect of using drop tanks. They�re hitting KB with whatever they can carry along.

(6) Fighter allocation for US carrier VF squadrons is 60% CAP for the 10 CV, 100% for the three CVL. CVL fighters are covering lower altitudes to pick up Jap torpedo bombers. Japanese LBA bombing strikes are a good possibility, though attrition of P1Y1 Francis and G4M Betty planes over Port Moresby will limit Pillager�s ability to launch effective LBA naval air strikes.

(7) There is good possibility of an element of surprise for a US carrier strike, though not a certainty.

(8) The question is� does Pillager keep KB around or not for a third strike on Port Moresby. Given that Port Moresby remains in operation (though marginally), he could see a third KB strike as necessary, especially given that it�s unlikely he has sufficient Japanese LBA air strength available to effectively attack Port Moresby without the KB. On the other side of the equation, the KB may have taken enough aircraft losses for Pillager to order its withdrawal. A withdrawal effectively nullifying possibility of a US carrier air strike.

The meat grinder at Port Moresby continues, the most notable Japanese plane losses among KB fighters (A6M Zeroes) and 2E LBA bombers (Bettys). Both categories of Jap plane losses favor a US carrier strike. Allied pilot losses in the last two days have been very light relative to the loss of planes. The outcome of today�s air action creates some possibility Pillager may be induced to launch a third KB air strike on Port Moresby. In any event, 450+ Japanese planes lost to take down an airfield (not completely taken down yet) a small victory in itself. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 48 NM, estimated altitude 35,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 18

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 7
P-38H Lightning x 7
P-40N1 Warhawk x 3
P-40N5 Warhawk x 5
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 39
F4U-1 Corsair x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 26000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 10 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 27000 and 29000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 18000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid detected at 150 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 44 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 18
A6M3a Zero x 21
N1K1-J George x 39

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 7
P-38H Lightning x 7
P-40N1 Warhawk x 3
P-40N5 Warhawk x 5
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 37
F4U-1 Corsair x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed
N1K1-J George: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet *
13 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
3 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
15 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
6 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
10 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
3 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
3 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
5 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 30000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (1 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 28920 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 28000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 43 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (3 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 35 NM, estimated altitude 24,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 8

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 7
P-38H Lightning x 5
P-40N1 Warhawk x 3
P-40N5 Warhawk x 4
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 36
F4U-1 Corsair x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 3 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 14000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 39 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 42 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 39000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 34000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 19000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 30000 and 33810.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 28 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 11
G4M1 Betty x 30

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 6
P-38H Lightning x 4
P-40N1 Warhawk x 2
P-40N5 Warhawk x 4
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 31
F4U-1 Corsair x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 5 destroyed
G4M1 Betty: 6 destroyed, 10 damaged
G4M1 Betty: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 2 damaged
P-40N1 Warhawk: 2 damaged
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N5 Warhawk: 2 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 4 damaged

Airbase hits 3
Airbase supply hits 4
Runway hits 17

Aircraft Attacking:
19 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 7000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters between 21000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 7 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 20000 and 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 22000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
6 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
7 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 9000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 9 minutes
3 planes vectored on to bombers
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 23000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
3 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 44 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 3
G4M1 Betty x 13

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 5
P-38H Lightning x 4
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-40N5 Warhawk x 4
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 26
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
G4M1 Betty: 7 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Raid is overhead
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 13 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 11000 and 26520.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 35000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 15350.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters to 13000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 171 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 47 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 2

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 5
P-38H Lightning x 4
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-40N5 Warhawk x 4
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 24
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(2 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 57 minutes
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(2 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(1 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 10000 and 26520.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 54 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
(2 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 6000 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 58 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 10000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 57 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 57 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 16

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 4
P-38H Lightning x 3
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-40N5 Warhawk x 2
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 23
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 7 destroyed, 1 damaged
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 1 destroyed by flak

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 10000 and 25000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 7 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 5000 and 26000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 8000 and 28760.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 23000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 5000 and 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Raid is overhead
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 22000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid detected at 125 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 32 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 18
A6M5 Zero x 175
B6N1 Jill x 56
B6N2 Jill x 45
D4Y1 Judy x 97

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 5
P-38H Lightning x 4
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-40N5 Warhawk x 2
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 32
F4U-1 Corsair x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 2 destroyed
A6M5 Zero: 11 destroyed
B6N1 Jill: 1 destroyed, 10 damaged
B6N1 Jill: 1 destroyed by flak
B6N2 Jill: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged
B6N2 Jill: 1 destroyed by flak
D4Y1 Judy: 2 destroyed, 5 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 5 damaged
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed on ground
P-38H Lightning: 4 damaged
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 damaged
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N5 Warhawk: 2 damaged
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 21 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 6 destroyed on ground
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed, 2 damaged
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed on ground

Airbase hits 7
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 32

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
13 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
7 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
11 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
16 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
11 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
14 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
7 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
12 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
6 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
10 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 14000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 1 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 16000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters between 13000 and 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 18000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 13 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 7 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 9000 and 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 8000 and 12000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 143 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 42 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 3
P1Y1 Frances x 8

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 4
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-40N5 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 19
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 2 destroyed
P1Y1 Frances: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 16000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
2 planes vectored on to bombers
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 10000 and 21000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes
2 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 17000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 5 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 48 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 17000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes
2 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 43 minutes
4 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 62 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 46 minutes
5 planes vectored on to bombers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 155 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 40 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 66
B6N1 Jill x 38
B6N2 Jill x 8
D4Y1 Judy x 30

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 4
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-40N5 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 18
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 5 destroyed
B6N1 Jill: 4 destroyed, 2 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 23 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 damaged
Spitfire Vc Trop: 1 destroyed on ground
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 damaged
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed, 9 damaged
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed on ground
F4U-1 Corsair: 2 damaged
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground

Allied ground losses:
11 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 12

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
11 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x B6N2 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
12 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
2 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
11 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
2 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 4 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 32 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 5 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 3 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 15000 and 17000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 50 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
P1Y1 Frances x 8

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 2
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 7
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
P1Y1 Frances: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 13760.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 29 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 56 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby , at 98,130

Raid detected at 116 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 38 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 27
B6N1 Jill x 5
D4Y1 Judy x 12

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 7
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 1 destroyed
B6N1 Jill: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged
B6N1 Jill: 1 destroyed by flak
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed, 3 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x B6N1 Jill bombing from 10000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
1 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 3000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
4 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 23 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes
1 planes vectored on to bombers
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 16000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 8 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 8
D4Y1 Judy x 11

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 1
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
D4Y1 Judy: 6 damaged
D4Y1 Judy: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 2000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D4Y1 Judy releasing from 1000' *
Airfield Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-311 with F4U-1 Corsair (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters to 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Allied bombers launch night airfield strikes on Madang, Lae and Buna � only the raid on Madang took place. Attempted night bombing raids on Lae and Buna appeared to abort due to weather. The raid on Madang appeared to inflict little if any reported or visible damage. No runs, no hits, no errors, lots of Allied planes stayed on base. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

6 x No.18 Sqn RAAF B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
4 x 43rd BG/64th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
4 x 43rd BG/65th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 3rd BG/90th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 380th BG/528th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
4 x 380th BG/530th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (10% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 64 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 18 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640, scrambling fighters to 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 8

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 44 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 48 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 33 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 4

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-25C Mitchell: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna � airfield damage 2, 44 aircraft (all fighters), 1 Jap TF (6 ships, barges and small ships), 23 Jap LCU.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � no airfield damage, 52 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU, 4 Jap TF�s (35 ships total, all small ships and barges).

Detected status of Jap base at Madang shows no airfield damage, 19 planes (9 fighters, 7 bombers), no Jap TF, 8 Jap LCU�s.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/17/2014 4:18:21 AM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1256

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/17/2014 3:13:29 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/22/43 (continued)

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 362K supply and 4200 fuel on hand, airfield size now 6(5). Another small transport convoy arrives at Noumea from New Zealand with HQ USAirSoPac and 5 Marine (CD) Defense Bn plus 7200 supply.

US 27th Infantry Division occupies Koumac unopposed. No AAR. Current airfield size at Koumac is 0(7), port size 1(1). Plans are to transfer engineer LCU into Koumac as base expansion at Noumea is completed, mainly to expand airfield facilities.

No reported air activity over Noumea or the New Caledonia area.

Transport convoy WP-120 (CVL Cabot, 4 DD, 37 transports) arrives in Auckland from the mainland US. Cargo aboard the convoy includes two LCU (231 USN Base Force & 70/100 Coast AA Rgt), 160K supply and 81K fuel. CVL Cabot and 4 DD are remaining in the South Pacific theatre area to reinforce naval operations.

Coastwatcher entries from 12/22 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: xAK Namba Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 3, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed 5 , Moving East
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 4, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Namba Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 3, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed 5, Moving East
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1257

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/17/2014 3:14:34 AM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/22/43 (continued)

Eastern US: Transport convoy EX-61 (34 ships) departing Eastern US for Australia via Capetown. Cargo aboard the convoy includes 4 air units (3 night fighter, one 2E bomber), 182K supply and 17K fuel. Plans are now being considered to gradually phase out EX convoys from the Eastern US sometime in 1944, this likely at a point where ports in Australia are no longer useful drop off points for cargoes leaving the Eastern US. Transport ships currently being used in the EX/XE convoy route will transfer to other convoy routes or theatre areas according to sea transport needs.

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 12/22 reports intercepted Jap radio signals from Roi-Namur. Detected status of Roi-Namur shows unidentified Jap planes based there, airfield size 4(1), port size 2(0), no other visible Japanese forces or activity

Intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Tabiteuea reported in multiple 12/22 Sigint entries. Detected status at Tabiteuea shows unidentified Jap planes based there, ship(s) in port, airfield size 4(3), port size 3(1), no other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon � no Japanese ships in port, 3 Jap TF, 128 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU�s, light industry 9(32), refinery 96(105).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe � 120 aircraft (all fighters), 24 Jap LCU, oil production 121(180), refinery 97(4).

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1258

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/21/2014 9:00:09 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/23/43

Southwest Pacific: Current status of Port Moresby base � supply on hand 267K, airfield service damage 84, runway damage 42. 14 operational Allied fighter planes remain at Port Moresby.

Repair of airfield facilities in Port Moresby should not be difficult given ample quantities of both engineer elements and supply available. I�m estimating Jap air raids on Port Moresby airfield to continue on a somewhat reduced scale, enough to slow down the rate of airfield repair but not sufficient to stop or reverse it. Allied fighter squadrons based in Port Moresby are drawing replacement pilots to cover combat losses. For the moment, drawing of replacement planes is being deferred until airfield service facilities in Port Moresby are repaired to where new replacement planes can quickly be readied for operational use � the premise of this idea to prevent new replacement planes from being destroyed on the ground (in damaged condition) while awaiting repair of airfield service facilities to make them operational.

Summary of this game turn�s aircraft losses over all locations in New Guinea. Not surprisingly, aircraft losses declined considerably with KB�s withdrawal and exhausted state of LBA air forces on both sides.

Japanese planes reported destroyed
� 8 A6M2 Zero (2 air-to-air, 2 on the ground, 4 ops)
� 1 A6M3a Zero (on the ground)
� 5 Ki-44 Tojo (3 air-to-air, 2 on the ground)
� 6 N1K1-J George (5 air-to-air, 1 on the ground)
� 2 Ki-21 Sally (both flak)
� 1 P1Y1 Frances (ops)

Allied planes reported destroyed
� 2 P-38H Lightning (1 air-to-air, 1 on the ground)
� 1 P-40N5 Warhawk (air-to-air)
� 6 P-47D2 Thunderbolt (5 air-to-air, 1 ops)
� 1 B-2D1 Liberator (ops)
� 1 Catalina I (air-to-air over KB)

The anticipated carrier battle back and forth over New Guinea did not materialize � factors being Pillager�s withdrawal of KB to the north plus the US Carrier Main force not reaching its expected launch position (its northward movement slowed, possibly the result of actions between escort ships in several US carrier TF�s and Jap patrol submarines shown below). Either of these two events alone would have cancelled the possibility of a carrier battle, in fact both happened. KB�s current detected position is in the Manus base hex (location 101, 119) with reported movement to the NE. One consequence of the New Guinea land mass positioned between the KB and US Carrier forces is that the presence of land eliminating any possibility of carriers on either side closing on the other or a pursuit by either side if the other withdrew.

It�s not known whether Pillager was aware of the US Carrier Main force � no positive evidence pointing in either direction as to whether US carriers were detected. Possible contacts between US carrier planes (TBF Avengers on search flights) and Jap submarines could have occurred last game turn. Entries for these contacts in the 12/22 game turn reports did not state whether Jap submarines actually spotted TBF Avenger planes (US planes largely spotting the subs below the surface).

Orders have been issued for the US Main Carrier force to return southward. With KB�s departure, there are no significant Japanese targets for air strikes from the carrier force that cannot be handled by other means. Two game turns of full speed naval movement added minor damage (various) to many ships in the carrier force � no major damage. There will be plenty of work for the shipyards, repair ships and dockside repair folks to take care of, the sooner started the better.

Several daylight actions took place between escort ships in several TF�s from the US Main Carrier force and a picket line of Jap submarines SW of Port Moresby and E of Portland Roads. No indication the Jap subs spotted any US carriers, though it�s a moot point given the end result of this game turn�s naval action. A related surface ASW vs sub action near Cairns in the northward movement path of the US Carrier force. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Moresby at 95,133 (SW of Port Moresby)

Japanese Ships
SS I-23

Allied Ships
CA New Orleans
DD Hazelwood
DD Morris
DD Carmick
DD Saufley
DD Ringgold

SS I-23 is sighted by escort
DD Morris fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Carmick fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Saufley fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Ringgold attacking submerged sub ....
SS I-23 eludes ASW attack from DD Ringgold
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Moresby at 95,133

Japanese Ships
SS I-23, hits 4

Allied Ships
CL Phoenix
CLAA Reno
DD Converse
DD Selfridge
DD Porter
DD Russell
DD Endicott

SS I-23 is sighted by escort
DD Selfridge attacking submerged sub ....
DD Porter fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Russell fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Endicott attacking submerged sub ....
DD Selfridge fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Endicott fails to find sub and abandons search
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Moresby at 95,133

Japanese Ships
SS RO-34, hits 4

Allied Ships
CA Wichita
CA Chester
CL Achilles
CLAA San Juan
DD DeHaven
DD Ammen
DD Satterlee
DD Farenholt
DD Buchanan
DD Aaron Ward

SS RO-34 is sighted by escort
DD Satterlee fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Farenholt fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Buchanan fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Aaron Ward fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Farenholt attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Moresby at 95,133

Japanese Ships
SS RO-34, hits 7

Allied Ships
BB South Dakota
CA Pensacola
CLAA Atlanta
DD Grayson
DD Strong
DD Clark
DD O'Brien
DD Sims
DD Thompson

SS RO-34 is sighted by escort
DD Clark fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD O'Brien fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Sims fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Thompson fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Clark attacking submerged sub ....
SS RO-34 eludes ASW attack from DD Clark
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Cooktown at 94,139 (NE of Cairns)

Japanese Ships
SS I-32

Allied Ships
SC-1062
SC-1064
SC-1063

SS I-32 is located by SC-1062
SC-1064 fails to find sub and abandons search
SC-1063 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Air combat action over Port Moresby decreased considerably after Pillager�s withdrawal of KB from the battle, though the volume of text generated by AE continued unabated. Actions below involve only remains of exhausted LBA air forces on both sides. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid detected at 16 NM, estimated altitude 33,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 13

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 3
P-38H Lightning x 2
P-40N1 Warhawk x 3
P-40N5 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 31000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 12000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 30000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 18000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 24 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 3 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 27000 and 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 19 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 11

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 3
P-38H Lightning x 2
P-40N1 Warhawk x 3
P-40N5 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 11

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 25000 feet

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters between 16000 and 28330.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 3 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000, scrambling fighters between 22000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 49 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 13 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters between 14000 and 37000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000, scrambling fighters between 24920 and 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000, scrambling fighters to 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 197 NM, estimated altitude 36,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 58 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 15
A6M3a Zero x 6
N1K1-J George x 28

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 1
P-38H Lightning x 2
P-40N1 Warhawk x 2
P-40N5 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K1-J George: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-40N5 Warhawk: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet *
6 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
10 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
3 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
4 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet
11 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
2 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
49th FG/7th FS with P-40N5 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 26000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters to 16000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 77 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 27000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 67 minutes
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000, scrambling fighters to 24000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 36 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 185 NM, estimated altitude 27,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 55 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 12
N1K1-J George x 6

Allied aircraft
Spitfire Vc Trop x 1
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 25000 feet

CAP engaged:
No.76 Sqn RAAF with Spitfire Vc Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 25000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 56 minutes
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Raid is overhead
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 10 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid spotted at 38 NM, estimated altitude 24,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 3

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 1

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

CAP engaged:
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 27000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 4 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 39 NM, estimated altitude 32,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 4

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 1

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 31000 feet
2 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 31000 feet

CAP engaged:
348th FG/341st FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 27000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby , at 98,130

Raid detected at 168 NM, estimated altitude 27,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 46 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 9

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 25000 feet
2 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 25000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 36 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 11

Allied aircraft
no flights

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 4 damaged
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 1 destroyed by flak

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 1 damaged
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed on ground

Airbase hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
10 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Port Moresby, at 98,130

Raid detected at 46 NM, estimated altitude 29,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 10

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
10 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 25000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Port Moresby , at 98,130

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid detected at 22 NM, estimated altitude 35,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1-J George x 9

Allied aircraft
P-38H Lightning x 1
P-40N1 Warhawk x 1
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K1-J George: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x N1K1-J George sweeping at 30000 feet

CAP engaged:
49th FG/9th FS with P-40N1 Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 4 minutes
35th FG/39th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 22000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 20 minutes
8th FG/80th FS with P-38H Lightning (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
348th FG/340th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
348th FG/342nd FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 18000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Night airfield bombing strikes by Allied bombers on Madang, Lae and Buna. Combat Events report entries and AAR�s follow.

6 x No.18 Sqn RAAF B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
4 x 43rd BG/64th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 43rd BG/65th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
4 x 38th BG/71st BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 90th BG/319th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/320th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 90th BG/400th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
6 x 28th BG/404th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 38th BG/405th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
4 x 22nd BG/408th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
6 x 345th BG/498th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 345th BG/499th BS B-25C Mitchell stray due to night
6 x 380th BG/528th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
6 x 380th BG/530th BS B-24J Liberator stray due to night
6 x 380th BG/531st BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night
5 x No.120 Sqn RAAF Mitchell II stray due to night
5 x 90th BG/400th BS B-24D1 Liberator stray due to night

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Weather in hex: Moderate rain (3% moonlight)

Raid detected at 72 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 21 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-25C Mitchell: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 28640, scrambling fighters to 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
Mitchell II x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x Mitchell II bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640, scrambling fighters to 28000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 52 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid detected at 10 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Madang, at 97,123

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E13A1 Jake x 3

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
958 Ku T-8 with E13A1 Jake (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 28640
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Weather in hex: Clear sky (3% moonlight)

Raid detected at 42 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 44 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid detected at 46 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 9000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid detected at 28 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 13000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 57 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Lae, at 99,126

Raid spotted at 37 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
N1K1 Rex x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
902 Ku S-1 with N1K1 Rex (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 13000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Heavy rain (3% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 71 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 24 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
5 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 32000, scrambling fighters to 32000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 51 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 36 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Raid detected at 27 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Buna, at 99,129

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid detected at 28 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2-N Rufe x 3

Allied aircraft
B-24J Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K1-J George: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-24J Liberator bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
934 Ku S-1 with A6M2-N Rufe (3 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 32000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Detected status of Jap base at Buna � airfield damage 2, 72 aircraft (all fighters), 1 Jap TF (5 ships, barges and small ships), 23 Jap LCU.

Detected status of Jap base at Lae � no airfield damage, 82 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU, 4 Jap TF�s (38 ships total, all small ships and barges).

Detected status of Jap base at Madang shows no airfield damage, undetermined Jap plane(s), no Jap TF, 7 Jap LCU�s. Available intelligence data has four identified Jap LCU located in Madang � Bandasan SNLF, 4 JAAF Base Force, 17 JAAF AF Bn, 51 Construction Bn.

US patrol sub in action with small Jap transport ship in Bismarck Sea area near Lae. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Cape Gloucester at 101,124 (NE of Lae)

Japanese Ships
xAKL Shinsoku Maru, Shell hits 3, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage

Allied Ships
SS Haddo, hits 3 (system damage 3, float 5, engine 1)

xAKL Shinsoku Maru is sighted by SS Haddo
SS Haddo attacking on the surface
Corbus, J. decides to submerge SS Haddo due to damage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sigint entry for 12/23 reports Jap 12 Independent Artillery Bn now located at Wewak (New Guinea), this LCU a transfer from China and also veteran of the Chungking battles.

< Message edited by wneumann -- 3/21/2014 10:12:00 PM >

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1259

RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly P... - 3/21/2014 9:05:37 PM

wneumann

Posts: 3768
Joined: 11/1/2005
From: just beyond the outskirts of Margaritaville
Status: offline

Summary of Operations 12/23/43 (continued)

South Pacific: Current base status of Noumea � 351K supply and 4200 fuel on hand, airfield size now 6(5). Some supply points drawn from Noumea to create an on-hand supply point reserve at Koumac.

No reported air activity over Noumea or the New Caledonia area.

Japanese patrol sub intercepts transport TF returning from Noumea to New Zealand in a night action. AAR�s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Norfolk Island at 116,174 (SE of Norfolk Is)

Japanese Ships
SS I-1

Allied Ships
xAP Anglo Canadian

xAP Anglo Canadian is sighted by SS I-1
SS I-1 launches 2 torpedoes at xAP Anglo Canadian (one dud torpedo hit)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Norfolk Island at 116,174

Japanese Ships
SS I-1

Allied Ships
xAP Egra, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (sunk)

xAP Egra is sighted by SS I-1
SS I-1 launches 2 torpedoes at xAP Egra
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Coastwatcher entries from 12/23 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 7 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 103,124 near Talasea, Speed 12, Moving West
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Namatanai
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 99,129 near Buna, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 10 Japanese ships at 99,126 near Lae, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown

(in reply to wneumann)

Post #: 1260

Page: << < prev 40 41 [42] 43 44 next > >>

All Forums >> [New Releases from Matrix Games] >> War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition >> After Action Reports >> RE: Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Jolly Pillager)