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13-14 Apr 42 - 2/21/2015 7:44:36 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		13-14 Apr 42

Highlights - Darwin is bombarded again; Raid on Wake finds targets while the KB turns up in CENPAC

Jpn ships sunk:
CA: 1 (Furutaka is listed as sunk from a single bomb hit off Darwin a while ago)
TB: 1
PB: 1
xAP: 1
xAK: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
CA: 1 (Atago apparently wasn’t sunk by mines off Merak)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 25
Allied: 22

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, no ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, no ships hit

Amph Inv:
Nonouti (CENPAC)

Bases lost:
Nonouti (CENPAC)
Roti (DEI)
Nookanbah (SWPAC -Aus)

SIGINT/Intel:KB shows up off Baker Is - at least I know where it is!

West Coast/Admin. Convoys begin forming up in SF (PH) and LA (Auck). IJN sub sighted off SF will draw some attention from ASW groups shortly.

In NOPAC. 2 IJN xAKLs are sighted at Attu and missed by SS S-28, they apparently depart quickly - will have to send some ships to see if they withdrew the garrison.

CENPAC. US CV TF (2CV, 2CA, CL, 7DD) hits Wake Is with airstrikes and finds a small convoy (2xAP, 2PB, DD) which is hit by the raid. 1 xAP is confirmed sunk, another likely as well as a PB hit. No US planes are lost. While this is ongoing, the KB is found by PBYs apparently heading toward Baker Is to support an invasion - talk about timing! My Baker Is landing force if fortunately just passing Palmyra - if I was a turn earlier, the KB would have found some very good targets! As it stands now, I’ll not contest any enemy landing on Baker, the US convoy will withdraw to east of Palmyra and then likely to SOPAC. The US CV TF off Wake will hit Wake again, then withdraw back to PH via north of Midway in case the KB tries an intercept. The real question is whether the Jpn is going just after Baker, or is this an attempt at Canton Is? Canton is at fort level 4, but only holds a USMC DB and an Para Bn for defense. Will be interesting!

In SOPAC, the convoy carrying the 6th Marines arrives at Noumea without incident. With the KB in CENPAC, the covering CA TF (3CA, 6DD) will proceed to bombard Luganville. If the KB is confirmed to stay out of CENPAC for a while, perhaps we can land on Efate early??

In SWPAC, Darwin is bombarded (2BB, CA, CL, 6DD) again, with moderate effect - the AF is still open, but supplies are very low. On the Wyndham front, two IJA Divisions (5th, 38th) with plenty of support attack across the first river line, smashing the remnants of the 2nd Aus Cav Bde and Sparrow Bn. Am establishing another river line defense, but lack of supply is the issue. This line has 2 Bdes and support - not enough even if well supplied. At Port Hedland, the Aus ENs land without issue and begin building an AF to provide fighter cover. The Repulse TF will sortie to bombard Derby - this is a risk as I have minimal air cover, but the weather is bad and we might just be able to get out before the air search finds the TF. Also coming up via transport is the 18th Aus Bde which should begin landing at Port Hedland shortly. Lastly, B-17s again hit Broome, keeping the AF and port out of action.

In the Philippines, 3 sub transports deliver supply, as the bombardments continue.

In China, AVG tackles Oscar sweeps over Sian, with each side losing about 6 a/c. Will pull the AVG out of Sian as I can’t afford attrition.

In India/Burma, BB Warspite TF arrives at Diamond Harbor without issue.

In the DEI, IJN convoy is hit off Buitenzorg by what’s left of the Allied air - one xAK is torpedoed, but heavy fighter opposition is costly to Allied fighters. Will attempt another max effort against the convoy with what’s left of strike a/c next turn - worthwhile target and the situation isn’t going to improve once Bandoeng falls.


(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 181
15-16 Apr 42 - 2/23/2015 10:17:26 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		15-16 Apr 42

Highlights - KB disappears after troops are landed at Baker island; Both sides conduct two naval bombardments with moderate to good results. Bad day in the air off Java.

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Naka listed from damages suffered off Rangoon)
TB: 1
PB: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (I-15)

Allied ships sunk:
TK: 1 (small TK left behind at Darwin)

Air loss:
Jpn: 8
Allied: 24

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, no ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, no ships hit

Amph Inv:
Baker Is (CENPAC)
Sabang (DEI)

Bases lost:
Baker Is (CENPAC)
Padang (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: 53rd ID is planning for Noumea - find this interesting as either this is either 1)unit was bought out in political points 2) disinformation. My bet is the latter as I don’t think the IJN/IJA has the capability to land 3 divisions to take New Caledonia at this point.

West Coast/Admin. NSTR.

In NOPAC. NSTR.

CENPAC. KB vanishes after troops are landed at Baker Is - I figure they pulled back west, but there is a chance PBYs just missed him due to weather - we’ll keep shipping a safe distance away from Canton/Baker area. I have decided to land the troops bound for Baker at Palmyra - with Baker in enemy hands, will have to build up Palmyra as a staging base; Canton is too forward for that mission now. US CVs do hit Wake Is again, but find no shipping, and have poor results against the port, but only one SB2U is lost. They will return to PH via a route north of Midway just in case the KB is still hunting in CENPAC.

In SOPAC, US CA TF (3CA, 6DD) bombards Luganville with good effect, the goal to prevent AF construction. No enemy forces were encountered. The CA TF will return to Auckland as will the TF offloading the 6th Marine Reg. LaFoe AF now operational and will function as the primary USMC AF once its developed further, allowing B-17s to base at Noumea. New Caledonia is transitioning to the intended offensive platform; with 2 Marine Reg and 3 Army Regs plus support on hand, and more inbound, I’m not too concerned with the intel boys saying Noumea is a planned target. Frankly, at this point, I’d welcome the IJN/IJA attempting a “hard target” which can project a/c from multiple bases. Doubtful.

In SWPAC, Darwin is bombarded (BB, 4CA, CL, 4DD) yet again, with moderate effect closing the AF - which is largely empty anyway. I’ve also decided to pull an Aus IN Bde and some support out of Darwin back to Katherine. The support will pull down to Tennant Creek, and the IN BDE will orient towards the threat from Wyndham. This leaves one IN BDE and support left in Darwin - a frontal landing directly at Darwin would likely to succeed at this point, but it would be bloody. On the Broome Front, Derby is bombarded effectively by BC Repulse TF which will loiter off Port Hedland until the infantry completes offload. The best news is that Port Hedland AF is now operational, and a squadron of P-39s are flown in from Perth. Aviation support is minimal, but we can fix that as the AF expands toward level 2. I think we can hold Port Hedland and use it effectively to strike at Broome/Derby in the coming weeks.

In the Philippines, 2 sub transports deliver supply, as the bombardments continue. I’d figured he’d have tried an assault by now. Curious how long this will go on before he attacks; tying down about two divisions worth of troops and lots of artillery.

In China, the IJN (2CA, 2DD) bombards Kwangchowan which is currently (if you can believe this) under siege by a Chinese Corps which has chased the IJA from Pakhoi. The bombardment does much disruption, but with a lot of luck, maybe the Chinese can take the base….I can hope, right?

In India/Burma, the withdrawing BFs from Rangoon manage to reach Akyab - which is most welcome and unexpected; it has been a very slow slog. These BFs are mostly intact, including 6” CD guns! Elsewhere, the first US combat unit arrives at Bombay. The 87th Mtn Reg will head to secure Ledo. Also just arrived is the very capable British 70th Div which will divide into Bdes and position in Diamond Harbor, Chittagong and Calcutta to secure that vital area. With the Indian Army still woefully lacking training, the arrival of these combat elements are much welcomed.

In the DEI, the IJN convoy, now off Merak, is targeting by the remaining Anglo-Dutch AF left in Batavia/Bandoeng with the expected dismal results - IJA Oscar CAP shoots down 10 attacking a/c at no cost. Worse, the stragglers that get through fail to score. This leaves 20 fighters and 40 strike a/c left in Java - but morale, maintenance and skill levels are pretty poor.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 182
17-18 Apr 42 - 2/25/2015 8:38:33 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		17-18 Apr 42

Highlights - First CV Battle of the Pacific War is fought off Western Australia and is both unexpected and inconclusive.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS:1 (I-158)

Allied ships sunk:
xAP: 1 (small xAP left behind at Darwin)

Air loss:
Jpn: 42
Allied: 48

Subwar:
Jpn: 3 Attack, no ships hit
I-158 sunk by escorts after failed attack on CV Formidable off Port Hedland.
Allies: 3 Attacks, 1 ship hit (CV Junyo hit off Broome by S-38)

Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Sabang (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: CVs Junyo and Hiyo are confirmed in service the hard way - in a CV action. Did not expect both of these (one perhaps) to be completed this quickly.

West Coast/Admin. Convoys depart both SF and LA; convoy out of LA attacked by sub without loss. 8 of 12 DE conversions completed and join the force; ASW group will hunt for the sub prowling off southern CA.

In NOPAC. NSTR.

CENPAC. EN and USMC DB begin landing at Palmyra. Lex and Yorktown round Midway and turn toward PH.

In SOPAC, TFs begin returning to Auckland from Noumea, Suva and Aus - little enemy sub activity here for a change. Small convoy bound for Noumea with support troops and supply forms at Auckland.

In SWPAC, the big story is the carrier fight off Port Hedland (see next post for details). Elsewhere, Darwin is again bombarded (2CA, 4CL, 6DD) with good effect, although CA Kako is left on fire from being hit by CDs. I expect another bombardment next turn as well. AF remains closed. On the east coast, the US 41st Div arrives at Sydney where it will remain for the time being as a reserve of sorts. Intent was to commit toward Darwin, but the supply situation just doesn’t support that - and the NE Coast of Aus remains vulnerable to a determined assault.

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, the IJN (2CA, 2DD) again bombard Kwangchowan. IJA bombers also hit the Chinese Corps there in unescorted strikes - will attempt to ambush these strikes with the AVG out of Nanning.

In India/Burma, NSTR.

In the DEI, the main IJA force elects to bombard Bandoeng as other forces encircle the Allied position from withdrawal to Batavia.


(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 183
Battle off Port Hedland - 2/25/2015 8:42:00 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Battle off Port Hedland - Pacific War’s first carrier vs. carrier battle.



Background: I don’t think either side expected to find the enemy CVs in the vicinity. The Allied TFs were supporting the reinforcement of Port Hedland, landing the 18th Aus Bde. The CVs were laying off to the WSW providing LR CAP until the AF at Port Hedland was completed, and laying in wait for a possible enemy bombardment TF. The Repulse TF had just returned from bombarding Derby, and was laying just off Port Hedland to cover the offloading, but avoiding IJN subs known to be at the anchorage. The TR TF had offloaded most of the infantry, but support and heavy weapons would take another few days to offload. Once offloading was completed, all naval forces were to withdraw - upwards of another week on station was likely. I was not expecting CVs as the KB was known to be in CENPAC recently, and I did not consider that both the Junyo AND Hiyo would be available to reform the Mini-KB so quickly. Perhaps the Junyo, but not both.

Prelude: The first indication either side had to having enemy CVs in the area were provided by subs. First, the S-38 found and put a torpedo into the CV Junyo while the IJN were heading toward Port Hedland. While hitting the CV with one torpedo was confirmed, no fires or damage was apparent, and the Junyo would participate in the fight. L_S_T found the CVs early on the 18th when I-158 missed CV Formidalbe with 6 torps and paid the price when she was confirmed sunk on the surface by escorts. The stage was now set.

Battle: The IJN avoided the Repulse TF and the TR TF at Port Hedland, and closed to strike at the CVs once sighted. The first raid was met by a robust CAP even though a number of Martlets were providing LR CAP over the Repulse TF. Between the CAP and murderous AA, only two hits were scored on Indomitable by Vals. Armored flight decks proved their worth in spades! The British strike was outside the range of both Hurris and Martlets - the unescorted Albcores were massacred - only 1 managed to drop its fish, and missed. The next IJN strike met less CAP, but no less AA and only managed a single bomb hit on both CVs. The British airstrike managed only 8 Albacores, and none penetrated IJN CAP.

Aftermath: Despite 3 bomb hits, Indomitable was still in fighting form, with only 13 sys dam and Formidable with only 1 sys dam. But fighters were heavily atritted, and the Albacores gutted. Indomitable did have some weapon damage as well, reducing her AA capability. The IJN air arm was reduced heavily - especially by AA - 16 of 26 strike a/c claimed by AA. I figure the Junyo is at best lightly damaged by the sub attack. The British CV TF will withdraw at speed to Perth - I was very lucky so far, and its time to withdraw. However, pulling the Repulse TF or the TR TF would only sacrifice them to - what I assume anyway - to the IJN CVs looking for the British CVs off Exmouth. The Repulse and TR TF will remain at Port Hedland under cover of US P-39s and Aus Kittyhawks. I fully expect a surface action at Port Hedland on the 19th, followed by airstrikes. So, although I was fortunate in the CV battle to escape with minimal damage, I don’t think this is quite over yet.






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(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 184
RE: Battle off Port Hedland - 2/25/2015 10:44:12 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		Good to see they are unscratched

If your TBs were intact, I would had suggested to remain, as both CVs are scheduled to withdraw anyway, however, with Albacores killed there is no point... run fast

I hope you won't meet Mrs. Kate next turn




< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 2/25/2015 11:44:46 PM >

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 185
19-20 Apr 42 - 3/1/2015 7:01:54 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		19-20 Apr 42

Highlights - Expected surface action occurs at Port Hedland and is a IJN tactical victory; Allied air does well. Darwin bombardments continue.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Asakaze reported sunk from action at Makassar on 15 Jan 42.
TB: 1
SS: 1 (I-165 reported sunk from previous action off Port Hedland)
PB: 1

Allied ships sunk:
CL: 2 (Sumatra, Concord)
DD: 2 (Voyager, Van Ghent)
KV: 1
AM: 1
xAP: 3 (two off Port Hedland, one at anchor at Darwin)

Air loss:
Jpn: 77
Allied: 19

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (xAP sunk off Exmouth)
Allies: 3 Attacks, 1 ship hit (TB Hiyodori sunk by SS Trusty in Malacca Straits)

Amph Inv:
Makin (CENPAC)
Nanumea (CENPAC)

Bases lost:
Nanumea (CENPAC)
Makin (CENPAC)
Sipora (DEI)
Bandoeng (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. April DD/CL/CA upgrades begin coming out of the yards. 32nd ID begins loading at LA for transit to Australia.

In NOPAC. US DD TF (4DD) bombard Attu with minimal effect.

CENPAC. IJN finally lands to secure Makin Is; no sign of KB. US CV TF still at sea NE of Midway enroute to PH.

In SOPAC, Noumea bound convoy departs Auckland without incident. Made the decision to sortie CV TF (2CV, 3CA, 10DD) from Auckland to Western Australia; CV TF will depart Auckland tomorrow. Will leave minimal avail CA/CL capability in SOPAC as upgrade focus continues. Taking some risk here in SOPAC, but I think Noumea has sufficient airpower capability to warrant it.

In SWPAC, IJN TF (2BB, CL, 7DD) bombards Darwin again keeping the AF closed. The main story is at Port Hedland. As expected, an IJN TF (2BB, 3CA, 6DD) attempts to bombard and destroy shipping at Port Hedland. It is met first by my CL TF (2CL, 3DD), gathered from TR TF escorts - intent here was to “soak off” (to use an old board gaming term) the superior enemy TF prior to the main engagement. This TF does this to the utmost - 3 rounds of combat which results in all but one Allied DD sunk, with only a few hits against the enemy BBs - doing minimal damage. But the enemy TF has expended many torpedoes and main gun ammo prior to encountering the primary Allied surface TF (BC, 2CA, 2CL, 6DD). I expected much better from this TF - most veterans of previous engagements. Although the TF did prevent the IJN from bombarding the base and sinking any transports - Allied gunnery was pathetic. Despite closing to 3000yds, only the Yamashiro was even hit! Fortunately, IJN gunnery and torpedo attacks weren’t much better, and all Allied ships that were hit were only slightly damaged at worse. Assuming that the Repulse TF can avoid the subs and make it back to Perth without further loss, I take this engagement as an operational victory - although tactically, we should have done much, much better. Port Hedland was also active in daylight - both carrier and land based air attacked shipping - providing many aerial targets for the defending CAP. Ms. Betty made an appearance, unescorted out of Koepang, and was torn up by CAP - losing 32 of 50 while hitting on xAP (later sinking) and sinking a KV and AM. Carrier based air did little better, losing 10Z, 8V, 5K to achieve one bomb hit on BC Repulse (minimal effect). Allied losses were 6 P-39s and 4 Kittyhawks. A good day in the air over Port Hedland!




In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, the IJN (2CA, 2DD) again bombard Kwangchowan, but the AVG intercepts the unescorted bombers - 20 Lillys are downed for 1 H81-A3. I’m assuming he’ll provide escorts now, so the AVG will sit on the ground.

In India/Burma it remains fairly quiet - I’m surprised the IJN hasn’t made an effort to land troops at Akyab - or to take Port Blair. While I can’t do much, except subs, to interdict an attempt at Port Blair, I’ve got a good strike force built around BB Warspite waiting at Diamond Harbor to hit any attempt at Akyab. Not sure I want to keep this TF in the Calcutta area for an extended period - its at risk to sustained air attack.

In the DEI, Bandoeng falls to the second attack - 3 IJA divisions engaged. Not unexpected - surprised we’re still fighting on Java and Batavia still holds - providing a resupply port for subs heading to Bataan. AND providing a base for remaining Allied airpower in the DEI - which did well in attacking Palambang Oil with 18 sorties at low level in daylight - minimal Oscar CAP missed intercept and the old 139WH-3’s managed to destroy 13 oil!!! Nice.








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< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 3/1/2015 8:10:15 PM >

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)
Post #: 186
RE: 19-20 Apr 42 - 3/2/2015 12:26:49 PM   
jwolf

 

Posts: 2493
Joined: 12/3/2013
Status: offline 		Amazing that you couldn't score any more hits than that. The dice must have been ice cold.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 187
RE: 19-20 Apr 42 - 3/2/2015 2:31:18 PM   
Mike McCreery


Posts: 4232
Joined: 6/29/2013
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Amazing that you couldn't score any more hits than that. The dice must have been ice cold.


Many of his ships have night training in the 30's and 40's. They just cannot stand up toe to toe with the Japanese in early 1942.

_____________________________


(in reply to jwolf)
Post #: 188
RE: 19-20 Apr 42 - 3/2/2015 5:19:53 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Wargmr


quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Amazing that you couldn't score any more hits than that. The dice must have been ice cold.


Many of his ships have night training in the 30's and 40's. They just cannot stand up toe to toe with the Japanese in early 1942.


I gotta go with Jwolf here Wargmr - this wasn't a bunch of new ships. Experience wasn't up to IJN standards, but wasn't bad. Night experience as follows:
BC: 73
CAs: 61, 66
CLs: 56, 57
DDs: 59, 60, 60, 64, 66, 60

Just very, very bad dice rolls. But as long as the Long Lance dice rolls are as bad, I'm not complaining!

(in reply to Mike McCreery)
Post #: 189
RE: 19-20 Apr 42 - 3/2/2015 7:45:04 PM   
Capt. Harlock


Posts: 5358
Joined: 9/15/2001
From: Los Angeles
Status: offline
quote:

Just very, very bad dice rolls. But as long as the Long Lance dice rolls are as bad, I'm not complaining!


+1

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 190
21-22 Apr 42 - 3/3/2015 6:46:10 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		21-22 Apr 42

Highlights - Pretty quiet, even Darwin wasn’t bombarded! Hvy air raid on Akyab and IJA is repulsed with heavy loss at Wenchow.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-173 off Ceylon)
xAP: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
CL: 1 (Tenryu - reportedly still in service from mine strike off Darwin last month)

Allied ships sunk:
AS: 1 (Platypus scuttled at Darwin from cumulative bombardment damage)

Air loss:
Jpn: 21
Allied: 3

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ship hit
I-173 hit by three DCs off Ceylon and sunk by ASW TF
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit (which includes SS Snapper missing CVL Zuiho off Koepang!)




Amph Inv:
Beru (CENPAC)
Nikunau (CENPAC)

Bases lost:
Howland Is (CENPAC)
Beru (CENPAC)
Nikunau (CENPAC)
Goodenough Is (SWPAC)
Sawahloento (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. 32nd ID convoy departs LA for Auckland. CV Hornet TF (CV, CA, CL, CLAA, 6DD) also departs San Diego to provide ASW cover while enroute to PH.

In NOPAC. NSTR

CENPAC. IJN apparently mopping up a few minor atolls in the Central Pacific. No sign of KB in support.

In SOPAC, CV TF (2CV, 3CA, 8DD) depart Auckland for limited operations off Port Hedland. CA and CL finishing off upgrades at Sydney will also join enroute. This will leave only 2CA, 2CL and about 6 avail DDs in SOPAC until CVs arrive from PH. Losing the CVs also means losing their airgroups - part of which was providing CAP at Noumea - will have about 100 fighters (Army, Marine and VF-2) to provide CAP at Noumea. So, taking some risk here in SOPAC for a few weeks as the buildup of combat power continues.

In SWPAC, Darwin isn’t bombarded for a change; AF remains closed and most a/c have been withdrawn as supplies are at a premium. Much shipping activity at Wyndham - whether IJN is bringing in more troops, supply or even pulling troops out is unknown. Tennant Creek’s supply pull is insufficient to even sustain troops there, let alone project supply forward - or support any bombing operation against the IJA. Not good. On the bright side, Repulse TF has rounded Exmouth without incident enroute to Perth. I expect Port Hedland to be bombarded by IJN at any time; not much can be done other than continue to dig in and expand the AF. Will attempt a major resupply to the base once the US CV TF reaches Perth - that will give me 2 US CVs and the 3 Brit CVs - more than enough to deal with the current Mini-KB. Now if the KB shows itself, well….that another story…

In the Philippines, 3 subs drop supplies as bombardments continue.

In China, IJA attacked Wenchow and were bloodily repulsed, suffering 3000 casualties to the Chinese’s 800. Wenchow is at fort level 3.53 and continues to be a thorn in the IJA plans in the SE. I did attempt an attack at Kwangchowan, but, as expected was repulsed. The IJN bombardments are causing too much disruption in the attacking troops. Still, its nice to put the IJA on the defensive somewhere in China for a change!

In India/Burma the activity picks up at Akyab with heavy airstrikes - IJN airstrikes. Zero sweeps with Zero/Nell air attacks. Did not intercept this round, but am gathering fighters at Chittagong to support in the near future. Akyab is still miserably defended by remnants - and don’t have much to spare right now - but did place a minefield off the port. Hopefully he’ll try an amphib, and I can launch BB Warspite TF to intervene. This could prove interesting! Wellingtons out of Calcutta did hit his main AF (Prome) at night, destroying 5 a/c on the ground.

In the DEI, the Dutch AF out of Batavia continues to be a nuisance, launching a low level strike against the oil fields at Tjepoe - destroying 13 with the loss of 1 plane to ops losses.


Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 3/3/2015 7:47:05 PM >

(in reply to Capt. Harlock)
Post #: 191
23-24 Apr 42 - 3/6/2015 5:16:12 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		23-24 Apr 42

Highlights - Still relatively quiet, although the IJN effectively bombards Port Hedland and Batavia.

Jpn ships sunk: None

Allied ships sunk:
SS: 1 (Searaven off Koepang)
xAK: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 14
Allied: 17

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (xAK sunk off Laysan Is)
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit
SS Searaven hit and sunk by D/Cs off Koepang

Amph Inv:
Cocos Is (DEI)

Bases lost:
Normanby Is (SWPAC)
Cocos Is (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC. NSTR

CENPAC. Single xAK which departed PH bound for Bataan (I know, it’s a long shot) is quickly sunk by an I Boat patrolling off Laysan Is. CV TF Lex and Yorktown arrive back at PH; will swap out ships requiring upgrade and then depart for SOPAC.

In SOPAC, Small convoy arrives at Noumea with supply and an AA Bn - encounters sub laid minefield without finding one the hard way.

In SWPAC, Darwin area is quiet, although IJA forces close with Aus forces on the river line west of Katherine. Lack of supplies will allow Darwin to fall. Activity picks up at Port Hedland which is bombarded (2BB, CL, 8DD) with good effect. While I don’t expect an IJN supported landing at Port Hedland, the bombardment does delay the construction progress toward a Level 2 AF. An IJN CA TF looks to be in position to bombard next turn - only subs avail for defense at the moment. BC Repulse TF arrives safely at Perth and CV Illustrious arrives on map from Cape Town. The real question is whether or not the KB will support IJN operations on the west coast of Australia…

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, an IJA attack west of Nanyang (which is held for the moment) could be the first indication of an IJA attempt to encircle Sian from both north and south. Have started to pull any forces SE of Sian to the west.

In India/Burma heavy airstrikes and fighter sweeps again at Akyab. Allied AF will engage next turn.

In the DEI, Dutch bombers again hit Tjepoe, and knock out 4 oil. IJN TF (BB, CL, 4DD) bombard Batavia with minimal effect.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 192
25-26 Apr 42 - 3/9/2015 3:51:02 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		25-26 Apr 42

Highlights - IJN lands a battalion sized force at Normanton, Australia; KB sighted north of New Caledonia.

Jpn ships sunk:
APD: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
CA: 1 (Takao - again listed as not sunk at Ambon)

Allied ships sunk: unsunk

Air loss:
Jpn: 16
Allied: 30

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ship hit
Allies: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Amph Inv:
Normanton (SWPAC)

Bases lost:
Kalidjati (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC. NSTR

CENPAC. CV TF (2CV, 2CA, CL, 10DD) depart PH for SOPAC. With the KB in SOPAC, will raid IJN bases enroute.

In SOPAC, KB is sighted north of New Caledonia - no major effect for the moment as no TR TFs are inbound to Noumea. Question is what is the KB doing in SOPAC??

In SWPAC, Neither Darwin or Port Hedland is bombarded, although 3 IJN TFs are sighted NW of Broome - likely headed to bombard Port Hedland - and perhaps the Mini-KB back at sea to support. 6 Allied subs will attempt intercept. B17s raid Broome, but are met by land based Zeros for the first time - lose 5 Fortresses for 5 Zeros. Not a good loss ratio. The turn’s highlight though is a surprised landing at Normanton. Garrisoned by weak Aus armor unit, a single IJA unit (likely battalion size) was landed at Normanton by APDs. Not sure what to make of this - a raid perhaps? In any case, all avail US/Aus aircraft will bomb the invading forces and will attempt to hold the base.

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, IJA continues to attack west of Nanyang, but the Chinese hold for the moment - casualties mount and the IJA will likely take the hex next turn. .

In India/Burma no IJN airstrikes on Akyab, Allied fighters just gain fatigue over Akyab.

In the DEI, Dutch bombers attempt to hit Palembang, but are met by Oscars and fail to hit the target.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 193
RE: 25-26 Apr 42 - 3/9/2015 9:38:00 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		Normanton is trouble IMHO, as it is a paved road to Australia (Charter Towers, Cairns, Townsville, Cooktown)

If he is patient, he can just build it until he is ready to advance, I agree you should bomb it heavily

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Post #: 194
RE: 25-26 Apr 42 - 3/13/2015 1:35:45 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

Normanton is trouble IMHO, as it is a paved road to Australia (Charter Towers, Cairns, Townsville, Cooktown)

If he is patient, he can just build it until he is ready to advance, I agree you should bomb it heavily



Yeah, made a big mistake in not doing a better job in defending/fortifying it.

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Post #: 195
27-28 Apr 42 - 3/13/2015 2:37:25 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		27-28 Apr 42

Highlights - Jpn pressure on OZ continues - landings at Exmouth! KB hits Koumac with airstrike and continues to head south between Australia and New Caledonia. IJA tank units maul US/Aus forces WSW of Katherine.

Jpn ships sunk:
xAK: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
DD: 1 (Ushio)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 40
Allied: 34

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ship hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (xAK dam)

Amph Inv:
Exmouth (SWPAC)

Bases lost:
Exmouth (SWPAC)
Cape Gloucester (SWPAC)
Merak (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: Knowing that the KB is prowling in SOPAC is good to know - the question is however - why??

West Coast/Admin. With the increasingly problematic IJA activity in Australia, 108th IN Reg (40ID) is released and will load shortly at LA, bound for SWPAC.

In NOPAC. Sub picks up an IJN convoy heading to Attu, so 2DDs currently escorting transports at Adak will attempt to intercept. Adak AF reaches level 2.

CENPAC. CV TF (2CV, 2CA, CL, 10DD) will attempt to hit an IJN surface contact in the Ellice Islands - will take two days to reach strike range. With the KB confirmed in SOPAC, perhaps we can find some targets!

In SOPAC, KB hits Koumac with an airstrike, damaging AV Tangiers. KB seems to be continuing south - perhaps attempting to raid shipping (there is none at sea northwest of Auckland) or worst case, hit Brisbane or Sydney. I’ve got some Army air avail to provide CAP, but not enough if the KB hits with a full strike (most SWPAC a/c are in western or northern OZ) This just goes to show me how vulnerable the Allied position is right now. The IJN can still assemble overwhelming combat power where and when he chooses. If the KB does stay in SOPAC, this can work out well though - the KB isn’t off Port Hedland!

In SWPAC, a small detachment is landed at Exmouth - another foothold on Australian soil, but both port and AF are nonexistent. Both Port Hedland (BB, 3CA, 2CL, 8DD) and Darwin (CA, 3DD) are bombarded - and the IJN focus is apparently switching to Port Hedland. With 3 Brit CVs and 2 US CVs we might be able to do something about this in the next two weeks! On land, the IJA drive to cut Darwin begins with 5 IJA Tank Regiments steamrolling an Aus IN Bde supported by a US Tank Bn west of Daly Waters. Will attempt to delay this and their main infantry attack (2 IN Div +spt) that looks to be driving toward Katherine. In any case, Darwin is lost - I can’t manage enough supply at Tennant Creek, let alone any units between there an Darwin. Darwin only contains an IN Bde and some support - all other support troops are slowly moving south toward Tennant Creek. 3 IN Bdes will still attempt to contest the IJA advance - and hopefully not get cut off.

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma I get caught flat-footed over Chittagong when IJN/IJA fighter sweeps catch most of the Allied fighters on rest - only 30% of half my squadrons intercept - but losses aren’t that bad. 20 Zeros and 11 Oscars in exchange for 12 P40s, 9 Buffs, 8 Hurris - including operational losses. If he sweeps again, we’ll be ready!

In the DEI, IJN (BB, CA, CL, 3DD) bombards Batavia with minimal effect, and DMS is crippled by CD batteries while sweeping mines. 3 IJA divisions bombard defenses - which only amount to an AV of 151 with level 3 forts. I pull all remaining US and Brit pilots out and will send the remaining Dutch bombers to hit the refinery at Tjepoe. I don’t expect Batavia to survive the first assault.

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Post #: 196
29-30 Apr 42 - 3/15/2015 2:49:03 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		29-30 Apr 42

Highlights - Batavia falls finally ending the DEI campaign; KB moves north of New Caledonia

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-34 sunk by S-40 off Darwin)
xAK: 1
xAKL: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
CA:1 (Aoba - apparently survived Swordfish attack in Feb)

Allied ships sunk:
ARD: 2 (scuttled in Batavia)

Air loss:
Jpn: 20
Allied: 50 (30+ lost when Batavia fell)

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ship hit
RO-34 sunk by S-40 off Darwin
Allies: 3 Attack, 2 ships hit (SS and xAKL sunk)

Amph Inv:
Merauke (SWPAC)

Bases lost:
Batavia (DEI)
Bhamo (Burma)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC. US DDs find nothing at Attu; will return escorting a DM

CENPAC. CV TF (2CV, 2CA, CL, 10DD) approach the Ellice Islands, but find no targets. Will head WNW toward Ocean Island before heading to SOPAC. Intent here is to “show the flag” in CENPAC - and keep L_S_T thinking my CVs are in either SOPAC or CENPAC. CV Hornet arrives at PH, and will depart immediately to strike Baker Is enroute to SOPAC.

In SOPAC, KB hits Koumac again, crippling AV Tangiers. KB reportedly heading back north. Auckland busy as three convoys are arriving back to back. Once the port becomes somewhat available, will load a supply convoy for Noumea escorted by a CA TF which will bombard Efate. US bombers out of Noumea are now regularly hitting Luganville, Efate and Tanna in small strikes - better than nothing!

In SWPAC, No IJN bombardments of either Darwin or Port Hedland for a change. Port Hedland AF back in operation and 2 xAKLs arrive with supply. A US DM takes advantage of the lull and lays a minefield just off Port Hedland. CV Illustrious arrives at Perth - which is now at ZERO fuel. Not a good time for a fuel shortage as Halsey’s CVs are due to arrive next turn. On the Darwin front, the IJA force is attempting to advance east while the Australians are attempting to block, evade and isolate the IJA - very confused at the moment. But in the end, a lack of supply for the good guys is the going to be the deciding factor. Without supply, I can’t expand Tennant Creek - and if I don’t expand the base, I can’t get a better supply flow. Catch-22. I’m pulling back “excess” troops from Darwin and other bases - all those aviation base forces and engineers that without supply can’t do anything. Screen shot attempts to show the confusing situation:



In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma we wait for a raid at Chittagong that never flies. Will continue to maintain a heavy CAP and see what develops. With the arrival of the very potent British 70th Div in the Calcutta area, I’m now pushing some formations to try and hold Akyab and Cox’s Bazaar.

In the DEI, Batavia falls in the second assault - with it ends Allied resistance in that theater. With no place to fly to, all remaining a/c are destroyed. Although a foregone conclusion, the DEI campaign has to be regarded as somewhat of a success. I had no illusions of holding, but making it expensive - and to the IJN, it wasn’t a cakewalk. 2CVLs, 2CAs, 3CLs and a number DDs were lost and many heavy ships (especially CAs) damaged. Allied losses weren’t exactly light either - BB, 2CAs, 9CLs and a number of DDs. Although many of the CLs were older/obsolete ships - they also include the venerable Boise and Mauritus. What the end of the fighting in the DEI really means though is that 3 IJA divisions are now available, and distance of the submarine supply run to Bataan is now doubled .




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< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 3/15/2015 3:50:42 AM >

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Post #: 197
April 42 Summary - 3/16/2015 1:45:13 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		Surprisingly, April came and went without another new major Japanese offensive - just continuation of ongoing operations. And for a change, the month didn’t end with the KB clobbering a convoy in SOPAC - although, the KB did apparently make the sortie to try! L_S_T seemed content to continue to pursue his ongoing offensives - securing Java in the DEI, pushing up through Burma, attacking toward Sian in China, and what appears to be his primary objective, securing NW Australia. I truly expected another front to open up - either in the Indian Ocean (Akyab or Ceylon), or landings in SOPAC, but the only other expedition the IJN undertook was some minor landings in CENPAC - likely to lure US CVs into an engagement with the KB which was lurking just off to the west. From the Allied standpoint, holding on to Port Hedland - resulting in the first CV battle of the Pacific War - and successfully building up Noumea in SOPAC, and Adak in NOPAC were the highlights of the Allied effort. Naval losses for the month weren’t excessive for either side; IJN reported losses for the month were 1CA, 2CL, 3DD and 7SS as compared to the Allies losing 3CL, 5DD and 2SS. Air losses were also in the Allies favor, but not by much, 412 for Jpn to 352 Allied.

Screenshot shows Allied Forces disposition - Notes: 1)Ships are in service, not under refit or stood down. 2) a/c shown are combat available, not trainers or deployed on CVs. 3) CENPAC and Ceylon subs are those against IJN shipping, other Theater subs shown are “in close” for defense of that Theater. 4) Eng are Construction or Port Maint Bns, not BFs.



As with April - the question remains, “What is the Jpn next objective?” As best as I can tell, he’s got 3, perhaps 4 divisions currently engaged in NW Australia. 3 just finished clearing Java, and should be available. Another is still laying siege to Bataan. Figure he’ll clean out Bataan with the Java forces (just a guess), before committing them elsewhere. Still that should allow for at least 5 divisions available. With no new major invasions in April when I expected him to execute, I’m at a loss as to where he may go now. I don’t think he’s ready to concede the initiative, but with the other likely objectives (Noumea, Suva, Ceylon, Diamond Harbor) all at fort level 4 with relatively robust defenses, I’m not sure he’ll risk a maximum effort which the risk may not be worth the gain. I am confident he’ll pursue Darwin until complete - which may involve a direct invasion of the base. Other than that, no clue.

West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: The 4/42 naval upgrades are winding down - most ships complete, and the majority of the remaining ships should complete in the next 10 days or so. I’ll have a few stragglers to get into the yards (mainly DDs), but, by and large, was able to get the upgrades done without needing the ships at sea. Two significant issue on the admin side - while I have plenty of trained pilots, I’m short of airframes. No surprise to any Allied player there. That won’t change until ’43. Due to that, I’m keeping many squadrons employed as training squadrons rather than pushing them to the front - I just don’t have the planes to replace losses. Second issue is a severe fuel shortage in Australia. Although I pushing fuel from both West Coast and Cape Town with all avail tankers, the tempo of sustaining operations off Port Hedland with significant naval forces has drained the stocks considerable. Will attempt to push more fuel, but I don’t see the situation improving for the next few months - I’ve even shut down Sydney’s heavy industry, and may shut down more.

NOPAC. Naval forces here have been more effected by the 4/42 upgrades, reducing the effective DD strength to only BBs and 5 DDs. With the cruisers completing upgrades, and more DDs avail, will look to put more troops on Amchitka and increase pressure on Attu. By Jun, perhaps we’ll be ready to land troops on Attu. Of course, SIGINT is still showing Jpn interest in Amchitka. This remains a backwater theater for reinforcement.

CENPAC. Losing Baker Island was expected, just figured it would have happened earlier. The US CV raid to Wake in April managed a bonus of catching a small convoy there, and follow on raid at the end of April and into May north of the Ellice Islands is designed to signal that US CVs are in CENPAC - at which time will pull them to SOPAC. Focus in CENPAC is maintaining defenses of Midway and Canton. Don’t see any enemy intent to grab them at the moment in any case. All are at Fort Level 4 and defended toward maximum stacking limits.

SOPAC. After the Jpn seized Tanna, not much enemy activity in SOPAC, other than the recent KB raid west of New Caledonia - which was limited in effectiveness to hitting Koumac. Koumac and Noumea in New Caledonia are now at fort level 4 (LaFoe is almost there!) and AFs at Koumac and Noumea are supporting offensive strikes on Luganville, Efate and Tanna. The goal is to look toward retaking Efate as soon as the KB is confirmed elsewhere. If that hasn’t worked by June, we may look to support a landing there with the US CVs. I’d rather not do that just yet. For May, will continue to build combat power up in New Caledonia and put pressure on Jpn holdings.

SWPAC. I’ve realized in April that Darwin can’t be supplied overland; I should have put more focus in building up the interior bases. Without that, the supplies just don’t flow. Without supplies, all those Bdes I have up there just won’t hold, so its time to pull back. First the support troops, then the combat troops. Of course, the IJA - with tanks in the lead - are trying to upset those plans. We’ll leave a Bde in Darwin and try to keep some supplies flowing with subs, but that’s it. I’ll try and save most everything else. Elsewhere, on the NE coast, the focus is to bring Portland Roads on line as an airbase. Progress here has been slow as resources have been diverted to the west coast. On the ground, the NE is fairly secure - just barely. Bdes or better in most bases in case the IJN decides to land, and the US 41st Div as a reserve in Sydney. 32nd Div is enroute as well. The main Allied focus is Port Hedland. With a Bde and engineers already there, they will be reinforced by another Bde and additional engineers - supported by a multi-national fleet. While I suspect L_S_T will anticipate the 2 British CVs sailing in support, I’m hoping he won’t suspect Halsey’s 2CVs and the Illustrious also supporting the landings. With some luck, perhaps we can not only land the reinforcements, but catch the Mini-KB and surface forces with 5 CVs!

DEI. Well, the DEI campaign lasted a whole lot longer than I thought it would - with Batavia falling on 30 April.

Bataan. Still holding in Bataan as April changes to May, but we’re not accomplishing anything but tying down some troops. With Java falling, sub supply runs will have to originate in Australia - that more than doubles the distance. I’ve got one xAK trying to sneak in from PH, but I don’t give that much chance. Will continue the sub supply effort, and just hope the IJA attacks a bit too soon and suffers some losses before the inevitable end.

Burma/India. Not really sure what to make of the situation in here. I fully expected more effort to take Akyab by sea, but it looks like he’s making a very slow approach overland. I’d like to think the naval raid at Rangoon thwarted his amphibious inclinations, but I’m not that lucky. I’m moving some Indian Bdes up to counter that, but I’m still hoping he’ll go by sea to where the Royal Navy with HMS Warspite could do some damage. Inland, after taking Shwebo, IJA forces have been attempting cut off withdrawing Allied troops - so far, unsuccessfully. I’ve written the Burma units off in any case, and have built up a line from Ledo to Imphal. I really don’t expect a major assault overland here, but I can’t rule it out either. As long as his CVs aren’t in the Indian Ocean, I’m not concerned of landings at Diamond Harbor or Ceylon.

China. Things have slowed down after Yenan fell. I figured a major quick thrust to Sian, but so far that hasn’t developed. Instead, a more deliberate approach, including attacking far to the south, has developed. IJA is also very focused once again at Wenchow, including using Naval units in the bombardment role. The highlight of the month though was the Chinese pushing the IJA from Pakhoi to Kwangchowan where the Chinese were stalemated by the intervention of the IJN bombardments. Anytime the Chinese theater diverts the IJN, it’s a win!




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< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 3/16/2015 2:50:00 AM >

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Post #: 198
RE: April 42 Summary - 3/17/2015 12:09:10 AM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		I would say it is too late for invading India; if I have to bet he will go heavy on Australia + some limited invasion on the Pacific; why else would he had invaded Normanton?

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Post #: 199
RE: April 42 Summary - 3/17/2015 3:52:17 AM   
BBfanboy


Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

I would say it is too late for invading India; if I have to bet he will go heavy on Australia + some limited invasion on the Pacific; why else would he had invaded Normanton?


If he realizes that N. Aus becomes a trap once the Allies get control of the sea and air (see Cap Mandrake and Sprior's AAR "Bring Me the Head of the Mayor or Diego Garcia" about a year into the war), he will just be planning to smash a few Aussie units and then withdraw his major units.
If that is his thinking, the Normanton landing is just to secure his flank and try to cut off the allied units retreating down the Darwin - Alice Springs corridor.

If he wanted to take Aus in toto, he should have come much sooner and much harder, and started the invasion near Brisbane rather than Darwin.

_____________________________

No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth

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Post #: 200
RE: April 42 Summary - 3/17/2015 6:00:21 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy


quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

I would say it is too late for invading India; if I have to bet he will go heavy on Australia + some limited invasion on the Pacific; why else would he had invaded Normanton?


If he realizes that N. Aus becomes a trap once the Allies get control of the sea and air (see Cap Mandrake and Sprior's AAR "Bring Me the Head of the Mayor or Diego Garcia" about a year into the war), he will just be planning to smash a few Aussie units and then withdraw his major units.
If that is his thinking, the Normanton landing is just to secure his flank and try to cut off the allied units retreating down the Darwin - Alice Springs corridor.

If he wanted to take Aus in toto, he should have come much sooner and much harder, and started the invasion near Brisbane rather than Darwin.


And the good news - the next turn's replay just had the IJA's Normanton's expedition evac'd by sea. Nice...probably was looking to grab an undefended base.

Fully agree with both your comments - and I'd rather have an invasion of Aus than either Noumea or India. I can build combat power more effectively in Aus. Will check out that AAR! Thanks!

My quandary is that:
1)I think its too early for Jpn to transition to the defense and give up the initiative.
2)He really doesn't need more troops to secure NW Aus.
3)It is probably too late to begin a major new Amphib invasion of Ceylon, Diamond Harbor, Suva, or Noumea which are now "hard targets" (Fort level 4 and 2+Bdes of good troops, 200+planes avail)
4)NE AUS is still vulnerable to me as its a long coast and defenses are stretched, but it would be a very, very risky and costly attack.

So what's his plan???

(in reply to BBfanboy)
Post #: 201
RE: April 42 Summary - 3/17/2015 8:46:21 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		Well if he goes "small pacific islands", then you should be fine, as the worst case scenario is a temporary need to divert convoys and use longer routes.

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Post #: 202
RE: April 42 Summary - 3/17/2015 9:58:26 PM   
BBfanboy


Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

Well if he goes "small pacific islands", then you should be fine, as the worst case scenario is a temporary need to divert convoys and use longer routes.

Just as the Allied Player must resist the temptation to "do something" with his growing strength in early 1942, the Japanese Player must avoid the temptation to keep grabbing until he is stopped by a battle.
He may have the combat power but he cannot build and reinforce the newly captured bases the way the allies can. Greyjoy has shown that the Japanese can better delay the Allies by limiting expansion and building credible lines of fortified and garrisoned bases before the Allies are ready to try and challenge.
By keeping his internal LOC shorter he also conserves fuel and has the opportunity to evacuate fragments of units by air when they have be ground down by the allies.
Not saying the allies cannot crack the defences, but it does take longer to do it.

_____________________________

No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth

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Post #: 203
RE: April 42 Summary - 3/19/2015 3:33:33 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy


quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

Well if he goes "small pacific islands", then you should be fine, as the worst case scenario is a temporary need to divert convoys and use longer routes.

Just as the Allied Player must resist the temptation to "do something" with his growing strength in early 1942, the Japanese Player must avoid the temptation to keep grabbing until he is stopped by a battle.
He may have the combat power but he cannot build and reinforce the newly captured bases the way the allies can. Greyjoy has shown that the Japanese can better delay the Allies by limiting expansion and building credible lines of fortified and garrisoned bases before the Allies are ready to try and challenge.
By keeping his internal LOC shorter he also conserves fuel and has the opportunity to evacuate fragments of units by air when they have be ground down by the allies.
Not saying the allies cannot crack the defences, but it does take longer to do it.


Good comments guys. I'm good with an attack on CENPAC - I can get those back later. I hadn't really considered him consolidating this early - but it DOES make some sense. Might make a bit of a dull game for the next 6+months, but it does make sense!

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Post #: 204
1-2 May - 3/19/2015 3:38:03 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		1-2 May 42

Highlights - Busy turn…Adm Spruance’s CVs catch a small convoy near Arorae in the southern Gilberts; KB confirmed departing SOPAC with an SBD attack; Port Hedland bombarded; IJA air assault south of Darwin and the IJN pulled out the troops at Normanton.

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Sendai reportedly scuttled after 3 SBD bomb hits near Arorae)
DD: 2
APD: 1
xAP: 1

Allied ships sunk:
AV: 1 (Tangier succumbs to KB Val delivered bomb damage at Koumac)

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 22

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ship hit
Allies: 2 Attack, 0 ships hit

Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Fenton (SWPAC)
Merauke (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: An AO is reportedly moving to Tulagi - I’m taking this as the refuel location of the KB coming up from Koumac - will position some subs to see what we can find.

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC. US DM with 2DDs mine Attu. No enemy contact.

CENPAC. Spruance’s CV TF (2CV, 2CA, CL, 10DD) find, and clobber, a small convoy just south of Arorae in the southern Gilberts. SBDs hit all ships: DD, APD, xAP sunk outright and the CL Sendai is reportedly scuttled. Ships appeared to be carrying troops - likely a Naval Guard unit that made landings in the Ellice Islands. Spruance will head SE towards Pago-Pago to avoid the KB, and then turn towards Auckland to refuel. CV Hornet TF (CV, CA, CL, CLAA, 6DD) departed PH and will raid Baker Is before also heading to Auckland. Taking some risk stripping all CVs out of CENPAC for a while.

In SOPAC, KB departs SOPAC, but not before they are sighted by PBYs at night - and SBDs on night naval attack make intercept. Only 8 make contact and attack - although they missed, they at least gave L_S_T a good scare! AV Tangier succumbs to heavy fires at Koumac. Auckland is again busy with incoming convoys and attempting to push desperately needed fuel to Australia.

In SWPAC, IJN bombardment TF (2BB, CL, 8DD) avoid the freshly laid minefield and bombard Port Hedland to good effect - hitting supply and damaging the AF. The two xAKs at Port Hedland avoid the IJN for a change, but are chased off before offloading - supply situation is now critical. Halsey’s TF arrives at Perth, so far as I can tell, undetected. Will sortie the combined US/Brit/Aus fleet tomorrow. B17s were welcomed by 40+ Zeros over Derby, losing 16!! For only 5 Zeros. Not good! On the Darwin front, paratroopers seize Fenton, just south of Darwin. Fortunately, everything I was planning on pulling out of Darwin is already gone. On the positive side, somehow an xAK that was chased out of Normanton arrives safely with 900 supply for Darwin - it isn’t much, but it’s a whole lot more than I thought I’d get in! Also, the best for last, APDs pull out the Jpn troops at Normanton - apparently it was only a raid.

In the Philippines, with the increase in supply run length, additional subs will be tasked to supply runs - my subs aren’t doing much at the moment, and I don’t figure this diversion won’t last all that long.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma both Chittagong and Imphal are hit by night raids - damage is minimal, but we’ll have to move some fighters for night CAP duties. It does appear that the IJA is going overland for Akyab - I’m moving two Indian Bdes up from Chittagong, but they’re going to take a while to get in position, and I’m not willing to risk attempting to land troops at Akyab via sea.





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Post #: 205
RE: 1-2 May - 3/19/2015 1:24:56 PM   
jwolf

 

Posts: 2493
Joined: 12/3/2013
Status: offline 		Oh man, if only, if only ...

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Post #: 206
RE: 1-2 May - 3/19/2015 1:31:13 PM   
Jorge_Stanbury


Posts: 4320
Joined: 2/29/2012
From: Toronto and Lima
Status: offline 		I have never done naval attacks at night time; I bet he doesn't have nails left

(in reply to jwolf)
Post #: 207
3-4 May 42 - 3/21/2015 6:20:25 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		3-4 May 42

Highlights - Very quiet turn…

Jpn ships sunk: None

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 12
Allied: 7

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ship hit
Allies: 2 Attack, 0 ships hit

Amph Inv:
Groot Natoena (DEI)

Bases lost:
Groot Natoena (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: BB Yamato sighted - of all places, bombarding Wenchow!

West Coast/Admin. Convoy carrying 108/40ID and 147th (Sep) IN Reg depart LA bound for Auckland.

In NOPAC. IJN PBs sighted at Attu - likely resupply run.

CENPAC. Spruance’s CV TF (2CV, 2CA, CL, 10DD) turns south of Canton Is and proceeds to SOPAC. Hornet TF approaches Baker Is; will launch strikes shortly.

In SOPAC, quiet other than the now normal US raids on Efate, Luganville and Tanna. Auckland continues to be a hub of activity with a couple of convoys forming up.

In SWPAC, other than airstrikes on Australian troops west of Katherine, was pretty quiet. The lone xAK managed to finish offloading unmolested at Darwin and departed back toward Normanton. With no IJN activity, the two xAKLs and AM escort returned to Port Hedland to begin offloading supply. Lots of activity in Perth as the combined US/Aus/Brit TFs prepare to depart for operations off Port Hedland.

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, BB Yamato and CA Takao bombard Wenchow with minimal effect. Again, any time the Chinese Theater has the IJN in support, I’m good with that.

In India/Burma, Port Blair is bombarded by a pair of DDs - other than subs, I’m not going to contest an invasion here. Recon identifies over 35,000 troops attempting to flank Akyab moving through the jungle. They look to cut the road just east of Cox Bazaar. While I have Indian Bdes moving up, I’m curious how he’s going to keep this force supplied once across the river. I don’t believe I can hold Akyab, but I’m not going to make it easy either. Just surprised he doesn’t have more IJN support in this operation.

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)
Post #: 208
5-6 May 42 - 3/22/2015 5:29:15 PM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		5-6 May 42

Highlights - Halsey and Palliser depart Perth; IJA takes ground just north of Sian

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1

Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
xAKL: 2

Air loss:
Jpn: 20
Allied: 22

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ship hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 1 ships hit (xAK dam)

Amph Inv:
Donggala (DEI)

Bases lost:
Siaoe (DEI)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC. US BB TF (3BB, 2CL, 6DD, DMS) departs DH to bombard Attu - and perhaps catch the reported small IJN convoy there. PBYs sight xAKs at Attu, one hit by bomb.

CENPAC. Hornet launches small strike against Baker Is - no air resistance, light damage to AF. Hornet turns south to SOPAC.

In SOPAC, a PBY reported 7 IJN ships just east of Noumea heading south. No US ships were in the area, so worst case, this might be a raid with the ships “dark” as they transit southeast. I doubt it, but since I have two troop convoys departing Auckland to Noumea and Suva, I’m playing it safe - focusing some PBYs and keeping the shipping out of the area. Spruance’s CV TF clears south of Pago-Pago and turns toward Auckland.

In SWPAC, a small IJN TF (CL, 3DD) sinks the AM and 2 xAKLs at Port Hedland after only a small amount of supplies are offloaded. They then bombard Port Hedland with minimal results. Three significant TFs depart Perth for operations off Port Hedland: Halsey (2CV, 3CA, CL, 8DD), Palliser (BC, 2CA, 3CL, 8DD), and Boyd (3CV, 3CA, 6DD). Palliser and Boyd turn north, close to the coast providing support to two convoys (2APD, xAP and APD, 2AM, 3xAP, 2xAK). Halsey moves southwest before turning north. IJN subs quickly sight the convoys and British CAs - so L_S_T knows I’m coming - and hopefully he’ll figure its just the usual suspects of British CVs and the Repulse. The three British CVs have 119 a/c including 11 USMC SBDs, while Halsey’s have 187 a/c including USMC SDBs, SB2Us and F2a3s. Max effort all around. While the initial objective is to ensure the transports offload at Port Hedland, I’m also hoping the Mini-KB comes out to intercept the British CV and BC TFs. A third troop convoy is assembling at Perth, but will hold until the first two offload. On the Darwin front, the IJA overland advance toward Katherine has slowed, with the Imperial Guards Div sent back west to deal with the Aus Infantry in their rear. Lack of supplies has crippled any viable defense - with some luck, the IJA is having similar supply issues. Heavy use of IJA LBA in ground support isn’t helping either. Without supply, I can’t fly CAP either. In NE Australia, Portland Roads gets some attention for the first time with Kates hitting ground targets. Hopefully this isn’t a prelude to invasion - it’s a slow slog to Portland Roads and I’ve only got a commando Bn and a BF in there at the moment. Good troops to be sure, but not enough to hold a major invasion.

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, Wenchow is again bombarded by the IJN (4CA, CL). On the ground, 2 hexes NW of Sian, 4 IJA divisions push back 2 Chinese Corps from the river line - 1500+ IJA casualties to 7000 Chinese. I’ve been slowly pulling back from Sian and defenses to the SE. While he’s across the river, his supply line has got to be minimal. My goal is to continue to slowly pull back and avoid an encirclement, although with Sian at Fort Level 4, I’ll leave a corps to die in place when the time comes.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)
Post #: 209
7-8 May 41 - CV Battle off Port Hedland - 3/30/2015 2:24:58 AM   
IdahoNYer


Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
Status: offline 		7-8 May 42

Highlights - IJN Carriers surprise me in both SOPAC and SWPAC resulting in another, but very strange, CV battle against the Brit CV TF and heavy losses to Allied Merchies loaded with troops in both Theaters. Surface action off Port Hedland. Not a good day, but it could have been much, much worse!

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 2 (Yura, Kinu)
DD: 3 (Yugumo, Oyashio, Amagiri)
SS: 1 (RO-65)
xAKL: 1

Allied ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Clark)
APD: 5 (this really hurts!)
AM: 2
xAP: 7 (all small, short-mid range)
xAK: 3
xAKL: 5

+ the transports cargo of 2 Aus Pioneer Bns and an the better part of a US IN Reg were lost

Air loss:
Jpn: 125
Allied: 77

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
RO-65 sunk by DDs while trying to penetrate BC Repulse screen
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Amph Inv:
Port Blair (Burma)

Bases lost:
Pucheng (China)
Pakanbaroe (DEI)
Donggala (DEI

SIGINT/Intel: Well, I’ve found out the KB has detached the Akagi and Kaga to the Mini-KB the hard way. And I know exactly where both the KB and Mini-KB are at the moment….

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC. US BB TF (3BB, 2CL, 6DD, DMS) in position to bombard Attu during the night, looks like the IJN shipping is gone of course.

CENPAC. Hornet TF clears Pago-Pago enroute south.

In SOPAC, that PBY sighting last turn that I really didn’t believe….well, I should have paid more attention to clearing the area. While I “thought” I had moved shipping out of the way “just in case”, I apparently didn’t move the 24th (Sep) IN Reg convoy far enough east - it was pounded by 4 IJN CVs east of Raoul Island. Three 13kt xAPs, an xAK and an APD sent to the bottom. One APD and a DMS survive the carnage with remnants of the IN Reg. So much for the 24th (Sep) IN Reg relieving the Marines on Suva. Also caught at sea was a returning Pago-Pago resupply convoy of an APD and 5 xAKLs - also sent to the bottom near Raoul Is. Not a good day in SOPAC. But with every disaster, I try to have positive thoughts - it could have been worse! CVs Yorktown and Lex were in SOPAC, but just a bit further east. Another troop convoy was held at Auckland. What I find very surprising is that the KB is raiding with 4 CVs (Soryu, Hiryu, Shokaku, Zuikaku). L_S_T has been relatively conservative so far, and I am truly surprised that he would raid this deep with the KB(-). Of course by splitting off the Kaga and Akagi, he managed to put one over on me in both SOPAC and off Port Hedland on the same turn - Kudos to my vaunted opponent! Another wonderful reminder that this ain’t the AI!!!

In SWPAC, the best laid plans…..fall flat on their face! Not only wasn’t I expecting the Mini-KB to have the Kaga and Agaki, but for reasons only known to Halsey himself, the US CV TF moved a total of 5 hexes in the two day turn - being totally out of position when the British CV TF blundered (quite literally - in the same hex for a brief surface combat) with the IJN CV TF. Both sides launched strikes - the British strike arriving first, and despite 27 of 37 British torpedo planes dropping fish on targets - NONE hit!! The only salvation was the USMC SBDs which managed a 1000lb bomb hit on CVL Zuiho. IJN strike fared little better - the Kates attacked with bombs (which is the only reason we didn’t lose a CV) instead of torps and the strike managed 5 bomb hits on CV Formidable and 2 on CV Indomitable - single digit sys damage - LOVE the armored flight decks!. Now, it gets more strangely interesting - before the British CV TF decides to withdraw on the 8th, a small IJN PM strikes hit the BC Repulse TF and than a major strike hits the TR TF carrying supplies and a AUS pioneer battalion. Very surprised and pleased - despite the TR losses - that there weren’t additional strikes on the British CVs (weather perhaps?). These strikes against the transports had Kates with torps - APD, 2AMs, 3xAPs (all small), 2xAKs go to the bottom off Exmouth. Not to be outdone by poor CV TF performances - the Allied surface TF is late to arrive at Port Hedland - somehow AFTER the slower first TR TF (2APDs, xAP) arrives at Port Hedland which is mauled and sunk by a CL TF (3CL, 3DD). Now, Repulse TF (BC, 2CA, 3CL, 8DD) arrive and it takes one night and two day combat rounds for the IJN to lose 2CL and 3DD in exchange for one DD (Clark)crippled which sinks later. BC Repulse is damaged enough (34sys/3flt/14eng), and one other DD is heavily damaged. So, after all the dust settles, the score card is: CVL Zuiho damaged, 2CL, 3DD sunk in exchange for a DD sunk and the resupply/reinforcement effort to Port Hedland obliterated. Will forever wonder why Halsey only moved 5 hexes - he SHOULD have been 4 hexes or so to the NW of the British CVs - well in position to launch a strike that could have clobbered the IJN CVs - OR - been the recipient of the IJN strikes instead of the TR TFs. As its stands, if the Allied CV and Surface TFs can pull back towards Perth without behind hit again by air and clear torpedo alley off Exmouth, I’ll be happy.

In the Philippines, NSTR.

In China, Wenchow is again bombarded by the IJN (4CA, CL, 3DD). The AVG does well over Sian despite sweeps preceding the strike; 27 Oscars, 20 Sonia, 5 Ann, 5 Mary destroyed in exchange for 4 H81-A3s and 11 P-40s.

In India/Burma, a small IJN TF lands elements and seizes Port Blair - been waiting for this one for a long while.





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(in reply to IdahoNYer)
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