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All Forums >> [New Releases from Matrix Games] >> War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition >> After Action Reports >> 24-25 Sep 42

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24-25 Sep 42 - 12/11/2015 10:12:31 PM

IdahoNYer

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24-25 Sep 42

Highlights - IJA grounds closer to Chungking

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-28)
xAK: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
CL: 2 (Tama, Yubari)
DD: 1 (Shirakumo)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 49
Allied: 27

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
SS I-28 reported sunk by DE King off Unmak
Allies: 1 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. CV Lex begins its 6/42 refit at Cape Town.

In NOPAC, US ASW efforts do well; B-18s report two IJN subs hit off DH, and DE King claims a sub sunk by depth charges off Unmak.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, KB2 returns to waters off Vaitupu, this time south of the island - no raids, just appears to be trolling for targets. Shipping continues to run normal operations in the New Hebrides and Santa Cruz Is.

In SWPAC, P-38 sweep over Moresby finds no opposition and B-17s hit Moresby with two strikes of 62 planes and 69 planes over two days inflicting substantial damage to the AF, but not shutting it down according to recon. No B-17s were lost.

In WAUS, S-38 finds the IJN BB TF (2BB,CL, DDs) off Port Hedland, but fails to penetrate the screen. I figured they were headed to Port Hedland to bombard, but apparently then need to fuel first perhaps? Five Allied AFs are hit by night bombing with no results for the Jpn, but Allied AA and NFs score well downing 14 Bettys and 4 Sallys.

In China, IJA forces gain another 40m toward Chungking from the east, defeating and pushing back the defending Chinese troops. I don�t see stopping this attack.

In India/Burma, Allied CAP over Chittagong wonders across the Burma border into large fighter sweeps - 14 Allied fighters are downed in exchange for 9 Zeros.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 451

RE: 24-25 Sep 42 - 12/12/2015 11:31:51 AM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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For Chungking. Just remember that over stacking can easily destroy your supply stockpile in a few turns. I would avoid concentrating lots of troops in a hex that can be defeated forcing it to Chungking.

What are you using in Burma? Hurricanes II C?

< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 12/12/2015 12:33:09 PM >

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 452

RE: 24-25 Sep 42 - 12/12/2015 5:15:45 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

What are you using in Burma? Hurricanes II C?

Brits still have a mix of Hurri IIBs and IICs, plus s squadron of Martlets as the front line fighters. I also have Fulmars and Hurri Is on night CAP duties. US has P-40E and P40-K, with a squadron of P-39s and P-38Es inbound, and also Marine 4F4s a little ways off.
Single squadrons of Canadian (KittyHawk), NZ (Hurri IIB), Dutch (P40E)round out the force, plus a heavy Chinese contingent at Ledo (P-66, P-43, I-16) are also around.

I'm getting enough fighters now - its the small squadron size that impacts effective use at times, and of course the Tojo does pretty well against these Allied airframes. Bottom line is that its getting better with each passing week, but I still need to be careful as the IJA fighters can still mass effectively.

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)

Post #: 453

26-27 Sep 42 - 12/18/2015 4:05:29 PM

IdahoNYer

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26-27 Sep 42

Highlights � Exmouth is leveled by a naval bombardment; Allied air begins offensive against Lashio

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Yugure)

Allied ships sunk:
PC: 1
PT: 3
xAKL: 2
AMc: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 30
Allied: 19

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB dam)

Jpn Amph Inv:
Wessel Is (SWPAC)
Gove (SWPAC)
Groote Eylandt (SWPAC)

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Kukong (China)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC, IJN CL TF (CL, 6DD) sinks one of two PTs off Amchitka, but does not bombard. The following morning, Vindicators out of Amchitka put a bomb into the Kitakami, leaving her burning, and two into the DD Yugure, reporting her sunk off Attu. Supply situation at Amchitka still critical, but port and AF now fully repaired.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, CA TF (4CA, CL, DDs) bombards Vaitupu with moderate effectiveness, but finds no shipping. KB2 not sighted, but not sure if it has withdrawn or is lying in wait. Focus remains building up Ndeni.

In SWPAC, P-38s sweep Wau and find no opposition while Heavies and Mediums hit Moresby with poor effectiveness � only 20 hits reported on the AF. Bombers will have to rest and I�m pulling the P-38s back to the Exmouth front for a few turns. IJN apparently is conducting mopping up operations, landing small detachments at previously unoccupied locales in Northern Australia � all targets for upcoming Allied landings in the next two months. Still tracking to land at Horn Island in a few weeks.

In WAUS, that BB TF reported by sub, as expected hits Exmouth hard. Local shipping was brushed aside (actually under) as were the 4 PTs prior to the bombardment. US LBA hit the TF prior to the bombardment, scoring three 1000lb hits on BB Kongo and one on Nagato which just bounced off armor. End result is that the AF is shut down and worse, supplies went from just under 4000 to just over 500 � and the engineers will now have to work on the AF and port instead of increasing defenses from fort level 3 (88%) to level 4. On the positive side, the Zero sweep lost 8 Zeros in exchange for 4 Aussie Kittyhawks, and will have F4Fs out of Carnavon providing LR CAP next turn. As long as the IJN can be kept away from effectively shutting down Carnavon, invading Exmouth can be a dangerous play for the IJN. And although the majority of the US Navy will be in refit shortly, a combined Brit/Aus/NZ/US surface TF (including BBs Valiant, Warspite and North Carolina) will assemble to meet the threat in the coming week. This could prove interesting if the KB stays away�.

In China, Kukong falls to the second IJA attack with the usual heavy loss, but only one Chinese Corps was left as a rear guard. Still nothing looks promising in China.

In India/Burma, Allied fighters sweep Lashio as the beginning of a sustained air offensive to interdict the supply flow to IJA ground forces at Pashoan � and attrit the IJA air as well. Brit ground based Martlets and US P40Es sweep losing 4 a/c in exchange for 8 Oscars. Sweeps will repeat and Mediums will hit Lashio next turn as Allied air ramps up. On the Akyab front, a new IJA division, the 4th, makes itself known by attacking into the flank of the Allied flanking drive on Akyab, pushing back a Brit IN Bn � I�m actually good with this as the IJA attack did not pursue, and the US 27th ID is coming up, which should stalemate the IJA�s 4th ID � and leave it vulnerable to the force that will soon come out of the Kohima-Imphal route. The Akyab flanking venture is just part of a prolonged broad front campaign along the entire India-Burma frontier designed to pull in IJA troops (working so far with the 21st and 4th IDs reported now in Theater) and attrit them both in the air and on the ground as the calendar turns toward 1943.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 454

RE: 26-27 Sep 42 - 12/18/2015 6:59:48 PM

jwolf

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If you are able to go into detail without compromising your plans or OpSec, I would very much like to hear your general strategy regarding holding the Japanese while you upgrade most of the USN during the month of October. On the one hand, these are critical upgrades that you really can't skip or even delay very much; on the other, experienced IJ players know this and could potentially cause a lot of grief.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 455

RE: 26-27 Sep 42 - 12/19/2015 11:09:05 AM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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Other than carriers, the Allies can still have a very credible force to deal with a Japanese renewed offensive. In any case, the Allied navies are waging "guerrilla" warfare in 1942. wherever Japan goes full scale, Allies need to get out, so lack of carriers in October will, at most, reduce the counter punch possibilities.

EDIT: By the way, end of 42 is probably one of the worst times for a carrier vs. carrier battle: Wildcats are becoming old, while Japan is getting A6M3a and A6M5 if accelerated.
Not to mention the potential for 10 fleet/ light carriers vs. only 6 Allied

< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 12/19/2015 12:22:06 PM >

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Post #: 456

RE: 26-27 Sep 42 - 12/19/2015 9:52:13 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

If you are able to go into detail without compromising your plans or OpSec, I would very much like to hear your general strategy regarding holding the Japanese while you upgrade most of the USN during the month of October. On the one hand, these are critical upgrades that you really can't skip or even delay very much; on the other, experienced IJ players know this and could potentially cause a lot of grief.

Jorge pretty much covered it - the IJN can still take what it wants, and I'm not ready to challenge the KB directly just yet. That said, the only true "plan" is that I'll leave the CV airgroups deployed on land bases while the CVs are in refit/upgrade. Any naval operations will be done under the reinforced LBA coverage.

(in reply to jwolf)

Post #: 457

RE: 28-29 Sep 42 - 12/20/2015 6:50:33 PM

IdahoNYer

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28-29 Sep 42

Highlights � Exmouth is hit by air and sea; Allied air offensive continues against Lashio

Jpn ships sunk:
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 44
Allied: 32

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Wessel Is (SWPAC)
Gove (SWPAC)
Groote Eylandt (SWPAC)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: IJA�s 5th Div enroute to Rangoon

West Coast/Admin. Slow convoy departs LA for Auckland.

In NOPAC, quiet returns.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, IJN forces withdraw, no contact. Ndeni continues to build up, with a second port maint battalion landed and the 22 MAG HQ flown in. Vaitupu, however, has not been able to expand due to the attention of the IJN. From the Allied perspective, Ndeni is the more important as Vaitupu�s build up is not needed until 1943�plenty of time here.

In SWPAC, Mediums hit Moresby again, no air opposition. Heavies continue to rest. The Jpn landings at Gove and Groote Eylandt are ill timed, a month later and the Allies could have occupied an Allied base. Now, they will require assault. Shipping begins building up in Brisbane for the Horn Is landings.

In WAUS, Exmouth seems to be the focus of L_S_T�s attention � I�m assuming an invasion will take place in the next few weeks, although SIGINT has not revealed any units planning for it as a target. A CA TF (3CA, 2CL, DDs) brushes aside two PTs without loss to either side, and bombards � keeping the AF closed and destroying 2 Banshees and 5 Kittyhawks. Many Sallys escorted by Zeros bomb the AF, doing little damage and lose 6 Zeros and 5 Sallys to either AA or the F4F LRCAP. Two F4F squadrons from refitting CVs will rotate out of Carnarvon, providing LRCAP as long as feasible. With some luck, this will tire the Zeros enough for a P-38 sweep over Port Hedland, allowing the Heavies to hit the target as well. All this assumes that Carnarvon can be protected � if the IJN holds off for a week, and the KB does not support, Allied surface fleet units will be in place. The next few days could be dicey!

In China, the Oscar IIb is noted operationally for the first time.

In India/Burma, Allied fighters sweep Lashio again with good results, followed up by escorted Mediums hitting the AF. A total of 21 Oscar IIa are lost in exchange for 14 Allied fighters � mainly Hurri IIbs. Bombing inflicts 32 dam on the AF. My assumption here is that damage to Lashio this WILL decrease the supply flow to the IJA force at Paoshan � in addition to attritting the IJA air in Theater. Will continue the attention on Lashio until the B-24s are ready � figure about a week more to get 5 full strength squadrons ready. Will also do some select fighter sweeps over other targets to see what the response is � avoiding the Hornets Nest of Magwe until the IJA is attritted a bit more, and additional Allied assets are in place. Lastly SIGINT has reported the IJA�s 5th Div is enroute to Burma, via Rangoon. That makes three additional reinforcing divisions (21st, 4th, 5th) now in or deploying to Burma since the British attack to flank Akyab. All three of these divisions were last confirmed in NW Australia, so my intent of drawing forces into Burma has worked � not sure I really wanted THREE divisions, but it should make things easier in SWPAC and WAUS in the coming months.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 458

Sep 42 Summary - 12/30/2015 7:15:54 PM

IdahoNYer

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Sep 42 Summary

Sep was a pretty quiet month for the most part, with no major naval engagements as most of the major US naval units headed to port for the Oct refit. No new Allied offensive operations were initiated, and the ongoing ground drive near Akyab slowly gained ground. The Japanese continued to drive slowly but surely in China, and conduct mop up landings on small, bypassed bases, in the DEI and SWPAC. The KB was divided in half, both halves trolling for victims in NOPAC and SOPAC, mostly without success. IJN bombardments, especially BB bombardments continue to be the greatest threat to Allied bases, with no counter yet identified. The repeated presence of carriers in NOPAC has shut down Allied offensive operations toward Attu. Overall, it was still a positive month, with Allied airpower growing and potentially gaining the initiative over Burma and SWPAC Theaters � heavy bombers used in mass, and P-38s have been effective. Ground has been gained slowly in Burma, and both Exmouth and Ndeni established as advanced bases (although Exmouth has recently been heavily targeted). Best overall is all 6 US CVs remain intact and headed into refit/upgrade � the 40mm boost in AA across all ships going into refit will be a solid edge in actions to come. Heading into October, Allied offensive action will be again limited, with the majority of the fleet dispersed in ports undergoing refit/upgrades. I do expect a renewed IJN/IJA offensive against Exmouth � this may develop into a fleet action as well, as long as the KB stays away. Any Allied operations will be solely supported by Allied LBA, which includes most of the normally CV based air. Allied LBA will also expand its air offensive in Burma, including employing Heavies for the first time. Naval losses for the month were light for both sides; IJN reported losses for the month were 3DD and 3SS as compared to the Allies losing 2DD, 2SS and 3PTs. Air losses were in the Allies favor, 472 for Jpn to 417 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. (also, during this particular timeframe, most US CV airgroups are deployed ashore as CVs are prepping to refit) HB are 4 engine bombers. 3) CENPAC subs are those against IJN shipping, other Theater subs shown are �in close� for defense of that Theater. 4) En are Construction or Combat Engineers, all others (Port, Base, Group are under BF, including static bases). 4) AR includes armor, TD or recce units of any size.

INTEL: Last month I was convinced the IJN is done with major amphibious operations, now I�m not too sure. The attention Exmouth is getting is a very possible prep for amphib landing � but I have zero SIGINT on units preparing. SIGINT has been more than useless so far � not a single �hit� on a warship move, let alone an actionable one.

SUBWAR: Still nothing spectacular here. Allied subs continue to miss or have torps not explode when warships or even tankers are targets � seldom as that may be. IJN subs continue to threaten certain shipping lanes from time to time, although there greatest successes so far have been against Allied subs!

West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: All ships scheduled for the 10/42 refit/upgrade are in port awaiting the calendar to move to October. US Army bomber, British and Aus fighter pilot pools remain low although are improving. Planes remain short across the board, and only one CAP Trap away from a crisis.

NOPAC. This has turned out to be the most frustrating (less China of course) Theater in the entire Pacific. Attu invasion has been repeatedly postponed, with troops and ships waiting not so patiently at Kodiak for the word to go. While I don�t think the KB is still prowling now at the end of October, I�m still cautious about going forth with the invasion. Will see�

CENPAC. Remaining quiet for a while longer.

SOPAC. The IJN�s attention to Vaitupu instead of Ndeni has me wondering why � but, I�ll take it at face value. I don�t need Vaitupu any time soon while Ndeni continues to expand. Good. SOPAC will lose some Army air assets in the short term to SWPAC due to the upcoming Horn Island operation, as well as all larger than DD warships to refit. Minimal operations until the carriers return.

SWPAC. Despite Jpn activity at Exmouth, plan remains to launch at Horn Island in October � awaiting an engineer regiment enroute from CENPAC. Allied LBA strength, along with bases to support it, remains good, and should be able to cover the landings.

WAUS. Exmouth seems to be the point of major contention for the next few weeks. Allied LBA is in good shape � as long as Carnarvon remains operation. That will likely require heavy surface forces, and they are heading toward WAUS from Ceylon, Melbourne and Cape Town � about a week or so away. Of course, no US CVs will deploy, so again, the wild card is the KB. Will attempt to hold Exmouth regardless � and will deploy addition troops from the quiet Tennant Creek front.

Burma/India. The slow, grinding attack to flank Akyab has had limited success � defeating two IJA regiments, but drawing in at least two, possibly three IJA divisions to this Theater. This will likely result in a stalemate on the Akyab front, but it will be interesting to see if the IJA can sustain a prolonged ground fight that consumes much supply. In the air, will continue to ramp up the tempo with additional fighters and bombers � including putting B-24s and a USMC MAG into action. The goal in Burma, both ground and air, is to undertake a war of attrition against the IJA.

China. IJA grinding attacks continue to make forward progress from the SE, E and NE. Expect fighting in or adjacent to Chungking in October. Don�t see a solution as supplies are still lacking everywhere. IJA LBA is unopposed in the air due to lack of supplies.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 12/30/2015 8:19:14 PM >

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 459

30 Sep - 1 Oct 42 - 12/31/2015 5:19:36 PM

IdahoNYer

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30 Sep - 1 Oct 42

Highlights � Pretty quiet; Exmouth is not hit and China holds an attack 40m east of Chungking.

Jpn ships sunk: None

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 33
Allied: 11

Subwar:
Jpn: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. October refit/upgrades have begun!!! 5 CV (Sara will begin next turn), 2BB, 12CA, 4CL, 7DD all laid up for the next couple of weeks. One interesting tidbit � the Lady Lex didn�t do her 6/42 upgrade until a about a week ago � so she was at 39 days remaining when the Oct refit hit. Figured that the 10/42 refit would add the 21 days to that total. NOPE!! Instead, the Lex is at 21 days � just the Oct refit requirement! Nice! Also in Oct, the F4Fs get drop tanks and the first P38G is fielded in Australia.

In NOPAC, still quiet as Amchitka is slowly being resupplied.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, CL TF (CL,2DD) bombard Vaitupu with little to show for it, but supplies are now critical. xAKL with SC escort is enroute with supply, and hopefully the IJN will miss its arrival. 6th Marine Reg begins loading at Luganville for movement back to Noumea as the 37th ID takes over responsibility for defenses. Ndeni reaches fort level 4 as support troops (AA Bn this trip) and supplies continue to arrive without interference. In the air, Munda is hit for the first time � LB30s at night � destroying 2 a/c on the ground while 12 B-24s hit Tulagi with good effect and no loss.

In SWPAC, Mediums hit both Moresby and Horn Island with good effect and no air opposition and both AFs should be closed. Bombers, both heavy and medium need rest though. Shipping continues to build and transit on the eastern seaboard of OZ, with subs being the only obstacle � will increase LBA ASW efforts.

In WAUS, Exmouth gets a breather � no attention from air or sea. A single xAKL begins offloading, but the port and AF are still closed. LBA fighters out of Carnavon continue to provide LRCAP. 3 B17Ds hit Port Hedland at night with very, very good effect � 9 Sally, 3 Dinah and 4 Zeros are destroyed on the ground from 10 airbase hits � the AF is packed is my assumption!

In China, Chinese troops hold off a sizeable attack 40m east of Chungking � 3000+ IJA casualties in exchange for only 250 Chinese. Still, the terrain is clear, and its only a matter of time before additional IJA troops can be brought in � hope supply remains challenging as his LOCs are not good here.

In India/Burma, Allied air missions against Lashio were apparently weathered out as no sweeps or bombing missions took place. Fighter sweeps against Akyab were unopposed. IJA attacked the Allied troops (including US Mtn Reg) in the jungle 80m E of Kohima, but are held, but I expect to be pushed back here across the river � not a major issue, this is a holding action and I doubt the IJA has the strength to push on Kohima or Ledo at this point.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 460

RE: 30 Sep - 1 Oct 42 - 1/1/2016 5:00:07 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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So if I read correctly, the 10/42 upgrade actually reduced the refit time? interesting...

And yes, it is a relief to get those drop tanks, finally you are no longer out-ranged by the Japanese in a carrier battle

Are you using your transport squadrons for SOPAC resupply? AVDs?
I am using fast AVs too, albeit for low risk areas

< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 1/1/2016 6:00:45 PM >

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 461

RE: 30 Sep - 1 Oct 42 - 1/1/2016 6:10:04 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

So if I read correctly, the 10/42 upgrade actually reduced the refit time? interesting...

And yes, it is a relief to get those drop tanks, finally you are no longer out-ranged by the Japanese in a carrier battle

Are you using your transport squadrons for SOPAC resupply? AVDs?
I am using fast AVs too, albeit for low risk areas

I was very surprised with Lex's time in the yards requirement - did not expect it to be REDUCED when the 10/42 hit. While I know the additional 5" AA is a good addition in the 6/42 refit, I'll wait till 10/42 and do both at the same time in future games.

For SOPAC resupply, I run normal convoys (big xAKs/TK)from Auckland to Noumea, than smaller xAK/TK to Luganville which is building up nicely. For Ndeni, I have those three fast banana boat xAKLs and APDs doing runs from Luganville, as well as slow convoys of regular xAKLs.

The problem isn't the enemy at the moment, but port size limitations for the most part.

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 1/1/2016 7:16:34 PM >

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)

Post #: 462

2-3 Oct 42 - 1/1/2016 6:16:08 PM

IdahoNYer

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2-3 Oct 42

Running a bit behind the game with the AAR, so as I'm waiting for the turn, I'll try and do some catchup...

Highlights � Staying fairly quiet; IJN bombards Vaitupu again, Chungking hit by air hard, Jpn air goes missing from Burma.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Yugure)
SS: 1 (I-28)

Jpn ships unsunk:
DD: 1(Hagikaze)

Allied ships sunk:
SC: 1
xAKL: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 31
Allied: 09

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: No clue where any carriers are right now�.not good.

West Coast/Admin. Sara goes into refit at Cape Town. Fast convoy departs LA for Auck.

In NOPAC, 3 B17Ds hit Attu port, and manage to sink the DD Yugure and SS I-28, both apparently there due to damage. Sweeping P-38s observed the sub sink! At Kodiak, the infamous Attu Invasion Force begins reboarding transports for another go at Attu � I�ve got till the end of the month before adverse weather takes effect as well as losing the additional Naval Air from the Wasp and Hornet while they are in refit. Invasion troops remain the same, 1 Marine Reg, 1 Army Reg, 2 Eng Bn, Para Bn, Tk Bn, 2 FA Bns. Will again abort if the enemy fleet shows up.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, IJN CA TF (4CA, CL, 3DD) returns to Vaitupu, sinking the just arriving xAKL and SC and bombarding � keeping the base from expanding and I�ll have to employ subs to bring in supplies � not willing to counter with surface forces with most of the fleet in the yards. B24s hit Tulagi again, and recon says the AF is shut down. Still focusing on expanding Ndeni.

In SWPAC, bombers rest another turn. Still a few turns away before loading transports for Horn Island. Troop convoy arrives at Portland Roads with engineers without incident. Increasing tempo of coastal convoys all along the coast from Brisbane to Portland Roads to create �noise�.

In WAUS, still quiet at Exmouth � very surprised here. Expected a ramp up in activity, now a lull. Exmouth AF and port repaired, but supplies still low, although three xAKLs now offloading. Subs still active off Carnaron to Perth, ASW assets, both air and sea will ramp up. Repl TF departs Perth to refuel Sommerville�s BBs coming from Ceylon. Cape Town convoy arrives in Perth without mishap. P38Fs and 2/3s of avail B17s now staged at Meekatharra � remainder of B17s remaining in support of SWPAC.

In China, continued pressure, but nothing dramatic on the ground. In the air, Lillys hit Chungking AF hard, shutting it down, but lose 17 to AA. Still not willing to recommit the P-40s back to China just yet.

In India/Burma, IJA air strangely quiet over Burma. No bombing raids, no sweeps, nothing. Allied sweeps over Akyab and Lashio come back empty. Allied mediums shut down Lashio AF while Vengence/Benheims hit ground forces near Wazrup, but are not very effective. On the ground, the US 27th ID crosses over into Burma NE of Akyab, joining the two British Divisions already in the area. Air recon shows sizable IJA troop movement coming out of the Magwe area to meet the Allied threat. The US 112th Cav Reg, along with 2 Navy construction Bns land in India at Cochin as does another B24 squadron (8 planes). Still holding back committing the B24s for a bit � another squadron just arrived in Aden (12 planes), and I may wait until they arrive before committing the heavies � that should be about 60 B24s. Bomber a/c and bomber pilots continue to be short across all theaters, so I�m trying to be very conservative!

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 463

RE: 2-3 Oct 42 - 1/1/2016 10:31:07 PM

jwolf

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quote:

In WAUS, still quiet at Exmouth

Well I read some news to the contrary in LST's AAR. I'm anxious to see your take on what must have been a really wild turn.

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Post #: 464

RE: 2-3 Oct 42 - 1/1/2016 11:24:11 PM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

quote:

In WAUS, still quiet at Exmouth

Well I read some news to the contrary in LST's AAR. I'm anxious to see your take on what must have been a really wild turn.

Yeah, just did the replay from the most recent turn, as L_S_T calls it "Carnavon Carnage" and it certainly was that. But you'll have to wait a bit for my take on it in this AAR...I'm about 2 weeks behind in the AAR from gameplay....I'll get there, I promise!

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Post #: 465

RE: 2-3 Oct 42 - 1/1/2016 11:55:44 PM

jwolf

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quote:

ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer

I'll get there, I promise!

OK, I'll hold you to that.

I actually didn't notice the different dates in the two AARs.

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Post #: 466

RE: 2-3 Oct 42 - 1/2/2016 12:51:42 AM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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It has to be hard to keep a detailed account with so many days difference. I would had simply put a short update and move on to the big event

Going back to my early comment on fast transport; I have found AVDs particularly useful as they carry more supply than APDs.
I also use fast AVs now... By I have way too many seaplane support to bother, they are no longer so useful in their original mission, I have lots of spare construction battalions and supplthereby it is better to simply build if needed.

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Post #: 467

RE: 2-3 Oct 42 - 1/3/2016 5:24:54 AM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

It has to be hard to keep a detailed account with so many days difference. I would had simply put a short update and move on to the big event

Going back to my early comment on fast transport; I have found AVDs particularly useful as they carry more supply than APDs.
I also use fast AVs now... By I have way too many seaplane support to bother, they are no longer so useful in their original mission, I have lots of spare construction battalions and supplthereby it is better to simply build if needed.

Good idea on the AVDs - I'll start getting them off other duties and into fast transport - never enough APDs!

As for the AAR, you'll have to bear with me as I move forward...I'll probably always be a week or so behind the game, but now I'm a bit too far back! Great to see Uwe (L_S_T) posting again...can't wait to read his side of the story in a couple of years!

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 1/3/2016 6:31:21 PM >

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Post #: 468

4-5 Oct 42 - 1/3/2016 5:30:04 AM

IdahoNYer

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4-5 Oct 42

Highlights � Staying quiet; three subs hit by Jpn ASW aircraft near the Japanese Home Islands

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Kuroshio)
xAKL: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 20
Allied: 16

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 5 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAKL sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: None

West Coast/Admin. NSTR.

In NOPAC, Attu Inv TFs complete loading at Kodiak.

CENPAC, Jpn ASW aircraft effort increased off Japan and three US subs are hit � one heavily damaged, the others just forced to return to base. Allied sub �offensive� against merchant shipping continues to be a bust � too often subs found and hit by ASW aircraft.

In SOPAC, it remains quiet. Ndeni reaches fort level 4.

In SWPAC, Terapo is hit by Heavies with poor results, but no CAP is encountered. Six ship convoy reaches Portland Roads with supplies without interference. Medium bombers rest.

In WAUS, it remains quiet as Exmouth is now fully repaired and Aussie Kittyhawks are rebased there. xAKLs continue to shuttle supplies in. US BB NC TF (BB, 3CA, CL, 6DD) departed Perth without incident and moves to link up with BB Warspite TF (2BB,CA,CL, 6DD) which successfully refueled by AO while still some 900m west of Carnarvon. Coming from Cape Town, another TF (CV, BC, 2CA, 6DD) just entered the map due west of Carnarvon. All three TFs will link up and reconfigure composition in the coming days to interdict any landing attempt at Exmouth. I hold off hitting Port Hedland again with P38s and B17s, as aircraft are still being repaired.

In China, fighters sweep Chungking and meet no opposition. As the Chungking AF is now repaired enough for operations, I fly in two P40 squadrons to fly CAP next turn � with some luck, they�ll catch some Lillys trying to shut the AF back down.

In India/Burma, Vildebeests out of Chittagong catch a CL TF (CL, 3DD) off Akyab (fast transport?) and sink one DD and damage CL Jinstu. In the air, Lashio AF is shut down by Mediums, while P39s and Hurris engage some LRCAP near Akyab � losing 2 P39s in exchange for 7 Oscars.

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Post #: 469

6-7 Oct 42 - 1/3/2016 5:36:18 PM

IdahoNYer

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6-7 Oct 42

Highlights � Jpn CAP does pretty well over Shwebo and Moresby; Allied CAP does well over Chungking

Jpn ships sunk:
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 44
Allied: 58

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. Fast convoy departs LA for Auck.

In NOPAC, Attu Inv TFs depart Kodiak, skirting Cold Bay and move into the Bering Sea to link up with the BB TF departing Kodiak next turn. Will loiter a day or so to see if the KB comes out.

CENPAC, two additional subs are hit by ASW a/c off Japan � this isn�t working well. Figured when the subs got A/S radar, they might avoid the ASW a/c � wrong! One sub picked off an xAK near Balikpapan, but I�m getting nowhere in putting subs anywhere near Japan or the Formosa Straits. SS Runner is hit again while trying to move in the straits to lay mines � heavily damaged, she has a 50/50 shot of making it home.

In SOPAC, NSTR.

In SWPAC, B17s and B-26s hit Moresby and meet Nicks on CAP. The Heavies do well, but the Nicks score well against the B-26Bs; 8 of 32 fail to return. The final convoy arrives at Brisbane carrying engineers for the Horn Island Operation, and will start combat loading the invasion TF shortly.

In WAUS, its still quiet off Exmouth as xAKLs continue to drop supply. Aussie Kittyhawks and Army A24s are re-based there, and TBFs are now based at Carnarvon � but so far, no indication of any naval moves against Exmouth. At sea, a lone IJN AMC stumbles upon CV Illustrious coming on map towards Carnarvon � Swordfish hit the AMC with a bomb, and will try to find/sink her. But L_S_T now knows I�ve got a Brit CV at sea in the area. Next turn, all three Allied Naval TFs will link up and reorganize into tactical formations for action off Exmouth.

In China, the two P-40 squadrons at Chungking meet an Oscar IIb sweep and do well � 17 Oscars in exchange for 2 P-40E and a P-40K. Will augment the P-40s with a Chinese P-66 squadron � I expect more sweeps, then pull the P-40s back to India. Supply woes continue.

In India/Burma, the Allied sweeps and bombers over Shwebo are met by a robust Tojo/Oscar CAP. Martlets and Hurris don�t do well, losing 13 Martlets and 10 Hurris in exchange for 10 Oscar IIa and 5 Tojos, despite a 5k height advantage. The Tojo is proving its worth! The IJA fighters then do well against the B-25s � 14 are lost in the two days. Not good. Will see if P-39s and P-40Ks can do better, and will sweep Shwebo again hard. The B-25s will rest to recover for the next week. Still holding back the B24s.

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Post #: 470

RE: 6-7 Oct 42 - 1/3/2016 6:39:04 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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What is the situation in terms of supply, air support, airfield level in Exmouth and Carnarvon?
Air HQs& torpedoes?

How many squadrons of dive/ torpedo bombers? how many fighters?

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Post #: 471

RE: 6-7 Oct 42 - 1/3/2016 11:19:20 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

What is the situation in terms of supply, air support, airfield level in Exmouth and Carnarvon?
Air HQs& torpedoes?

How many squadrons of dive/ torpedo bombers? how many fighters?

At this point, Carnarvon is fully developed, while Exmouth is still slowly expanding:

Exmouth:
AF:2, Port:1, Fort:3; one KittyHawk squadron and about 2k supply

Carnarvon:
AF:7, Port:2, Fort:5; 2xF4F, 2xSBD, 1xTBF(torp capable at base), 1xBanshee, 1xP-40, 1xP-39, 1xHudson and over 20k supply.

Those F4Fs, SBDs and TBFs are from the Lex and Sara, undergoing refit at Cape Town.

Meekathaara is also fully developed as a HB base.

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Post #: 472

8-9 Oct 42 - 1/3/2016 11:33:49 PM

IdahoNYer

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8-9 Oct 42

Highlights � Jpn counter landing at Vaitupu; IJA batters closer to Chungking

Jpn ships sunk:
AMC:1

Allied ships sunk:
PT: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 18

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 2 ship1 hit (2xAK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv:
Vaitupu (SOPAC)

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC, Attu Inv TFs link up with BB TF in the Bering Sea � but I decide to abort the Attu invasion � risk just out ways the potential gain. At best, Attu is taken. At worst, the KB makes another appearance and I lose a fleet. Just not worth it as I have absolutely no idea where the KB is � and there�s still a good chance it remained in Japanese Home waters just waiting for me to make another attempt at Attu. Will disembark the troops ashore, and return most of the invasion shipping to the West Coast. Next look at invading Attu won�t be until late spring �43.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, the IJN make another appearance off Vaitupu � this time to invade. Only a little bit surprise � I�m still not putting that much value in Vaitupu. But, since most of the US fleet is in refit, and L_S_T knows this, it�s a good time for him to counter-invade. And with Vaitupu being outside LBA range � except heavy bombers � its vulnerable. Especially since I didn�t do much to protect the force � only a single infantry battalion and two SeaBee Bns. Out of supply no less. Chalk it up to a lesson learned � I won�t land troops and leave them this exposed again. Still, while all this is going on, Ndeni is about ready to base Heavies.

In SWPAC, Marine F4Fs sweep Port Moresby for the first time thanks to drop tanks � they meet no opposition and B17s hit the base with good effect. In Brisbane, troops start embarking on transports for Horn Island.

In WAUS, the raiding AMC is hunted down and sunk by CA Dorsetshire without much trouble. Naval units well west of Carnavon await another tanker out of Perth, but a CA TF detaches to provide close escort for transports carrying CD units to Carnavon. Remains quiet over both Exmouth and Port Hedland � still waiting for supplies to build up in Exmouth to allow F4Fs to have drop tanks and sweep Port Hedland before I launch P-38s and B17s to raid the base. I have time.

In China, the IJA gains another major step closer to Chungking, assaulting across the river 80m north of the city and decimating the Chinese defenders. This also effectively flanks the defense of Kienko to the north as well. Just a matter of time before we�re fighting in the streets of Chungking.

In India/Burma, the two British divisions NE of Akyab have confirmed the IJA�s 21st Div which hold two Allied deliberate attacks � casualties are light for both sides, but at least I know where the 21st ID is located. This will trigger heavy air commitment to pound these units, likely drawing out the Jpn fighters to protect them � much closer to fighter Allied bases. The goal here remains to draw the Jpn forces into a battle of attrition, gradually flanking and compromising his position at Akyab.

Attachment (1)

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Post #: 473

RE: 8-9 Oct 42 - 1/4/2016 1:13:14 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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How developed is Vaitupu? how developed is Ndeni?
I am trying to figure out what is the value of it on a Japanese perspective. You mentioned that Ndeni is almost ready for heavies... which means that very soon you could be bombing Vaitupu merciless... Maybe he just seized the opportunity to destroy LCUs? then withdraw?

< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 1/4/2016 2:13:41 PM >

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Post #: 474

RE: 8-9 Oct 42 - 1/4/2016 11:42:22 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

How developed is Vaitupu? how developed is Ndeni?
I am trying to figure out what is the value of it on a Japanese perspective. You mentioned that Ndeni is almost ready for heavies... which means that very soon you could be bombing Vaitupu merciless... Maybe he just seized the opportunity to destroy LCUs? then withdraw?

Ndeni is at P2, A4, F4 with many engineers working to expand the AF. I see Ndeni as a great base to support operations into the Solomons - 9 hexes from Guad/Tulagi.

Vaitupu is a rock, P1, A0, F2 and will fall in the first assault as I only put a infantry battalion on it to cover the engineers. Didn't expect a rapid response - had a USMC Def Bn slated and ready to ship from another base, but with KB2 prowling the waters, L_S_T effectively isolated it.

Why is Vaitupu important? That is what I'm scratching my head about. To me, it was to expand PBY searches north, and eventually develop it as AF for operations in CENPAC - but that was 6 months down the road. Guess L_S_T saw it as a threat to the Gilberts, and had an opportunity to push me back, which he did.

I'm good with focusing on Ndeni...

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Post #: 475

10-11 Oct 42 - 1/4/2016 11:50:18 PM

IdahoNYer

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10-11 Oct 42

Highlights � Vaitupu falls; heavy air battles over Moresby and Burma

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Hagikaze) old?
xAK: 1 old?

Jpn ships unsunk:
CL: 1 (Nagara)
SS: 1 (RO-67)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 58
Allied: 57

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Vaitupu (SOPAC)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. 43rd ID departs East Coast for Cape Town and deployment in India/Burma. Slow Convoy departs LA for Auckland.

In NOPAC, Attu Inv TFs with BB TF depart the Bering Sea for the Aleutians and Kodiak. Amchitka based Vindicators hit DD Hatsuharu w/ 2 bombs off Agattu Is (SE of Attu). Will need to re-establish some type of naval TF at DH and the Aleutians, but it won�t be centered around BBs. Will pull out the Naval air squadrons in about a week and they�ll base back aboard Hornet and Wasp.

In SOPAC, Vaitupu falls, but PBYs pull out parts of the IN Bn and one of two SEABEE battalions. Its something. And of course, sub SS Porpoise gets a shot a CV Hiyo, but misses with 4 torps. Still no joy in sub ops recently�

In SWPAC, Marine F4Fs sweep Port Moresby again, and meet a robust mixed CAP of about 40 fighters (A6M2s and 3s, Oscar IIa and IIb and Nicks). The Wildcats do well, knocking down about half, but still leave about 20 when the B17s come in � they lose 4. After all the dust is settled, 9 Wildcats are written off, but only 2 pilots. Damage to Moresby is moderate, but it should be shut down � I figure the fighters were on LRCAP from the Wau area � will sweep Moresby again with Navy F4Fs next turn, the Heavies need some repairs. Horn Island Inv convoys will depart Brisbane for staging at Townsville next turn.

In WAUS, Exmouth finally gets enough supply to support F4Fs with drop tanks, so along with P-38s out of Meekatharra, will sweep Port Hedland � hopefully followed by a raid by B17s. At sea, the TFs reconfigure after taking additional fuel. CV TF (CV, 3CA, 4DD), BC TF (BB, BC, 4DD) and BB TF (2BB, 4DD) all will move towards Carnarvon and prepare for future operations � either intercept IJN bombardment TFs or hit Port Hedland. Going to get busy here soon!

In China, armor that crossed north of Chungking already is moving to cut off the Kienko forces. I�ve decided to pull out the US fighters, so they stage at Kumning to fly back to India.

In India/Burma, both sides sweep/LRCAP over the IJA 21st Div position, and both sides lose about a dozen fighters. Stage is setting for committing B-24s next turn, supported by more fighters. Like SWPAC and WAUS, going to get busy in the air here as well � this will stretch the limited fighter pools!

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Post #: 476

RE: 10-11 Oct 42 - 1/5/2016 12:29:28 AM

jwolf

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quote:

Going to get busy here soon!

Quite an understatement! Can't wait 'til you get to the blood bath!

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Post #: 477

RE: 10-11 Oct 42 - 1/5/2016 3:07:09 AM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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I am sorry I mistook Vaitupu with Vanikoro; I thought he had invaded Vanikoro.

Vaiputu is an interesting recon/ naval search base.. but nothing more than that... but if he takes Baker next, then you will not have any capability to recon the Gilbert islands (other than risking a carrier) until you start getting long ranged PB4Ys Liberators in December, and those are going to be very scarce until you slowly build inventories.

With Vaiputu at level 1 airfield and PB4Y Liberators you could even recon Kwajalein island

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Post #: 478

12-13 Oct 42 - 1/5/2016 6:38:50 PM

IdahoNYer

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12-13 Oct 42

Highlights � Port Hedland bombed effectively; no air opposition over Burma or New Guinea.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Hatsuzuki) old?

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 41
Allied: 12

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: 2nd Tank Div and 48th Infantry Div reportedly moving to Rangoon on transports.

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC, pretty quiet. Half of the Attu invasion TF begins offloading at DH while the other half arrives at Kodiak. The BBs headed out of theater back to the West Coast.

In SOPAC, KB 2 sighted by PBYs well north of Ndeni heading NW � Rabaul or Truk perhaps? Continue moving of shipping and reinforcing of Ndeni continues. Tulagi hit by 22xB-24s with good effect, AF should be closed. No air opposition.

In SWPAC, Moresby swept by F4Fs again, no CAP. Horn Island TF approaching Townsville. Coastal convoy with engineers arrives at Portland Roads. 11th BG with B-17s arrives back from WAUS and the P-38Fs also are flown back to SWPAC. Will continue offensive air operations into New Guinea bases as range permit � I�m pretty sure L_S_T knows an invasion in coming, I�m just hoping he�s not sure exactly where.

In WAUS, P-38F and F4Fs sweep Port Hedland in the AM, and then B-17s hit the base in the afternoon � couldn�t have been synchronized better! Only surprise was that there was no CAP!! This had been a Hornets Nest in the past, and I expected a stiff fight! No Allied losses, and bombing results were good� 16 Nicks, 3 Dinahs and 2 Babs destroyed on the ground with moderate damage to the AF. Will hit the target again next turn, and BC TF (BB, BC, 4DDs) enroute to bombard. Goal here is twofold � keep Port Hedland shut down to allow Exmouth to further develop and also to convince L_S_T that an invasion may be on the horizon � and keep some pressure off the upcoming Horn Is landing.

In China, the position continues to deteriorate. Chinese defenders in good terrain east of Kienko are pushed back into the city after two heavy attacks � losses aren�t catastrophic but it doesn�t really matter since the Kienko position is outflanked by the attack north of Chungking. With armor already exploiting in the Chinese rear north of Chungking, I expect to lose another dozen corps. But truthfully, it doesn�t matter much � I don�t have the supply for these troops anyway. I will bring the P-40s back to Chungking for short while to see if they can intercept some ground support missions.

In India/Burma, B-24s undertake their first mission in Theater, and 38 of the Heavies hit the 21st ID NE of Akyab � results are poor, and no enemy fighters come up in support either. The anticipated heavy air losses due to heavy sweeps didn�t happen. Like over Port Hedland, I�m surprised that enemy fighters have been pulled back � in this case to Magwe, and I�m not quite ready to launch against that base yet � I want to get the inbound P-38Es and F4Fs deployed first. Next turn, ground forces will attack the 21st ID, again supported heavily by airforces � I don�t expect much, but I want to try before additional troops arrive. Lastly, with the intel reporting two more divisions inbound to Theater, 48th ID (was in the PI) and the 2nd Tank Div (was in Kwangtung Army), I can expect little gains on the ground, but the goal of atritting the Japanese land and air forces � as well as forcing greatly increased supply expenditure � should be achieved.

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Post #: 479

14-15 Oct 42 - 1/6/2016 5:03:50 PM

IdahoNYer

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14-15 Oct 42

Highlights � British push back the 21st ID in Burma, Chinese actually win one, but also lose a big one; Navy bombards Port Hedland and heavy air combat over Moresby.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-62)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 42
Allied: 34

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Absolutely worthless�.no idea where any major naval units are at this time.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Lunga hit by B-24s with good effect; B-24s will move to SWPAC to support Horn Island invasion by raiding New Guinea bases at night. 2nd USMC Para Bn begins being airlifted by PBYs to Funafuti � will build up that base now that Vaitupu is in enemy hands.

In SWPAC, Moresby swept by F4Fs again, and meets a robust CAP of 25 A6M3 Zeros � in two days, both sides lose pretty equal numbers, 17 Zeros to 14 F4Fs � but not many US pilots. Will continue pressure on Moresby as well as other bases (starting with WAU) with sweeps and bombing � next turn could be expensive. Horn Island TFs reach Townsville, and will depart to final staging at Portland Roads.

In WAUS, B-17s hit Port Hedland both days, no CAP and no friendly losses, while shutting down the base and destroying 7 Nicks on the ground. BC TF (BB, BC, 4 DDs) bombard the base, but do little damage � but it is an offensive naval bombardment, which is good for player morale � if they avoid the subs and Ms. Betty next turn! Convoy unloads CD Battalion to Carnarvon without issue, and next turn convoy will depart for Exmouth with USMC Def Bn with CA TF in escort. Still surprised that L_S_T hasn�t challenged these efforts in WAUS more.

In China, two major land battles. On the bright side, a Chinese Corps forces an IJA Bde back from positions north of Chungking with heavy loss. On the negative, the main IJA force drives closer to Kienko from the south with a very successful attack. Kienko will turn out to be a major loss as numerous Corps are likely to be trapped. Situation in China below..I hate China�

In India/Burma, the British attacked the 21st ID on both days, and the second attack pushed the IJA back with substantial loss. Didn�t expect that! More enemy forces are being brought up, but this still provides a good threat in the flank to Akyab. Ground attack was heavily supported by airforces which met no opposition � but a squadron of Tojos moved to Myitkyina and they intercepted the Vengence strike near the India border, losing 4 Tojos to 2 Hurris and 2 Vengence. Will focus the B-24s against Myitkyina next.