TIMJOT -> Re: WPPac 46 (4/19/2003 8:45:33 PM)
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[QUOTE]Originally posted by LTCMTS [B]Remember that WPPac 46 would have been initiated on 16 Dec 41, when the USN did not have the ability to read IJN operational codes. Kimmel would have had to rely on radio traffic intel, DF and the PBYs to tell him if the Battle Divs of the Combined Fleet were at sea and in his area. He would have engaged 6 CVs, 3 CVLs, 6 BBs, 4 CBs, etc with 3 CVs and 9 BBs without throwing in land based aviation, which for the USN would have consisted of PBYs, since Kimmel would not agree to base Army air on Wake Island. Add in the subs on both sides. Given the results of both air and surface engagements between 9 Dec 41 and Jan 43, I don't think much of Kimmel's chances, that is if Yamamato took the bait, which is a very tenuous proposition. [/B][/QUOTE] I believe, 2 of the CBs and one of the CVLs would be tied up in the southern ops. Not sure they could be pulled in time to participate. I agree though its not too likely that Yamamoto would take the bait so far out as Wake and with significant forces tied up in the south, but then again when you consider PH and Midway, he certainly wasnt adverse to taking big risk, being the gambler he was. More likely IMO that he would have sent out the 1st carrier fleet to try and attrite as much as the PacFleet as he could. That still could have been a disaster for Kimmel when you consider how dispersed he planned to deploy his carriers.
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